Parks & Recreation

The Parks and Recreation Department operates a pool, and two centers for youth and senior activities; maintains sixteen public parks including two off leash dog parks and a mountain bike skills course; and we offer programming to enhance the lives of community members, residents, and visitors.


Visit this weblink to view details on Parks and Parks Facilities.

Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan

Visit the Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan project page to learn about the development of the 2026-2032 plan.

The public draft of the Ellensburg Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Sustainable Funding Plan (PROS Plan) is available for review, along with the park inventory appendix.

You can use this form to comment on the Public Draft of Ellensburg's Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Sustainable Funding Plan (PROS Plan). This long-range plan establishes a strategic framework and funding strategy for the future acquisition, maintenance, development, renovation and restoration of Ellensburg’s parks, recreation facilities, natural open spaces, trail corridors, programs, and services over the next 10 years. The City will review all feedback before issuing the Final Plan.

Trails

WOW! Check out these trail maps with various routes about Ellensburg for people to enjoy while they walk and bike. Trail lengths range from 1.67 miles to 7.5 miles.

THE BIG LOOP

7.5 miles

Visit Reed, N. Alder, McElroy, and Paul Rogers Parks

THE SMALL LOOP

2.5 miles

Visit Irene Rinehart Riverfront and Rotary Parks

BRAD’S LOOP

4.5 miles

Visit N. Alder Park, P2C trail and CWU

FRIEND LOOP

1.67 miles

Visit N. Alder and McElroy Parks

And for you cyclists, here’s a 4.8 mile bike loop that includes N. Alder Park, P2C trail, CWU and the 7th Avenue Bike Boulevard.

  1. How do I reserve a picnic shelter?
  2. How do I find out about upcoming recreational activities?
  3. How do I sign up for swim lessons?
  4. Are dogs allowed at City park facilities?
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