Attractions and Places To See in Kittitas County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Kittitas County encompass a diverse range of natural landscapes and significant historical landmarks. The region is characterized by the Cascade Mountains in the west and the Columbia Plateau in the east, offering varied terrain for exploration. Visitors can discover numerous natural features, cultural sites, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The county provides a blend of historical insights and access to extensive trail networks.
Best attractions and places to see in Kittitas County
- The most…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Snoqualmie Tunnel
Highlight (Segment) • Structure
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Kendall Katwalk
Highlight • Trail
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Gold Creek Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Easton State Park
Highlight • Lake
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Silver Peak
Highlight • Summit
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Alta Mountain Summit
Highlight • Summit
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"The Seals"
Highlight • Lake
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Roslyn Urban Forest
Highlight • Forest
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Hyak
Highlight • Settlement
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Mount Margaret
Highlight • Summit
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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 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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This is a bucket list item and crowning point for a daytrip up and back from Rattlesnake Lake. The 18-mile ride up to the Pass is relatively easy railroad grade and doable, even if you don't think you can get up here. But the highlight is then going through the tunnel to a completely different world on the other side. Definitely bring a jacket (it's maybe 45 degrees in there?) and absolutely deck your bike in the brightest lights you can find. The drip, drip, drip of water and murmurs of other people will follow you throughout the 2.3 mile tunnel. There is a very nice rest area in Hyak on the East side of the tunnel - lots of water, a bike repair stand and tools, and a nice spot for a picnic before you turn around and zoom down the trail in a third of the time it took to come up. Or you can continue on to the East if you want!
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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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Experience this 14.1-mile (22.7-kilometer) round-trip trail near Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. The trail is generally rated as difficult and can be completed in about 7 hours 20 minutes. Since the trail is ideal for trekking, camping, and hiking, you'll rarely be alone and will likely meet other adventurers during your trip. The best time to visit this trail is from June to October.
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Lake Easton State Park spans almost 700 acres across the eastern foothills of the Cascade Range. The park welcomes picnicking, camping, hiking, mountain biking, boating, fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing, and more.
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Unfortunately there are no real seals in Keechelus Lake. Still, locals refer to the wooden stumps as "The Seals". And if you do not look too close, you might imagine a ton of seals just relaxing at the banks of the huge lake.
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The Roslyn Urban Forest has a network of trail systems for various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views stretching from the Teanaway Valley to the snow-covered peaks of the Stuart Range, catching a glimpse of Mount Rainier in the south on a clear day. With a history of mining, the ruins and remnants of this past are still visible along the trails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions in Kittitas County?
Yes, Gold Creek Pond is a wheelchair-accessible lake with a paved loop trail, perfect for families and strollers. Lake Easton State Park offers year-round activities like camping, hiking, and boating, suitable for families. The historic town of Hyak, part of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, is another family-friendly spot.
Which attractions in Kittitas County are wheelchair accessible?
Gold Creek Pond is notably wheelchair-accessible, featuring a paved loop trail around a picturesque mountain pond. It's ideal for visitors using wheelchairs, parents with strollers, and small children.
What historical sites can I visit in Kittitas County?
Kittitas County is rich in history. You can explore the historic mining town of Roslyn, which offers insights into the region's coal mining past. The Roslyn Urban Forest is also a historical site. Other notable places include Olmstead Place State Park, preserving an early homestead, and the Downtown Ellensburg Historic District.
Where can I find unique viewpoints or natural features in the area?
For breathtaking vistas, Kendall Katwalk offers expansive views from a challenging trail in the Cascade Range. Alta Mountain Summit and Silver Peak also provide great vantages. Cle Elum Ridge offers panoramic views stretching from the Teanaway Valley to the Stuart Range.
What outdoor activities are available near these attractions?
Kittitas County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For specific routes, explore the waterfall hikes, MTB trails, and road cycling routes available in the region.
Are there any unique or hidden gems to discover?
The Snoqualmie Tunnel offers a unique experience, allowing you to ride or walk through a cool, dark 2.3-mile tunnel under a mountain. The historic mining town of Roslyn and the Renewable Energy Center, with its educational displays and views of 149 wind turbines, also offer distinct experiences.
What is the best time of year to visit Snoqualmie Pass attractions?
Snoqualmie Pass is popular year-round. During hiking season, typically from June to October, you'll find many long-distance hikers, especially around areas like Snoqualmie Pass. In winter, it transforms into a popular ski area with multiple resorts.
Can I bring my dog to attractions in Kittitas County?
Many outdoor areas in Kittitas County are dog-friendly, especially trails. For example, the John Wayne Pioneer Trail (Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail) offers extensive opportunities for hiking with dogs. Always check specific park or trail regulations for leash requirements and any restricted areas.
What are some popular hiking trails in Kittitas County?
Beyond the challenging Kendall Katwalk, you can find various hiking options. Lake Easton State Park features numerous trails for both summer and winter. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness, including areas around Mount Daniel, is also popular for hiking.
Are there opportunities for winter activities near Roslyn, WA?
Yes, Roslyn is close to areas offering winter activities. Snoqualmie Pass, a short drive away, is known for its ski resorts (Summit Central, Summit East & Nordic Center). Lake Easton State Park also offers cross-country skiing and snowmobiling during the winter months.
What cultural events or landmarks are significant in Kittitas County?
The Ellensburg Rodeo is a major cultural event, one of Washington State's oldest and most prestigious rodeos, held annually on Labor Day weekend. The Kittitas County Historical Museum in Ellensburg preserves local history, and the Downtown Ellensburg Historic District offers a glimpse into the past.
What kind of natural landscapes define Kittitas County?
Kittitas County is characterized by the majestic Cascade Mountains in the west and the semi-arid shrub-steppe and grasslands of the Columbia Plateau in the east. This diverse terrain includes features like Lake Easton State Park, Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, and the rugged Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Most popular routes in Kittitas County
Most popular attractions in Kittitas County
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