Top 20 Lakes in Chelan County
Best lakes in Chelan County are found in a region shaped by glaciers, featuring deep, clear waters and mountainous terrain. The area is home to Lake Chelan, one of the deepest lakes in the United States, along with Lake Wenatchee and many alpine lakes. This diverse landscape provides a range of natural features, from large lakes surrounded by vineyards to secluded high-altitude basins.
Best lakes in Chelan County
- The most popular lakes is Lake Valhalla, a lake located in a wooded mountain valley at the foot of Lichtenberg Mountain. A small sandy bay on its north shore offers a place to rest, and the Pacific Crest Trail touches the lake.
- Another must-see spot is Colchuck Lake, a lake known for its stunning beauty. It serves as a destination in its own right or as a gateway to Aasgard Pass and the Enchantments.
- Visitors also love Lake Ann, a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by larches. Views of Lake Ann can be enjoyed from a ridge, or visitors can hike down to its shore.
- Chelan County is known for its large, deep lakes, smaller fishing lakes, and numerous alpine lakes. These bodies of water offer a variety of natural features to see and explore.
- The lakes in Chelan County are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 highlights and 7 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Lake Valhalla
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Colchuck Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Stuart
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Stehekin
Highlight • Settlement
Most hikers send their final resupply package to Stehekin. The small town has a friendly post office, an excellent restaurant, a small store, hotel, campground and a laundromat with showers. You should definitely stop at the bakery outside of town and get some delicious cinnamon rolls – my personal favorite. The shuttle stops there, too.
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Blue Lake Trail
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Lake Reginleif and Isolation Lake
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Rainy Lake
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Lake Ann
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Between Upper and Lower Snow Lakes
Highlight • Lake
These lakes used to be a popular place for people to basecamp within day-hiking distance of the Enchantments, if you didn't get a permit to camp within the Enchantments. But now you need an overnight permit here, too, if you plan to camp between May 15 and October 31. More information here: fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen/specialplaces/?cid=fsbdev3_053607
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Horseshoe Lake
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Popular around Chelan County
Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada – 4,200 kilometres of wilderness
Winthrop Chelan Traverse — The backroads of the Eastern Cascades
Hiking in Chelan County
Road Cycling Routes in Chelan County
Running Trails in Chelan County
Cycling in Chelan County
MTB Trails in Chelan County
Gravel biking in Chelan County
Tips from the Community
The Enchantments Core Zone may be one of the most popular destinations in Washington state, but those who venture to Lake Stuart may receive the particularly enchanting reward of relative solitude in a highly trafficked area. Most hikers heading into the Enchantments use the Lake Stuart Trailhead, but make it into the Core Zone via Colchuck Lake and Aasgard Pass. However, taking the right trail 2.2 miles from the trailhead will lead you into an adjacent valley with a large, shallow lake at the base of the imposing massif of Mount Stuart.
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A host of small alpine lakes are nestled here below Dragontail Peak. The Upper Enchantment Lakes are fed by Snow Creek Glacier, which sits in the shadow of Little Annapurna across Isolation Lake from the trail. You can back country camp on the shore of Tranquil Lake to the north.
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Lake Chelan, nestled in the North Cascades of Washington, is a 50.5-mile long natural lake. Known for its crystal-clear waters, the lake is surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and mountainous terrain.
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Nestled deep into the North Cascades National Park lies the tiny town of Stehekin. It is less than 100 miles from the Canadian border and only accessible by foot, boat or seaplane. It is eleven miles from the Pacific Crest Trail on a dirt road. Two shuttle companies run at least four times a day to get you here. Most hikers send their final resupply package to Stehekin. The small town has a friendly post office, an excellent restaurant, a small store, hotel, campground and a laundromat with showers. You should definitely stop at the bakery outside of town and get some delicious cinnamon rolls – my personal favorite. The shuttle stops there, too.
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Trails in the Enchantments are popular for a reason. With jewel colored lakes, brilliant larches and towering mountain faces, most destinations are crawling with people. For those who are willing to put in a little extra effort with routefinding and scrambling over downed trees, Horseshoe Lake is a quiet destination that you will likely have to yourself.
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Horseshoe Lake is a stunning body of water situated in a bowl beneath Mount Stewart. The rocky shores are lined with trees that create a surreal feel. Being that most people stop at Stuart Lake, this lake is typically more quiet.
