Lake Chelan - Discovering United States of America

Travelling to Lake Chelan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Lake Chelan, a pretty good destination in United States of America (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Lake Chelan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Lake Chelan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United States of America, here's everything to know about Lake Chelan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is a beautiful freshwater lake located in northern Washington state, USA. It is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the country, stretching for more than 50 miles and reaching depths of over 1,400 feet. The lake is surrounded by the stunning Cascade Mountains and is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. The area is also home to numerous wineries, golf courses, and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby town of Chelan offers a variety of dining and shopping options, as well as accommodations ranging from camping sites to luxurious resorts.

What to visit in Lake Chelan

1. Lake Chelan State Park: This park is located on the southern shore of Lake Chelan and offers a variety of recreational opportunities like hiking trails, camping, swimming, boating, and fishing. The park is also popular for water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
2. Echo Valley Ski Area: This ski area is located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and offers over 70 acres of skiable terrain suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. They also have a tubing hill, dedicated terrain park, and a ski school for those who want to learn.
3. Slidewaters: This water park offers amazing water slides, lazy river, hot tubs, and other activities. The park is open every day from June to September, and visitors can spend a full day here enjoying the refreshing waters and getting some sun! 4. Lake Chelan Winery: This winery is located on the north shore of Lake Chelan and has been producing wines for many years. They have a tasting room where visitors can sample a variety of their wines and a gift shop where they can purchase their favorite selections.
5. Manson Bay Park: This park is located on Manson Bay and offers access to the lake for swimming, fishing, and boating. The park has beach volleyball, basketball courts, and picnic shelters, and it's a great place for a family outing.
6. Lady of the Lake: This historic ferry takes tourists on an adventure up Lake Chelan, offering scenic views of the Cascades, glaciers, and wildlife. The ferry runs from Chelan to the town of Stehekin, which is only accessible by boat or plane.
7. Ruby Theater: This beautiful historic movie theater was built in 1914 and is located in downtown Chelan. The theater is open year-round and features classic films, independent movies, and live performances.
8. Chelan Riverwalk Park: This beautiful park runs along the Chelan River and connects to downtown Chelan. The park provides a relaxing setting for walks, biking, and picnics while also offering views of the river and the surrounding hills.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United States of America, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Lake Chelan.

When to go on holiday to Lake Chelan

The best time to visit Lake Chelan is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and other water activities. During this time, the temperature ranges from 70-90°F (21-32°C), and you can also enjoy local events and festivals such as the Lake Chelan Bach Fest and the Lake Chelan Rodeo. However, the area can be busy during peak season, so it's best to book your accommodation and activities in advance. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable time to visit, consider going in the shoulder season of May or October when the crowds are thinner, and the weather is still pleasant.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is located in the north-central part of Washington State in the United States of America. If you are traveling by plane, the nearest major airport is the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which is about a 3-hour drive away from Lake Chelan. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the Lake Chelan area.
If you are traveling by car, there are several ways to get to Lake Chelan depending on your starting point. From Seattle, take Interstate 90 East to Highway 97 North. Continue on Highway 97 North for about 65 miles to reach the town of Chelan, which is located at the southern end of the lake.
Another option is to take Highway 2 East from the city of Wenatchee to Highway 97A North. This route will take you through the scenic Apple Capital Loop and provide beautiful views of the Columbia River and surrounding mountains.
Once you reach Chelan, you can take a ferry or drive to the other towns along the lake, including Manson and Stehekin.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Lake Chelan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is home to a variety of delicious foods, including: 1. Apple Pie - made with fresh, locally grown apples, Lake Chelan's apple pie is a staple dessert in the area.
2. Trout - a popular fish in Lake Chelan, trout is often caught from the lake and cooked fresh.
3. Cherries - Lake Chelan is known for its juicy, sweet cherries which are harvested in the summer months.
4. Wine - the Lake Chelan region is home to several award-winning wineries, producing excellent varieties of reds, whites, and rosés.
5. Huckleberries - these small, sweet berries grow wild in the forests surrounding Lake Chelan and are commonly used to make jam, syrup, and baked goods.
6. Smoked Meats - several local smokehouses offer delicious smoked meats, including sausages, beef jerky, and bacon.
7. Lavender - Lake Chelan's long, sunny summer days are perfect for growing lavender, which is used to make oils, soaps, and other products.
8. Cider - the apple orchards around Lake Chelan produce a variety of ciders, from sweet to tart, that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
9. Lake Chelan Cherry Salad - a refreshing salad made with fresh cherries, goat cheese, and mixed greens.
10. Grilled Corn on the Cob - Lake Chelan's fertile land produces some of the sweetest corn, and locals love to grill it on the cob with butter and salt.
You can find general info about typical foods in United States of America here.

