Vanderbilt
Country Estates

Vanderbilt Country Estates of Ellensburg, Washington

Pedestrian & Equestrian Trail System-a feature of Vanderbilt Country Estates

A common use trail system is available for the private use of members of the Vanderbilt Country Estates development. It is restricted to pedestrian and equestrian (non-motorized) use. The trails are contiguous, situated on common land and cover varied terrain including hills and narrow canyon ways. There are some wooded sections. A small stream through a wooded area offers the opportunity to view wildlife and birds attracted to the water and the cover which trees and brush provide.

The five trails within the system include a 1 mile loop and a 4.22 mile perimeter trail. Trails are restricted to pedestrian and equestrian (non-motorized) use. The trails are situated on common land and cover varied terrain including hills and narrow canyon ways.

A seasonal stream, small ponds, orchard and other wooded areas offer the opportunity to view wildlife and birds attracted to the water and the cover which trees and brush provide.

Vanderbilt Country Estates Trail MapA trail map is available upon request. Call or use our contact form to let us know you would like to set up an appointment to see properties currently available. Wear your walking shoes and come enjoy yourself with a little exercise, lots of fresh air and marvelous panoramic views.

TRAIL DESCRIPTIONS by Benjamin Logsdon

Cottonwood Loop - A short scenic loop ideal for an early morning walk or late afternoon stroll. It cuts through a draw with cottonwoods and a stream, perfect for cooling off during a hot summer day. The view at the highest point above the grassy road is very scenic and rewarding after the hike up.

Blackbird Trail - A shorter loop than the "Evening Star Trail," it goes along Vanderbilt Road before it loops around and travels up to "Hawk Hill" before it comes back to where it starts. Blackbirds often whistle their short song when disturbed along this trail. This trail is a good half hour walk.

Chinook Loop - Along the eastern side of the trails, it is named after the warmer westerly wind. This loop has one good hill along the "Grassy Road" and goes down "Hawk Hill." It is a little over two and a half miles, making it good for a short jog or a long walk. It is perfect during the Spring in the early morning when the grass is just starting to come up.

Evening Star Trail - The ideal training route for a 5k for runners or a long walk for serious walkers, it has varied terrain, including hills and flat sections. Great in the late afternoon or evening, the sun setting creates a panoramic vista almost the entire way.

Willow Trail - The longest of the trails, it runs the perimeter of the Vanderbilt Country Estates' Trail system. Great for a run or jog, it has all the scenery of any other of the trails. It twists around like an old willow, hence the name. Willow Trail is also ideal for horseback riding!

Central Washington Area Hiking Trails

It is always a good idea to call the local ranger station for updates on trail conditions, accessibility and permitted use. Here is a partial list of central Washington area trails which you might want to check out.

Rachael Lake, Pete Lake, Cathedral Pass, and Ingalls Lake trails

Yakima Canyon hikes include the Skyline Trail

Iron Horse State Park lineal trail (accessed from Thorp Trailhead at exit I-90 No.101 on the North).

Kittitas Valley Trails -
North Ridge Trail No.1321 & spur No.1321.3
North Fork Taneum No.1377
Granite Creek No.1326.1
Cle Elum Ridge trail No.1326
Kachess Ridge Trail No.1315
Sculpture Rock No.1397 (upper Swauk and Teanaway Ridges)
Bear Creek No.1351
Teanaway Ridge No.1364
Cooper River No.1311 (can use Salmon La Sac trailhead)

U.S. Forest Service Ranger Station Contact List

More Kittitas County Trail Hikes

Special Note - Manastash Ridge - Ray Westburg Trail (aka "The Ridge Trail") and the Umtanum Ridge Trail (south of Ellensburg) - For spring wildflower displays, best from early April through mid-May depending upon spring conditions.

Wildlife Areas and Access Points in South Central Washington

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Vanderbilt Country Estates - An Exclusive Rural Residential Development
P.O. Box 877
Ellensburg, WA 98926
1-509-201-0776
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