A hiking guide to Wenatchee, WA

With Wenatchee’s location near the foothills of the Cascades, it comes as no surprise that the seat of Chelan County offers countless hiking opportunities. Regardless of the season, make this your essential guide to hiking in Wenatchee WA.

The best time to go

All seasons present different hiking experiences in Wenatchee. Wildflowers and verdant greenery await in the spring, when trails can also get muddy due to spring showers. The weather is clearer in the summer, but it can get hot especially around midday. It’s cooler come fall, while winter transforms Wenatchee’s trails into winter sports arenas.

Given the pros and cons, the best time to go hiking in Wenatchee is during spring or autumn. Both seasons are characterized by mild weather, and the scenery is beautiful.

What to bring

When hiking, it is important to pack the necessary gear and supplies. Depending on the length and difficulty of the trail, you may need different items.

For shorter hikes, water and trail snacks may be enough. However, supplies such as a first-aid kit, map, compass, and emergency whistle are also considered essential for your safety. For longer, challenging hikes (in case of thru-hikes or backpacking expeditions), you may also need to pack outdoor cookware, portable water filters, tents, and other camping musts.

For your clothing, check the weather forecast. Just in case, bring a light raincoat and extra sunscreen. An extra shirt and additional layering in case of weather changes also wouldn’t hurt. Wear hiking boots or shoes with good traction. And finally, don’t forget to leave no trace.

Where to go hiking

There are many popular trails in the Wenatchee area for hikers of all levels. These trails are especially favored among locals:

• Horan Natural Area has a gravel loop trail that takes you through riverbanks and riparian bottomlands. Along the way, you might see beavers, warblers, and muskrats.
   
• Saddlerock is one of Wenatchee’s most infamous hiking trails with a total length of 1.3 miles (one-way) and an elevation gain of 950 feet. The steep uphill terrain can be tricky, but the breathtaking views at the top are worth every step.
   
• Sage Hills is a nearby trail system that boasts gorgeous views over the nearby hills and Columbia River. More people hike the trail during spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Because of the sweeping views and open nature of the trails, mountain bikers and trail runners love Sage Hills. Be aware of rattlesnakes, especially around sundown when they’re more active.
   
• Squilchuck Trail is part of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This slightly more challenging but less crowded trail is 3.8-miles long and is known for its great birding opportunities. It also provides access to Clara Lake.
   
• Twin Peaks-Stairway to Heaven alternates between relaxing walks to more challenging segments along glades of wildflowers and towering Ponderosa pines. Up Twin Peaks, you’ll be rewarded with more vistas.
   

Wenatchee’s hiking trails are minutes away from your dream home

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