The best cycling routes in Kittitas County
4.8
(15)
367
riders
32
rides
Touring cycling routes in Kittitas County traverse a diverse landscape, from the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains to the fertile Kittitas Valley. The region features winding rivers, expansive farmlands, and dramatic basalt cliffs, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Key natural features include segments of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail and the scenic Yakima River Canyon. The area provides a range of cycling experiences across forests, valleys, and former railway lines.
Best touring cycling routes in Kittitas County
- The most popular touring cycling route is Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail: Hyak to Easton, a 35.8 miles (57.6 km) trail that takes 5 hours 19 minutes to complete. This route follows a former railway line, offering diverse scenery and a challenging ride.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Yakima Canyon Road, a moderate 35.9 miles (57.8 km) path. This route winds through the scenic Yakima River Canyon, characterized by basalt cliffs and the winding river.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Coal Mines Trail, a 10.4 miles (16.7 km) trail leading through wooded areas and past historical coal mining remains, often completed in about 1 hour 9 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Kittitas County is defined by the Cascade Mountains, the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, and the Yakima River Canyon. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy paths to more difficult routes.
- The routes in Kittitas County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Kittitas County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(2)
29
riders
57.6km
05:19
360m
360m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle ride along the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail: Hyak to Easton, covering 35.8 miles (57.6 km) with a significant 1180 feet (360 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route, estimated to take 5 hours and 19 minutes, follows a historic railroad bed, offering diverse scenery as you cycle. You will pass tranquil Lake Easton and cross a high, curved bridge over Cabin Creek, with views of the majestic Cascade Peaks in the distance.
When planning your trip, be aware that the Snoqualmie Tunnel, located just west of Hyak, typically closes from November 1st to May 1st due to ice, so factor this into your schedule if you intend to ride through it. Hyak provides a large parking area with restrooms and water, which is a convenient starting point. Some of the shorter tunnels along this segment might have rocky surfaces or limited access, so be prepared for varied conditions.
This section of the trail is part of a longer historic corridor, offering a unique perspective on the region's past as you move eastward and notice the landscape gradually becoming drier. You can find primitive campsites at Cold Creek and Roaring Creek, though these do not offer potable water. This route is ideal if you are looking for a substantial cycling challenge with changing natural vistas.
5.0
(1)
17
riders
43.9km
04:07
180m
180m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure along the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, covering 27.3 miles (43.9 km) with a gentle 601 feet (183 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a scenic transition from dense evergreen forests, rich with bigleaf maple and Douglas fir, to more open landscapes. You can expect to spend around 4 hours and 7 minutes cycling, enjoying views from the impressive Iron Horse Trail Bridge before reaching the tranquil waters of Lake Easton State Park.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail surfaces can vary, including loose gravel and sandy stretches, so a mountain bike or fat tire bike is often recommended for comfort and stability. While the wider trail has seasonal closures, this specific segment does not pass through the Snoqualmie Tunnel, which is closed from November to May. Always carry enough water and snacks, as services are sparse along the route.
This section of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail provides a fantastic taste of its diverse character, showcasing the historic Cascade Rail Foundation South Cle Elum Station. The trail itself is a significant part of a larger rail-to-trail conversion, offering a unique glimpse into the region's railway heritage and natural beauty. It's an excellent option if you are looking for a rewarding ride that combines history with varied scenery.
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5.0
(1)
11
riders
16.7km
01:09
140m
140m
Cycle the easy 10.4-mile Coal Mines Trail, exploring historical mining remnants and forests between Roslyn and Cle Elum.
5.0
(2)
6
riders
57.8km
03:27
420m
420m
Yakima Canyon Road offers a moderate 35.9-mile touring cycling route through scenic basalt cliffs and the Yakima River Canyon.
3
riders
24.4km
01:59
50m
50m
Cycle the easy 15.2-mile Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail from Ellensburg to Kittitas, enjoying rolling farmlands and open scrubland.
2
riders
56.0km
05:58
1,320m
1,320m
This difficult 34.8-mile touring cycling route in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest features 4318 feet of elevation gain and scenic pas
1
riders
59.5km
04:34
410m
410m
Cycle the moderate 37.0-mile Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, gaining 1355 feet through diverse landscapes and historic sites.
26.3km
01:34
190m
190m
Cycle the Salmon La Sac Road, a moderate 16.3-mile route through the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest with river valley views.
5.0
(3)
18
riders
98.2km
09:06
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
84.3km
07:13
380m
380m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
I am always amazed how different this lake looks in the spring (full) versus the fall (almost empty). Those "Seals" are visible in the fall but then go for a long swim in the winter and spring...
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The BBQ restaurant that used to be in the old depot next door moved elsewhere, but this is still an interesting place to visit.
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The State Park is on the West shore of Lake Easton - very nice campground. An excellent overnight spot in the Spring/Summer/Fall when doing the Palouse to Cascades trail. Worth looping around the lake to see it from all sides and experience the tunnel and bridges. Decent provisions available in town.
