Extending east of the Cascade Mountains toward Eastern Washington and up to the Canadian border, North Central Washington is home to protected forests, stunning lakes, and charming towns. You’ll find opportunities for practically every type of recreation imaginable, from hiking and swimming to fishing and horseback riding.
Airports: Airports in North Central Washington include Pangborn Memorial Airport in Wenatchee (EAT) and smaller regional airports.
Major Highways: US-2, US-97, SR-20 (North Cascades Scenic Byway), I-90
Climate/Seasonality: North Central Washington has dry summers with warm temperatures, snowy winters, and a mild spring and fall.
Tucked into the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains, picturesque 50-mile-long Lake Chelan is surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and outdoor adventure. The town of Chelan offers a charming base with lakeside lodging, wine tasting rooms, family-friendly attractions, and easy access to watersports. At the lake’s remote northern end, the tiny village of Stehekin is accessible only by boat, plane, or trail. Whether visited as a day trip by ferry from Chelan or as an overnight escape, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and outdoor adventure.
Known for mountain scenery and seasonal festivals, the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth enchants visitors with German-inspired architecture and easy access to outdoor recreation. Sip local wines at downtown tasting rooms, go river rafting, hit the trail, or enjoy annual events. Families will especially love all the kid-friendly attractions in this North Central Washington destination, including the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, Nutcracker Museum, and Leavenworth Adventure Park, home to the only alpine coaster in the state.
Nestled in the eastern foothills of the North Cascades, the Methow Valley is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts in North Central Washington. Summer brings hiking, biking, and river activities, while winter turns the valley into the nation’s largest cross-country ski trail system. Charming towns like Twisp, Mazama, and Winthrop—known for its Old West character—beckon with local art, boutiques, and cozy lodging.
One of Washington’s three national parks, North Cascades National Park is an underrated gem home to glacier-capped peaks, flowing waterfalls, and alpine lakes. The eastern side of the park is accessible via Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway) or by boat, foot, or plane from Chelan and the remote community of Stehekin. Discover hikes for all skill levels, colorful foliage in the fall, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Home to Central Washington University, Ellensburg blends agricultural roots and rodeo traditions with college-town energy. Explore local history at the Kittitas County Historical Museum, stroll charming downtown streets filled with shops and art galleries, and enjoy access to nearby outdoor recreation. Since 1923, the town has hosted the renowned Ellensburg Rodeo every Labor Day weekend.
Set along the Columbia River and surrounded by orchards and mountains, Wenatchee is a hub for outdoor adventure and agricultural heritage. Nicknamed the “Apple Capital of the World,” you can sample fresh cider, paddle the river, or hit the slopes at nearby Mission Ridge come winter. A revitalized downtown features public art, craft breweries, and the inviting Pybus Public Market.
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest spans nearly 4 million acres along the eastern slopes of the Cascade Range, offering varied landscapes, from pine forests to river valleys and shimmering Washington lakes. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, camping, wildlife viewing, and winter sports like snowshoeing and skiing. To the northeast, Colville National Forest covers about 1.5 million acres. This quiet, uncrowded forestland is especially great for wildlife viewing.
North Central Washington is home to many small towns, each with their own character and history. Head to Omak for its famous Omak Stampede or Cle Elum for hiking and mountain adventures. Coulee City makes a great gateway for exploring Dry Falls and Banks Lake, while the tiny community of Roslyn was featured in the TV show Northern Exposure and charms visitors with its preserved downtown and local shops.
