With deep blue waters and sweeping vineyards set against a mountain backdrop, the Lake Chelan area is known as a destination for recreation and relaxation. Stretching for roughly 50 miles, the lake offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to take a dip or get out on the water by boat, kayak, and paddleboard.
The community of Chelan on the lake’s southern shore makes a great base for families or those looking to discover the world-class wines produced in the Lake Chelan AVA. Thanks to its central location, Chelan is reachable in about three hours by car from Seattle to the west and Spokane to the east. For those seeking solitude, a scenic ferry ride provides access to the charming and remote North Cascades community of Stehekin on the north end of the lake.
From hiking and boating to simply lounging on a sandy beach, Lake Chelan delivers on both relaxation and adventure.
Things to do in Lake Chelan
Outdoors & Nature
Magnificent views are plentiful in Lake Chelan, beckoning visitors to get out and explore. Wander through a pine forest on the easy Little Bear Trail at Lake Chelan State Park or opt for a more challenging hike along the steep Chelan Butte Trail for views of the lake and valley. For fun on two wheels, book an e-bike adventure tour with Chelan Electric Bikes. Chelan Riverwalk Park near downtown is a great option for those looking for a leisurely stroll with big views. To make a splash, rent a boat or jet ski from Shoreline Watercraft & Boat Rentals, or head to Slidewaters water park to float the lazy river, plunge down waterslides, or play a round of sand volleyball.
Get a taste of Chelan and enjoy time outdoors with a visit to a local U-pick farm. Chelan Valley Farms in Manson has u-pick flowers, raspberries, pumpkins, and apples with a water view, while Chelan Ranch grows organic blueberries, cherries, lavender, and apples. This is an especially fun outing for families.
Visit Stehekin & North Cascades National Park
Nestled on the lake’s north shore in North Cascades National Park, Stehekin offers a serene escape, whether you’re visiting as a day trip from Chelan or for an overnight stay. No roads lead to Stehekin, so you must arrive by plane, ferry, or on foot. Ferry is the most popular option, with sailings available from Stehekin Ferry and Lake Chelan Boat Co., which operates the leisurely Lady of the Lake.
Once you arrive, consider renting a side-by-side, cruiser bike, or e-bike, or booking a guided tour since ground transportation is limited. Visit Rainbow Falls, take a history walk to see the one-room Stehekin School built in 1921, or visit 125-year-old apple trees at Buckner Orchard. At Stehekin Valley Ranch, you can book a horseback ride, kayak tour, or guided trout fishing excursion. After exploring, visit Stehekin Pastry Company for a slice of pie or sit down for lunch out on the lawn.
Culture & History
The Chelan Museum, housed in a 1907 former bank building, offers free admission and exhibits focused on the area’s roots in mining, logging, and farming. At Nature’s Window, the Lake Chelan Museum of Wildlife, Natural History, and Art, wander through a collection of taxidermy animals and birds to get to know the wildlife of North America and learn about conservation.
Wine Tasting
Thanks to its location in a prominent Washington wine region, Lake Chelan is home to more than 40 planted vineyards. With hillside estates and ample sunny days, it’s the ideal spot to sip wine on a patio. Sit under the pergola and enjoy pinot noir at Benson Vineyards or a crisp sauvignon blanc on the lawn under an umbrella at Succession Wines.
Choose a wine flight or a glass of hard cider made from Chelan-grown apples at Lake Chelan Winery and pair your beverage with a plate of smoked barbecue and tasty sides in the vineyard. At Karma Vineyards, pop a bottle of bubbly. The on-site restaurant, 18 Brix, sources organically grown ingredients and serves up dishes like fresh bruschetta and vibrant salads for the perfect pairing.
To explore Chelan wineries car-free, Chelan Trolley Co. offers a hop-on-hop-off day pass, or you can take a tour on two wheels with Chelan Electric Bikes.
Major Annual Events
While there’s plenty to do in Lake Chelan year-round, consider planning your trip around one of the area’s exciting events. Each January, Lake Chelan Winterfest kicks off the year with everything from ice carving, fireworks, and a wine walk to a polar plunge and beach bonfire, making it the perfect winter getaway. In March, sample local food and wine at Taste Chelan.
In summer, celebrate the area’s apple industry at the Manson Apple Blossom Festival in May, or grab a seat in the stands at the Lake Chelan Pro Rodeo in July. As summer turns to fall, catch the Continental Surf Cup competition and watch as international riders surf river waves. In October, Brews on the Bridge is a can’t-miss drink festival held on the concrete bridge over the water, featuring sips from local cideries and breweries.
Where to Eat & Drink
Fuel up for a day of adventure at Lake Chelan Artisan Bakery. You’ll find from-scratch baked goods made from organic ingredients and seasonal produce, such as fruit Danishes, bear claws, bagels, and filling breakfast burritos on house-made tortillas. Another great option is Blueberry Hills Restaurant & Farm. Located on the Sorensen family’s early 1900s farmstead, this restaurant dishes up savory omelets and chicken-fried steak along with cinnamon-vanilla brioche French toast topped with blueberries from the farm. When blueberries are in season, you can even pick your own fruit.
For a hands-on experience, head to Cider Press, where you can press your own apple cider and pair it with a grilled panini for lunch on the patio. At Marcela’s Cocina Mexicana, enjoy fruit margaritas and sizzling fajitas served with homemade tortillas.
When it’s time to decide on dinner, Sorrento’s Ristorante at Tsillan Cellars serves a taste of Italy with incredible architecture and a stunning lake view. Treat yourself to truffle fries and carpaccio to start before moving into a main course of wild mushroom ravioli or cioppino paired with estate wines. At The Landing, grab a seat at the bar and choose from pastas, stir-fries, salads, and burgers, or stop in at the ice cream parlor for a sweet treat on a warm summer evening.
Where to Stay
Tuck in for the night and wake up with a waterfront view at multiple resorts on Lake Chelan. Campbell’s Resort has been operating since 1901 and boasts rooms with lake views from private patios or balconies, along with sandy beach access, heated pools, barbecue stations, and water gear rentals. Also on the water, Peterson’s Waterfront has condo-style rooms with full kitchens, or you can book a pet-friendly vacation home rental at The Lookout at Lakeside Village, which features beach access, fire pits, and a marina.
About 15 minutes from downtown Chelan, experience a serene getaway at Echo Valley Resort + Cabins. Choose from multiple cabin styles, book an Airstream trailer, or bring your own tent. The property offers access to a pool, hiking and biking trails, and electric mountain bike rentals.
For those who love to golf, Gamble Sands is a 40-minute drive away in Brewster and boasts two award-winning courses and rooms looking out over the Columbia River.
Know Before You Go
Chelan is beautiful in all seasons, with wildflowers in spring, plenty of sun in summer, dramatic colors in autumn, and snowy mountain views in winter. With access to the lake and plenty of warm days, summer is a popular time to visit, so book your lodging well in advance and aim to visit during the week if possible.
While Uber is available, it is limited and wait times can be long. Traveling by car will allow you to get out and explore all that Lake Chelan has to offer.
About the Author
Molly Allen is a freelance food and travel writer, hiker, and paddleboarder who has spent more than 14 years exploring the Pacific Northwest. When she’s not playing outside, you’ll find her perfecting her homemade pizza craft. Her work can be seen in Travel & Leisure, Wine Enthusiast, Business Insider, Taste of Home, and other publications.
Featured image courtesy of Visit Lake Chelan