Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Teanaway Community Forest, located in Kittitas County, central Washington, encompasses approximately 50,000 acres of mixed forest and shrubland at the convergence of the eastern Cascade Mountains and Columbia Plateau. Established in 2013 through a collaborative public-private partnership, it is one of Washington State’s first community forests managed to balance ecological health, local economic development, and outdoor recreation. The forest's geography ranges from river valleys to gentle upland slopes, centered around the Teanaway River watershed. Vegetation includes Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, broadleaf trees, and open shrub-steppe areas supporting diverse wildlife such as elk, mule deer, black bears, and spotted owls. The forest supports protected populations of sensitive species and serves as crucial habitat connectivity. Outdoor enthusiasts will find over 100 miles of multi-use trails suited for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with highlights like the Whiskey Ridge Trail offering panoramic views of the Cascade Crest. The forest also includes excellent trout fishing opportunities along the Teanaway River and its tributaries. Winter sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular during snowy seasons. The community-driven management approach encourages sustainable timber harvests while maintaining natural values. Visitors appreciate the forest’s natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and accessibility from nearby communities. Its blend of open meadows, mixed conifer forests, riparian corridors, and rugged terrain makes it a destination for nature lovers and outdoor recreationists looking for varied landscapes and quiet wilderness experiences close to Seattle and Ellensburg.
