Location: 25 miles south of I-90, at the intersection of State Hwys 17 and 26; 180 miles east of Seattle and 110 miles southwest of Spokane. Population: 7600. Visitor Information: Greater Othello Chamber of Commerce; Phone: (509) 488-2683; Website: www.othellochamber.org.
Othello enjoys a mild, dry climate in rolling, upland mesa country, dotted with waterways and reservoirs. The Columbia Basin’s tumultuous geologic history has resulted in a fascinating mix of channeled scablands, coulees, sand dunes, basalt cliffs and columns. The area has seen the world’s largest lava flows and torrential floods, and a million years of unequalled dust storms, which dumped up to 400 feet of topsoil. The nearby Columbia Basin Wildlife Refuge and the Potholes State Park region of small crater lakes showcase this unique geology, and provide sportsmen with exciting year-round opportunities. The annual Sandhill Crane Festival is held in March, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. Other attractions include the Old Milwaukee Caboose Interpretive Center, the Othello Community Museum, a top-notch golf course, Scootney Reservoir and campground and four municipal parks.