Soak in the beauty of the Chelan Valley by exploring the area’s abundant trail system. Fourteen major trailheads provide 250 miles of maintained summer trails. The Lake Chelan Visitor Guide left in your rental home includes driving directions and descriptions for some of the more popular hikes. Here are a few of our favorites:
Echo Ridge Summer Trails
Length: 25 miles
Designed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months, the nearly 25 miles of trails are popular for hiking, mountain biking and horse use during the spring, summer and fall months. There are a variety of loops to choose from, each offering spectacular views of Lake Chelan. Difficulty ranges from easy to difficult, but most are suitable for children.
Stormy Mountain
Length: 1.5 miles
Don't be fooled by the short distance of this hike, what it lacks in distance is made up for in elevation gain. This is a popular hike for families. Those that make it to the top will be rewarded by stunning views.
Chelan Butte
Length: 7.45 miles
The Chelan Butte is one of the county's most commonly summited mountains. You have the option of following a dirt road to the summit or venturing off on a steep hiking trail. Enjoy 360 degree views at the summit area, inlcuding the Cascade Mountains, Lake Chelan and the Columbia River.
Riverwalk Park Loop Trail
Length: 1 mile
This one-mile paved loop begins at Riverwalk Park in downtown Chelan. The loop takes you over the two bridges that span the Chelan River.
Chelan River (Reach 1) Trail
Length: 3+ miles
Beginning at at the boat launch on the south side of the river in downtown Chelan, this trail takes visitors from the Riverwalk Park Trail to Reach 1 of the Chelan River, the uppermost section of the 4-mile river that flows down to join the Columbia River and Chelan Falls. Along the way, visitors will learn about the Chelan Dam, the American Indian Tribes that inhabited this area, and the wildlife that continue to inhabit the river.