Discovering the John Wayne Pioneer Trail is an exciting prospect for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This incredible route, also known as the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, offers a diverse landscape and rich history to explore. Spanning across Washington State, accessing this trail is made easy with numerous trailheads catering to different starting points and interests. From west to east, here’s a guide to some of the major trailheads that serve as your gateway to the John Wayne Pioneer Trail.
Cedar Falls (Rattlesnake Lake Trailhead)
Located near North Bend, the Cedar Falls trailhead, also known as Rattlesnake Lake, is a popular western access point. To reach it, take I-90 to Exit 32 and head south on Cedar Falls Road for 3.5 miles. You’ll find a well-maintained parking lot, making it convenient to start your journey. This trailhead provides immediate access to the scenic beauty of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding forested areas, ideal for a day hike or the beginning of a longer trek.
Twin Falls Trailhead
Further east along I-90, the Twin Falls trailhead offers another easily accessible entry point. Take Exit 38 from I-90. If you are eastbound, turn right after exiting, cross the Snoqualmie River, and turn into the parking area designated for Twin Falls Natural Area. For westbound travelers, turn left at the exit and drive approximately 2 miles to reach the trailhead. This location is perfect for those wanting to combine a hike on the John Wayne Pioneer Trail with a visit to the picturesque Twin Falls.
McClellan Butte Trailhead
For a trailhead with more challenging hiking options alongside the John Wayne Pioneer Trail, consider McClellan Butte. Take I-90 to Exit 42 and turn south. A short distance from the exit, you will see trailhead signs on your right. Parking at McClellan Butte trailhead requires a Northwest Forest Pass. This trailhead is known for its steeper trails leading up McClellan Butte, offering panoramic views, in addition to access to the gentler grade of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail.
Annette Lake Trailhead
Annette Lake trailhead, accessible via Exit #47 from I-90, provides another stunning alpine access point. Turn south at the first stop sign after the exit, then turn left onto Road #55. Drive 0.25 miles to the large parking lot on your right. The trail starts at the east end of the parking lot, up the gravel road and to the left. A Northwest Forest Pass is also required for parking here. Annette Lake itself is a worthwhile side trip, offering a beautiful mountain lake experience near the John Wayne Pioneer Trail.
Hyak Trailhead
The Hyak trailhead is conveniently located off Exit #54 of I-90, near Snoqualmie Pass. Turn south at the exit, then east (left) onto Hwy-906 for half a mile. Turn right onto the Lake Keechelus boat launch road, and then right again on the next road after approximately 200 feet to reach the parking lot. Note that in winter, a Sno-Park permit is necessary to park here, reflecting its popularity for snow activities as well as trail access.
Easton Trailhead
Easton provides a more central access point to the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. Take I-90 to Exit #71 and turn south to the stop sign. Cross Railroad Street and the railroad tracks, then turn left. Drive 1.4 miles to the parking area. Easton serves as a good mid-trail access point for those planning longer excursions or multi-day trips.
South Cle Elum Trailhead
For a trailhead with historical significance, South Cle Elum is an excellent choice. Leave I-90 at Exit #84 and follow the signs to South Cle Elum. Once in town, follow signs to the parking area. Notably, South Cle Elum is home to one of the original train depots, currently being restored by the Cascade Rail Foundation, offering a glimpse into the trail’s railway history.
Thorp Trailhead
Located west of Ellensburg, the Thorp trailhead is accessed from Exit #101 off I-90. Turn north onto Thorp Hwy for half a mile, then turn left onto Thorp Depot Road and drive a quarter mile to the parking area. Thorp provides access to the trail as it approaches the more arid landscapes east of the Cascade Mountains.
Ellensburg Trailhead
The John Wayne Pioneer Trail seamlessly integrates with the town of Ellensburg. The trail cuts directly through town and even passes through the campus of Central Washington University. This urban trailhead offers a unique experience, blending trail exploration with town amenities and university atmosphere.
Kittitas Trailhead
Just east of Ellensburg, the Kittitas trailhead is reached via Exit 115 from I-90. Head north towards town on Main St for about .75 miles, where you will find the trail and the old railroad station. Kittitas provides another eastern gateway, close to the transition into the drier eastern Washington environment.
Boylston/Army West Trailhead
The Boylston/Army West trailhead marks a section requiring permits between this point and the Columbia River, and potential closures due to military exercises. Contact Ginko/Wanapum State Park for current conditions before heading out. To get there, take I-90 to Kittitas Exit 115. Take the exit towards the south side of I-90 and follow the roads alongside the freeway heading east for approximately 5 or 6 miles. Just past the trestle over I-90, you’ll find a parking lot.
Columbia River Trailhead
The easternmost major trailhead discussed here is at the Columbia River. Like Boylston/Army West, this section requires permits and can be subject to military closures. Contact Ginko/Wanapum State Park for updates. Take I-90 to the Vantage/Huntzinger Rd Exit 136. Head south on Huntzinger Rd for about 7 miles until you cross the trail. Look for a gravel road on your right leading to the parking lot. This trailhead signifies the eastern end of the traversable John Wayne Pioneer Trail, meeting the majestic Columbia River.
These trailheads offer a range of access points to begin your exploration of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail, each with its unique character and surrounding landscape, promising an unforgettable adventure.
