The best cycling routes around Ellensburg
5.0
(2)
37
riders
5
rides
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Ellensburg, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and roads, it's hard to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best cycling routes Ellensburg has to offer, saving you the guesswork.
Touring cycling around Ellensburg offers a truly unique experience. This central Washington region blends arid scrubland, lush river valleys, and rolling agricultural lands, all framed by distant mountain views. You'll find everything from easy, flat paths along the Yakima River to more challenging loops through varied terrain, including impressive basalt cliffs. The dry climate here means you can enjoy rideable trails for most of the year, making it a reliable destination for cyclists.
If you only do one ride, make it the Yakima Canyon Road. This moderate 35.9 miles (57.8 km) route is an absolute must, showcasing the iconic basalt cliffs and the winding Yakima River. For something easier and family-friendly, the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail offers a scenic 15.2 miles (24.4 km) ride through farmlands and forests. With over 20 touring cyclists already exploring these paths and giving them an average 5.0-star rating, you know you're in for a treat. Start exploring with komoot and discover your next favorite ride!
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(2)
6
riders
57.8km
03:27
420m
420m
Pedal through a landscape carved by time on the Yakima Canyon Road, a moderate 35.9-mile (57.8 km) touring cycling route that winds alongside the Yakima River. You'll be surrounded by towering basalt cliffs, some reaching 2,000 feet, and rolling desert hills, offering a truly immersive experience in a largely uninhabited canyon. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like bighorn sheep and various raptors as you enjoy the smooth, paved surface.
This scenic ride, with its 1383 feet (421 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes. It's best enjoyed in spring or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. While generally beginner-friendly, be aware of traffic and narrow shoulders in some areas. Convenient rest stops with amenities are available at recreation sites like Roza, but cell reception can be unreliable, so plan your communication accordingly.
The Yakima River Canyon is recognized as a National Natural Landmark, celebrated for its significant geological features and serving as a popular spot for fishing and rafting. This route offers a fantastic alternative to the nearby interstate, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and accessible cycling. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a rewarding day trip that combines moderate effort with stunning desert canyon vistas.
3
riders
24.4km
01:59
50m
50m
This easy 15.2-mile (24.4 km) touring cycling route, typically taking around 1 hour and 59 minutes, offers a unique journey across Washington's diverse landscapes. Following the historic Milwaukee Road, you'll experience a fascinating transition from forested areas to arid scrublands, with the gentle 162 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain making it accessible for many. The trail's surface is mostly crushed gravel, but be ready for some sandy patches, especially as you approach the U.S. Army Yakima Training Center, where the scenery opens up to dramatic basalt cliffs.
When planning your ride, consider that while this section is easy, the full Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail has varying conditions. Mountain bikes or road bikes equipped with gravel tires are recommended for the best experience on the mixed terrain. If you're looking to explore the famous Snoqualmie Tunnel, remember it's closed from November 1st to May 2nd each year. Always carry sufficient water and snacks, as amenities can be spread out along the route.
The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail stands out as one of the longest rail-trail conversions in the United States, preserving a significant piece of railroad history. This route provides an excellent opportunity for best routes Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail touring cycling, allowing you to explore Washington's ecological diversity from a unique perspective. The trail's gentle grade, inherited from its railway origins, makes it a family-friendly option for those seeking a longer, yet manageable, cycling adventure.
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15
riders
84.3km
07:15
380m
380m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
38.6km
03:11
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
9.91km
00:34
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
The station house is restored and looks great - it used to house a restaurant, but that moved elsewhere.
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Umtanum Creek Recreation Site holds a first-come, first-served campsite. This area can get busy on the weekends, but it is a great spot for a ride break.
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Yakima Canyon Road winds around and follows the path of the Yakima River. The basalt cliffs can reach about 2,000 feet in some spots. The river is home to Blue Ribbon trout, and the canyon is home to nesting hawks, eagles, and falcons in the state.
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This sign welcomes visitors to Yakima Canyon, 27 miles of scenic canyon located between the towns of Ellensburg and Yakima.
