Explore

Wenatchee

getting there

Getting to Wenatchee is easy thanks to a mix of air, rail, and road connections that link the city to the rest of Washington and beyond. The regional Pangborn Memorial Airport sits just a few miles from downtown and offers daily commercial flights to Seattle as well as charter services, making it a convenient gateway for visitors arriving by air. Wenatchee is also served by Amtrak’s Empire Builder line, which connects the city with Seattle, Portland, Chicago, and other major destinations via the local train station. Long-distance buses such as Greyhound and FlixBus provide additional options, with routes linking Wenatchee to cities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Once you arrive, getting around Wenatchee is refreshingly simple. The region is served by Link Transit, a modern public transportation system with fixed routes throughout Wenatchee and neighboring communities, and many services are fare-free, making it an easy and eco-friendly way to explore the area. Having a car is also a popular option, especially for visitors planning to explore nearby mountains, wineries, orchards, or surrounding towns at their own pace. Taxis and ride services are available for quick trips around town, while rental cars can be picked up at the airport for added flexibility. Together, these transportation options make Wenatchee accessible and easy to navigate, whether you prefer public transit or the freedom of driving yourself.

activities

Hiking

 

Nestled in the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains next to the Columbia River, Wenatchee serves as a gateway to a plethora of hiking trails that showcase the region's stunning landscapes and offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, diverse terrain, and outdoor adventure that appeals to both novice explorers and seasoned adventurers alike. Wenatchee hikes are popular in the spring when wildflowers carpet the Wenatchee foothills in vibrant hues, adding a burst of color to your hike.

Skiing & Snowboarding

 

Wenatchee is a fantastic base for skiing and snowboarding, offering easy access to mountain terrain without the crowds of larger resort areas. Just a short drive from downtown, Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort sits high above the valley, making it one of the most convenient ski destinations in central Washington. A seasonal shuttle runs from Wenatchee up to the resort, providing a stress-free way to reach the slopes without worrying about winter driving or parking.

Mission Ridge is known for its sunny weather, wide-open runs, and spectacular views of the Columbia River Valley and Cascade Mountains. The resort offers night skiing on select days, allowing visitors to extend their time on the mountain well into the evening—perfect for after-work laps or maximizing a winter getaway. Compared with ski areas closer to the Puget Sound, lift lines here are typically much shorter, meaning more time skiing and less time waiting. While Mission Ridge generally receives less snowfall than some other Washington resorts, it makes up for it with more sunshine and consistently enjoyable conditions, creating a uniquely relaxed and rewarding ski experience.

Snowshoeing

 

Snowshoeing is one of the most peaceful and scenic ways to experience winter in Wenatchee, offering access to snowy landscapes without the need for ski lifts or technical skills. While Wenatchee often sees snow on the trails surrounding the city, most visitors head higher into the Cascade Mountains for more reliable snow conditions and deeper winter scenery. Just minutes from town, Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort is a popular starting point, with a well-marked snowshoe trail leading to Clara Lake that’s ideal for both beginners and experienced adventurers. The resort also offers guided snowshoe tours and equipment rentals, making it easy to get started even if you don’t have your own gear. Beyond Mission Ridge, a variety of beautiful snowshoeing opportunities await in the surrounding region. The forests and shoreline trails around Lake Wenatchee provide classic winter scenery, while the nearby mountain town of Leavenworth offers access to extensive trail networks and alpine views, often paired with a charming Bavarian-style village atmosphere.