Open in App
Try Pacer for Free

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin | Map and Routes

Forest · Wetland

5 (11 ratings)

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, where walkers and hikers can discover a tranquil oasis surrounded by the majestic Cascade Mountains. ...

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, where walkers and hikers can discover a tranquil oasis surrounded by the majestic Cascade Mountains. With 62,906.5 acres of unspoiled wilderness, this park offers an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a leisurely walker, the park's serene ambiance and diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. In Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, visitors can engage in a wide range of activities that cater to both experienced hikers and casual walkers. The park boasts an extensive network of scenic trails that wind through lush forests, serene meadows, and along the crystal-clear waters of Lake Chelan. From leisurely strolls to challenging treks, there are options for every skill level. The park's climate offers pleasant conditions for walking and hiking, with mild temperatures in spring and summer, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Plan your next walking or hiking adventure at Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and experience the unparalleled beauty of this pristine wilderness. Whether you seek a peaceful nature walk or a challenging mountain hike, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife that await you. For more information about parks and route info, download Pacer Pedometer and start your journey to discovery today.

View MoreView More
Open in App for Detail
Overview
Check-in
Routes

Walking and Hiking in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, United States, is a haven for walkers and hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. With its essential amenities including parking lots, picnic sites, and multiple restrooms, the park ensures that visitors can embark on their walking ...

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, United States, is a haven for walkers and hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. With its essential amenities including parking lots, picnic sites, and multiple restrooms, the park ensures that visitors can embark on their walking and hiking adventures with convenience and comfort. Additionally, the park offers other amenities such as a restaurant, bicycle rental, and shower facilities, catering to the diverse needs of outdoor enthusiasts. As walkers and hikers explore the park, they can look forward to captivating viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes, adding a sense of awe and wonder to their outdoor experience. Whether visitors are seeking a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin is the perfect destination to indulge in the activity of their choice amidst the serenity of nature.

View MoreView More

Other Info about Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Websitehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stehekin,_Washington

Essential Amenities in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Picnic Site
Restroom
Parking lot

Other Amenities in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Restaurant

Bicycle rental

Shower

Best Walking Routes in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

#1 - Lakeshore (Chelan) Trail
1
Length: 13.5 milesEst. Time: 3h18m

Lakeshore (Chelan) Trail is a 13.5 mile (31,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 1341.5 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
1
Length: 10.8 milesEst. Time: 3h37m

Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail is a 10.8 mile (25,000-step) route located near Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 75.4 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3 - Boulder Creek Trail
1
Length: 9.6 milesEst. Time: 2h10m

Boulder Creek Trail is a 9.6 mile (22,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 357.5 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

See All Routes
See All Routes

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
Cheryl
3
Marky
2
metnut41
2
4Dan
1
5Caroline
1
6tinsdalee
1
7PacerPal
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness
Glacier Peak Wilderness
Early Winters Wildlife Area
Big Valley Wildlife Area
Big Buck Wildlife Area
Rendezvous Wildlife Area
Homestream Park
Pearrygin Lake State Park
Carlton Swimming Hole

FAQs About Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Where is the best place to walk in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, United States?

The best place to walk in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin is the Summit Trail (Wilderness), which offers a 28.8-mile route with an estimated time of 8 hours and 18 minutes. This trail provides stunning views and a challenging hike for experienced walkers and hikers. (Routes info and ratings from the Pacer community)

How many routes are in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, United States?

There are a total of 12 routes in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, offering a variety of lengths and difficulty levels for walkers and hikers. (Routes info and ratings from the Pacer community)

Which is the longest route in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin, United States?

The longest route in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin is the Summit Trail (Wilderness), spanning 28.8 miles with an estimated time of 8 hours and 18 minutes. This trail provides a challenging and rewarding experience for experienced walkers and hikers. (Routes info and ratings from the Pacer community)

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin?

Yes, the park provides essential amenities such as parking lots, picnic sites, and restrooms, which are convenient for walkers and hikers.

How accessible is Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin?

The park is accessible and provides facilities like parking lots, which make it convenient for visitors to access the trails and explore the area.

What kind of sports can I do in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin?

In addition to walking and hiking, visitors can also engage in sports like cycling, as the park offers bicycle rentals. Additionally, there are amenities such as a restaurant and showers for a comfortable experience after sports activities.

What is the best season to walk in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?

The best season for walking in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is typically late spring to early fall. During this time, the weather is milder, and the trails are more accessible.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?

Visitors should prepare for a range of weather conditions in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are cold and snowy. It's important to be prepared for both hot and cold temperatures, and to bring adequate rain gear as well.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area?

While walking in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, visitors may encounter various wildlife species such as deer, bears, mountain goats, and a variety of bird species. It's important to be respectful of the wildlife and maintain a safe distance when observing them.

