If you are living in Seattle area, Lake Chelan is one of the most popular weekend destination during the summer as well as winter months. Be sure to book your hotel/resort well in advance otherwise you will not get accommodation. It is summer hot spot for water sport enthusiast, hikers, as well as nature lovers. Lake Chelan is about 175 miles east of Seattle. Highway 2, the road which reaches to Lake Chelan is one of the most beautiful roads of the cascades. You will find Steven’s pass, city of Leavenworth on the way which you might want to stop by.
Glacier fed Lake Chelan is 50.5 mile long with clear blue water surrounded by majestic cascade mountain which enhances its beauty. Fishing, trekking, water sports, biking, wine tasting, snowshoeing, snow tubing, are some of the most treasured past time in Lake Chelan.
What you can do in Lake Chelan
Water sports: It’s heaven if you are have love for Jet skiing, boating, Parasailing, etc. There are several equipment rental companies for water sports in Lake Chelan. You will get boats, water skis, wakeboards, tubes, scuba gear, paddle boards, canoes, kayaks for rent. However, during the peak summer months it becomes very hard to get hold of the equipment. So it is advisable that you plan early and book your equipment well in advance. Few popular rental companies are http://www.shorelineofchelan.com/.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Kayaking and Canoeing is a fun way to explore the lake. Didn’t bring your own kayak or canoe, don’t worry rent the equipments. These are popular stores where you can rent the equipments Chelan Parasail (509) 682-7245, Lake Rider Sports (509) 885-4767, Pedal Paddle (509) 682-9211, Silver Bay Inn Resort(Stehekin) 800-555-7781, and Stehekin Adventures (509) 682-7742.
Cruise ship: There are two cruise ship in Lake Chelan namely “The Lady of the Lake II” and “The Lady Express”. The Lady of the Lake II is the largest vehicle on lake which carries up to 350 passengers and take passengers from Chelan to Stehekin and back. The Lady Express is the fastest passenger vehicle which carries up to 150 passengers in the same route as that of The Lady of the Lake II. For more information about the schedule and prices of the trip visit http://www.ladyofthelake.com/.
Tubing, Skiing, Snowboarding: Chelan area is also a winter wonderland for visitors and locals. Most popular spots here are Echo Valley Ski & Tubing Area (call 509-687-3167 or 509-687-3167) and Mission Ridge (call 509-663-6543).
The Echo Valley Ski & Tubing area is just seven miles from Chelan downtown. It is great winter fun destination for the whole family. Starting from the beginners level to expert everyone can enjoys this less crowded skiing location. Rental equipments are available to rent on site. There is a eatery and lodge where you can relax and yet enjoy this beauty by sitting near the cozy fireplace.
Second one is the Mission Ridge which is located 51 miles which takes approximately 75 minutes to reach there. It has a big 66 acres of snow-making area. You can also enjoy the high speed quad ride to the top.