List | Things To Do

Off the Beaten Path in Central Washington: Have You Tried These Yet?

May 29, 2025

Adventure Outside the Ordinary


Sure, we love the iconic trails and popular stops that Central Washington has to offer — but there’s something magical about exploring the less expected. This month, we’re inviting you to discover a different side of Central Washington: some places you might not of heard of, and some fun facts about why these stops are iconic and just as epic as the more popular stops! 

Here’s your Off the Beaten Path Itinerary:

🧘‍♀️ Start your day with yoga at Wild Rose Yoga in Cle Elum
Tucked into the charm of Cle Elum, Wild Rose offers a peaceful, welcoming studio space where you can stretch, ground, and breathe deep before heading outside. They have awesome new student specials which makes it easy to pop in for a class!

For more information on the studio and how to get signed up for a class, check out their website here: https://www.wildroseyogi.com/ 

🥤 Grab a drink + snack at the historic Ronald General Store
A true hidden gem just up the road — this little stop is full of local character and small-town nostalgia. The Ronald General Store, nestled in the historic coal-mining town of Ronald, Washington, stands as a testament to the area's rich heritage. Established in the late 1880s, Ronald was named after Alexander Ronald, the superintendent of the Northwestern Improvement Company, and served as a supply center for miners working in the nearby coal mines.  Over the years, the store has evolved into a beloved community hub, offering a mix of groceries, camping supplies, and local goods. Its enduring presence provides a nostalgic glimpse into the region's past, making it a must-visit for those exploring Central Washington's hidden gems!

🛍️ Thrift a new fit or find a vintage treasure at COAL Clothing
Located just behind the Ronald Post Office, COAL is a non-profit clothing store that gives back to the community and those in need. It’s curated, colorful, and the perfect kind of unexpected shopping stop!
But make sure to check the hours on the COAL Facebook Page – they’re open Wednesdays & Saturdays only!

🌸 Hike Hex Mountain to scout for wildflowers
Off the main tourist radar, Hex offers stunning views and spring wildflower sightings without the crowds. You can find the Hex trailhead a few miles up the road past Ronald! Lace up your boots and keep your eyes open for those first blooms of the season.

You can access the full trail guide HERE: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/hex-mountain-trail 

🏖️ End the day with a peaceful beach walk at Speelyi
Finish your adventure with a walk in the sand and the sounds of Lake Cle Elum in the background. Speelyi Beach is beautiful, with sweeping views of the mountains surrounding the lake! If you need to cool off after the hike, Speelyi Beach is your place to jump in :) 

✨ Whether you’re local or just exploring for the weekend, these lesser-known spots deserve a spot on your spring adventure list.Tag us @centralwashingtonoutdoor if you hit one (or all) of these — we’d love to see where you explore!

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