Last updated: Dec 1, 2025

Parks Near Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness
Glacier Peak Wilderness
Early Winters Wildlife Area
Big Valley Wildlife Area
Big Buck Wildlife Area
Rendezvous Wildlife Area
Homestream Park
Pearrygin Lake State Park
Carlton Swimming Hole

Latest Check-ins at Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

DanSep 11, 2025
Sep 11, 2025Walking
CarolineMay 13, 2025
May 13, 2025Walking
MarkySep 20, 2023
Sep 20, 2023Walking
tinsdaleeSep 20, 2023
Sep 20, 2023Cycling
MarkySep 21, 2023
Sep 21, 2023Walking
MarkySep 21, 2023
Sep 21, 2023Walking
tinsdaleeSep 20, 2023
Sep 20, 2023Walking
metnut41Jul 5, 2023
Jul 5, 2023Walking
metnut41Jul 5, 2023
Jul 5, 2023Walking
metnut41Jul 6, 2023
Jul 6, 2023Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

RankingCheck-ins
Cheryl
3
Marky
2
metnut41
2
4Dan
1
5Caroline
1
6tinsdalee
1
7PacerPal
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
#1- Lakeshore (Chelan) Trail
1
Length: 13.5 milesEst. Time: 3h18m

Lakeshore (Chelan) Trail is a 13.5 mile (31,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 1341.5 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
1
Length: 10.8 milesEst. Time: 3h37m

Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail is a 10.8 mile (25,000-step) route located near Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 75.4 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3- Boulder Creek Trail
1
Length: 9.6 milesEst. Time: 2h10m

Boulder Creek Trail is a 9.6 mile (22,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 357.5 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#4- Buckner Canal Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Buckner Canal Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#5- McAlester Lake Trail
1
Length: 14.1 milesEst. Time: 4h36m

McAlester Lake Trail is a 14.1 mile (32,000-step) route located near Winthrop, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 3145.5 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#6- Summit Trail (Wilderness)
1
Length: 28.8 milesEst. Time: 8h18m

Summit Trail (Wilderness) is a 28.8 mile (66,000-step) route located near Lucerne, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 6274.6 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#7- Company Creek Trail
1
Length: 13.2 milesEst. Time: 3h49m

Company Creek Trail is a 13.2 mile (30,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 5303.8 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#8- Splawn Trail
1
Length: 4.5 milesEst. Time: 1h7m

Splawn Trail is a 4.5 mile (10,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 2833.9 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#9- Stehekin River Trail
1
Length: 3.2 milesEst. Time: 55m

Stehekin River Trail is a 3.2 mile (7,500-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 36.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#10- Chelan Summit Trail
1
Length: 5.2 milesEst. Time: 1h49m

Chelan Summit Trail is a 5.2 mile (12,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 1882.7 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#11- Rainbow Loop Trail
1
Length: 4.3 milesEst. Time: 1h36m

Rainbow Loop Trail is a 4.3 mile (10,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 1010.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#12- Company Creek Trail
1
Length: 13.2 milesEst. Time: 3h49m

Company Creek Trail is a 13.2 mile (30,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 5303.8 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#13- Rainbow Loop Trail
1
Length: 4.3 milesEst. Time: 1h36m

Rainbow Loop Trail is a 4.3 mile (10,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 1010.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#14- Rainbow Lake Trail
1
Length: 10.6 milesEst. Time: 3h18m

Rainbow Lake Trail is a 10.6 mile (24,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 2381.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#15- South Pass Trail
1
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 23m

South Pass Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,000-step) route located near Winthrop, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 341.1 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#16- Rainbow Lake Trail
1
Length: 10.6 milesEst. Time: 3h18m

Rainbow Lake Trail is a 10.6 mile (24,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 2794.6 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#17- Hidden Meadows Trail
1
Length: 0.7 milesEst. Time: 12m

Hidden Meadows Trail is a 0.7 mile (1,500-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 262.4 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#18- McAlester Lake Trail
1
Length: 5.2 milesEst. Time: 1h28m

McAlester Lake Trail is a 5.2 mile (12,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#19- Rainbow Ridge Bootpath
1
Length: 2.3 milesEst. Time: 40m

Rainbow Ridge Bootpath is a 2.3 mile (5,500-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 879 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#20- Dee Dee Lakes Bootpath
1
Length: 0.6 milesEst. Time: 10m

Dee Dee Lakes Bootpath is a 0.6 mile (1,500-step) route located near Winthrop, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 147.6 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#21- Rainbow Creek Trail
1
Length: 7.5 milesEst. Time: 2h36m

Rainbow Creek Trail is a 7.5 mile (17,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 3808.1 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#22- McGregor Mountain Trail
1
Length: 5.9 milesEst. Time: 1h52m

McGregor Mountain Trail is a 5.9 mile (14,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 5084 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#23- Rainbow Creek Trail
1
Length: 7.5 milesEst. Time: 2h36m

Rainbow Creek Trail is a 7.5 mile (17,000-step) route located near Stehekin, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 3808.1 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

pacer

Pacer Walking App

Pacer is the best walking app for walking challenges and finding places to walk near me.

Start Your Joyful Steps in New Parks
The Best Walking App
1.8M+ 5-star ratings
100M+ global downloads
Scan to download free
Open in App
pacer logoclose icon