Upper Kittitas County Attractions Guide 

(Ronald, Roslyn, Cle Elum & Surrounding Areas)

Looking for the best things to do near Ronald, Roslyn, and Cle Elum? Upper Kittitas County is where mountain-town charm meets year-round recreation—lake days on Lake Cle Elum, historic streets in Roslyn, brewery patios in Cle Elum, and endless trailheads in every direction. Use this local guide to plan a weekend getaway or a longer stay packed with outdoor adventure, dining, shopping, and scenic drives.

Quick Overview: Where You Are

Upper Kittitas County sits on the east slope of the Cascade Mountains, along the I-90 corridor. Cle Elum is the central hub for dining, supplies, and access to trails. Roslyn is your historic, walkable small town with shops and character. Ronald is your launch point to lake life, cabins, and quieter mountain views—especially around Lake Cle Elum.

Top Outdoor Attractions and Recreation

Lake Cle Elum

If your ideal day involves water, sunshine, and mountain scenery, Lake Cle Elum is the headline attraction. In summer, it’s perfect for:

• Swimming and beach days

• Kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing

• Boating and fishing

• Sunset picnics and shoreline walks

Local tip: Plan your lake day early on warm weekends—parking and popular access points can fill up quickly.

Speelyi Beach and Local Lake Access

One of the biggest perks of staying at Roslyn Pines is the close proximity to Speelyi Beach, one of the most accessible and family-friendly shoreline areas on Lake Cle Elum. Located just a short drive from the home in Ronald, Speelyi Beach offers an easy way for guests to enjoy the lake without the crowds or formality of a marina.

Speelyi Beach features a wide, open shoreline that is ideal for swimming, wading, relaxing, and soaking in mountain views on warm summer days. The gradual, shallow entry into the water makes it especially well-suited for families with children, while the expansive beach area provides plenty of room for chairs, towels, and casual lakeside picnics.

A unique advantage of Speelyi Beach is that vehicles are permitted directly on the sand, allowing Roslyn Pines guests to conveniently unload coolers, floaties, paddleboards, and beach gear. Visitors should proceed with caution, as sand conditions can change throughout the season and soft areas may cause vehicles to get stuck—four-wheel drive is recommended, and parking closer to firmer ground is advised.

Speelyi Beach offers free public access to Lake Cle Elum and is perfect for guests seeking a relaxed, no-frills lake experience close to their rental. Whether you’re cooling off after a hike, enjoying sunset views after dinner in Roslyn, or spending a full day at the water, Speelyi Beach is an easy and convenient lake destination for Roslyn Pines guests.

Hiking and Trailheads Near Cle Elum, Roslyn & Ronald

Upper Kittitas County offers trails for every ability level—quick forest walks, moderate ridge hikes, and longer alpine routes. Popular categories include: 

• Family-friendly hikes with low elevation gain and big scenery

• Ridge and viewpoint hikes with expansive Cascade panoramas

• Forest and river trails ideal for warmer afternoons

Visitors searching “best hikes near Cle Elum” or “hikes near Roslyn WA” will find plenty of options within a short drive.

Rachel and Rampart Lakes Trail (Alpine Lakes Wilderness). A classic Cascade hike featuring scenic high-alpine lakes and mountain views. Rated one of the most popular hikes near Cle Elum. AllTrails.com+1.  Trail info and map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/rachel-lake-and-rampart-lakes-trail

Lake Ingalls Trail (Esmeralda Trailhead) Hard but spectacular hike to Lake Ingalls with panoramic views of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. komoot. Trail info and map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/lake-ingalls

Coal Mines Trail (Cle Elum → Roslyn → Ronald) Easy/moderate rail-trail hike through mining history with minimal elevation gain—great for families and casual hikers. WTA+1. Trail info and map (Washington Trails Association): https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/coal-mines-trail-cle-elum

Cle Elum Ridge via Ewok & Crooked Tree Trail (Roslyn Urban Forest) Moderate local ridge hike with forest scenery and views over the Cle Elum area. AllTrails.com. Trail info and map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/cle-elum-ridge-via-ewok-and-crooked-tree-trail

Jolly Mountain Trail Longer, challenging trail with substantial elevation gain and rewarding valley views; excellent for experienced hikers. WTA. Trail info and map (via WTA): https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/jolly-mountain

Mountain Biking and Gravel Riding

Cle Elum and Roslyn are well-known for their mountain biking scene. You’ll find:

