HIKE BEAUTIFUL Chelan County!

Exploring the Best Hiking Trails in Chelan County

Chelan County is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re seeking a challenging climb or a leisurely walk, there’s a trail for everyone. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Chelan County, with essential information and links to more detailed trail guides. Make sure to check for any required permits and passes. Locally, passes are available at Arlberg Sports and the Confluence Campground Ranger Office.

Icicle Ridge Trail (Leavenworth)

For a hike that offers beautiful scenery with some uphill during your hike, the Icicle Ridge Trail is a perfect choice. This trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a great option for families and those looking to enjoy a moderate hike.

  • Fees/Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required.
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: None.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes.
  • More Info: Icicle Ridge Trail

Lake Chelan State Park – Little Bear Trail (Chelan)

This trail offers an easy and enjoyable hike along the beautiful Lake Chelan. It’s perfect for families and those looking for a relaxing outdoor experience. The trail provides stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills.

  • Fees/Permits: Discover Pass required.
  • Parking: Available at Lake Chelan State Park.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and picnic areas available.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes.
  • More Info: Little Bear Trail

Hidden Lake (Lake Wenatchee)

Hidden Lake Trail near Lake Wenatchee is a family-friendly hike, perfect for beginners. The 1.6-mile round trip trail features a gentle ascent through old-growth forests, with views of Lake Wenatchee and Dirty Face Mountain. The trail includes an ADA-accessible section, picnic spots, and the option to extend to a 2.5-mile loop through Glacier View Campground for stunning views of Glacier Peak. The trail is also suitable for snowshoeing in winter.

  • Fees/Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required.
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and picnic areas available.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes.
  • More Info: Hidden Lake Trail

Chelan Butte Trail (Chelan)

For those seeking a more challenging hike with rewarding views, the Chelan Butte Trail is an excellent option. This trail climbs steeply but offers panoramic vistas of Lake Chelan and the Columbia River. It’s a great workout with stunning payoffs.

  • Fees/Permits: None required.
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: None.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes, but challenging.
  • More Info:  Chelan Butte Trail

Silver Falls Trail (Entiat)

The Silver Falls Trail in Entiat offers a moderately challenging 1.8-mile loop hike that rewards visitors with stunning views of cascading waterfalls. The trail winds through lush forests and along the Silver Creek, providing a peaceful and scenic experience. This hike is great for families and hikers of all skill levels, with plenty of opportunities for photography and picnicking near the falls.

  • Fees/Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required.
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and picnic areas available.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes.
  • More Info: Silver Falls Trail

Saddle Rock Trail AKA Two Bears (Wenatchee)

Saddle Rock Trail is a popular hike in Wenatchee, offering panoramic views of the city and the Columbia River. The trail is moderately challenging and provides a rewarding experience for hikers.

  • Fees/Permits: None required.
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: None.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes.
  • More Info: Saddle Rock Trail

Devil’s Gulch Trail (Cashmere)

Devil’s Gulch Trail is a favorite among mountain bikers and hikers alike. The trail offers a mix of challenging terrain and beautiful scenery, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Note that this trail is not recommended during the summer due to extreme heat.

  • Fees/Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required.
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: None.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes, but challenging.
  • More Info: Devil’s Gulch Trail

Cashmere Canyons Preserve (Cashmere)

Cashmere Canyons is a new trail system on the eastern slopes of the Cascades. Thanks to the generosity of the land owners, this privately-owned area is open to hikers, but managed primarily for wildlife habitat and wilderness conservation. Because of this, dogs and mountain biking are not allowed here, and the area may close at various times throughout the year in order to protect wildlife. Please respect any and all closures.

  • Fees/Permits: None
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: Accessible toilet.
  • Not Dog-Friendly: No dogs allowed.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes, but challenging.
  • More Info: Cashmere Canyons Preserve

Echo Ridge Trail (Manson)

Echo Ridge Trail offers a variety of loops for different skill levels, providing stunning views of Lake Chelan and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot for both hiking and mountain biking.

  • Fees/Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required.
  • Parking: Available at the trailhead.
  • Facilities: Restrooms available.
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash.
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes.
  • More Info: Echo Ridge Trail

In Conclusion

Chelan County offers a wide variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a peaceful walk, these trails provide the perfect way to explore the natural beauty of the region. Lace up your hiking boots and start your adventure today!