"Leavenworth - The heart of Washington Rock Climbing.  Hundreds of single- and multi-pitch routes and boulder problems on highly featured granite - all within a few minutes' drive of a scenic, faux-Bavarian village." - Rock & Ice, April/May 2001, Page 58
 
For Rock Climbing in the Leavenworth area please stop in at Der Sportsmann for local knowledge.
 
Located at 837 Front Street. Phone: 509-548-5623
 
At Der Sportsmann you can pick up a copy of "Leavenworth Rock" Second Edition by Viktor Kramar, Copyright 2003.  This is one of the best guides to rock climbing in the Leavenworth area complete with routes and pictures of climbs.  Includes Lower Icicle Canyon, Lower Icicle To Rat Creek, 8-Mile Area, Bridge Creek Area, Tumwater Canyon, and Peshastin Pinnacles.

Northwest Mountain School and Leavenworth Rock Guides also offers basic, intermediate, and rock rescue courses.  
They may be contacted at 509-548-5823.

Also see: 
 
Boeing Alpine Society Rock Climbing ("Bobs recommended routes") http://www.boealps.org/lworth.html - currently off-line

WA St. Parks Rock Climbing

Read Trip Reports from Cascade Guiding Service

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For kids there is a Trout Unlimited fishing pond available for children 15 and under to fish in year round.  The pond is located in Enchantment Park before you come to Blackbird Island as you walk from the Icicle Inn.  Open printable Waterfront Park trail map here.  The pond is 20 feet deep, fed by fresh water springs, and in 2002 was stocked with 3,200 trout by Trout Unlimited.
The pond is part of the Blackbird Island Fish Rearing Project which the Icicle Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited spearheaded with the assistance of City and State organizations.  For more information call 509-548-1421.

Check out the "Fishin' Magician" for information on North Central Washington fishing.

April

Fish Lake: This lake is less than 25 miles from the town of Leavenworth is a very popular destination for anglers from all over the state. Fish Lake has a reputation for providing excellent fishing for rainbow trout, but also has a good population of brown trout and yellow perch. The ice typically comes off the lake in the month of April and the fishing for holdover rainbow to 2 pounds and better is very good. The Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains the trout numbers here with frequent plants throughout the season. Fishing is good through the summer, including fishing for yellow perch and largemouth bass. Brown trout caught throughout the season, but fishing is best in the very early spring and fall. The Cove Resort on the lake also introduces enough large (5- to 7-pound) triploid rainbow to the lake to make things interesting. There are boats for rent at the Cove the fishing from the dock here is also very good.

May

Icicle River: The Icicle River below the National Fish Hatchery in Leavenworth typically opens for spring salmon fishing in the middle of May. These bright, early season salmon range in size from 8 to 16 pounds, with larger fish a real possibility. Most are taken by boaters who drift the river and anchor in the holes that the fish stack up as the make their way upstream to the hatchery. There is some bank access available, too. Most fish are taken on herrying rigged behind a Spin N Glo, or with eggs. The season usually runs through the end of July. Visitors are encouraged to visit the National Fish Hatchery on Icicle Road to learn about the migration of salmon to the area and see these large salmon being held prior to spawning.

July

Columbia River: Less than 20 miles from the town of Leavenworth, the Columbia River opens to summer-run salmon fishing the first of July. Thousands of these up-river brights make their way up the Columbia River to the mouth of the Okanogan River and are intercepted by anglers who fish this stretch of river. Most of the salmon weigh an average of 12 to 15 pounds, but fish pushing 40 pounds are taken every year. Fishing is done from boats and trolled herring account for most of the salmon. There are some effective lures used with success and later in the season bait-wrapped Flatfish or Kwik Fish are very attractive to the more aggressive salmon. The season runs through mid-October.

Icicle Creek: Just outside of the town of Leavenworth flows Icicle Creek, a beautiful boulder-strewn water that is loaded with small rainbow and cutthroat trout. It is an ideal fly fishery with plenty of access to scenic runs that are easy to wade. Dry fly anglers will be in heaven when they see the clear, cold waters of the Icicle. The cold-water trout in the creek are mostly 8 to 10 inches, but fish to 12 are possible. Runoff from the snowpack typically settles down enough to allow good fishing by mid-July.