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This is a particularly good spot for views of majestic McLellan Peak, on the far side of the water. These lakes used to be a popular place for people to basecamp within day-hiking distance of the Enchantments, if you didn't get a permit to camp within the Enchantments. But now you need an overnight permit here, too, if you plan to camp between May 15 and October 31. More information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen/specialplaces/?cid=fsbdev3_053607
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You are nearing the outflow of Blue Lake. Along the way, keep an eye out for dramatic views of Cutthroat Peak, Early Winters Spires and Liberty Bell Mountain. During autumn, this is a popular destination to take in fall colors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes for visitors in Chelan County?
Chelan County is home to several highly regarded lakes. Lake Valhalla is popular for its wooded mountain valley setting and sandy bay. Colchuck Lake is known for its stunning beauty and as a gateway to the Enchantments. Lake Chelan itself is a prominent jewel, offering a wide range of activities and scenic views.
What makes Lake Chelan a popular destination?
Lake Chelan is a major draw due to its vast size, fjord-like appearance, and crystal-clear glacier-fed waters. It's a haven for water sports like boating, kayaking, and swimming. The surrounding valley is also a renowned American Viticulture Area with over 40 wineries. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the remote village of Stehekin, which provides access to North Cascades National Park.
What kind of water activities are available on Chelan County lakes?
Many lakes in Chelan County offer excellent water activities. Lake Chelan is ideal for boating, jet-skiing, tubing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. Lake Wenatchee is also popular for swimming, fishing, canoeing, water skiing, and windsurfing during warmer months.
Are there good hiking opportunities around Chelan County lakes?
Yes, Chelan County offers numerous hiking opportunities, especially around its alpine lakes. You can hike to stunning destinations like Colchuck Lake, Lake Ann, and Lake Valhalla. For more detailed hiking routes, you can explore guides like waterfall hikes or easy hikes in Chelan County.
Which lakes are known for fishing in Chelan County?
Fish Lake, located near Lake Wenatchee, is particularly renowned for its excellent fishing. It's a popular spot for catching perch and trout, and is also a favored location for ice fishing during the winter months. Lake Chelan and Lake Wenatchee also offer good fishing opportunities.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Chelan County?
Absolutely. Lake Wenatchee State Park, on the eastern end of Lake Wenatchee, provides extensive access with an excellent beach and family-friendly hiking trails. Rainy Lake is also easily accessible with a short stroll to its shores, making it suitable for families.
What unique natural features characterize the lakes in Chelan County?
The lakes in Chelan County are largely shaped by glaciers, resulting in deep, clear waters and dramatic mountainous terrain. Lake Chelan, for instance, is the third deepest lake in the United States. Many alpine lakes, like Colchuck Lake, boast stunning turquoise waters, while Lake Ann is surrounded by larches that turn golden in autumn.
What winter activities can be enjoyed at Chelan County lakes?
Chelan County offers winter recreation, especially at Lake Wenatchee. When the lake freezes, Lake Wenatchee State Park provides trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Fish Lake is also a popular spot for ice fishing. Lake Chelan hosts winter festivities like Winterfest, making it a year-round destination.
Are there any lakes that offer a more secluded or wilderness experience?
Yes, many of the alpine lakes in Chelan County provide a pristine wilderness experience, often requiring hiking to access. Lakes such as Lake Reginleif and Isolation Lake, Lake Stuart, and Horseshoe Lake are perfect for hikers and backpackers seeking solitude and dramatic landscapes.
What is the best time to visit Chelan County lakes?
Chelan County is a year-round destination. The warmer months (spring and summer) are ideal for water sports and hiking, with Lake Chelan boasting over 300 days of sunshine. Autumn offers vibrant fall colors, particularly around lakes like Lake Ann. Winter provides opportunities for snow activities and ice fishing at places like Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake.
Can I find camping facilities near the lakes?
Yes, camping is available near several lakes. Lake Wenatchee State Park offers numerous campsites. Lake Valhalla has a small campground nearby for long-distance hikers, and Lake Chelan State Park also provides camping options. For alpine lakes like Colchuck Lake or Lake Stuart, overnight camping often requires a permit.
Are there any lakes with easy access for visitors who prefer not to hike extensively?
Yes, some lakes offer very easy access. Rainy Lake is easily accessible from the North Cascades Highway with just a short stroll to its shores. Fish Lake is also relatively close and easily accessible for those staying near Leavenworth or Plain. Lake Wenatchee State Park provides extensive access and amenities directly on Lake Wenatchee.
Most popular routes in Chelan County
Most popular attractions in Chelan County
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