Lake Chelan, Washington: A Blend of Adventure and Wine Country Charm
Located in the heart of Washington state, Lake Chelan is an amazing blend of natural beauty, adventure, and world-class wineries. This 50.5-mile-long glacier-fed lake is one of the deepest lakes in the United States, at a depth of 1,486 feet. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, wine lover, or family traveler, a visit to Lake Chelan will be an unforgettable experience.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan your visit—from top attractions and dining spots to tips for making the most of this Pacific Northwest Lake Trip gem.
Why Visit Lake Chelan?
Lake Chelan isn’t just another pretty lake—it’s a destination packed with lots of different experiences. Here’s why it stands out:
- Crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, boating, and paddle boarding.
- Home to over 30 wineries, many with incredible lake views.
- Has a blend of adventure activities like hiking, water sports, and even paragliding.
- Known for adorable small towns like Chelan and Manson, filled with boutique shops, eateries, and local culture.
- A year-round destination with everything from summer fun to cozy winter retreats.
Outdoor Adventures at Lake Chelan
Boating and Water Sports
Lake Chelan’s water is a paradise for boaters and thrill-seekers. Popular activities include:
- Jet skiing, wake boarding, and water skiing near the Chelan end of the lake.
- Renting a pontoon or kayak to explore the lake’s quieter coves.
- Visiting Stehekin, a remote village accessible only by boat, float plane, or hiking.
For boat rentals, check out Shoreline Watercraft & Boat Rentals or Lake Shores Watercraft & Boat Rentals.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Surrounding Lake Chelan are tons of hiking trails that will give you unforgettable views and connections with nature:
- Chelan Butte Trail: A challenging 7.5-mile hike that rewards you with amazing views of the lake and surrounding vineyards.
- Echo Ridge Trail System: This system has over 25 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing.
- Stehekin River Trail: A peaceful, easy hike that follows the beautiful Stehekin River.
Explore the Wine Country
Lake Chelan is home to one of Washington’s most exciting wine regions. With over 30 wineries, you’ll find everything from crisp whites to bold reds.
Top Wineries to Visit:
- Tsillan Cellars: A beautiful Italian-inspired winery with lakefront views and award-winning wines.
- Karma Vineyards: Known for its fantastic sparkling wines and cozy underground wine cave.
- Nefarious Cellars: A local favorite that has bold reds with a view of the lake.
For more wine country experiences, visit the Lake Chelan Wine Valley website.
Biking in Chelan
For cyclists, Chelan has excellent road and mountain biking routes. The Manson Loop is a scenic ride through orchards, wineries, and rolling hills, while Echo Ridge has challenging mountain biking trails with awesome views.
Family-Friendly Fun at Lake Chelan
Family Beaches and Swimming Spots
- Lakeside Park: A sandy beach with calm waters, perfect for families with young children.
- Don Morse Park: Has a swimming area, playground, and picnic facilities.
- Manson Bay Park: A spacious beach with a floating dock, great for jumping into the water.
Slidewaters Water Park
For families looking for some excitement, Slidewaters is a fantastic water park with fun water slides, a lazy river, and kid-friendly splash zones. Learn more here.
Chelan Electric Bike Tours
For a fun way to explore the Chelan area, try an electric bike tour with Chelan Electric Bikes. Tours include visits to wineries, orchards, and iconic landmarks.
Where to Eat in Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan’s dining scene has everything from casual lakeside bites to upscale dining experiences:
- Campbell’s Resort Pub & Veranda: Known for its seasonal dishes, great cocktails, and relaxing lakeside seating.
- Local Myth Pizza: A must-visit for hand-tossed pizzas, fresh salads, and craft beer.
- Blueberry Hills Farm: A cozy, rustic eatery famous for its blueberry pancakes, pies, and comfort food.
- Sorrento’s Ristorante at Tsillan Cellars: An upscale Italian dining experience overlooking the vineyards and lake.
- Marcela’s Cocina Mexicana: A vibrant Mexican restaurant known for its fresh margaritas and delicious tacos.
- Winemakers Grill at Wapato Point Cellars: Offering locally inspired cuisine with fresh ingredients and wine pairings.
Where to Stay in Lake Chelan
- Campbell’s Resort: A lakefront favorite featuring comfortable accommodations, dining, and a private beach.
