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Howard's Way Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 104 Google reviews · Running trail in Ellensburg, Washington · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Howard's Way Trailhead yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking area with picnic tables, a public restroom, and riverside views.
What runners say about Howard's Way Trailhead
“Beautiful nature trail along the river with lots of side trails and a progressive story on signs for the kids.”
“Beautiful and serene with easy access to the water and an easy hike.”
“Stayed at the nearby Best Western and needed a place to walk my dog.”
Really nice little trail system right by the Yakima River on the edge of Ellensburg. Adjacent to and goes through a park with swimming areas and frisbee golf. Fire pit areas to bbq. Bike path connections in to the town of Ellensburg.
Really cool trail with spots to go down to the river. Child friendly, as it's not steep or narrow. There are signs along the trail telling the story of how Coyote became a trickster, too (I have a soft spot for Coyote).
Really beautiful area and has a trail shooting off in several directions. Many places to fish and has an absolutely beautiful section of wooded forest.
Stayed at the nearby Best Western and needed a place to walk my dog. This trail is lovely, along the banks of the Yakima River.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful nature trail along the river with lots of side trails and a progressive story on signs for the kids.”
“Stayed at the nearby Best Western and needed a place to walk my dog.”
Plan your run at Howard's Way Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Running trails near Ellensburg
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 846 reviews
Public park with boat facilities, a swimming area, a picnic shelter, restrooms & trails.
Rotary Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 384 reviews
This 100-acre recreation area has baseball diamonds, walking trails & a playground, plus a dog park.
West Ellensburg Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 199 reviews
Relaxed outdoor space for playing frisbee, baseball or soccer. Free-range dogs, too.
Mountain View Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 258 reviews
Community park providing a playground, picnic shelter, athletic courts/fields & open green space.
Palouse to Cascades state park trail (John Wayne trail)
4.7 ★★★★★ 3 reviews
