Sacajawea Park - Longview Parks & Recreation

Longview boasts one of the greatest city parks in Washington. Every day, hundreds walk out of their homes and access the 3.5 miles of trail that loops Lake Sacajawea. All along the trail are various tree species, landscaped gardens, scenic bridges, fountains and playgrounds. On special days, there are Concerts at the Lake and holiday activities. Within the park is the Frank Willis Arboretum, the Japanese Gardens and the Planetary Walk. The lake was made with water from the Cowlitz River, pumped to the lakes north end, then the water exits out the south end to the Columbia River. It's used as flood control for the river so lake levels vary. The Frank Willis Arboretum identifies the different trees with 119 species of trees represented in a walking tour around the lake. The Japanese Garden is on an island with access by bridge (which is blocked when the garden is closed).

Lake Sacajawea park began in 1924. During the great depression, development of the park into residential lots was considered to generate some money. Luckily, the community rallied together, saved the park and got the private land of the Longview Company deeded to the city. In 1950, the first stocking of the lake began when 40,000 trout were introduced. Irrigation equipment was installed in 1952 to water the trees and plants. Because of algal growth, water clarity, and low oxygen content, in 1953 pumping water from the Cowlitz River began.

This model of our Sun and the nine known planets may help you better grasp the vastness of space.

Polished flush-to the-ground granite markers show the sizes of the planets relative to the Sun and are placed at scaled distances within a 1.64-mile section along the path between Lake Sacajawea and Nichols Blvd., beginning at the 15th Avenue end of the Lake.