- The Lookout at Lake Chelan: A charming community with vacation homes and cottages with modern amenities.
- Lakeside Lodge and Suites: An affordable and family-friendly option with an outdoor pool and easy lake access.
- Grandview on the Lake: Modern waterfront condos with fully equipped kitchens and unbeatable views.
- Chelan Valley Farms – Glamping Experience: For those looking for a unique farm-to-table experience with vineyard views.
For additional information, visit Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce.
How to Visit Stehekin
Stehekin is a remote, peaceful village located at the northern end of Lake Chelan. It’s only accessible by boat, seaplane, or hiking, giving it an exclusive and untouched charm. Visiting Stehekin is an unforgettable experience that feels like stepping back in time.
Getting to Stehekin
There are three primary ways to access Stehekin:
- Lady of the Lake Ferry Service
- Departs from Chelan and offers both express (2.5-hour ride) and slow cruise (4-hour ride) options.
- The express service is best for day-trippers looking to maximize their time.
- Learn more here.
- Seaplane
- For a faster and scenic journey, Chelan Seaplanes have 20-minute flights directly to Stehekin.
- Expect incredible aerial views of the lake and Cascade Mountains.
- Hiking
- For experienced hikers, the Stehekin Valley Trail has a challenging yet rewarding multi-day hiking journey to the village.
Things to Do in Stehekin
Stehekin’s remote setting gives tranquility and a deep connection to nature. Here are some must-do activities:
- Visit the Stehekin Pastry Company: Famous for its fresh cinnamon rolls, pies, and cookies. A must-stop after a morning of exploring.
- Rainbow Falls: A beautiful 312-foot waterfall accessible via a short walk or bike ride from the main dock.
- Historic Buckner Orchard: A charming apple orchard with a glimpse into early settler life in the valley.
- Biking and Hiking: Rent bikes near the dock and explore Stehekin’s peaceful roads and trails.
- Fishing and Kayaking: The crystal-clear waters and quieter environment make Stehekin perfect for peaceful outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay in Stehekin
For those looking to extend their stay, accommodations in Stehekin are cozy and rustic, reflecting the area’s off-the-grid charm:
- North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin: Has comfortable lakeside accommodations, with cabin rentals available as well.
- Stehekin Valley Ranch: A secluded ranch-style retreat offering cabins and meals with a family-style dining experience.
Pro Tip: Since Stehekin has limited amenities and no cell service, be sure to plan ahead by packing essentials and booking accommodations in advance.
Getting to Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan is closer to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) than Spokane International Airport (GEG).
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Lake Chelan: ~3-hour drive (approx. 150 miles) via I-90 E and US-97 N.
- Spokane International Airport (GEG) to Lake Chelan: ~3.5-hour drive (approx. 180 miles) via US-2 W.
Best Time to Visit Lake Chelan
- Summer (June – September): The best time for boating, swimming, and outdoor activities. Expect fun and bigger crowds this time of year.
- Fall (October – November): Perfect for wine tasting, hiking, and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December – February): You can go skiing at Echo Valley Ski Area and enjoy cozy evenings by the fire.
- Spring (March – May): Best for seeing the region’s stunning blooms and enjoying outdoor recreation before summer crowds arrive.
Fun Facts About Lake Chelan
- Lake Chelan is the third deepest lake in the U.S. behind Crater Lake and Lake Tahoe.
- The Lake Chelan AVA is one of Washington’s newest and most rapidly growing wine regions.
- Stehekin, located at the northern end of the lake, is accessible only by boat, seaplane, or hiking—creating a more peaceful escape.
- The name “Chelan” is derived from the Salish word “Tsi-Laan,” meaning deep water.
Final Tips for Visiting Lake Chelan
- Plan Early: Summer is peak season; book accommodations and wine tastings in advance.
- Pack Layers: Weather can shift quickly, especially when exploring higher elevations.
- Embrace Adventure: Don’t miss out on boat rides, paragliding, or vineyard bike tours.
- Savor the Wine: Plan a relaxing afternoon hopping between the region’s boutique wineries.
From relaxing lake views to wine-filled afternoons and adventure-packed outings, Lake Chelan has something for every traveler. Whether you’re sipping wine overlooking the water or kayaking through the glacier-fed water, this lake destination is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Start planning your Lake Chelan adventure today!
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