• Forest road routes for gravel riding
• Flow-style singletrack (seasonal conditions vary)
• Easy spins for casual riders and challenging climbs for experienced cyclists

Roslyn Area Trails (Rat Pac, Ewok, Brass Monkey, Mixtape, etc.) – Classic local singletrack with a variety of terrain including fast downhill features, flowy descents, and connector climbs around Roslyn and the Urban Forest. Good for intermediate to advanced riders. Trail overview (Trailforks): https://www.trailforks.com/region/roslyn-area-trails-62735/ Trailforks

Teanaway Community Forest – A larger network of multi-use singletrack and forest roads offering options from beginner loops to longer, more remote rides. Excellent scenery and varied terrain a short ride from Ronald.  MTB info (Outdooractive): https://www.outdooractive.com/en/mountain-biking-trails/kittitas-county/mountain-biking-trails-in-kittitas-county/321025658/ Outdooractive

Coal Mines Trail (Roslyn to Ronald / Cle Elum) – A gentle rail-trail that’s ideal for family rides, beginners, or as a warm-up/cool-down option. The old mine-rail alignment links Ronald, Roslyn, and Cle Elum. Trail info (Trailforks): https://www.trailforks.com/trail/coal-mines-trail-roslyn-to-ronald/ Trailforks

Rat Pac Trail (Cle Elum Ridge / Taneum Canyon) – A standout descent with features, jumps, and technical sections popular with local riders. It’s a relatively short but rewarding ride with climbing options up from Roslyn/Cle Elum. Local trail overview (Discover Cle Elum): https://www.discovercleelum.com/blog/looking-forward-a-guide-to-cle-elums-top-mountain-biking-trails/ DiscoverCleElum

Taneum Canyon / Skyline Ridge & Surrounding Trails – Connected trail choices that offer a mix of cross-country and ridge riding south of Cle Elum. These are good for longer rides with varied elevation and forest scenery. Trail network details (Trailforks): https://www.trailforks.com/region/kittitas-county-14914/ Trailforks

Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation in Upper Kittitas County

Upper Kittitas County is a popular destination for Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, offering access to extensive forest roads, ridge routes, and scenic backcountry terrain. Riders can explore miles of designated and multi-use roads throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and surrounding public lands near Roslyn, Ronald, and Cle Elum.

OHV opportunities in the area are best suited for ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and street-legal 4×4 vehicles traveling on approved forest service roads and marked Green Dot routes. Terrain ranges from wide gravel roads and gentle scenic drives to steeper, rockier routes with panoramic views of the Cascade foothills and valleys.

Most OHV riding in Upper Kittitas County takes place on shared-use forest roads rather than dedicated OHV parks. Riders should follow all posted signage, stay on designated routes, and comply with Washington State OHV regulations, including vehicle licensing and spark arrestor requirements. Seasonal closures may apply due to snow, wildlife protection, or road conditions, especially at higher elevations.

With its combination of open space, varied terrain, and stunning mountain scenery, Upper Kittitas County provides a rewarding OHV experience for responsible riders seeking outdoor adventure in a rural mountain setting.

Winter Attractions: Snow, Sledding, and Cozy Cabin Season

When winter arrives, the area turns into a snowy playground:

• Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

• Scenic snow drives and photo stops

• Sledding down the coal hills

• Sledding spots (conditions vary by snowfall)

• Ice skating in Suncadia

• Après-style dining and warm drinks back in town

If you’re planning a winter getaway, pack traction and check pass conditions before driving. WSDOT - Snoqualmie Pass Conditions

Historic and Cultural Attractions in Roslyn

Historic Downtown Roslyn

Roslyn is one of the most distinctive small towns in Washington—historic buildings, walkable streets, and a true “old town” feel. Spend an afternoon:

• Browsing local shops and gift stores

• Grabbing coffee or pastries

• Enjoying a relaxed lunch or dinner

• Taking a self-guided walk through town for photos and history

Roslyn is especially great for visitors looking for “things to do near Cle Elum that aren’t hiking.”

Roslyn Cemetery and Local History Stops

If you enjoy local history, Roslyn has several stops that showcase the area’s coal mining roots and heritage. These are easy to pair with shopping and dining downtown.

The Roslyn Historical Cemetery offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s coal-mining past and diverse cultural roots. Established in the late 1800s, the cemetery is made up of multiple adjoining sections created by immigrant communities, fraternal groups, and early residents who helped build Roslyn. Today, it is a peaceful, walkable site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, where visitors can explore local history, heritage, and the stories of the people who shaped this unique mountain town.

