Things To Do Near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is remote, but there's plenty to do. On hot summer days, rent a kayak and get out on Lake Chelan; the water is cold but ideal for swimming and fishing. If you're camping or staying at one of the local lodges, rent a bike to explore the Stehekin Valley Road. Hiking is the most popular activity in the region — the recreation area offers a variety of trails to suit hikers of all abilities.
Hiking Trails
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Lakeshore Trail
If you're looking for a relatively flat, easy hike with gorgeous water views, head for the Lakeshore Trail. It stretches for more than 17 miles along the northeastern shore of the lake, so you can design your own out-and-back hike. This is a great option for families with kids, offering plenty of opportunities to walk down to the shore. For the best views, hike to the one-mile, 3.5-mile, or seven-mile points before you turn around.
Location
Stehekin waterfront
Length
Varies. 1 mile to 17.2 miles.
Intensity
Easy to Moderate
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Rainbow Loop Trail
The Rainbow Loop Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. It offers a pleasant challenge, taking you up into the hills and forests surrounding the lake. As you hike, enjoy the views of the Stehekin Valley, a glacial hanging valley, and Lake Chelan. The trail is particularly beautiful in May and June when a carpet of wildflowers blankets the hillsides. For the most spectacular views, continue onto the Rainbow Creek Trail and hike for one mile to the rocky viewpoint before returning. The trail ends at the Stehekin Valley Road, where you can hop on the shuttle or walk back.
Location
Rainbow Loop Trail, Washington 98852
Length
Moderate
Intensity
4.4 miles to the shuttle, 6.8 miles for the full loop
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Purple Creek Trail
If you're up for a challenge, spend a full day hiking the Purple Creek Trail. This challenging trail travels high into the mountains. You'll start to see fantastic sweeping views of the lake at the three-mile point. The best views in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area are located at Boulder Butte. From here, you'll have a 360-degree view of the lake and the Cascades. On the way back down, you'll pass Juanita Lake and the Chelan Summit Trail. Leave early in the morning if you're day-hiking or plan to camp by Juanita Lake.
Location
Golden West Visitor Center
Length
8 miles one way
Intensity
Difficult
Sightseeing
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Stehekin Shuttle
One of the easiest ways to explore the Stehekin Valley and the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is by riding the Stehekin Shuttle. Run by the Lodge at Stehekin, the shuttle consists of vintage red buses. They run the length of the valley, stopping along the way at points of interest and hiking trailheads. In the summer, you can take special bus tours to Rainbow Falls.
Location
Stehekin Valley Rd, Stehekin, WA 98852
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Buckner Orchard and Homestead
See how early settlers survived on the north end of Lake Chelan at the Buckner Orchard and Homestead. Explore the picturesque grounds, walk through the orchard, and check out the historic buildings that still remain on the property. During apple season, the trees still produce fruit — if you're visiting in September, look out for the annual Buckner Orchard Harvest Fest, which includes music, a potluck, and apple-picking.
Location
Rainbow Lane, Stehekin, WA 98852
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Native American Pictographs
If you're a strong paddler, rent a kayak and head across Lake Chelan to the Painted Rocks area. Here, you can see a set of Native American pictographs. In the summer, these ancient works of art sit close to the water, so they're easy to see from your boat. When the water level drops in the winter, you'll need to look up to see the pictographs high overhead.
Location
Painted Rocks site on Lake Chelan
Museums
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Golden West Visitor Center
When you arrive in Stehekin on the ferry, walk over to the Golden West Visitor Center. Here, you'll find a small selection of exhibits that introduce the local landscape, history, and culture. If you're planning to hike, make sure to chat with a ranger about the trail conditions.
Location
Stehekin ferry dock, Stehekin, WA 98852
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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The Garden
Pick up organic fruits and vegetables at The Garden, which picks its wares fresh from a local farm. You'll also find a small selection of locally made lavender candles, soaps, and skincare products.
Location
955 Stehekin Valley Rd, Stehekin, WA 98852
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Stehekin Discovery Bikes
Explore the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area on two wheels after a stop at Stehekin Discovery Bikes. Rent bikes and gear and shop for a few small biking essentials.
Location
Stehekin, WA 98852
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Stehekin Pastry Company
Stop in for breakfast and lunch at the Stehekin Pastry Company, which offers delicious soups, sandwiches, and egg breakfasts. Make sure to leave room for one of the fantastic croissants or baked goods.
Location
Stehekin, WA 98852
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Lodge at Stehekin Restaurant
The Lodge at Stehekin Restaurant is the only full-service dining option in the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. In the summer, stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner; the restaurant is open for lunch in the off-season on the days that the ferry docks. The menu features salads, sandwiches, seafood, and steak.
Location
1 Stehekin Valley Rd, Stehekin, WA 98852