High Lakes: The high country of Leavenworth is world-renowned for its scenic hiking, and there many lakes that contain rainbow and cutthroat trout waiting at the end of the trail. Colchuck Lake even offers fishing for high-mountain lake trout (mackinaw). To learn about these lakes and best fishing opportunities, visit the local Forest Service office here in town. Permits are now required to visit the high country and to park at trailheads and this office can provide with everything you need to visit this high mountain wonderland.

August-October

Lakes and Streams: Fishing on the area lakes and streams continue to be excellent through these months. October 22--Wenatchee River opens for steelhead fishing

November

Wenatchee and Columbia rivers: Although closed for many years, there is a steelhead season proposed for the Wenatchee River. The Wenatchee River offers many excellent runs for steelhead fishing and is popular with both gear and fly anglers. There is plenty of good access from the town of Wenatchee to Leavenworth. It will be important to check on this fishery for season dates and restrictions as it develops. Steelhead fishing on the Columbia River just north of the Wenatchee has been excellent for the past several seasons. There is limited shore access, and most fish are taken from boats the either back-troll baits or cast bobber and jig set ups for the magnificent sport fish.

December

Wenatchee River: The Wenatchee River opens to angling for whitefish every year in the month of December. Anglers in the know can take these fish from several runs near the town of Leavenworth. A common bait for whitefish are small whitefish flies, and it is not unusual to have a steelhead hit one of these! Be sure to check regulations about the retention of steelhead if this should happen. Steelhead fishing on the Columbia River continues to approach its peak on the Columbia River. The season on steelhead on the Columbia remains open in most years through March 31st.

January-February

Fish Lake: In most years an ice cap that is safe enough to support anglers forms on Fish Lake, and ice fishing is a popular winter sport here. Some of the best rainbow trout and perch fishing of the year takes place while hovering over a hole drilled through the ice. It is important to check on conditions before venturing out on the ice on any winter lake, Fish Lake included.

Compliments of www.fishingmagician.com

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See updated trail information at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/wenatchee/recreation/report/

Waterfront Park is one of Leavenworth's best kept secrets.  The trails wind along the Wenatchee River and through quiet riverbank forests.  There are benches for sitting and interpretive signs to explain the natural and cultural history of the area.  Throughout the park there are small beach inlets that are perfect for swimming on hot summer days.  This is also a great birding site in the Spring or a place to spot salmon making their upstream journey in the Fall. The trail is accessible a block behind the Icicle Inn Resort and will take you along the river, over Blackbird Island, and out in downtown Leavenworth.    The trail is completely flat so you can just relax and enjoy the views.

Bird Walks in Waterfront Park
Meet in front of the downtown Gazebo every Saturday morning from 7 to 8:30 am for a leisurely walk to see and hear the birds of Leavenworth and Blackbird Island.  Information from these ongoing walks will help individuals understand the cycle of the birds of this area.  Sponsored by the North Central Washington Audubon Society.  
Contact Karen Haire at 509-548-4566 for information.

Icicle Ridge Trail goes one way, up.  It can be hiked for as long or as short as you like.  The natural turnaround point is two miles into the hike at a small flat spot on the ridge-top.  This is a good spot to eat your lunch, enjoy the views and relax your aching thighs.  The trail keeps going after this point but you have to go a long way to get better views. For those looking for views into the Leavenworth Valley, you can climb this trail for about a half mile and get a splendid overview into town.  From the Icicle Inn follow Icicle Road for 1.4 miles and go right at the marked Icicle Ridge Trail.  Take a quick left after turning off of Icicle Road and you'll see a large parking area on your right.

Find more excellent hikes on the Leavenworth Chamber site by clicking on Washington:

Trail Maps for Hiking, Biking, XC Skiing, Snowshoeing 
 

The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is located in the rugged Central Cascades Region of Washington state and is jointly administered by the Wenatchee and Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forests. It encompasses approximately 394,000 acres accessed by 47 trailheads and 615 miles of trails. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail traverses the Wilderness from Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass.

The name Alpine Lakes takes its origin from the nearly 700 small mountain lakes nestled like jewels among the high rocky peaks and timbered valleys of the region. Its breathtaking beauty and proximity adjacent to the Seattle metropolitan area makes the Alpine Lakes Wilderness one of the most popular natural areas in the Northwest. Over half of Washington state’s population live within a one-hour drive of the Wilderness. 

