2025 Chelan County Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Address: 3003 US-97, Peshastin, WA 98847 Atmosphere/Facilities: American highway rest area Key Points: Mine-themed Average price per person: $10-$20 Rating: 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸 This is a rest area you come across while driving along Highway 97, which passes through the beautiful nature of Washington State. When you go to the bathroom, it feels like you're entering a mine. The traditional American-style houses are photo spots everywhere💕 #USWestTravel #HighwayRestArea #CafeRecommendation #HotPlace

#holidayitinerary Lake Chelan stretches like a ribbon between mountains, crystal clear and impossibly deep. I took a boat ride all the way up to Stehekin, a remote town only accessible by water or air, and it felt like a hidden frontier. Kayaking along the shore gave me views of vineyards climbing the hillsides, and hiking into the backcountry showed off rugged beauty. Swimming in the cool, fresh water after a long trek was unbeatable. Chelan is equal parts wild adventure and laid-back lake life — an incredible combo. #holidayitinerary

#holidayitinerary Starting from Seattle, a 2.5-hour drive leads to the Lake Ingalls Trailhead, gateway to one of Washington’s most grueling summer hikes—Mount Stuart via Ingalls Way Trail (13.6 miles, 7800 ft elevation gain). The first 4.3 miles to Ingalls Creek Camp are manageable with steady inclines and a water refill spot. But the final 2 miles to the summit are a true test: 4300 ft of elevation in loose rock, steep slopes, and near-scrambles. Many hikers wear helmets and gloves due to rockfall risks and tricky handholds. Descending on exhausted legs is arguably the hardest part. This is not for beginners—but for those prepared, the views and challenge are unforgettable.

#holidayitinerary An iconic alpine hike in Washington, The Enchantments Traverse is a demanding yet rewarding 20-mile journey through granite peaks and crystal-clear lakes. Starting at Colchuck Lake trailhead at 5:30 AM (via shuttle from Snow Lakes trailhead), the route includes a grueling 4,800 ft elevation gain, finishing around 6:30 PM—13 hours later. Despite the challenge, the trail is lively with fellow hikers and even trail runners, creating a festive, marathon-like vibe. Along the way, expect stunning views from Aasgard Pass, encounters with mountain goats, and plenty of alpine lakes for refilling water. A must for any serious hiker.

#holidayitinerary Headline: "Alpine Wonderland: Discover Washington’s Hidden Gem" The Enchantments in Washington’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness live up to their magical name. Think emerald lakes, granite spires, wild mountain goats, and golden larch trees in autumn. Whether you're doing a multi-day backpacking trip or scoring a rare day-use permit, the hike is tough but spectacular. The Core Enchantments zone feels like stepping into a fantasy novel, especially at sunrise. Located near Leavenworth, this area is a perfect summer or fall adventure. For those planning a rugged yet stunning escape into nature, The Enchantments belong on your #holidayitinerary bucket list.

#summervacay Finally checked off the legendary Colchuck Lake this weekend — a long-time bucket list hike and the gateway to the Enchantments! Though it absolutely wrecked my legs and had me questioning life halfway through, this has to be the most stunning alpine lake I’ve seen yet. Surrounded by dramatic, razor-sharp cliffs and snow-capped peaks, the lake’s colors shift from deep sapphire to turquoise under the summer sun, with shimmering ripples dancing across the surface — like a real-life fantasy scene ✨. We turned back at Little Colchuck Lake and the round trip totaled ~10 miles with 2400+ ft elevation gain, taking over 6 hours including breaks. While the stats don’t seem that extreme on paper, the trail felt surprisingly tough, especially the final stretch. My legs went numb halfway up, and I genuinely considered begging the lakeside campers to adopt me 😂. The only things keeping me going were the surprise deer sightings 🦌 and the thought of post-hike hotpot. Maybe I’ve just gotten soft over winter, but this trail demands stamina — and rewards it with a view you’ll never forget. #ColchuckLake #Enchantments #WashingtonHikes #PNWParadise #AlpineLake #HikingWA #SummerHikes #AllTrails #BucketListHike #NatureLovers

#getgoing2025 #lake #trail #washington Blue Lake trailhead is one of the easiest and the most picturesque hike I have ever done. The view of the lake is stunning. Parking is limited and this does get busy so I recommend starting early here. There is only one restroom at the beginning of the trail. There are also chances of wildlife spotting here. I did spot a mountain goat or two. Best part about this hike is there is no elevation gain so anyone with any fitness level can do it. You can also bring your dogs here as it is dog friendly. I have never done such a rewarding hike before. Must check it out!

