Explore Some of the Best Hiking in Washington
From scenic lakeside walks to rugged mountain peaks, Lake Chelan offers hiking adventures for every skill level. Whether you’re looking for a quick morning walk, a family-friendly trail, or a challenging backcountry trek, you’ll find unforgettable views throughout the Chelan Valley and the surrounding Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
Many of the area’s most popular hikes are within a short drive of downtown Chelan, making it easy to spend a day exploring before returning to relax by the lake.
Family-Friendly & Easy Hikes
Riverwalk Park Loop
Distance: 1 mile loop
Located in the heart of downtown Chelan, the Riverwalk Park Loop is perfect for a leisurely walk, morning jog, or birdwatching. Shaded benches, river views, and easy access from downtown make it a favorite for families and visitors of all ages.
Highlights
- Downtown location
- Paved walking path
- River views
- Great for all ages
Chelan Riverwalk Trail
Distance: Approximately 3 miles roundtrip
Follow the Chelan River from downtown toward Reach 1 while enjoying interpretive signs, river overlooks, and views of the Chelan Dam. The first section is paved and accessible, while the remainder transitions to gravel as it follows the river through a scenic natural corridor.
Highlights
- Family friendly
- Educational interpretive signs
- River and dam views
- Accessible paved section
Little Bear Trail
Distance: 2.3-mile loop
Located inside Lake Chelan State Park, Little Bear Trail winds through the forest before rewarding hikers with beautiful lake views. This moderate loop is a great choice for families looking to experience nature without venturing too far from town.
Highlights
- Forest scenery
- Lake views
- State Park location
- Moderate difficulty
Discover Pass required.
Moderate Adventures
Echo Ridge Trail System
Trail Network: Nearly 25 miles
Echo Ridge is one of the Lake Chelan area’s most popular outdoor destinations. With miles of interconnected trails ranging from easy paths to more technical singletrack, it’s ideal for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers alike. Open ridgelines provide sweeping views of Lake Chelan, the surrounding mountains, and the Columbia Plateau.
Highlights
- Nearly 25 miles of trails
- Incredible panoramic views
- Suitable for beginners and experienced hikers
- Popular for hiking and mountain biking
Beebe Springs Wildlife Area
Distance: 4.4 miles
Explore wetlands, shrub-steppe habitat, and Columbia River shoreline while enjoying one of the area’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and native plants throughout this peaceful nature preserve.
Highlights
- Wildlife viewing
- Columbia River access
- Easy terrain
- Excellent birdwatching
Challenging Hikes
Pot Peak
Distance: 9.5 miles roundtrip
If you’re looking for a challenge, Pot Peak delivers. This steep climb rewards hikers with spectacular views overlooking Lake Chelan and the surrounding mountains. Bring plenty of water and allow extra time for the elevation gain.
Highlights
- Challenging climb
- Panoramic lake views
- Excellent photography
- Best for experienced hikers
Stormy Mountain
Distance: 1.5 miles
Don’t let the shorter distance fool you—this high-elevation hike packs a punch. The climb is brief but steep, leading to incredible summit views that make it well worth the effort.
Highlights
- Short but steep
- Stunning summit views
- Great picnic destination
Devil’s Backbone
Distance: Up to 13 miles
One of the area’s most iconic backcountry hikes, Devil’s Backbone traverses ridgelines with dramatic mountain scenery and expansive views in every direction. This trail is best suited for experienced hikers and requires advance planning due to its remote location and transportation logistics.
Highlights
- Advanced hiking
- Ridgeline scenery
- Backcountry experience
- Incredible mountain views
Before You Go
Many Lake Chelan trails are located within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Trail conditions, seasonal closures, road access, and wildfire restrictions can change throughout the year.
Before heading out, check current trail conditions, weather, and any required permits. Be sure to pack plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect these beautiful places for future visitors.
Stay Close to the Trails
After a day exploring the mountains, return to the comfort of the Midtowner Motel. Located just minutes from downtown Chelan, the Midtowner offers affordable accommodations, an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub, and a convenient location for enjoying everything the Lake Chelan Valley has to offer.