Goldendale is near the geographic center of Klickitat County and has the Little Klickitat River running through it. The city obtained its start as a watering stop on the Yakima - Okanogan wagon trail. The first plat was recorded in 1872 and the city was incorporated in 1879. Goldendale is now the largest city in Klickitat County as well as the county seat. It serves as the regional service center.

Goldendale, Washington is located on a fertile plateau some 100 east of Portland, Oregon, 70 miles south of Yakima, Washington, and 100 miles west of the Tri-Cities. The majestic Columbia River is only 13 miles south of the city. The terrain is generally rolling with an elevation of 1620' at the airport. The Simcoe mountains, visible from the City, rise in the north to an elevation of 5500'. Four mountain tops, Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens are visible from certain places in the city.