A day, weekend, or extended stay at Lake Wenatchee can be a delightful time for both adults and kids. Lake Wenatchee is known for its cold water and popular State Park, but there is much more than that when you encompass the surrounding area.
At the lake itself you’ll find camping, boating, and fishing opportunities available. The State Park sits right on the shore of the lake and includes a boat ramp and a sandy beach to access the water from. Included within the boundaries of Lake Wenatchee State Park is the spot where the Wenatchee River leaves Lake Wenatchee. Situated right above where the river exits the lake is the lone island in Lake Wenatchee, most people are unaware that the island does have a name; Emerald Island. Just outside the State Park is Nason Creek Campground. Nason Creek Campground is a National Forest campground with restroom facilities and it sits right on Nason Creek which flows into the Wenatchee River. On the south shore of the lake, near the west end, is another National Forest campground, Glacier View Campground. Glacier View has campsites that sit right on the shore of the lake so you can wake up, wander out of your tent, and go for a morning swim. Nearby Glacier View is also a short hike to Hidden Lake, a nice little alpine lake that is off the beaten path. The YMCA camp operated by the Wenatchee YMCA is also on the shore of Lake Wenatchee.
A few miles to the south of Lake Wenatchee is a community situated along Highway 2 known as Coles Corner. Just west of the intersection of Highway 2 and the turnoff for Lake Wenatchee is a 1950’s style restaurant called the 59’er Diner. Great hamburgers and milkshakes, not to mention huge breakfasts, await hungry travelers there. Less than a half hour farther east on Highway 2 is the Bavarian community of Leavenworth. Leavenworth is known the world over for both its incredible shopping opportunities, and the outdoor recreation located nearby in the Icicle Canyon.
On the northern side of Lake Wenatchee you can access three main rivers other than the Wenatchee River and they are, the Little Wenatchee River, the White River, and the Chiwawa River. The Little Wenatchee River and the White River both empty into the west end of Lake Wenatchee. Both rivers have accessible roads that follow them up their separate valleys. Many campgrounds and hiking opportunities line these popular and scenic rivers. The Chiwawa River is to the northeast of Lake Wenatchee and also has many recreational opportunities. The Chiwawa River drains directly into the Wenatchee River.
To the west of Lake Wenatchee, by way of Highway 2, is the Stevens Pass area. During winter, Stevens Pass is a popular skiing destination. In the summer and early fall there are a number of hiking opportunities in the area.
The small community of Plain is located less than ten miles to the east of Lake Wenatchee. Plain offers groceries and eating opportunities. The Plain area also offers a number of cabin rental and bed and breakfast lodging experiences.
No matter what your interest, the Lake Wenatchee has something for virtually anyone… especially if your interests lean towards the outdoors and outdoor recreation.
Enjoy pictures of Lake Wenatchee in our North Central Washington Rivers, Lakes, & Creeks Gallery.
Pictures of many communities can be found in our North Central Washington Communities Gallery.