Two-Day Tour of Leavenworth & Wenatchee, Seattle and Surrounding Areas|||You may have heard of Leavenworth. This time, I stayed there for one night and visited the nearby town of Wenatchee. It was a great experience! The itinerary is not too rushed. I would like to share it with you. 😘 DAY 1: 🚗 9AM Departure. For safety reasons, we took I-90 to avoid the mountain roads on Highway 2! 🎿 11AM Leavenworth Ski Hill. You can ski or go tubing. We bought a $37 tubing ticket, which allows you to go tubing six times! If you can get up early, I suggest you come early. The later it gets, the more people there are. 🍕1PM Blewett Brewing Company. The pizza is super delicious. We ordered the January special, Cranbus, which is an unexpected combination of pork belly, arugula, and cranberry sauce! I love it! 😋😋 🛍️ 2PM Time to visit the German town. There are many small shops, and we walked until our legs were sore. I would like to recommend Whistlepunk Ice Cream Co, which we visited when we were hungry. The ice cream is big, creamy, and delicious! 🎢 4PM Leavenworth Adventure Park. We booked tickets online for 4:30. We went to line up at 4:00 and didn't get on until 5:00. I suggest you book an earlier time, or it will be dark. The roller coaster snow scene is beautiful, and you can control the speed yourself! As long as the weight does not exceed 330 or 375 lb (depending on the weather that day), two people can sit in one car. ☺️ 🐽 6PM Ludwigs. It is best to book in advance to avoid queuing. We couldn't finish a large pork knuckle, so we ordered a Gasthaus Platter for One, which was enough for two people. It includes pork chops, sausages, mashed potatoes, and sauerkraut. The mashed potatoes are quite special. 🏠 Hotel: Residence Inn Wenatchee DAY 2: 🍳 9AM Wake up naturally and enjoy the hotel's free breakfast! 📍 10AM Pybus Public Market. You can walk along the Apple Capitol Recreational Loop Trail behind the hotel. It is a replica of Pike Place. The things are not expensive. There are vinegar, oil, cheese, fruit, meat, and so on for sale, as well as several small restaurants. 🚗 12PM Go home. At the end of the video, I will share a parking tip for the German town. There is free parking at Waterfront Park, and there are many spaces. 🤭

[Rainbow] Seattle’s autumn is extremely colorful and beautiful, but it is also short-lived. How can such a beautiful scenery be without outdoor adventures? In the golden pine season, hike along Maple Pass. As the autumn wind blows, the golden pines gradually turn from emerald green to golden yellow, like a painting that depicts the splendor of autumn. [Glister] Destination Guide: Maple Pass [Pushpin] This hiking trail is located near North Cascades National Park, about a three-hour drive from downtown Seattle. The [Pushpin] loop trail is 7.4 miles long and I would consider it moderately difficult. The total climb is about 2,200 feet, and some sections are quite steep. It took us more than 4 hours to complete the hike. [Pushpin] Maple Pass Trail is a closed loop, so there’s no need to backtrack. It is recommended to walk counterclockwise to save energy, and the scenery up the mountain will be more beautiful. The entire journey surrounds Ann Lake, and you can enjoy the beauty of the lake surrounded by mountains from different dimensions. [Pushpin] Parking fee: You need to purchase the Northwest Forest Pass, the Day Pass price is US$5. [Leaf] Tips: [RoundNails] Most of the roads are not shaded by trees, and the ultraviolet rays in Seattle are still strong in autumn, so you must take sun protection measures. [RoundNails] The entire route is dusty, so it is recommended to wear a protective mask😷. [RoundNails] If you are physically weak, it is recommended to prepare a trekking pole, which will make it easier to go down the mountain.

#outdooradventure Lake Wenatchee State Park is a breathtaking outdoor destination that perfectly blends natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, the park boasts crystal-clear lake waters reflecting majestic peaks and dense evergreen forests. Whether you’re kayaking on the serene lake, hiking scenic trails, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach, every moment feels like an escape into nature’s tranquility. The well-maintained campgrounds offer a cozy retreat under starry skies, while the diverse wildlife adds an enchanting touch to the experience. In autumn, vibrant foliage paints the landscape in fiery hues, and in winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The fresh mountain air and the calming sound of lapping waves create a rejuvenating atmosphere. Lake Wenatchee State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to disconnect and recharge amidst stunning natural surroundings.

