Located on Highway 2 smack dab in the middle of Leavenworth and Stevens Pass Ski Resort you'll find a very fun little detour, Lake Wenatchee State Park. Year round the park serves those looking for some drive-up adventure with amazing views. In the winter the State Park is transformed into one of only a few official Sno-Parks located in Washington. You'll find a winter wonderland of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing trails, and safe sledding hills; all are groomed and maintained for guaranteed fun.
It's a State Park so you'll find out quickly that means it all works on a pay-to-play system. You'll not only need your Discover Pass, but ALSO a Sno-Parks Pass. $20 per day or $80 for the year. But the cost is certainly worth it! (well... we think so anyway)
This park boasts 21 miles of groomed and maintained cross country ski trails! That's enough to make a few trips each winter to get the most out of the pass cost.
If skiing isn't your thing then snowshoeing just might be. It's pretty easy, you just strap on snowshoes and walk! Lake Wenatchee is a pretty awesome place to give it a go for the first time. You'll find over 5 miles of marked trails and two separate trail loops that walk you along the spectacular looking Lake Wenatchee, lead you through the trees, along rivers, up and down hillsides and through different types of forest landscapes. In fresh snow you'll notice there are blue ribbons tied to tree branches along the trail so you can stay on trail.
There are 2 entrances to the Park and both contain bathrooms and skiing/snowshoeing trails but you'll need to head to the south entrance if you're looking to go to the sledding hill. You can buy daily passes at the toll machines at each parking lot but if you already know you'd like to snag the annual pass you'll have to drive up the road a mile or so to Midway Village & Grocery . There you'll find all the snacks and simple items you might have forgotten, a hot coffee, and any pass you'll need.
The park is really an amazing place to see in the winter. Obviously there will be less people there on a weekday, but you might be surprised at how empty the trails can feel even on a weekend. Snow sports aren't for everyone, but if you're interested in giving it a try Lake Wenatchee Sno-Park might be the perfect place. Most sporting good stores including REI have rental gear available if you're looking to learn before buying your own gear.
Happy Exploring!
