Situated in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, the town of Cle Elum (and the surrounding Cle Elum Ranger District) offers easy access to year-round recreation in the Cascade Mountains, with pretty alpine lakes for summer boating and paddling and miles of motorized and non-motorized trails. While camping is popular in the summertime, the weather can be on the chilly side, making renting a cabin a reliable option no matter the season. Two area cabin rentals are available through the US Forest Service: a larger seasonal option near Ellensburg (available from Memorial Day to Labor Day) and a smaller guard station that's open year-round. Demand for both cabins runs high, however, and you'll get more options and flexibility if you instead opt for one of the many privately owned and operated cabins in the surrounding area.