The Coal Mines Trail is a 5.5-mile (one way) wide gravel trail that connects Cle Elum, Roslyn and Ronald, with only 453 feet of elevation gain. No pass is needed, and it’s open to walkers, bikes, horses and leashed dogs.
Quick facts
- Distance: 5.5 miles one way (Cle Elum to Ronald)
- Elevation gain: 453 feet
- High point: 2,375 feet
- Pass: None
- Dogs: Allowed on leash
- Bikes and horses: Allowed
- Surface: wide and well maintained, like a dirt road
Why go
The trail passes coal mining history, including slag piles, fan houses and other mine remains, climbing gently from Cle Elum toward Ronald.
You can do any piece of it. It crosses Highway 903 about halfway, in Roslyn, so Roslyn makes an easy midpoint for coffee or lunch.
Our take: A quiet, underused trail and a nice, flat walk for everyone.
Getting there
In Cle Elum, park near Flag Pole Park off First Street and South Cle Elum Way, then walk across Second Street to the trailhead. There’s no toilet at the trailhead. The Howard Carlin Memorial Trailhead Park (opens in a new tab) is another start in Cle Elum.
Before you go
- No pass needed.
- Bring water. There’s no toilet at the Cle Elum trailhead.
- Share the trail with bikes and horses.
Common questions
How long is the Coal Mines Trail?
The Coal Mines Trail is 5.5 miles one way between Cle Elum and Ronald, with 453 feet of elevation gain.
Can you bike the Coal Mines Trail?
Yes. It’s open to hiking, biking, horseback riding and running.
Do you need a pass for the Coal Mines Trail?
No. No parking pass is required.
Trail stats from Washington Trails Association (opens in a new tab). Last checked October 11, 2026.
More nearby: Peoh Point, all hikes near Roslyn and Cle Elum and our biking trails.
More trails near Cle Elum
Hiking · Biking · Off-roading · ATV & UTV · Snowmobiling · Horseback · Teanaway guide · Salmon La Sac guide