Leavenworth, Washington
Nestled along the southern route of the North Cascade loop, out Highway 2 in the Cascade Mountains, lies the enchanting Bavarian-styled village of Leavenworth. This quaint town serves as a perfect getaway for numerous outdoor adventures, regardless of the season. With its captivating surroundings and an elevation of 1,171 feet above sea level, Leavenworth is framed by jagged mountain peaks standing between 5,000 and 8,000 feet tall.
A Taste of Bavaria with a Twist
My love for Leavenworth dates back to high school when I took a German exchange student and his brother to this Bavarian-themed village. Despite their amusement at the town’s perceived Bavarian vibe, we had an unforgettable time exploring its unique charm. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate Leavenworth’s blend of “Bavarian authenticity and Northwest hospitality,” making it a top tourist destination in the Pacific Northwest, attracting over a million visitors annually.
A Rich History
According to Leavenworth.org, the town wasn’t always a Bavarian-style village. Originally known as Icicle Flats, it was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Yakama, Chinook, and Wenatchi, who hunted and fished in the area. Settlers arrived in search of gold, timber, and furs, and the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century transformed the area into a bustling hub. However, when the railroad re-routed, Leavenworth nearly became a ghost town. In the 1960s, town leaders reinvented Leavenworth’s appearance to draw visitors, a transformation that has since made it a beloved tourist hotspot.
Outdoor Adventures Abound
Leavenworth is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of activities year-round:
Hiking: The crown jewel is The Enchantments, accessible via the challenging hike to Colchuck Lake. This 8-mile round trip with a 2,280-foot elevation gain is a must-do for avid hikers. For more hiking options, visit the Washington Trails Association (WTA.org).
Paddling: Numerous lakes in the area, including Lake Wenatchee State Park, are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Whitewater kayakers will find some of the best rapids here, as detailed in Nick Hinds’ book, "Paddling Pacific Northwest Whitewater."
River Tubing and Rafting: Enjoy a leisurely float down the Wenatchee River with shuttle services from Leavenworth Outdoor Center, Adventure River Tubing Leavenworth, and River Riders. These outfitters also offer guided whitewater rafting trips.
Mountain Biking: Leavenworth boasts an active mountain biking community with trails for all skill levels. Der Sportsman in town can provide trail recommendations.
Zip Lining and Alpine Coaster: Leavenworth Ziplines and the new Leavenworth Adventure Park offer thrilling experiences. The Alpine Coaster, the first of its kind in Washington, allows you to control your descent for a customizable adventure.
Food and Drink
After a day of adventure, indulge in Leavenworth’s diverse culinary offerings:
Leavenworth Sausage Garten: Enjoy bratwurst, kraut, and a wide selection of mustards along with German-style beers on draft.
Icicle Brewing Company: Savor delicious IPAs, pretzels, and pub fare in a family-friendly environment.
South: This modern Mexican restaurant offers fresh street tacos and refreshing margaritas.
Cold Stone Creamery: Treat your family to ice cream with all the mix-ins you could desire.
Specialty Stores and Wine Tasting
Don’t miss these unique stops in Leavenworth:
Cheesemonger: A hidden gem for cheese lovers, offering a vast selection of cheeses for your charcuterie board.
Cured: Specializing in cured meats, this boutique shop is perfect for assembling the ultimate charcuterie.
Mountain Modern Supply Company: Find Pacific Northwest-inspired lifestyle goods and apparel.
For wine enthusiasts, Leavenworth boasts numerous tasting rooms. Our favorites include:
Kestrel: Try the Lady In Red, a versatile red wine perfect for any occasion.
Icicle Creek: Enjoy a range of delightful wines, with particularly tasty whites.
Ryan Patrick: Known for delicious wines across the board, including a sparkling wine that’s a household favorite.
Where to Stay
Leavenworth offers a variety of campgrounds to suit different needs:
KOA: Ideal for larger trailers and motorhomes, this campground offers amenities like a coffee shop, pool, playground, and summer movie nights. A free shuttle service to downtown Leavenworth makes it easy to explore without worrying about parking. Listen to our interview and conversation with KOA.
Johnny Creek Campground: Perfect for smaller trailers and avid hikers, this national forest campground offers quiet, dry camping close to many trailheads.
Eight Mile Campground: Another national forest option, similar to Johnny Creek, providing an excellent base for hiking adventures.
Getting There and Avoiding the Sultan Crawl
Leavenworth is easily accessible via Highway 2, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Seattle, and 3.5 hours from both the Canadian border and Spokane. Be mindful of the “Sultan Crawl,” a traffic backup in the western foothills of the Cascades, and plan your travel accordingly to avoid delays.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
Leavenworth hosts numerous seasonal festivals, including a charming Christmas tree lighting ceremony, Mai Fest with traditional Maypole celebrations, and a lively Oktoberfest. These events add to the village’s allure, making it a year-round destination.
Conclusion
Leavenworth’s blend of outdoor adventures, charming Bavarian ambiance, and diverse culinary and shopping experiences make it a destination you’ll want to return to time and time again. Whether for a long weekend or an extended stay, this picturesque village offers something for everyone.