Scenic Drives and Day Trips (Perfect Year-Round)

Mountain Pass Views and Cascade Scenery

Cle Elum is perfectly positioned for unforgettable mountain and scenic drives through the heart of the Cascade Range. From forested mountain passes to wide-open ridgelines and alpine lakes, the surrounding highways offer some of the most beautiful and accessible road-trip scenery in Washington State.

Just west of town, Snoqualmie Pass on I-90 delivers classic Cascade views with evergreen forests, dramatic mountain slopes, and sweeping vistas of Keechelus Lake. This year-round route is especially stunning in fall with golden larches and vibrant foliage, and in winter when snow blankets the peaks.

To the east, Blewett Pass on Highway 97 offers a different kind of beauty—expansive ridgelines, open skies, and panoramic views of the eastern Cascades. Sunsets here are exceptional, making it a favorite drive for photographers and relaxed afternoon cruising.

For those looking to explore farther, Stevens Pass and the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway showcase rugged mountain terrain, river canyons, and alpine landscapes, connecting Cle Elum to destinations like Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee. These drives are ideal for half-day or full-day adventures, with countless pullouts, trailheads, and picnic spots along the way.

Whether you’re seeking a short scenic drive or a full mountain loop, Cle Elum offers easy access to some of Washington’s most iconic Cascade scenery—making the journey just as memorable as the destination.

Nearby Mountain Towns and Surrounding Areas

Cle Elum is an ideal home base for exploring some of Central Washington’s most scenic and character-rich mountain towns and surrounding landscapes. Within a short drive, visitors can experience alpine villages, historic college towns, and dramatic Cascade mountain passes—each offering its own distinct atmosphere and attractions.

Leavenworth, located to the north, is a charming Bavarian-style village set against rugged mountain peaks. Known for its alpine architecture, festivals, boutique shopping, and year-round outdoor recreation, Leavenworth is a favorite day trip for dining, wine tasting, river activities, and seasonal events.

To the east, Ellensburg offers a blend of historic charm and wide-open scenery. Home to Central Washington University, the town features a vibrant downtown with local restaurants, breweries, museums, and access to the rolling hills of the Kittitas Valley. The surrounding area is especially known for scenic drives, agriculture, and sweeping views of the eastern Cascades.

Just west of Cle Elum, Snoqualmie Pass provides a dramatic transition into the heart of the Cascade Range. This iconic mountain pass offers breathtaking views, alpine lakes, hiking and snow sports, and year-round access to the western slopes of the mountains. It’s a gateway to waterfalls, trails, and classic Pacific Northwest scenery.

Together, these nearby mountain towns and surrounding areas make Cle Elum a central hub for diverse day trips—whether you’re seeking alpine charm, cultural experiences, or scenic mountain landscapes just beyond your doorstep.

If you’re staying multiple days, consider day trips to surrounding communities and recreation corridors. The region is packed with trail networks, rivers, and seasonal highlights—so you can explore a new direction each day without a long commute.

Family-Friendly Attractions and Rainy-Day Ideas

Even when weather shifts, you can still have a great day:

• Local shops and bookstores

• Cafés and bakeries

• Casual lunch spots for groups

• Scenic drives with quick stops

• Relaxation time back at your rental (hot tub nights and movie time are a local tradition)

Best Times to Visit Upper Kittitas County

• Spring: quieter trails, fresh mountain air, shoulder-season pricing

• Summer: lake days, long daylight, hiking and biking peak season

• Fall: cooler hikes, golden colors, cozy town weekends

• Winter: snow play, peaceful cabins, festive weekends and après vibes

Plan Your Visit: Tips for a Smooth Stay

• Start earlier on weekends for lake access and popular trailheads

• Bring layers—mountain weather changes quickly

• Keep a “town day” in your itinerary for shopping and dining in Roslyn and Cle Elum

• If traveling with dogs, plan for pet-friendly patios and leashed trails

Explore Upper Kittitas County Like a Local

Whether you’re here for Lake Cle Elum, a weekend in Roslyn, or the trail access and dining in Cle Elum, Upper Kittitas County delivers the kind of trip that feels both adventurous and easy. Build your itinerary around one big activity per day—lake, hike, town—and you’ll leave feeling like you truly experienced the best of Ronald, Roslyn, Cle Elum, and the surrounding Cascades.