Visiting Stehekin

Spring and summer are beautiful times to visit Stehekin. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a longer stay, there are plenty of ways to experience everything Stehekin has to offer.

The Stehekin River winding through forest with sun breaking over the ridge

Visitors can spend a few hours or a full day exploring the valley with the Stehekin Boat Company. For guided adventures, Stehekin Valley Adventures offers daily three- and six-hour tours throughout July and August.

There’s great biking, hiking, fly fishing, and horseback riding in the valley, and popular trails like the Rainbow Loop Trail are open through the season. Visitors can also enjoy horseback rides through Stehekin Outfitters or rent side-by-sides from Stehekin Reservations to explore on their own.

The Lady of the Lake passenger ferry docked at the Stehekin landing

The popular Stehekin Pastry Company bakery keeps limited hours early in the season and expands to daily hours through the summer, with shuttle service available for day visitors. Dining options in the valley are limited, so check current hours before you travel and plan to bring your own food if you are visiting outside them.

Hikers on a cliffside trail beside a waterfall in the Stehekin valley

Cabins, vacation rentals, Stehekin Valley Ranch, and campgrounds are all available for overnight stays. Some areas are still recovering from past fires and floods, but that does not adversely affect the experience of visiting, getting out into the valley, and enjoying your time here.

The Stehekin River valley from above, meadows and forest ringed by mountains

 

With cool mornings, warm afternoons, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds, this is one of the best times of year to experience Stehekin. Whether you come for a few hours or a few days, the valley is absolutely worth the visit. Plan your trip with places to stay and current travel advisories.

Boats moored at the Stehekin dock with Lake Chelan and steep green slopes beyond