Washington is a state full of scenic beauty and Lake Wenatchee State Park near Leavenworth is one of the best. This sprawling postcard-worthy park affords numerous outdoor activities to its visitors. From an invigorating hike, downhill skiing, tubing, and ice climbing to enjoying a wonderful meal in a cozy restaurant or sitting by a fire with your favorite hot beverage, you’ll have plenty of fun to share with friends or family. Here’s how to have the best winter weekend getaway at Lake Wenatchee State Park.
This beautiful nearly 500-acre park features the perfect example of what Washington is known for: cross-country skiing, sledding and snowshoe hiking opportunities, dogsledding, snowmobiling, camping, and year-round fishing. With an average snowfall of around 150 inches, this truly is a winter wonderland.
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If fishing is your thing and the idea of winter fishing really sounds appealing, Wenatchee Lake offers year-round fishing opportunities to bait and cast. Carp, salmon, whitefish, steelhead, and cutthroat are just some of the species you’ll find in this peaceful natural lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Check the website for seasonal weather-related closures and make sure to have your fishing license.
When planning your winter adventure, there are several places to consider. If you like the idea of cozy overnight accommodations with a rustic look and feel, you’ll love Pine River Ranch B&B. There’s a package for whatever adventure you want to have, and amenities include rock fireplaces in each room, jetted tubs, and a delicious homemade breakfast delivered to your room every morning. The breakfast scones served here are legendary.
If you’re a person who can’t get enough of the outdoors, the campground at Lake Wenatchee State Park is the place for your winter weekend getaway. Open year round, they have first come first serve standard camping available. You’ll wake up to the sounds of nature after a peaceful night sleep and be prepared for whatever the day brings. Fearing the cold? No need to worry, there are heated restrooms, hot showers, warming shelters, and plenty of activities throughout the park to get your heart racing and your body warm.
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If you love rock climbing, you’ll love ice climbing, and with a little advanced planning, you can add that to your itinerary. The Northwest Mountain School has experienced guides who can help organize your frosty adventure and make sure everything is for a safe and fun experience. Organized around the Leavenworth area during mid-December to February, contact the school directly for more information and weather conditions.
You might not be going to Grandma’s house, but you’ll have the time of your life on your old-fashioned sleigh ride as you go over the fields and through the woods. Imagine snuggling under a warm blanket on an open sleigh pulled by not one, but two sturdy draft horses and enjoying the crisp mountain air and snow-covered surroundings. It might be time for a round of Jingle Bells. Afterwards, sit by a warm fire and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa.
No trip to Leavenworth would be complete without visiting the Bavarian Village. Holiday lights stay up through the winter until mid-February creating a magical glow all through the town. You’ll hear carols being sung, see chestnuts being roasted over an open fire, and get to taste authentic German foods prepared at several restaurants in the area. And best of all, you’ll get to experience the culture with all the sights and sounds of the German Alps without traveling out of the country.
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With more than 5,000 nutcrackers on display from around the world, the Nutcracker Museum is another place you don’t want to miss. There has never been a device created in so many designs and from so many different materials than the famous nutcracker. There really are many ways to crack a hard nut! Children especially love this museum, and there are fun activities and information available.
Leavenworth is one of the best places for all-terrain adventures in any season. Winter is an especially good time to rent a snowmobile because there are over 200 miles of trails to explore. Whether you’re an expert on wheels or this is your first time, this company can equip you with the right machine, give advice on how to navigate the area, and even provide guides to make sure you have a great and safe time.
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For a great meal featuring German sausages, potato salad, pretzels and mustard, craft beer, and great service in a traditional Alpine setting, check out Munchen Haus. No visit to Leavenworth is complete without experiencing this dining delight. They even have a store, so you can grab your favorite items to take home and share with friends.