You can learn more by calling the Leavenworth Ranger Station 
at (509) 548-6977, or learn more about the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area and find a permit application here.  

Coming Soon: 
"Nordic Walking" is a new trend that has seized German-speaking countries.  It began in the 30's as a summer training method for long distance Nordic skiers and is 40% - 50% more effective than conventional walking.  It is an ideal method of training the whole body for both young and old.  By using walking sticks to include the entire musculature walkers are able to increase their pulse rate as well as their metabolism.  Nordic Walking strengthens the upper torso including shoulders, chest, and other movement related muscles.  Correct use of Hiking poles will provide added balance and stability on a walking or hiking surface.  It will also increase your endurance by distributing the workload over the bodies entire musculature.  You'll find that pole use will significantly reduce the strain on ankles, hips, and knees.  Check back soon to learn more about our program for Nordic Walking at the Icicle Inn Resort!

The Bavarian Volkssport Association 509-548-4084 Sponsor of a 10k seasonal walk, April 1 – December 1

The Central Washington Native Plant Gallery.

Useful information and field guides from the Forest Service:

Field Guide for Forested Plant Associations of the Wenatchee National Forest (3 mb Acrobat file

Common Plants of the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests (DRAFT) (4 mb Acrobat file

Common Plants of the Colville National Forest (DRAFT) (3.8 mb Acrobat file)

• Hike Of The Week: Accessibility is helped by several approaches
  Seattle Post-Intelligencer, July 10, 2003

• Mad about morels: A Cascade treasure hunt for the mighty mushroom
  Seattle Post-Intelligencer, May 24, 2001

• Forest, flowers and views with only 70 switchbacks to inspiring Dirtyface Peak
  Seattle Post-Intelligencer, July 29, 1999

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Enzian Falls Championship Putting Course      
Phone: 509-548-5269
590 Highway 2, Leavenworth, WA 98826

Professionally designed 18-hole championship putting course.

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Tube Leavenworth!

Phone: 509-548-TUBE

Das Sonnenhaus Bldg. Plaza

Leavenworth, WA 98826

Cool off in style and enjoy the lazy, late summer water levels of the Wenatchee River!  - Affordable self guided deluxe float tube rentals for the entire family.  You'll float by the Leavenworth Golf Club, Enchantment Park, Blackbird Island and the Bavarian Village of Leavenworth down to Barn Beach.

Open late June through early September, weather and safe water levels permitting.  During hot weather and holiday weeks there may be extended hours.

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Icicle Outfitters and Guides Day Trips
800-497-3912 Call today & go for a ride! Hourly guided trail rides are offered at two riding stables; in the Icicle Valley south of town and at Lake Wenatchee State Park. Ride for 2 miles all day.

Eagle Creek Ranch Horseback Rides
Explore miles of trails climbing gently through sunlit evergreen forests to alpine meadows and spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Cascades.

Leavenworth Carriage Company 509-421-0679
9th and Front Street
Leavenworth, WA 98826
Carriage rides available year around in downtown area. Wagon and sleigh rides for all occasions: dinner rides, engagements, weddings, reunions, sightseeing by reservation.

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Red-Tail Canyon Farm
11780 Freund Canyon Road, Leavenworth, WA, 98826
509-548-4512
800-678-4512

Take an old-fashioned sleigh ride...snuggle under blankets. Warm yourself by a cozy fire...sip a cup of hot cocoa...all the things memories are made of. Easy 2 miles from town.

