Connect with local landscapes and Chinookan culture at the Cathlapotle Plankhouse!
The Cathlapotle Plankhouse is a contemporary Chinookan style Plankhouse located on the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. The house was built in 2005 as a partnership with the Chinook Indian Nation, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Friends of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Its mission is to share the lifeways, culture, and history of Chinookan Peoples of the Lower Columbia, and the natural resources of the Refuge.
The Plankhouse is open on Saturdays and Sundays, from 12pm-4pm from April 12th -October 4th. Volunteer guides will be available to answer questions and give Plankhouse tours, and visitors are able to take a hike on the 2 mile Oaks to Wetlands Trail loop.
Every Second Sunday from April-Oct, the Plankhouse hosts a special event or lecture focusing on the natural and cultural resources of the Lower Columbia River.
Plankhouse programs are coordinated by the Friends of The Ridgefield NWR. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to this event for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services, closed captioning, or other accommodations needs to Eric Anderson, 360-887-4106, Eric_Anderson@fws.gov. TTY 800-877-8339 with your request by close of business one week before the event. For wheelchair access arrangements for this program, please contact Sarah Hill (360) 887-4106 or Sarah_Hill@fws.gov.