Lake Chelan Tours and Activities

Lake Chelan featuring landscape views, a coastal town and mountains
Lake Chelan which includes boating, a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes
Lake Chelan showing a lake or waterhole, tranquil scenes and a sunset
Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan which includes a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes


Experience mountain views, hiking trails, clear waters, wellness spas and vineyards at this scenic lake and year-round vacation destination in Central Washington.

Lake Chelan is a beautiful waterway in central Washington and is the largest lake in the state. The narrow and winding lake features clear waters and picturesque vineyards on its banks. It’s surrounded by stunning forested and snow-capped mountains. Explore this magnificent natural destination by boat, bike or on foot and enjoy the region’s fine wines and family-friendly activities.

Lake Chelan is ideal for water sports and leisure boating. Take in the spectacular mountain vistas from the water on your own craft or a rented boat, Jet Ski, canoe or paddleboard. Discover the abundant underwater life with your snorkel or scuba gear. Take advantage of Lake Chelan’s sheltered beaches and go swimming in the cool waters. If you’re up for the challenge, take part in the Polar Bear Splash swim during the Lake Chelan Winterfest in January.

Explore over 250 miles (402.3 kilometers) of well-kept summer trails in the surrounding mountains. Discover the Glacier Peak and Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness Areas, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Beebe Springs and Agnes Creek. For mountain bikers, there are thrilling downhill trails that crisscross the Lake Chelan landscape. Visit Lake Chelan in winter to traverse stunning cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.

For a more relaxed Lake Chelan experience, try fishing off one of the many piers on the lake while looking out at the dramatic mountain views. Golf courses, rejuvenating spas and horseback tours can also be found in Lake Chelan. Families will love the Slidewaters waterpark, go-kart tracks, bowling alley and games arcade.

Discover Lake Chelan’s agricultural fields and eat fresh produce from the region. Apples, cherries and grapevines all grow in abundance here. Join a wine tour and enjoy a fine drop grown on the banks of the lake.

Lake Chelan is located in Washington. Cities on the lake include Chelan and Manson on its south end. Passenger ferries connect Chelan to Stehekin Valley and North Cascades National Park to the north. Enjoy long, sunny summers at Lake Chelan or visit in the middle of winter for adventures in the snow.

Plan a trip to see Lake Chelan

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Best Lodging Options Near Lake Chelan

Secluded lakefront home with dock, deck, gas grill and amazing views

Secluded lakefront home with dock, deck, gas grill and amazing views

Chelan
Secluded lakefront home with dock, deck, gas grill and amazing views
Find serenity with a secluded lakefront cabin | Lake views + Lake Access

Find serenity with a secluded lakefront cabin | Lake views + Lake Access

Chelan
Find serenity with a secluded lakefront cabin | Lake views + Lake Access
Lake Chelan Luxury Waterfront Home, 3800 sq ft, 4 Bdrm, Private Dock!

Lake Chelan Luxury Waterfront Home, 3800 sq ft, 4 Bdrm, Private Dock!

Chelan
Lake Chelan Luxury Waterfront Home, 3800 sq ft, 4 Bdrm, Private Dock!
Unique South Shore lakefront retreat w/private hot tub and lake views

Unique South Shore lakefront retreat w/private hot tub and lake views

Chelan
Unique South Shore lakefront retreat w/private hot tub and lake views
Charming Family Retreat – Just Steps from the Water's Edge

Charming Family Retreat – Just Steps from the Water's Edge

Chelan
Charming Family Retreat – Just Steps from the Water's Edge
Lakefront gem with large deck, grill, fast WiFi, & great views

Lakefront gem with large deck, grill, fast WiFi, & great views

Chelan
Lakefront gem with large deck, grill, fast WiFi, & great views
Lake-Chelan-view home with large deck, new hot tub, Ping-Pong & foosball table

Lake-Chelan-view home with large deck, new hot tub, Ping-Pong & foosball table

Chelan
Lake-Chelan-view home with large deck, new hot tub, Ping-Pong & foosball table
Sunny, lakefront home with huge patio, floating dock & 2 buoys

Sunny, lakefront home with huge patio, floating dock & 2 buoys

Chelan
Sunny, lakefront home with huge patio, floating dock & 2 buoys
Lakefront house with washer/dryer, private dock & 2-level deck - near vineyards

Lakefront house with washer/dryer, private dock & 2-level deck - near vineyards

Chelan
Lakefront house with washer/dryer, private dock & 2-level deck - near vineyards
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan offers a delightful blend of activities, including wine travel to nearby wineries where you can sample local vintages. The recreational season is vibrant with opportunities for jet skiing on the pristine waters. Ideal picnic spots are scattered around the lake, providing picturesque settings for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you're exploring vineyards or enjoying water sports, Lake Chelan promises an unforgettable Canadian getaway.

Shopping

For unique gifts, visit the Fromaggio Artisan Cheese Shoppe, located 37.0km away from Lake Chelan. If you're up for a drive, this store offers a delightful selection of artisanal cheeses that make for perfect souvenirs.

Recreation

The Lake Chelan National Recreation Area offers a tranquil environment, perfect for unwinding amidst stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and reconnecting with nature. For sports enthusiasts, Bear Creek Golf Course presents a challenging yet scenic golfing experience, surrounded by beautiful outdoor vistas.

Adventure

Pyramid Mountain Trailhead, located 11.3km from Lake Chelan, offers stunning outdoor scenery and invigorating hiking experiences. Safety Harbor Creek Trailhead, 12.9km away, immerses you in nature's beauty, while Summer Blossom Trailhead, 14.5km from the lake, showcases breathtaking vistas for adventurous explorers.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mill Bay Casino, located 38.6km from Lake Chelan. Enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of the casino, where romance meets city vibes, perfect for an exciting evening filled with gaming and entertainment.

Find the best attractions near Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan, Washington, offers a variety of attractions perfect for any traveler seeking scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. Key points of interest include Lake Chelan State Park and the stunning lake itself, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you're hiking through the park or enjoying water activities on the lake, Lake Chelan promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

  • Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: Located 33.8km from Lake Chelan, this stunning national park offers breathtaking scenery and a plethora of outdoor adventures. With its majestic mountains, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, it's perfect for hiking, camping, and nature photography, providing a true escape into the wild.
  • Fish Lake: Situated 35.4km away, Fish Lake is a picturesque spot ideal for a romantic day out. Enjoy scenic views, tranquil waters, and beach vibes while picnicking, kayaking, or simply lounging by the shore, making it a perfect getaway for couples.
  • Wapato Lake: Just 33.8km from Lake Chelan, Wapato Lake is another beautiful destination with serene surroundings. It’s great for outdoor activities like swimming and fishing, while its scenic landscapes create a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and romance.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Chelan

For a budget-friendly trip to Lake Chelan, consider visiting in April or October to November when prices are lower. Book your stay about a month in advance, preferably on a Tuesday for the best rates. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and filter accommodations by budget and type, such as eco-friendly options. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Explore free activities around the lake, and take advantage of local public transport to minimize costs during your visit.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Chelan are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Lake Chelan about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Chelan is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Chelan is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodations first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type. For instance, if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your Lake Chelan hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.