Leavenworth — Things to Do
Best Hikes
Near Leavenworth
From a river walk in the heart of town to an alpine lake below the Enchantments — trails for every level.
Things to Do Guide →beExploring / Leavenworth
Overview
Leavenworth sits at the edge of some of the most spectacular hiking in the Cascades. The Icicle Creek valley stretches west from town, lined with trails that range from easy family loops to demanding alpine climbs. The Enchantments — one of the most coveted wilderness areas in Washington — are accessible by day hike from the Stuart Lake Trailhead, no overnight permit required.
This guide covers the four most accessible hikes from Leavenworth. Use the interactive map and comparison table to find the right trail for your trip.
beExploring / Leavenworth
Hike Directory
Browse the four main hikes accessible by car from Leavenworth. Want to explore all trails and trailheads in the Entiat Ranger District — including backcountry routes in the Icicle Creek corridor? Use the interactive trail map.
Icicle Gorge
Why Go
A family-friendly loop following Icicle Creek through a narrow gorge with beautiful creek scenery and interpretive signs. One of the most accessible hikes in the Icicle Creek valley — the easy terrain and loop format make it ideal for all ages, and the drive along Icicle Road to the trailhead is scenic in its own right.
Statistics
- Length: 4.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 200 ft
- High Point: 2,800 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: May – Nov
Icicle Ridge
Why Go
A steady climb just outside of Leavenworth to a ridge with sweeping views over the Icicle Creek Valley, the Wenatchee River, and the surrounding Cascade peaks. The most popular moderate hike near town — views open up progressively as you gain elevation, and a longer 16-mile route continues along the ridge for those wanting a bigger day.
Statistics
- Length: 5.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 ft
- High Point: 2,955 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Season: Apr – Nov
Lake Colchuck
Why Go
A spectacular alpine hike to a turquoise glacial lake framed by Dragontail Peak and the granite walls of the Enchantments. One of the most photographed destinations in Washington — at 8 miles and 2,200 feet of gain it is a full day, but the payoff is hard to match. Day hikers do not need a permit. Overnight camping in the core Enchantments zone requires a permit through Recreation.gov.
Statistics
- Length: 8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,200 ft
- High Point: 5,570 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Best Season: Jul – Oct
Waterfront Park
Why Go
The easiest walk in Leavenworth — a gentle network of paths along the Wenatchee River and Blackbird Island, steps from downtown shops and restaurants. Up to 3 miles of flat trails through cottonwood forest with river views and connections to Enchantment Park. A great choice in any season.
Statistics
- Length: 1 – 3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 100 ft
- High Point: 1,390 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Year-Round
beExploring / Lake Chelan
Hike Comparison
Compare all four hikes side by side to find the right trail for your trip.
| Name | Distance | Difficulty | Elevation Gain | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Icicle Gorge | 4.3 miles | Easy | 200 ft | May – Nov |
| Icicle Ridge | 5.4 miles | Moderate | 1,800 ft | Apr – Nov |
| Lake Colchuck | 8 miles | Hard | 2,200 ft | Jul – Oct |
| Waterfront Park | 1 – 3 miles | Easy | 100 ft | Year-Round |
beExploring / Leavenworth
Plan Your Trip
beExploring / Leavenworth
