Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
130.00 ft (39.62 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
3.00 mi (4.83 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park is located just west of downtown Ellensburg, Washington. The large park offers nearly 120 acres of hiking and recreation opportunities. The trails stretch alongside the beautiful Yakima River, and at one point a lovely large pond. Fishermen will love the easy river and pond access the park offers, and anyone looking to enjoy a leisurely afternoon picnic can utilize the large grassy picnic area at the southeast end of the pond.

There are a few different places you can begin the hike, one of which is the Howard’s Way Trailhead at the southern end of the park. From here hike north along the trail. You’ll be alongside the Yakima River for much of it.

The trail then arrives at the center of the park where there is a large parking lot, and picnic areas. Continue along the trail as it soon passes between the river and a scenic, large pond. The trail loops around the northern end of the pond before heading back south.

You’ll need to walk along the road for a bit to complete the loop, then rejoin the trail after the large grassy picnic area and main parking lot.

Continue along the familiar trail until reaching the Howard’s Way Trailhead where you first began.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Yakima River and ponds. Fishing. Easy walking.

Cons

Popular area. A bit of road walking to complete the loop.

Trailhead Elevation

1,506.00 ft (459.03 m)

Highest point

1,548.00 ft (471.83 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Fishing
Family friendly
Big vistas

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Eastern North Cascades + Lake Chelan, Washington
Eastern North Cascades + Lake Chelan, Washington

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Eastern North Cascades + Lake Chelan, Washington
Eastern North Cascades + Lake Chelan, Washington

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