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Roza Recreation Site is a great pitstop on a ride. With a campground, restrooms, and picnic tables, visitors can enjoy the rolling hills, basalt cliffs, and Yakima River.
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Pioneer Coffee Roasting Company is a great stop not only for fresh coffee from house-roasted beans but also for treats from the bakery and a browse in the shop.
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The Thorp Grist Mill was built in 1880, and the modern museum showcases the only remaining mill in Washington State that changed from stone Buhr rollers to modern rollers. This mill stands on land that was originally Yakama land.
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Check out the Teanaway River, which is a tributary of the Yakima River. Here it branches off, so visitors will get views of where both rivers meet from here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ellensburg?
Ellensburg offers a selection of touring cycling routes, with at least 4 routes detailed on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy riverside paths to more challenging loops through rural landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in Ellensburg?
Ellensburg provides a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You can expect routes through scenic basalt cliffs and river canyons, expansive agricultural lands, open scrubland, and forests. The region's geography, situated in central Washington, offers a mix of arid landscapes, river valleys, and distant mountain views.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ellensburg?
The touring cycling routes in Ellensburg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain and scenic beauty, with more than 20 touring cyclists having used komoot to explore the area.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ellensburg?
Yes, there are easy options available. The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail is an easy 15.2-mile path offering scenic views of farmlands and forests. Another easy option is the Bike loop from Vista View, which is shorter at about 6 miles.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For more experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the Teanaway River – South Cle Elum loop from Ellensburg is a difficult 52.8-mile route that takes you through rural landscapes. The Yakima Canyon Road also offers a moderate 35.9-mile ride with scenic basalt cliffs.
Can I find any circular touring cycling routes in the Ellensburg area?
Yes, there are circular routes available. The Teanaway River – South Cle Elum loop from Ellensburg is a notable 52.8-mile loop. Additionally, the Bike loop from Vista View provides a shorter, easy circular option.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes in Ellensburg?
Ellensburg's routes offer many natural highlights. Along the Yakima Canyon Road, you'll see impressive basalt cliffs and the Yakima River, known for trout and nesting birds of prey. The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail features rolling farmlands and open scrubland. Other areas like Umtanum Creek Canyon boast a historic swinging bridge, wildflowers, and bighorn sheep. You can also explore Olmstead Place State Park, one of the first homesteads in the Kittitas Valley, with historic buildings and gardens.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling options in Ellensburg?
Absolutely. The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail is mostly flat and offers an easy, scenic ride suitable for families. Additionally, parks within Ellensburg like Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park, West Ellensburg Park, and Memorial Park provide pleasant and safe environments for casual family biking.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ellensburg?
The spring, summer, and early fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Ellensburg. Spring brings wildflowers, while summer and fall provide pleasant temperatures for exploring the diverse landscapes. Local group rides are organized from late March to September, indicating a favorable cycling season during these months.
Is parking available near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, parking is generally available near popular trailheads and parks in Ellensburg. For instance, the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail has access points where parking can be found. Many city parks also offer parking facilities, making it convenient to start your ride.
Are there any hidden gem touring cycling routes in Ellensburg?
While not widely publicized, areas like Reecer Creek Road offer a casual ride through pasturelands with pleasant scenery, providing a quieter alternative. The Green Canyon/Naneum-Wilson Trail area north of town also offers breathtaking views and less-traveled paths for those looking to explore beyond the main routes.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the cycling routes?
Ellensburg's historic downtown, with its preserved 1890s architecture, offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Many of these are easily accessible from various cycling routes, providing convenient options for meals or accommodation after your ride.
Are there any routes that offer significant elevation changes for a workout?
Yes, for those seeking more challenging climbs, the Teanaway River – South Cle Elum loop from Ellensburg involves a total elevation gain of approximately 379 meters. While not extreme mountain biking, it provides a good workout for touring cyclists. The Manastash Ridge area, though more known for mountain biking, also offers trails with significant elevation for avid cyclists.
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