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Great bridge! You can ride all the way around Lake Easton, over this bridge, under a cool tunnel, past the State Park, and across another bridge that used to be the main highway across the cascades (Highway 10). Very beautiful ride!
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I highly recommend the Coal Mines trail as an easy access to the various mountain bike trails in the area - great system up there!
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Great views. Nice spot to stop for a break. Amazing how much the lake level changes throughout the year.
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If you have been riding West to East, this is what you have been waiting for. A unique bridge over the Yakima River. You can cross the river, stand on one side, stand on the other, stand in the middle. The bridge doesn’t mind either way. Very high quality bridge that doesn’t move when you walk on it because it used to support trains. A great place to reflect on things that have happened and say well “that’s water under the bridge”, and you’ll be both literally and figuratively correct at the same time. Can’t beat that.
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This is more of a lowlight. I'm not gonna lie... But you need to be warned. This section between Easton trailhead and the Yakima River bridge #4 just West of Cle Elum has very little going for it. It is flat; very flat. It has gravel; lots of loose gravel with two narrow hard-pack lines you need to stay within to move along. It parallels I-90, which creates a loud constant roar that battles the crunch of gravel for your hearing pleasure. Long parts of it are straight; very straight. The view is exactly the same the whole way; a hedge to the North and farmland to the South. Mostly, you are going to be looking forward to getting through this part of the trail. Think of it as purgatory, but also think of it as the price you will pay to visit the much more pleasant parts of the trail at either end.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Kittitas County?
Kittitas County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 30 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 9 easy, 12 moderate, and 10 difficult trails, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling in Kittitas County?
Touring cycling in Kittitas County provides a diverse range of landscapes. You can experience the towering peaks of the Cascade Mountains, lush forests, the winding Yakima River Canyon with its dramatic basalt cliffs, and expansive farmlands in the fertile Kittitas Valley. Segments of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail also offer varied scenery, from lake views to historic tunnels and arid scrubland.
Are there any notable natural features or landmarks to explore along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, Kittitas County is rich in natural features and landmarks. You can cycle through the unique Snoqualmie Tunnel, a 2.3-mile unlit tunnel on the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. Other highlights include the scenic Lake Easton State Park, the dramatic basalt cliffs of the Yakima River Canyon, and the serene Gold Creek Pond. The region also features several mountain passes like Snoqualmie Pass and Longs Pass.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Kittitas County?
Kittitas County's semi-arid climate generally means dry conditions, making it favorable for cycling for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While summer is also popular, be prepared for warmer weather. Some sections, especially at higher elevations or within the Snoqualmie Tunnel, might require a jacket even in warmer months.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Kittitas County has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for families and beginners. The Coal Mines Trail is an excellent option, offering a gentle ride through wooded areas and past historical coal mining remains. Another easy segment is a 15.2-mile stretch of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail between Ellensburg and Kittitas.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking longer rides, Kittitas County features significant segments of the 245-mile Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. A notable long-distance option is the South Cle Elum – Lake Easton State Park loop from Hyak, which covers nearly 100 km. Another challenging long-distance route is the Washington Timber Trail, offering over 55 km of difficult terrain.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Kittitas County?
Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes available. For example, the South Cle Elum – Lake Easton State Park loop from Hyak offers a challenging circular experience. Another option is the Teanaway River – South Cle Elum loop from Ellensburg, which provides a difficult 85 km ride through varied terrain.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced touring cyclists will find several challenging routes in Kittitas County. The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail: Hyak to Easton is a difficult 57.6 km trail following a former railway line. The Washington Timber Trail is another difficult option, featuring significant elevation changes. Additionally, the Teanaway River – South Cle Elum loop from Ellensburg offers a demanding 85 km ride.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer views of the Yakima River?
Absolutely. The Yakima Canyon Road is a moderate 57.8 km route that winds directly through the scenic Yakima River Canyon. This route provides stunning views of the river, dramatic basalt cliffs, and is known for its diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep and various birds of prey.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Kittitas County?
The touring cycling routes in Kittitas County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 17 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, ranging from mountain views to river canyons and farmlands, as well as the variety of terrain that caters to all skill levels. The well-maintained trails and unique features like the Snoqualmie Tunnel are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any routes that follow old railway lines?
Yes, Kittitas County is home to significant sections of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, which follows a former railway line. The Hyak to Easton segment is a popular example. Additionally, the Coal Mines Trail also utilizes an old railway right-of-way, offering a historical cycling experience.
Can I find routes with river valley views in Kittitas County?
Yes, several routes offer beautiful river valley views. The Salmon La Sac Road route, for instance, provides moderate cycling with picturesque river valley scenery. The Yakima River Canyon also offers continuous views of the winding Yakima River.
Most popular routes in Kittitas County
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