Riverfront Park Loop

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.