Cle Elum Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Cle Elum with information about places to visit, outdoor activities, food, accommodations, culture, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Cle Elum

Cle Elum is a charming town located in North Cascades of Washington State in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States of America. The town is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and historical significance. Cle Elum is surrounded by the Cascade Mountains and is situated at an elevation of 2,200 feet above sea level. The town has a population of around 2,000 people and provides a small-town experience to its visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Cle Elum

When visiting Cle Elum, there are several must-visit places that you should be sure to include in your itinerary. Here are some of the top attractions of Cle Elum:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cle Elum Telephone Museum: This museum has a collection of vintage telephones and artifacts from the early days of telecommunication. Visitors can see how the technology has evolved.

  • Cascade Coal Mine: This is not a functioning coal mine, but a museum that offers an opportunity to learn about the coal mining industry in the area.

  • Cle Elum Roslyn Historical Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Cle Elum and Roslyn areas. There are exhibits of mining and logging equipment, household items, vintage clothing, and more.

Natural Attractions of Cle Elum: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Cle Elum: Lake Cle Elum is a manmade lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy the view of the mountains and the clear waters of the lake.

  • Iron Horse State Park Trail: This trail is a former railroad track that has been converted into a hiking and biking trail. It offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

  • Suncadia Resort: This resort offers various outdoor activities like hiking, biking, golfing, fishing, and skiing. It is a perfect place for a family vacation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cle Elum

There are several hiking and biking routes in and around Cle Elum. These routes provide a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Coal Mines Trail: This trail is a 4.6-mile route that takes hikers and bikers through the forest, over creeks, and past the ruins of old coal mines.

  • Deception Pass: This is a seven-mile hike that offers a beautiful view of the valley and Lake Cle Elum.

  • Kachess Ridge Trail: This trail is 12.4 miles long and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Cle Elum: Activities and Tours

There are several must-do activities and tours in Cle Elum. These activities offer a chance to explore the history and culture of the area while having fun. Here are some of the best things to do in Cle Elum:

  • Horseback Riding: Suncadia Resort offers horseback riding tours for all skill levels. These tours offer a chance to explore the valley and the surrounding mountains on horseback.

  • ATV Tours: Wenatchee National Forest is just a short drive from Cle Elum and offers ATV tours. These tours allow visitors to explore the forest wilderness and its natural beauty.

  • Wine Tours: Cle Elum is located in the heart of Washington wine country. There are several wine tours available that offer the chance to visit local wineries and taste their wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cle Elum

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Cle Elum:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Cle Elum Telephone Museum and Cascade Coal Mine
2 Hike the Iron Horse State Park Trail
3 Explore the Suncadia Resort and enjoy outdoor activities
4 Visit the Cle Elum Roslyn Historical Museum
5 Take a wine tour and taste the local wines
6 ATV tour in the Wenatchee National Forest
7 Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Cle Elum

Food and Drink Scene of Cle Elum

Cle Elum is known for its local cuisine. There are several must-try dishes and local beverages that you should not miss when visiting the town.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef Brisket: Cle Elum is famous for its beef brisket. The beef is slowly cooked over wood fire, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

  • Huckleberry Pie: Huckleberries are abundant in the area, and huckleberry pie is a must-try dessert.

  • Salmon: The region is known for its fresh salmon, and there are several restaurants that offer delicious salmon dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Washington Wine: Cle Elum is located in the heart of Washington wine country. There are several local wineries that offer excellent wines.

  • Craft Beer: There are several craft breweries in Cle Elum that offer unique and flavorful beers.

Where to Stay in Cle Elum: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Cle Elum, ranging from hotels to guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Suncadia Resort: This resort offers comfortable rooms, suites, and villas. It has all the amenities required for a comfortable stay, including restaurants, swimming pools, and a spa.

  • Cle Elum Holiday Inn Express: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities. It provides easy access to all the major attractions of the town.

  • Stewart Lodge: This lodge provides comfortable and affordable accommodation for visitors. It is situated in a quiet location, surrounded by natural beauty.

What to Buy in Cle Elum: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products that you can buy in Cle Elum:

  • Handmade Crafts: There are several shops in Cle Elum that offer unique handmade crafts, such as pottery, wood carvings, and jewelry.

  • Local Honey: The area is known for its delicious honey, which is available in several shops.

  • Salmon: Fresh salmon is available in the local fish market and is a great souvenir to bring home and cook for a delicious meal.

Local Culture and Customs of Cle Elum

Cle Elum has a rich culture and history. The local residents are friendly and welcoming to visitors. It is important to respect the local culture and customs while visiting the town.

Best Time to Visit Cle Elum

The best time to visit Cle Elum is during the summer months from June to August. During this time, the temperatures are comfortable, and the weather is sunny and dry. Fall and spring are also great times to visit the town, as the colors of the leaves and blooms are breathtaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cle Elum

Here are some do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind while visiting Cle Elum:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious and cultural places.

  • Explore the natural beauty of the area.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash in public places.

  • Disturb the local wildlife.

  • Try to touch or feed the wild animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cle Elum

Cle Elum is a safe town for visitors. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Health in Cle Elum

Cle Elum has a medical center that provides primary healthcare services. It is always recommended to carry essential medication when traveling.

Getting to Cle Elum: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cle Elum

The nearest international airports to Cle Elum are Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Portland International Airport. Both airports are about a three-hour drive from Cle Elum.

Bus Stations Near Cle Elum

There are no bus stations in Cle Elum. However, there are several bus stations in nearby towns like Ellensburg and Seattle.

Other Options

There are several car rental agencies in the area, making renting a car an easy option to get around.

How to Get Around in Cle Elum

The easiest way to get around Cle Elum is by car. However, biking and walking are also great options. There are several biking and hiking trails in the area.

Where to Go Next from Cle Elum: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations that you can visit from Cle Elum, including:

  • Seattle: Seattle is a vibrant city known for its coffee shops, landmarks like the Space Needle, and Pike Place Market.

  • Mount Rainier National Park: This national park is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

  • Leavenworth: Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-style village known for its traditional German food and annual Oktoberfest celebration.

Conclusion

Cle Elum is a beautiful town located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. From natural attractions to historical places, there are several things to do and see in the town. Cle Elum offers a perfect combination of outdoor activities, local culture, and delicious cuisine. A visit to Cle Elum is a must for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Washington State.