Though Leavenworth offers plenty of visitor attractions of its own to entertain vacationers, it also serves as a popular jumping-off point for exploring the natural wonders of the surrounding Cascade Mountains region.
Bike or Snowshoe on The Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail
The Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail is a charming urban biking and pedestrian trail that stretches for 10 miles along the banks of the gorgeous Columbia River in Wenatchee. During the winter months, The Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail is open to snowshoers and cross-country skiers. Be sure to check out the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival in Wenatchee from April 24-May 4, 2024.
Go white water rafting in Cashmere
Cashmere is a lovely small town in central Washington State, located just two and a half hours from Seattle within easy driving distance from downtown Leavenworth. The charming Cascade Mountains getaway is one of Washington State's top destinations for white water rafting throughout the year due to its location at the confluence of some of the state's most majestic and challenging rivers, including the stunning Columbia River.
Check into Eagle Creek Ranch for a fun ranch vacation with the whole family
Eagle Creek Ranch is a historic all-season horse ranch located just minutes from the city of Leavenworth, nestled into the panorama of the stunning Cascade Mountains. Visitors of all ages can embark on horseback riding experiences at the ranch throughout the year, led by experienced horseback riding guides and lasting between 40 minutes and two hours.
Find it at this Address: Eagle Creek Ranch, 7951 Eagle Creek Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826, Phone: 509-548-7798
Hike in Icicle Gorge
Icicle Gorge is a unique geological feature within the Cascade Mountains, overlooking the banks of the Icicle River and the majestic Icicle Valley. Traverse the gorge's beautiful 3.9-mile hiking trail, which spans both banks of the river and offers unparalleled views of its roaring waters.
Go fishing in Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan is a stunning 50-mile lake in Chelan County, known as a popular outdoor recreational spot throughout the year within the lovely Cascade Mountains. The lake, which is located within North Cascades National Park, is Washington State's largest natural lake, reaching depths of more than 1,500 feet at its deepest points. It is home to lively Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, which offers some of the state's top opportunities for fishing for species like trout, sucker, whitefish, pikeminnow, and redside shiners.
Be sure to check out the Lake Chelan Winterfest from January 17-26, 2025 and Chelan Pro Rodeo in mid-July.
Take the kids swimming in Lake Wenatchee
Lake Wenatchee, which reaches depths of 244 feet at its deepest point, serves as the source for the Wenatchee River and is known throughout the Pacific Northwest for its stunning crystal-clear blue waters. It serves as a popular boating and windsurfing destination throughout the year, offering opportunities to rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Best day trip from Leavenworth, WA for families with kids: A secluded lagoon area provides a great spot for families to swim in safe, shallow waters. Guided hiking and horseback riding trails are offered throughout the lake's surrounding regions, which are also home to miles of cycling trails. Year-round campsites include snow campsites offering heated restrooms and warming shelters.
Find it at this Address: 21588 SR 207, Leavenworth, WA 98826, Phone: 509-763-3101
Book a room at Mountain Springs Lodge
Mountain Springs Lodge was opened in 1990 in Leavenworth, known today as one of the top overnight lodges in the high Cascades region. Onsite activities include guided horseback riding and snowmobiling excursions, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and a common-use granite-lined pool.
Find it at this Address: Mountain Springs Lodge, 19115 Chiwawa Loop Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826, Phone: 509-763-2713
Relax surrounded by nature in Roslyn
Roslyn is a charming Upper Kittitas County town located within easy driving distance from Leavenworth, known as a top outdoor recreation destination in the Cascade Mountains. Roslyn, which was originally founded in the mid-19th century as a coal mining settlement, is named in honor of the Delaware town of the same name and was featured as the backdrop for the popular 1990s television series Northern Exposure.
Go wine tasting in The Yakima Valley
The Yakima Valley is one of the Pacific Northwest's top wine-growing regions, established as an American Viticultural Area in 1983. Today, The Yakima Valley has become the state's top producer of acclaimed varietals such as Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling, home to major vineyards like Red Willow Vineyard and Columbia Winery, which offer tastings and tours throughout the year for visitors. Don't miss the Fresh Hop Ale Festival on October 5th, 2024.
