Fall foliage adds golden aura to R&R at Lake Chelan
For many people in Washington, Lake Chelan is best known as a summer destination, but autumn at the lake is one of the state’s best-kept secrets.
Lake Chelan quiets down once the kids head back to school and tourists pack it in for the year. That makes it the ideal time for some rest and relaxation with leisurely hiking and biking through colorful foliage, fine dining, wine and cider tastings, and shopping at the many mom-and-pop stores.
Lake Chelan is quickly becoming known as a young but thriving winemaking scene, too, with dozens of wineries in the area. In early October, the Lake Chelan Crush Festival offers the chance to stomp grapes like they did in the old country.
GETTING THERE
By car, Lake Chelan is about five hours from Bellingham. Take Interstate 5 south to U.S. Highway 2 East. Follow U.S. Highway 2 east to Highway 97 Alt. North, and then Washington Highway 971 North.
WHERE TO STAY
Chelan Valley Inn: Conveniently located near the village of Manson and minutes from a public beach, the inn features several room options to accommodate a variety of visitors’ needs. Choose a studio suite, a kitchenette, or a room with a fireplace.
200 Wapato Point Court, Manson
509-687-2500
Mountain View Lodge and Resort: The boutique-style hotel has proximity to the best that Lake Chelan has to offer, and a shuttle to nearby Mill Bay Casino. It’s a great location for a day trip along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.
25 Wapato Point Parkway, Manson
509-687-9505
Chelan House Bed and Breakfast: Any of the three suites in this 1930s home is a comfortable getaway for couples. Near the Chelan River, you’ll be able to check out the Riverwalk Trail, and walk to tranquil downtown Chelan.
311 S. First St., Chelan
509-888-4000
WHERE TO TASTE
Cuillin Hills Winery: The family-run winery is committed to producing small lots of distinctive wines.
135 Wapato Way, Manson
425-402-1907
Karma Vineyards: The sustainable growers have 14 acres of select varietals on the south shore of Lake Chelan.
1681 S. Lakeshore Road
509-682-5538
Tunnel Hill Winery: The tasting room is a stone cottage made from the stones of Knapps Hill Tunnel, which was blasted in 1933.
37 S. Highway 97A, Chelan
509-682-3243
WHERE TO EAT
Campbell’s Resort: Fine-dining menu features seasonal fare and Northwest microbrews.
104 W. Woodin Ave., Chelan
509-682-2561
Lakeview Drive-In: Locals and travelers alike recommend this landmark eatery. Grab a burger the way you want it, and try the fries with some of the drive-in’s famed seasoning salt.
323 W. Manson Highway, Chelan
509-682-5322
Bamboo Shoot: Traditional Thai food, with a variety of curry entrees, salads, sauces and rice.
138 E. Woodin Ave., Chelan
509-682-5723
WHAT TO SEE AND DO
Buckner Homestead: The homestead and orchard at the head of Lake Chelan offers a glimpse of pioneer farm life via historic buildings, ruins, and hand-dug irrigation ditches.
Stehekin Valley, Stehekin
BucknerOrchard@aol.com
Sunshine Farm Market: Press your own apple cider with a hand-cranked press. Cider pressing are Saturdays and Sundays in September and October.
179 Highway 97A, four miles west of Chelan
509-682-1350
Chelan Electric Bikes: Explore the area for the day on an electric bike.
204 E. Wapato Ave., Chelan
509-683-2125
This story was originally published August 23, 2015 at 11:01 PM with the headline "Fall foliage adds golden aura to R&R at Lake Chelan."