Is Lake Chelan an expensive destination for tourists?

Lake Chelan can be an expensive destination for tourists, especially during peak season (June to August) when prices for accommodations, activities, and dining can be higher. However, prices tend to be more reasonable during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Additionally, there are a variety of accommodations and dining options available that can fit different budgets. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking to ensure the best deal.

Where to find accomodation in Lake Chelan

For visiting Lake Chelan in the United States of America, the best areas to find accommodations are Chelan, Manson, and Stehekin. Chelan is a popular tourist town on the southern tip of the lake, and it has plenty of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals. Manson is a smaller town located on the northwest side of the lake with fewer options, but it has some unique lodging options like wineries and glamping sites. Stehekin is a small community at the northern end of the lake, and it can only be reached by boat or seaplane. It has limited accommodations, but it provides a more secluded and peaceful experience.
You can check hotel prices at Lake Chelan here:
Booking.com

Is Lake Chelan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Lake Chelan is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always recommended to take common safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, taking care of your belongings, and not leaving valuables unattended. Additionally, it's always a good practice to follow local laws and customs while you travel.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United States of America here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Lake Chelan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Lake Chelan the most?

Lake Chelan, located in Washington State, United States of America, can be enjoyed by all types of travelers including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Couples will love the romantic scenery and peaceful atmosphere of the lake and its surroundings. They can enjoy wine tasting at the local wineries, take a romantic boat ride on the lake, or relax at the lakeside spa.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy a range of water sports such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and paddleboarding. They can also hike in the nearby mountains, go on a zip line adventure, or party in the local bars and nightclubs.
Families can take advantage of the kid-friendly activities such as amusement parks, mini golf courses, and family-friendly restaurants. They can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating on the lake. Overall, Lake Chelan offers something for everyone!

How to get around Lake Chelan

The best way to move around Lake Chelan is by car or by boat. There is also a shuttle bus service that operates during the summer months. Renting a car is an ideal option for exploring the lake's surroundings, including the beautiful wineries and orchards nearby. Boats are perfect for getting around the lake and enjoying the stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. It is essential to note that some parts of Lake Chelan are only accessible by boat.

What to see around Lake Chelan

There are several great places to visit in a day trip from Lake Chelan. Here are some options: 1. Leavenworth: This charming Bavarian-style village is only an hour's drive from Lake Chelan and offers plenty of unique shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
2. Winthrop: A historic Western-style town located east of the North Cascades National Park, known for its Old West charm, great food, and outdoor adventures.
3. Stevens Pass Ski Resort: This ski resort is approximately an hour and a half away from Lake Chelan and offers fantastic skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, and hiking and mountain biking during the summer.
4. Wenatchee: Just a 45-minute drive from Lake Chelan, Wenatchee is a bustling town that's home to several wineries, breweries, parks, and historic sites.
5. Slidewaters Water Park: Located in Lake Chelan itself, this water park is a great place to cool off and have some fun during hot summer days.
6. Grand Coulee Dam: This historic dam is located about two hours away from Lake Chelan, and offers fascinating guided tours, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: This vast forest spans across several counties, offering a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and more.
For every travel information about United States of America you can click here.

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