The Green River Gorge is a 12-mile-long river-cut rock canyon located just east of Black Diamond, Washington. Most other rivers in western Washington run over softer ground, which creates broad, winding valleys. By contrast, at the gorge, the Green River cut through hard bedrock, creating a steep, narrow canyon. In the late 19th century coal mining began near the gorge, which started to contaminate the river with pollution. Mining in the area continued into the 1950s. The state of Washington began purchasing land around the gorge in the 1960s and most of the gorge is now a state park. Today, the Green River Gorge is a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and fishing.

This image shows the Green River flowing through the gorge in the 1920s. Two small figures at the left edge of the photo give a sense of scale.

Today, the Green River Gorge is a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and fishing. However, the increased human presence has also led to graffiti marring the gorge’s natural beauty in some places.

Webster & Stevens number: 92130