If you’re dreaming about sunny days, crystal-clear water, and back-to-back fun with zero boring moments, Lake Chelan is calling your name.
This road trip is packed with everything you could want—epic views, splashy adventures, wine, and plenty of spots to kick back and chill.
This guide has all the must-stops to make your Chelan getaway totally unforgettable (and yes, you’ll want to come back).
Let’s go!
1. Echo Ridge Recreation Area Trailheads
Echo Ridge Recreation Area sits just 10 miles above Chelan, up in the hills, and it’s packed with over 25 miles of super scenic trails made for hiking, biking, and even snowshoeing in winter.
You’ll get awesome views of Lake Chelan, wildflower-filled meadows, and pine forests that smell like pure mountain magic.
There are trailheads with fun names like Zoom and Outback, and if you’re into mountain biking, this place is a total dream with flowy loops and chill climbs that are great for beginners too.
2. Tipsy Canyon Winery
Once you’ve worked up a sweat on the trails, head straight to Tipsy Canyon Winery which is just a short drive down the hill and totally worth it.
This spot is known for its smooth reds, epic patio views, and live music nights that feel more like backyard hangouts than fancy wine tastings.
Grab a glass of Syrah, kick back on the lawn, and watch the sun dip behind the Chelan hills.
3. Manson
Keep cruising down towards the lake and you’ll hit Manson, a laid-back little town that’s got way more going on than you’d expect.
It’s got a sweet waterfront park, a cute downtown strip with ice cream shops and tasting rooms, and even a float plane that takes off right from the dock.
If you’re into charming little towns with plenty of lake access and wine stops in walking distance, Manson’s your kind of place.
4. Benson Vineyards Estate Winery
Just a 6-minute drive from Manson, Benson Vineyards Estate Winery brings the wow factor with its jaw-dropping lake views and Tuscan-style vibes.
The wine is top-notch (don’t skip the Nebbiolo), and the huge terrace is perfect for sipping while you snack on wood-fired pizza from the on-site bistro.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger for hours, soaking up the sun, the wine, and the ridiculously pretty scenery.
5. Chelan
Just a 10-minute drive east, Chelan brings the buzz with a mix of small-town charm and all the action you could want on a lake trip.
Downtown’s got everything from fun boutiques and burger joints to boat rentals and paddleboard shops right by the water.
Whether you’re cruising the lake, sipping wine at a rooftop bar, or grabbing coffee before hitting the farmers market, Chelan keeps the good vibes rolling all day.
6. Slidewaters
If you’re ready for some action, Slidewaters is where the fun seriously ramps up.
This classic waterpark is packed with twisty slides, a lazy river, and even a surf simulator if you’re feeling brave (or just wanna wipe out in style).
It’s totally family-friendly but also a blast for grown-ups especially if you challenge your crew to a race down the big slides.
Please note that Slidewaters is typically open from the Saturday before Memorial Day through to Labor Day.
7. Mellisoni Vineyards
After all that chaos, Mellisoni Vineyards is the perfect place to mellow out with a glass of something delicious and a front-row seat to lake views that are straight-up dreamy.
This spot is super chill with picnic tables on the grass, lawn games, and live acoustic music drifting through the vines.
Try the award-winning Gewürztraminer or a crisp rosé, then sprawl out on a blanket and soak up the sunshine like it’s your full-time job.
8. Lake Chelan State Park
Just a 10-minute drive away, Lake Chelan State Park is the place to go full-on outdoorsy.
This spot has everything—swimmable shoreline, shady picnic tables, kayak rentals, and hiking trails that wind through piney hills with sneak-peek lake views.
Whether you’re setting up camp or just spending the day, it’s the kind of park where you’ll end up barefoot, sun-drenched, and not wanting to leave.
9. Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park
Keep heading northwest along the lake and you’ll find Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park, a quieter, tucked-away gem that feels like your own secret slice of Chelan.
It’s got a marina, campsites right near the water, and a boat launch that makes it super easy to explore the lake by kayak or paddleboard.
If you’re craving a peaceful escape with starry skies and campfire vibes, this is the spot to kick back and stay a while.
10. Stehekin
Just a few minutes up the road from Twenty-Five Mile Creek, you’ll hit Fields Point Landing—the launch pad for one of the coolest adventures on the lake.
Hop on the ferry to Stehekin, a tiny, off-the-grid village at the very tip of Lake Chelan that you can only reach by boat, floatplane, or seriously long hike.
Once you’re there, don’t miss Rainbow Falls—a 312-foot waterfall that crashes down like thunder and totally lives up to the name when the sun hits it just right.
