Winlock was a major producer of eggs for much of the 20th century, shipping its poultry products throughout the world and creating a name for itself. Today, the town pays tribute to that history in several ways.
Egg Days, the city’s two-day summer festival generally held in June, pays tribute to that history with a parade, car show and the annual tradition of feeding a free egg salad sandwich lunch to visitors. The World’s Largest Egg — so confirmed by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! — serves as a visual centerpiece of the town’s history and currently displays its 12th Man pride for the Seattle Seahawks.
The city is also home to a regionally-renowned music festival, the Winlock Pickers Fest, that takes place each July.
Two museums call the Winlock area home. The recently restored Winlock Historical Museum showcases the region’s roots in the timber and poultry industries through exhibits providing a vivid glimpse of yesteryear. The Renegade Rooster is a private collection of artifacts from the charming to the downright charming.
How to get there:Â From Interstate 5, take Exit 63 and head west on State Route 505 about 5 miles into the heart of Winlock.
Pe Ell, Doty, and Dryad offer rich history, scenic trails, and access to Rainbow Falls State Park.
Vader offers small-town charm with May Day festivities, scenic cycling routes, and a historic 1902 church.
Toledo, a town honoring its heritage, is revitalizing with a new library, Veterans Wall of Honor, and prime fishing spots.
Salkum offers serene lake life, outdoor recreation, and access to nearby parks and forests.
Randle offers outdoor recreation with lakes, campgrounds, and access to Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Packwood offers outdoor adventures, historic charm, and the Packwood Flea Market for visitors.
Onalaska features Carlisle Lake, a historic mill smokestack, and the annual Apple Harvest Festival.
