Lake Chelan Tours

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


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

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Raintree's Sandcastle
1 Hotel Seattle
The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland

Reviews of Lake Chelan

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
181
5 - Excellent 66%
4 - Good
79
4 - Good 29%
3 - Okay
11
3 - Okay 4%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
2
1 - Terrible 1%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Take the "Combination" boat ride to Stehekin (fast boat up, slow boat back).  This gives you 3 hours there instead of one and enough time to eat lunch.  Rainbow Falls is pretty but not worth $10 because you only get 15 minutes there.  The 100-foot climb to the second level just for a different photo op was NOT worth pulling a muscle on the GIANT oversized basalt steps.  That was torture!!!  Eat at the bakery, it's the only game in town.  I was disappointed that Stehekin had no shops and no charm.  Basically a 1-star place, part of North Cascades National Park, for backpackers to stay and get supplies.  Nothing to do really.

1/5 - Terrible

Denis

we did not see the lake, due to wild fires in central washington, bad luck.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Our family had a great time there. We did not get to truly enjoy the beauty of the lake due the haze from the fires, but we made it work. Will be going back again.

Popular places to visit


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
Albin 25 Trawler on Beautiful Lake Chelan
Camp at dockside or explore uplake.

Albin 25 Trawler on Beautiful Lake Chelan Camp at dockside or explore uplake.

Chelan
Albin 25 Trawler on Beautiful Lake Chelan Camp at dockside or explore uplake.
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
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 for every visitor. Enjoy thrilling water slides at Slidewaters, indulge in cozy wine tastings at local wineries, and embrace outdoor fun with hiking and biking trails. During the winter months, skiing opportunities abound for snow enthusiasts. Make your stay memorable by soaking in the stunning scenery and vibrant community that Lake Chelan has to offer.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Lake Chelan, explore local gems like the Chelan Farmers Market for fresh produce and handmade goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Fromaggio Artisan Cheese Shoppe, 23 miles away, for unique gourmet treats and artisan cheeses.

Recreation

At Bear Creek Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, promoting relaxation and outdoor fun. Meanwhile, the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area offers serene trails and peaceful spots, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature in a rejuvenating environment.

Adventure

Pyramid Mountain Trailhead offers an exhilarating hiking experience, located 7 miles from Lake Chelan, featuring stunning views and a sense of adventure. Safety Harbor Creek Trailhead, 8 miles away, provides scenic landscapes and outdoor excitement. Lastly, Summer Blossom Trailhead, situated 9 miles from the lake, invites adventurers to explore its beautiful trails.

Nightlife

Lake Chelan offers a vibrant nightlife with scenic views and lively venues. Enjoy craft cocktails at the iconic Lake Chelan Winery, or dance the night away at the Chelan Valley Brewing Company. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the local pubs and enjoy live music under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan offers an array of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery for travelers. Explore the beautiful Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, take in breathtaking lake views, and visit local farms. The Lake Chelan Chamber can provide information on various attractions, ensuring a memorable vacation filled with scenic experiences and adventure.

  • Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: Experience the thrill of adventure in this stunning national forest, located 21 miles from Lake Chelan. With breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and countless trails, it's a perfect spot for hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors.
  • Wapato Lake: This picturesque lake, situated 21 miles away, offers a serene beach environment ideal for relaxation and romance. Enjoy scenic views, water activities, and the tranquility of nature as you immerse yourself in the peaceful vibe of this beautiful location.
  • Buckner Orchard: Just 17 miles from Lake Chelan, Buckner Orchard is a charming farm that showcases the region's agricultural heritage. Stroll through the orchards, sample fresh produce, and learn about sustainable farming practices in a delightful rural setting.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Chelan

To save money on your trip to Lake Chelan, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March to April or November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Fridays are the most costly. Utilize Expedia’s search tools to find budget-friendly accommodations, and explore package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for added savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Look for last-minute deals for spontaneous trips and eco-friendly hotel options to save even more.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Chelan are March to April and 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Lake Chelan is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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 Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Leverage Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Lake Chelan hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia