The Cle Elum center is approximately 24 miles northwest of Ellensburg Rodeo.
Fall is prime time for visiting Cle Elum thanks to the variety of activities you can experience. Autumn temperatures are favorable for horseback riding, hiking, camping, and local events, so you can't go wrong with planning a trip from September through November. Hotel rates are also lower in the fall than during peak summer season, helping you save on your vacation.
Cle Elum averages 46 inches of snowfall per year in the winter, which is nearly double the national average. Unless you're planning to visit one of the area's ski resorts, you're probably better off waiting until spring. The upside is that hotel rates are affordable in the winter months, and you won't be subjected to the hiked prices like you would in the nearby ski resort towns.
Cle Elum warms up slowly in the spring, so expect temperatures in the low 30s in April. Be sure to pack plenty of layers and an umbrella to make the most of your trip. If you want to visit in the spring to save money on your hotel, the month of May offers average highs around 65 degrees, making it the best choice for taking advantage of outdoor recreation.
Summer is always a popular season for Cle Elum. Visitors from Seattle flock to the small city to enjoy their favorite warm-weather activities, which causes hotel rates to go up. Even so, Cle Elum offers a wide range of accommodations suited to almost any budget.
If you qualify, you can save even more money on your trip to Cle Elum by booking your room at a special rate.
Military families and government employees can save at Hampton Inn Ellensburg, which is located about 22 miles from Cle Elum. The highly rated hotel offers an indoor pool, fitness facilities, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary hot breakfast. Guest rooms and suites feature 32-inch LCD high-definition TVs, alarm clock radios, work desks, convenient lap desks, and WaterPik showerheads.
Seniors will love the special rate available at Super 8 by Wyndham Ellensburg. Make yourself at home in a pet-friendly accommodation that offers ample parking, an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, a business center, and free breakfast. Guest rooms include flat-screen TVs, desk-level outlets, ergonomic workspaces, and alarm clock radios.
AAA members can also save on most area hotels. Simply book your preferred special rate, and present your proof of eligibility at check-in.
If you'd rather stay in a mid-range hotel that gives you plenty of value for your money, you won't have to look far.
Best Western Plus Snowcap Lodge is centrally located in Cle Elum, placing you within minutes of Washington State Horse Park and Fireman's Park. Enjoy a hot cider and a free cookie upon arrival, an indoor pool and hot tub, fitness facilities, and a free breakfast. The contemporary guest rooms feature Egyptian-sateen cotton linens, premium cable TV, and high-speed internet access. Suites add deep soaking tubs and rain showers.
Other great mid-range options around Cle Elum include Holiday Inn Express Ellensburg, Comfort Inn Ellensburg, and Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center Ellensburg.
Upon arriving in Cle Elum, be sure to check out the Cle Elum Visitors Center. The facility offers a number of resources to help you make the most of your stay, including brochures, area guides, recreation maps, and local advice. While you're here, stop by Stella's next door for lunch and ice cream.
Want to experience some of the area's best wine tasting? Visit Swiftwater Cellars. This European-style winery serves premium wines from internationally acclaimed winemakers. The on-site Hoist House restaurant takes advantage of the freshest Pacific Northwest ingredients, making it the perfect spot for a romantic lunch or dinner.
There are many horseback riding services in the area, but Three Peaks Outfitters is one of the best. Aside from horseback rides, the company offers sleigh rides, wilderness trips, guided hunts, and fishing trips. When you want to explore the outdoors but prefer a local guide, Three Peaks Outfitters never disappoints.
Other great destinations worth checking out in Cle Elum include the Cle Elum Telephone Museum; Fireman's Park; and the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad South Cle Elum Rail Yard.
Exploring everything Cle Elum has to offer is a tall order for any outdoor enthusiast, but no matter what your itinerary includes, you'll find a breathtaking locale that's perfect for getting away from it all. Whether you're searching for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly accommodation, you can find the ideal hotel to meet your needs and budget.
Below are reviews of the city of Cle Elum, WA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Clean. Small. Located on the freeway and accessible.
Cle Elum is a sweet, quaint little town. The area has lots of hiking and biking options too.
We always make a stop at the Pioneer Coffee. Can't go through Cle Elum without stopping.
Hotel was clean, quiet and safe.
The views!!
The views!!
Suncadia
Suncadia
Very nice town! Quaint and quiet.
The scenery. Just breathtaking.
Cle Elum has plenty of services, while still being quaint and fun. The mountain views are outstanding! The people are very friendly!