Day Trip Packing List
As the sun starts peaking through the clouds and waking us up from our winter blues and igniting our need for the outdoors, Central Washington is gearing up. With incredible landscapes offering everything from rolling farm hills to snow-capped, floral-wrapped cascades, there are no limits to the views you’ll take in. Ellensburg and its surrounding areas offer so many ways to enjoy the outdoors, from sipping some of the best wine in the world from our local Columbia Valley, to riding bikes on one of our numerous trails, to enjoying local restaurants and art galleries, there is no doubt something for everyone. Spring is one of the most beautiful times to experience our outdoors. Here are a few of our recommendations for your Ellensburg day trip adventures:
Mountain High Sports Inc.
Mountain High Sports Inc. is Ellensburg’s local outdoor recreation retailer. Located on 4th Ave, you’ll be able to track down all the gear you may need or be missing for your outdoor day trips. The staff is also well versed in local trials, tips, and other valuable information.
Ready to pack?
Ready to pack? Here’s what we’d recommend. First things first. Let’s talk about Washington weather. It’s a little unpredictable in the springtime and layers are the name of the game. You’re going to want to dress warm during the mornings, breezy parts of the afternoon and during any leisurely activity. However, if you are doing any sort of outdoor activity, the sun and your exercise will warm you up quickly and you’ll be ready to strip a layer in no time.
What to Wear:
1. Hiking Pants
2. Leggings
3. Rain Jacket
4. Hiking Shorts
5. SPF long sleeve shirts
6. Tanks
7. Gloves
8. Hiking Socks/Shoes
Traveling to Washington’s outdoor areas can be a bit wet in the spring. The condensation from the night-time air, spring sprinkling rains, and mist from waterfalls, all lend to the fact that you’re going to want some water wicking hiking pants to keep you dry. We’d also recommend a pair of warm leggings for the morning and evening hikes. They can also be easily worn during a day in town. A solid rain jacket is a must on any hiking trip. The weather constantly changes and you never know what it will bring you, even for locals. However, a rain jacket is a staple in all of their closets and they almost never leave home without it. A rain jacket is light enough to wear a layer underneath and thin enough to put in a day pack or around your waist. They are great to keep you warm on chilly mornings and also light enough to use as sun protection on the warmer sunny days. As we mentioned before, layering is key. We recommend moisture-wicking sports tanks under a long sleeve shirt. Almost every hike will most likely end up in just a tank as you work up a sweat. The long sleeve will also keep you protected from the afternoon sun.
As you start to feel the restlessness of cabin fever it is likely that you will brave the chillier temperatures. Gloves are a necessity for early spring and morning hikes. You’ll want a pair of gloves that are lightweight enough to be able to move freely and grasp onto things but also warm enough to stop the wind from freezing your hands.
Washington’s spring can be wet. You’ll want to be sure to pack moisture wicking socks and a solid pair of hiking shoes. You’ll want a great tread on your hiking shoes as there’s a good chance you’ll run into mud, puddles, and even snow if you hike the trails in higher elevation. If you decide to hike an easier or novice trail you will be able to wear a pair of trail running shoes with a really great traction. They tend to have a little more flexibility and are lighter weight.
For the warmer spring months we would also recommend an outdoor sandal with straps that are waterproof. These are also great for strolling around town before and after your outdoor adventures.
What to pack in your day pack
1. Hiking Poles
3. Water Bottle/Bladder
4. Sunglasses
5. Hat
6. Sunscreen
7. Raincover for Daypack
8. USB charger
9. Battery Pack
Food
It is so important to make sure you are well fueled for your adventures. We recommend stopping at any one of Ellensburg’s delicious options for lunch on the go. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. LunchBox Cafe
2. The Red Pickle
3. The Early Bird
4. D&M Coffee
5. 1202 Bagels
6. Daily Bread and Mercantile
7. HayDay Bake and Brew
For more options: Check out our dining options here!
After a long day of adventures it’s time to settle in for a glass or pint. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. Enchantment Brewing
2. Iron Horse
3. Ellensburg Brewing and Tilted Tree Cider House
4. Gård Vintners
5. Fortiuity Cellars
Ellensburg has many tasting room options: Check out our tasting rooms here!
Are Breweries more your style? Don’t worry, Here’s a list of local breweries!
Ellensburg offers a plethora of things to do, places to go and events to experience! Indoor and outdoor adventures await you and your family, no matter the time of year. We hope to see you soon!
