Where is Roslyn Washington?
Roslyn, WA at a Glance
Roslyn is a small city in Kittitas County, Washington, situated in the eastern Cascades at an elevation of approximately 2,251 feet. The city covers 4.77 square miles and holds a population of around 960 residents as of 2024. Our zip code is 98941.
The nearest communities are Ronald (1.1 miles), Cle Elum (1.9 miles), and Snoqualmie Pass (30 miles to the west). State Route 903 is the sole paved access road into Roslyn and the surrounding residential areas beyond Bullfrog Road.
Quick reference:
- County: Kittitas County
- Elevation: 2,251 feet
- Population: ~960 (2024)
- Zip code: 98941
- Coordinates: 47.23°N, 121.00°W
- Distance from Seattle: 85 miles east
- Distance from Ellensburg: 28 miles northwest
History of Roslyn, Washington
Roslyn was incorporated in 1886 as a coal mining company town following the discovery of coal deposits in the area in 1883. The Northwestern Improvement Company, a subsidiary of the Northern Pacific Railroad, developed the mine and brought in workers from across the country and Europe.
In 1892, an explosion at the mine killed 45 workers — the deadliest mining accident in Washington State history. The disaster drew national attention and accelerated labor organizing in the region.
The African American community played a significant role in Roslyn’s development. At the peak of mining operations, Black residents made up roughly 22 percent of the population. In 1976, William Craven became Washington State’s first African American mayor, elected in Roslyn.
Coal production declined through the mid-20th century, and the town transitioned to a tourism and forestry economy. Today, Roslyn is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places through the Roslyn Historic District, which encompasses 26 ethnic cemeteries and a collection of Victorian-era commercial buildings along Pennsylvania Avenue.
The town gained national visibility when it served as the primary filming location for the television series Northern Exposure (1990–1995), which set the fictional town of Cicely, Alaska, in Roslyn’s streets and storefronts.
Things to Do in Roslyn, WA
Roslyn draws visitors from the Seattle metro area and beyond for its walkable historic downtown, outdoor recreation, and film history.
The Brick Tavern — Located on Pennsylvania Avenue, The Brick is recognized as the oldest continuously operating tavern in Washington State. The building dates to the late 1800s and retains its original bar and running water spittoon trough.
Roslyn Museum — The Roslyn Museum documents the town’s coal mining era, ethnic community history, and role in Washington State labor history. The building sits near the center of the historic district.
Coal Mines Trail — A paved multi-use trail that follows the corridor of the old coal railroad tracks between Roslyn and Cle Elum. The trail is flat and accessible for cyclists, walkers, and families.
Section 17 Mountain Biking — A network of mountain bike trails on the forested hillsides adjacent to town. The trails range from beginner-friendly routes to technical singletrack.
Roslyn Historic District — A self-guided walking tour of Pennsylvania Avenue passes the intact Victorian storefronts, ethnic social halls, and 26 distinct cemeteries that reflect the multinational workforce that built the town.
Roslyn, Washington Map – 85 miles East of Seattle – 28 miles Northwest of Ellensburg – Roslyn, WA 98941
Driving directions to Roslyn, WA from:
Frequently Asked Questions About Roslyn, WA
What is Roslyn, WA known for?
Roslyn is known as the filming location for the TV series Northern Exposure (1990–1995), its coal mining history dating to the 1880s, and The Brick Tavern — the oldest continuously operating tavern in Washington State.
How far is Roslyn, WA from Seattle?
Roslyn is approximately 85 miles east of Seattle via I-90 East to SR 903 North. Drive time is typically 90 to 100+ minutes depending on traffic and Snoqualmie Pass conditions. Also take into consideration the massive construction on I-90 and Bullfrog Road.
What elevation is Roslyn, WA?
Roslyn sits at approximately 2,251 feet above sea level in the eastern Cascades of Kittitas County.
What TV show was filmed in Roslyn, Washington?
Northern Exposure, the CBS drama that aired from 1990 to 1995, used Roslyn’s downtown storefronts and streets to depict the fictional Alaskan town of Cicely. Some buildings used in filming are still standing and recognizable along Pennsylvania Avenue.
Is Roslyn, WA worth visiting?
Roslyn is a compact, walkable town with a somewhat preserved historic downtown and a distinct character shaped by its coal mining and multicultural labor history.