Make Wenatchee, "Apple Capital of the World" your center for your trip to Eastern Washington. The Wenatchee Valley is one of the country's most diverse natural playgrounds - and it's open year-round. With over 300 days of sunshine and four distinct seasons, our sports and recreational venues are abundant. You have direct access to a variety of sports and recreational opportunities that match virtually any person's interest, fitness level, and flair for adventure or technical skills.

Blessed with four distinct season, you'll be happy to discover adventures in spring, summer, winter and fall. For the snow enthusiasts you'll find 2,000 acres of groomed runs and open slopes plus high speed quad all waiting for you at Mission Ridge just 12 miles away.  Mission Ridge is on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains in central Washington, only 12 miles from the recreationally-oriented town of Wenatchee.

Wondering what makes Mission Ridge different from every other ski area in Washington? It's the snow, sunshine and guest services.

No other ski area in Washington receives as much acclaim for the quality of its snow as Mission Ridge does. Mission Ridge's dry snow and 300 days of yearly sunshine are known throughout the Northwest for providing a ski experience many skiers liken to Sun Valley, Idaho; Colorado and Utah. This is a place spoiled by nature, not by man. Mission’s snow stays light due to the area’s 4,570-foot base elevation (the highest base in the state).

Skiers of all abilities will find the kind of terrain they want, ranging from easy beginner slopes to miles of intermediate cruising terrain. Advanced and expert skiers have moguls, chutes, trees, bowls and super steeps to choose from. You'll also find great cross country skiing in Leavenworth "The Bavarian Village" a short drive from Wenatchee.  

If winter sports are not your thing then perhaps you will want to come in spring and enjoy great river rafting. Thrill seekers often find their way to the Wenatchee River, Washington's biggest Class III whitewater run. Even more challenging is the Chelan River Gorge. Adrenaline-pumping rapids interspersed with lazy drifting along serene stretches of river make for memorable, invigoration trips. The rafting season typically runs from late March to early August. As the rafting season slows the rivers are great for leisurely tubing.  A great family outing.

If hiking or mountain biking is your sport then Wenatchee is a great home base. The 2,500 miles of recreational trails in the Wenatchee National Forest ought to keep you busy for a while. Many of the National Forest trails allow use by mountain bikes or horses. You'll also find miles and miles of single-track networked through the hills around Wenatchee.

For those looking for even more adventure perhaps rock climbing is for you. There are a lot of famous faces around here - rock faces that is. Among the best known are the sandstone slabs of Peshastin Pinnacles State Park. Just outside of Leavenworth in the Icicle Canyon you will find very challenging cliffs to climb as well.  If clattering up walls or rappelling down them is your idea of a good time, then North Central Washington is a great place to be.

Cast your line into one of the hundreds of lakes, streams and babbling brooks that make North Central Washington a fisherman's paradise. Head for the big rivers for salmon, quiet lakes for bass, or hike up into the foothills were the trout are making their way upstream. There is something here for every angler.

Of course you have great camping sites along the Columbia River and great opportunity for all those boating activities. There are also several great golf course within a easy drive from Wenatchee.  You can drive through our great orchards and enjoy the many fruit stands along the way...pick-up some great fruit or picnic items.  Then stop at one of the area's many wineries for a sample of the "grape"  Perhaps purchase a nice bottle to go along with those picnic items. Take a day trip to visit Leavenworth "The Bavarian Village" and enjoy a day in Bavaria.  The village has a distinctive European appeal and hosts Bavarian themed festivals throughout the year.  You will enjoy the great shopping, live theater, art and the great many dining choices including wonderful German food and beer.

No matter the season you will find plenty to keep you and your family busy. So plan now to visit the Wenatchee Valley and enjoy all that it has to offer.  Don't worry, we'll be here waiting for your arrival whether it's spring, summer, winter or fall!

Other local attractions:

Ohme Gardens
Nearly a mile of pathways and stairways hewn from native stone wind through this magnificent alpine oasis perched high on a bluff north of Wenatchee . Reflecting pools, waterfalls and even a wishing well bubble through what is recognized as one of the Northwest's premier public gardens. A photographer's paradise, a gardener's delight, or simply a place to relax in lush surroundings, Ohme Gardens is a Northwest treasure. The gardens are open from April 15th to October 15th. For more information call (509) 662-5785 or visit http://www.ohmegardens.com

Rocky Reach Dam
This dam is not only a primary source of valuable electricity for North Central Washington-it's a great place to visit. Watch salmon and steelhead make their upstream migration through the windows in the fish ladder viewing room. Tour the museum exhibits or enjoy a picnic on the 30 acres of carefully manicured lawns and gardens. For more information call (509) 663-7522 or visit http://www.chelanpud.org.

For further Information:
Wenatchee Visitors Bureau
Leavenworth "The Bavarian Village"

Of course we hope you will also drop by and enjoy a great meal at one of the Valley 's finest Steak and Seafood establishments. The Cottage Inn.


Some Mission Ridge text courtesy of www.skitown.com