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Audubon Center and Upper Valley Museum is finalizing details for their new center in the former Haus Lorelei Bed and Breakfast, a gracious 100-year old building and 5 acres that overlook the Wenatchee river from a low bluff at the East end of Waterfront Park.  Please see their calendar of programs for the Leavenworth area that are currently taking place.
Phone: (509) 664-3340

Barn Beach Reserve has replaced the Audubon Center and Upper Valley Museum in Leavenworth in the former Haus Lorelei Bed and Breakfast.  It will be home to an environmental learning center, an arts facility, and the Upper Valley Museum at Leavenworth.  The Reserve and an adjacent city park combine to create a protected greenbelt of more than 50 acres including Blackbird Island.
Hours: By appointment until building renovation is completed.
Tours of the Reserve: Visitors may contact us for a tour of the Reserve:
509-548-7584, 509-548-0181
Upper Valley Museum at Leavenworth has exhibits in temporary quarters at Obertal Mall: 220 Ninth Street, Leavenworth, WA 98826, 509-548-0728

24 miles-35km to Wenatchee Valleys best kept secret, a gem of a museum, Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center. See the ingenuity of the original orchardist's in developing harvest equipment, view a replica scale railway of the valley, experience early native American environments and a variety of traveling exhibits.
Located: 127 South Mission, Wenatchee
Phone: (509) 664-3340

10 miles to see log houses and buildings from over 100 years ago, and get an idea of how your great grandparents lived in a Pioneer Village!  The Pioneer Village is constructed of twenty original pioneer structures dating back to the late 1800’s, complete with interior artifacts, to provide an accurate “snapshot” of life the way it was in simpler times. The Chelan County Historical Museum houses treasures of historical interest for young and old alike. The 13,000 square foot museum includes outstanding displays of Native American artifacts, natural history, and pioneer exhibits.  www.visitcashmere.com  
Open March 1 - December 15 (Closed Thanksgiving Day) Every Day 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
Located: about 15 minutes from Leavenworth.
600 Cotlets Way, Cashmere
Phone: (509) 782-3230.

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For information contact: Bonnie Brawley Visitor Services Supervisor P.O. Box 1231 Wenatchee, WA 98807-1231 (509) 663-7522

VISITOR FACILITIES The Visitor Center and other facilities are open daily at 8 a.m. from mid-February through the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Parking and admission are free. Reservations for Rocky Reach picnic shelters can be made beginning Feb. 15 by calling (509) 663-7522.

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60 miles-96km to beautiful Lake Chelan for water sports and activities. Step aboard the "Lady of the Lake" and cruise spectacular waters.  
Phone: 509.682.4584

 

Enjoy Banjo Creek Farms, a working family farm 4 miles up-lake of Manson in the Chelan Valley.  They have a barnyard of animals and an antique furniture store, soap factory, and more.  Plan on joining them for their "Cowboy BBQ Evening" with dinner and music!
Phone: 509-687-0708
 
Lake Chelan is only an hour from Leavenworth and makes a great day trip.  You may also consider staying overnight as part of a multi-day vacation.

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Mill Bay Casino
455 Wapato Lake Road
Manson, Washington 98831
800-648-2946
 
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Useful information and field guides from the Forest Service:

Field Guide for Forested Plant Associations of the Wenatchee National Forest (3 mb Acrobat file

Common Plants of the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests (DRAFT) (4 mb Acrobat file

Common Plants of the Colville National Forest (DRAFT) (3.8 mb Acrobat file)

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Blossom Time in Leavenworth and Cashmere begins around Mid April and goes through around Mid - May

The Valley's are alive with the blossoming of our fruit Orchards. Take a driving tour and enjoy the magnificent views that our valleys provide.  See Spring Tours for more information

See www.apawabove.us for more information

Cascade Foothills Farmland Association

From the Beginning of April to the End of May North Central Washington comes alive with color.

The beautiful blossoms of apples, pears, apricots, cherries, peaches, and more can be seen from Leavenworth to Chelan and beyond.

This is a beautiful time of the year to plan a day trip or weekend getaway, and experience the beauty of the area. While you are here, be sure to visit the many fruit stands, farms, and wineries that are working hard to bring you the fresh fruit and vegetables, value added products, and home town services, that are the heart and soul of rural living.

The Cascade Foothills Farmland Association announces the release of its first Ag-Tourism Driving Map with Fruit Stands, Wineries, Retail Outlets, and more!

Call 509-548-6784 or e-mail info@visitwashingtonfarms.com for a copy today!

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Condos for Sale
in Leavenworth

Learn more about living in Leavenworth here on the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce website.

If you're looking to buy other property or a home in Leavenworth and the surrounding area consider visiting with our friends at www.teamhess.com.

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Some links are courtesy of the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce
Phone: 509 548-5807

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