Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park — Attraction in Ellensburg

Absolutely ADORE this park.

Pros: There's lots of fun little places to explore. The trails are well maintained and stretch out into a loop. Along the loop there's spots for ultimate frisbee. I haven't seen anyone play yet, but it's a nice option to have. Additionally, it's right on the river and has lots of sandy, little alcoves for fun relaxation. Fishing here is a MUST. There's a bbq pit, and plenty of areas to hang- out with a group. If you enjoy bird watching, this place is good for that. Lots of beauty to see out there on the trails.

Bonus: It's dog & horse friendly. There's an off-leash dog park a short trek from the main park. Definitely worth taking a look at for your furry friends.

Cons: There is only one bathroom in the park. The other is a poorly-maintained port-a-potty. The off-leash dog area is a little small. Considering Ellensburg has a large population of herding/shepherding dogs that tend to be on the larger side, you'd think it'd be bigger to accommodate. Wish it also had access to the river so my pup could swim without breaking park rules. Also parking sucks. Like seriously. If you plan on visiting during peak hours, expect to have to park on the main road that has the speed limit...

A great city park. Named after an excellent ellensburg city council woman, who's idea it was to buy the property were the park is located.

For generations of local kids. IRRP has been THE summer spot. To cut their teeth at independence. Just getting there by yourself, w/out your parents use to be such a pain. Two hour hot dusty bicycle ride to get out there from town w/ no sidewalks, and fast traffic the whole way. Once there though, activities could included mountain biking Howard trail, floating the yak-river down from as for up in the park as one could hike, climb and wade, sunbathing w/your pals and there ladies out in Cary lake on inflatable boats, snorkeling & swimming with your gal in people's pond (it's colder then Cary lake). Great memories 😎 great park, we are so lucky to have it.

IRRP is one of only two city parks that I recommend to tourists, the other is Reed park (for the views/ sunsets) I do suggest to walk up to Reed park if it's later in the day. Keeps the vehicle noise down for...

Had to stop here when I saw this view magnificent flowing river under the bridge. It was dawn. Out of my car, run to the middle of the bridge to the edge of low fence. Took few pictures. I realized I could fall down. It was exhilarating feeling welcomed me; said "here we meet again in diffrent time, shape, place, and beauty. A woman stopped asked if I was okay. I could bearly see her face. It was really dark. She asked if I was okay. That was nice of her. People don't normally see someone walking there. I think left my car emergeny ligth on blinking. Didn't want drivers to hit the car. It migth caused her to stop and ask. Told her just taking pictures. I returned to the sound of water rejuvinated me. I find the connection running blood through my veins and rivers pouring on earth's river beds all over the world on and under non stop; giving nurishment and lives. Only, wish...