#northamericatrip If you’re looking for a hike that packs in jaw-dropping views, heart-pounding climbs, and enough “wow” moments to fill your camera roll, the Maple Pass Loop in Washington’s North Cascades is calling your name. This 7.2-mile loop is a showstopper, offering alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and vibrant wildflowers—or golden fall foliage, depending on the season. The adventure begins with a steady climb through lush forest, where you’ll question why you didn’t train for this. But soon, the trail opens up, and any complaints vanish as Rainy Lake and Lake Ann come into view. Lake Ann, tucked in a pristine valley, is so picturesque it feels like it belongs on a postcard. Pro tip: don’t drop your snack while staring; the chipmunks here are shameless opportunists. As you climb higher, the views only get better. The ridgeline offers a sweeping panorama of the North Cascades that makes all the sweat worth it. Jagged peaks pierce the sky, and in the fall, golden larches light up the landscape like nature’s own fireworks display. It’s breathtaking—and not just because of the altitude. The loop is well-marked, family-friendly (for ambitious families), and has just the right mix of challenge and reward. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a willingness to stop every five minutes to say, “Wow, look at that!” Whether you’re chasing wildflowers, fall colors, or just the bragging rights of conquering one of Washington’s best hikes, the Maple Pass Loop delivers an unforgettable adventure. And yes, your legs will feel it the next day—but the memories? Totally worth it.

1⃣ Mount Rainier National Park 🚗 Drive: About 2 hours from Seattle Mount Rainier in the fall is absolutely stunning, especially the Naches Peak Loop trail. Maple trees and larches turn the mountains and forests warm yellow and fiery red, making the entire scene look like a beautiful oil painting. Walking along this trail, you'll find thick fallen leaves under your feet and snow-capped peaks in the distance. It's the perfect place to bring a camera and take some amazing photos! ⏳ Best time to visit: Mid-September to early October . 2⃣ Washington Park Arboretum 🚗 Drive: Located in Seattle, only a 15-minute drive You don't have to go far to experience the romance of fall. Washington Park Arboretum is a fall wonderland in the city. The most eye-catching thing here is the Japanese maple trees. In the fall, the entire forest turns red. The Azalea Way trail is covered in fallen maple leaves, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll and some photos. The afternoon sun shines through the leaves and onto the ground, creating a gentle and healing atmosphere. ⏳ Best time to visit: Early to mid-October . 3⃣ Maple Pass Loop 🚗 Drive: About 3 hours from Seattle Maple Pass Loop is a dream destination for hiking enthusiasts in the fall. This 7.2-mile loop trail takes you through red bushes and golden larches. From the top, you can overlook the lakes in the mountains. The scenery is absolutely stunning. The entire trail is full of fall vibes, making it the perfect place to bring some hot drinks and snacks and enjoy the coziness of fall. ⏳ Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October . 4⃣ Alpine Lakes Wilderness 🚗 Drive: About 2 hours and 30 minutes from Seattle The fall colors in Alpine Lakes Wilderness are dreamy, especially in the Enchantments area. In the fall, the larches here turn the entire valley and lake golden. Colchuck Lake is a great place for hiking. The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the golden peaks. The photos you take here will look like a fairyland! ⏳ Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October . 5⃣ Mt. Mccausland 🚗 Drive: About 1 hour and 45 minutes from Seattle If you want to avoid the crowds, this is a hidden gem in the fall! After hiking to the top, you'll see Lake Valhalla in the distance, surrounded by golden fall leaves. It's like a treasure hidden in the deep mountains. The sunset in the fall is especially beautiful. The light shines on the lake and the valley, making it the perfect time to take dreamy fall photos! ⏳ Best time to visit: Early October . 6⃣ Renton Maple Avenue 🚗 Drive: Located in Renton, about a 30-minute drive You don't have to go far to see fall in the city! The maple trees on both sides of Renton Maple Avenue turn red in the fall. The entire street looks like a red tunnel, making it a great place for photos. Drive through this maple forest, drive slowly, and feel the unique romantic atmosphere of fall.

#FallTravel My trip to **The Enchantments* in Washington during the fall season was a magical experience in every sense of the word 🍂. The area is known for its breathtaking scenery, but in the fall, it turns into a painting of orange, red, and gold 🍁. The pristine mountain lakes are surrounded by colorful trees, adding a special beauty to the landscape. The quiet trails were perfect for a walk and enjoying nature, and the cool breezes were refreshing to the soul 🍁. The granite rocks and tall meadows filled with fall colors made the experience unique and one of a kind. **The Enchantments** fall is a great destination for nature and tranquility lovers, and you can immerse yourself in the magic of nature 🍂.

Getting There - 2.5 Hours drive from Seattle. Road to trailhead is in good condition. No potholes no snow. Low clearance car is fine. Difficult hike. Last section of the trail was hard to find. Scrambled through lots of rocks. Not good for beginners. Attractions - autumn is larch season. Golden pine. looks more appealing in photos than in real life. But ppl extolled the beauty but I think it’s overrated. No shopping no hotel as I recall. Only a few restaurants on the way. Can’t find exact location in this app. Sad. ##hiking ##Alpinelakeswilderness #Larchmadness #Lakeingalls #Seattle #Pnw