Cle Elum

a recreational mecca

The city of Cle Elum, nestled amongst the eastern Cascades’ towering evergreens and located within sight of jagged peaks, has evolved since its incorporation in 1902 from a mining and logging town into a hub for Upper Kittitas County’s burgeoning recreation scene.

Cle Elum boasts a population of about 2,030. e name Cle Elum derives from the Kittitas Native American word for “swift water,” a reference to the currents of the Cle Elum river.

In the winter, skiers, snowmobilers and snowshoers still pass through town on their way to nearby Snoqualmie Pass or the backcountry of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. In the summertime, the town plays host to anglers, hikers, bikers and outdoor enthusiasts of nearly every variety.

Within town, history and recreation often blend. Visitors can enjoy the Coal Mines Trail, a former railway bed that links the towns of Roslyn, Ronald and Cle Elum, as it meanders past the sites of several historical coal mines. Motorized vehicles are only permitted on the trail during winter months, when it opens for snowmobile use. e historic Carpenter House o ers visitors a glimpse at life in early 20th century Cle Elum. e Historical Society also operates Cle Elum’s telephone museum, which documents the switch from manual phone service to automatic dialing.

Co ee houses, restaurants and shops are spread throughout the streets of downtown Cle Elum. Some of the most popular draws include Owens Meat, a 100-plus year old meat market, Glondo’s Sausage Co., an old worldstyle Italian market, and the Cle Elum Bakery.

For more information, go to discovercleeleum.com

Teanaway – a feast for your eyes

Spring comes early to the Teanaway area, and trees changing colors during the fall are spectacular. The area off ers camping, hiking, fi shing, horseback riding and other opportunities to explore the backcountry. The picturesque Swauk-Teanaway Grange on Ballard Hill Road off ers a number of activities throughout the year, including a popular hunters breakfast, bluegrass concerts and a holiday bazaar.