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Why you need to be in Leavenworth in winter

winter wonderland in Leavenworth

A two-hour drive going east of Seattle, Leavenworth will bring you to a small town of 2,032 nestled in the Cascades. Visitors in search of a hallmark winter (lots of snow, a small village setting, and festive decor) make the extra trip here to get the full experience.

When winter comes, this small town springs to life. Stay in Leavenworth and find out why.

Experience Bavaria in Washington

Leavenworth’s downtown area was built to resemble a small village in the southern Germany region of Bavaria. The mountains that serve as the town’s background bring to mind the Alps regions, making it easy to believe for a moment that you’ve left the country and wound up in Europe.

Immerse yourself in the town’s rich German heritage. To start, visit the Nutcracker Museum. Then, pair Bavarian-style pretzels and bratwurst with beer at München Haus. Afterward, pick up some lebkuchen hearts and gingerbread cookies from the Gingerbread Factory for dessert. And since you’re still downtown, breathe in the crisp air as you stroll and admire Leavenworth’s beautiful holiday lights. (They will stay up only until Valentine’s Day.)

Take in vast winter landscapes and interact with nature

Experiencing Leavenworth in winter just gets better when you explore its surrounding areas.

Not too far from Leavenworth is Icicle River Valley. This gentle trail is perfect for leisurely snowshoe tours with the kids. White snow blankets everything, highlighting the pristine quality of the natural surroundings. Continue on the path to witness a picture-perfect panorama of snow-peaked mountains rising before you.

Another nearby attraction is Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. Just a mile away, the farm offers tours by appointment where visitors can feed free-range chickens, pet reindeer of all sizes, and gather around a campfire for a presentation. January and February are the best months to schedule a visit to the farm since groups are smaller in size.

The Audubon Society also recognizes Leavenworth as “one of the best birding hotspots in the state”, so keep a lookout for birds of prey like eagles and ospreys.

Ski to your heart’s content

Leavenworth is 1,166 feet above sea level, but nearby mountains can rise all the way up to 8,000 feet above sea level. Coupled with the fact that the area receives around 150 inches of snowfall every year, it’s no wonder that taking to the slopes is a favorite pastime for Leavenworth residents. To experience the best ski runs, pack your skis and drive to Stevens Pass or Mission Ridge for technical backcountry sessions.

Don’t know how to ski or snowboard? Fret not, for there are other fun activities to engage in here. Arrange for a sleigh ride pulled through the snow by large draft horses with jingle bells. Zip down a hill on a tube with your kids or go snowshoeing through the forests and meadows near Leavenworth. Once you’ve exhausted the outdoors, warm your limbs in a ski lodge and sip on a warm mug of spiced cider or hot cocoa.

If you want to know more about the attractions in Leavenworth or why owning a home in town is desirable, get in touch with Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate at 509.888.8887 or at info(at)cbcascade(dotted)com. We’re the experts you can trust for your Leavenworth, WA real estate needs.