Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is a 55-mile lake in Eastern Washington, and is the third deepest lake in the US.  The resort town of Chelan is located at the lower end of Lake Chelan, and is the most popular destination on the lake.   

During summer, Lake Chelan’s clear, sparkling waters are a playground for a range of water sports; including kayaking, jet-skiing, wakeboarding, parasailing and boating.  During winter, tourists flock to the nearby Echo Valley Ski Area on weekends for downhill skiing, snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

Chelan has a vibrant downtown area, with a wide selection of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and gift shops.  Stop by Riverwalk Books to stock up on some great titles, check the movie schedule at the historic Ruby Theater, then enjoy a coffee at the nearby Liquid Lounge. 

Some dining options in town include Campbell’s Resort Bistro, Andante, and Local Myth Pizza.  Just outside of town, dine at beautiful wineries including Tsillan Cellars, and the more casual Vin du Lac Winery, with patio dining in summer. The atmospheric Cave Dining Room at Karma Vineyards is the perfect choice for a special celebration.

Lakeside Resorts at Chelan

Many visitors prefer to take it easy, and relax lakeside on chaise lounges at Chelan's resorts.   The four main resorts at Chelan include the luxurious Campbell’s Resort, Grandview on the Lake, Best Western Resort, and family oriented Darnell’s Lake Resort.  Many of these resorts have private beaches and pools.

Public beaches and parks at Chelan

Chelan has three main public parks; Lakeside Park on Highway 97, and Don Morse Park and Riverwalk Park near the town center.

Both Lakeside Park and Don Morse Park are popular for swimming and have sandy beaches, and large lawned areas for picnics and BBQ’s.  The Don Morse Park also has mini-golf and go-carts.  Both parks prohibit pets from Memorial Day thru Labor Day. Many visitors also stroll across the bridge from the main commercial center, to the start of the 1-mile Chelan Riverwalk along the shady banks of the Chelan River.

Chelan Wineries

There are over 14 wineries to visit in the Chelan Valley.  The two most elegant wineries with the best views of Lake Chelan are the Tsillan Cellars and Benson Vineyards.  These wineries have been built in the Tuscan-style, with expansive patio areas, water features and superb landscaping.   For a more relaxed atmosphere, try the Vin du Lac Winery with French cuisine served in a lovely cottage garden.  Further afield, drive 9-miles northwest of Chelan to enjoy cliff-top views over Wapato Lake from Four Lakes Winery.  Some other great choices include Karma Vineyards, and Lake Chelan Winery.

Just for kids

To keep kids entertained, spend an afternoon at the Chelan Slidewaters Water Park, Chelan Lanes Bowling, and the bumper boat pool, putting green and go-kart rides at Don Morse Park.

Things to do near Chelan

Travel 55-miles on the “Lady of the Lake” boat tour from Chelan, to the upper headwaters of the remote Stehekin Village. The key highlights include the magnificent Rainbow Falls, and the Golden West Visitor Center.  Lunch is available at the Stehekin Landing Resort.  Learn more about Stehekin.