The birds are singing, the first buds are beginning to bloom, and there’s no denying it any longer – spring is here. Whether you’ve been cooped up inside all winter or you’re reluctantly preparing to put your skis away, we think it’s high time you take in the spring scenery in Washington’s Playground. Here are our recommendations for getting in some #NewViews this season!
Lake Chelan
Known for its impressive wine and crystal-clear waters, the Lake Chelan Valley is an ideal springtime destination. Take a stroll around the Riverwalk Park loop or head into the hills for a hike amongst budding wildflowers. Elephants Head trail is a local springtime favorite, offering unobstructed views of Lake Chelan and the Columbia River. For the more adventurous souls, take advantage of some of the best paragliding conditions in the country. Soar high above the wildflowers and water after launching from the top of the Chelan Butte. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Events:
Monthly – Behind the scenes tour Amos Rome Vineyards – Join Amos Rome Vineyards for a behind-the-scenes tour of Amos Rome Vineyards Saturday from noon – 2 pm. Each tour includes a tasting flight, tips and tricks for tasting and describing what you’re tasting, and A vineyard tour to discuss estate farming, the lake effect, and the seasons in the vineyard with owner Tom Pettigrew. A winemaking session with winemaker Travis Clark, including the chance to taste wine from tank and barrel, Reservations
April 19, 2025 Chelan Earth Day Fair – A fun community event for the whole family with live entertainment, children’s activities, educational displays, electric cars, book sale, plant sale, Lake Chelan Research Institute, Keep it Blue Lake Chelan, Forest Service and Rire ecology, Columbia Breaks Fire Interpretive Center, Landscape Conservation, Chelan Douglas Land Trust, Cascadia Conservation District. . and so much more.
For more information on events, click here.
Wenatchee
Consider Wenatchee your recreation station. Its central location makes it close to all kinds of fun, including water sports, hiking, and climbing! Hike Saddle Rock for a sweeping overlook of the Wenatchee Valley or hit Sage Hills for a 5.5-mile trip on bike or foot. Brave the cold waters of the Columbia River on your kayak or stand-up paddle board. Or head to Stairway to Heaven on the lower slopes of Twin Peaks to get your mountain biking fill.
Events:
End of April through the beginning of May – Washington State Apple Blossom Festival – This ever-popular annual festival happens every year from the last weekend in April through the First weekend in May! Everyone’s favorite food fair and beer garden at Memorial Park will be in full swing, as will the famous carnival Children’s Parade, Classy Chassis Parade Car Show, and Stemilt Grand Parade!
For more information on events, click here.
Leavenworth
Leavenworth in the spring is non-stop fun. You can spend an entire day (or two) eating and drinking your way through downtown Leavenworth or you can soak in all the outdoor opportunities that the valley has to offer. Brave the white waters of the Wenatchee River on a guided river-rafting trip, head out for a day of excellent climbing at the Peshastin Pinnacles or Icicle Canyon or be rewarded with epic views while zip lining.
Events:
May-October — Village Art in the Park—This is Washington’s longest-running open-air art installment! The artists’ venue is in the heart of Front Street Park in downtown every weekend through October. Discover handcrafted jewelry, paintings, pottery, photography, sculptures, and more! A portion of sales funds two separate grant and scholarship programs for aspiring artists in Leavenworth.
May — Leavenworth Spring Bird Fest – Celebrate the return of migratory birds in the midst of peak wildflower season. Enjoy the excitement of birding field trips and workshops. Take part in speaker events, music, visual arts, picnics, and activities for all ages and abilities. All this happens in beautiful Leavenworth, WA, and throughout the Wenatchee River Valley. Bird Fest occurs in association with World Migratory Bird Day. Bird Fest contributes a list of all birds seen during the festival to eBird, the world’s largest biodiversity-related community science project.
For more information on events, click here.
This is just a taste of all that Chelan County has to offer in the springtime months. We’re happy to be your one-stop shop for resources, information, and ideas! Check out the Activities section on our website for even more ways to soak in the spring beauty. The possibilities are truly endless. What are you waiting for?
