Washington Water, Washington Wine

Long and narrow Lake Chelan winds into the Cascade mountains

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This ride shows off the best of eastern Washington: from the world-famous orchards of Wenatchee (apple capital of the nation), up the mighty Columbia River to beautiful Lake Chelan, and back through the serene Douglas fir, ponderosa pine and cedar of Wenatchee National Forest. The route is somewhat hilly with two steep climbs, one on either side of Chelan. The community of Chelan provides a picturesque opportunity for an overnight stay, with all the amenities of a major resort area.

Check out the route description.

Other Activities In and Around the Route Area

Wenatchee and Chelan both offer plenty of options for an extended visit. While in Wenatchee, jog, or take a short, family-friendly bike ride on the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail, a paved 11-mile loop that follows the Columbia River on both the Wenatchee and East Wenatchee sides. From April 15 through October 15, visit Ohme Gardens, just north of town. In the winter, Mission Ridge ski, area is only 12 miles away. Contact the very active Wenatchee Chamber of Commerce at 509-662-2116 for additional tourist information.

Near Wenatchee (west on Highway 2 toward Seattle) is the charming"Bavarian" village of Leavenworth, where restaurants, shops, and a year-round calendar of festivals offer some of the most authentic gem|tlichkeit this side of Munich.

Chelan offers the advantages of a fully equipped resort community alongside the pristine wilderness of the lake itself. Obtain more information from the Chamber of Commerce at 509-682-3503. The active tourist will, find, all manner of diversions in town: from parasailing, jet-skiing, and river rafting to waterslides, bumper boats, and go-karts, to fine dining, shopping, and casino gambling.

Those seeking an escape from it all will appreciate the unspoiled upper reaches of the lake. Lake Chelan is 55 miles long and 1,486 feet deep (the third deepest lake in America), and roads extend less than halfway to its head. The town of Stehekin, as well as much of the lake shore, is accessible only by boat, float plane, and mountain trails.

Campers will appreciate the abundance of state parks between Wenatchee and Chelan. Lincoln Rock has Columbia River access and 27 campsites. Lake Chelan State Park is right on the lake and offers 151 campsites. The ride's starting point, Confluence State Park at the north end of Wenatchee, will has camping on a reservation system.

View: Wenatchee-Chelan Overnight: Route Description | Wenatchee-Chelan Overnight: Trail Map