West Kittitas County

From the majestic Cascade Mountains to the banks of of the rushing Yakima River, the Kittitas Valley has long been a gathering place for the larger Yakima Nation. Today, the area’s indigenous people history is an important part of the identity of Kittitas County. This land produces some of the world’s most coveted crops of Timothy hay; it’s processed, sold, and shipped internationally. You’ll also find one of the nation’s oldest PRCA rodeos in Ellensburg every Labor Day. On the professional circuit since 1923, this is where the best buckaroos in the Northwest compete for belt buckles. Ellensburg is also where you’ll find the Dachshunds on Parade festival each June—a lighthearted event that includes a dachshund parade, race, display of taught tricks, and a costume contest for the ever-popular ‘weiner’ dog. Living in Kittitas County is a respite from big city life. Neighbors here know one another and enjoy local events with a down home feel.