Ellensburg, Washington ? the Scenic Hub of the Pacific Northwest Home to Central Washington University, Ellensburg, Washington hosts travelers visiting the Gorge Amphitheater, Grand Coulee Dam, the famous Northwest cities of Leavenworth, Cashmere, Wenatchee, Yakima, and Roslyn. Ellensburg is a great place to stay for a few days while visiting the Washington Wine Country and the Yakima River, one of the best fly fishing rivers in the U.S. and great for family rafting. Ellensburg has many bed and breakfasts and other lodging and a wonderful variety of restaurants. The experience of Ellensburg, Washington and the "6 brick blocks" of late Victorian buildings, erected after the tragic fire of 1889, includes museums, art galleries, antique stores, jewelry stores, many locally owned unique clothing and gift stores, and fine restaurants all located in antique buildings. Brick sidewalks, vintage lighting and signage, plenty of free parking and beautiful parks and playgrounds set the ambiance of Ellensburg. Ellensburg, Washington is like an oasis with rivers, lakes, streams and mature shade trees on the "dry" side of the Cascade Mountains. Historic Ellensburg, Washington, in the Foothills of the American Alps Ellensburg, Washington is geographically located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, the "American Alps". Hiking in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area is enchanting and the great thing about hiking from the Ellensburg side is that there are far less cars in the trail head parking lots and far less people on the trails; AND far less rain! One of these short hikes lead to Long's Pass, as you reach the top of the hill, majestic Mt. Stuart is right in front of you, the entire mountain! You can see the base camp below at the foot of the mountain, both sides and the top, all from the same vantage point. It is one of the most beautiful sights in the world. Ellensburg, Washington is located in the midst of the Kittitas Valley