Elk Meadows Escape

Cle Elum is a city in Kittitas County, Washington, United States. The population was 2,157 at the 2020 census. About 84 miles (135 km) by car from Seattle, Cle Elum is a popular area for camping and outdoor activities. It is also unofficially considered the starting point of Eastern Washington when driving east on I-90 from Seattle, although this is somewhat arbitrary since many consider either the town of Easton, anywhere east of Keechelus Lake, or the wildlife crossing bridge over I-90 to be the starting point.

One of the highlights of Cle Elum is its stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, the town is surrounded by miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking vistas. You can explore the nearby Cle Elum River, which offers excellent fishing, kayaking, and rafting opportunities. Or, you can take a leisurely stroll through the town’s many parks, including the popular Centennial Park, which boasts a splash pad, playground, and picnic area.

In addition to its natural beauty, Cle Elum also has a rich cultural heritage. The town was originally settled by Native American tribes, and its history is evident in its many museums and historical sites. You can visit the Roslyn Museum, which showcases the town’s coal mining past, or the Carpenter House Museum, which features exhibits on local history and culture.