Chelan Lakeshore Trail
Central CascadesBest Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct
Seventeen miles of lakeshore trail from ferry landing to the roadless town of Stehekin, through dry forest and sapphire water.
About This Trail
The Chelan Lakeshore Trail runs 17 miles along the northwest shore of Lake Chelan, connecting Prince Creek to Stehekin. Access requires the Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan or Field's Point Landing. The trail rolls through dry ponderosa pine forest, open grasslands, and creek drainages, gaining and losing elevation repeatedly as it traverses the steep lakeshore terrain. Total elevation gain is 4,030 feet across the 17 miles.
Lake Chelan stretches 55 miles through a glacially carved trough, its water an impossible blue against the surrounding dry hills and snow-capped peaks. The trail crosses several major creek drainages with reliable water at Cascade Creek and Meadow Creek Shelter (7.6 miles in). Established campsites with bear storage dot the route. Wildflowers peak in late spring on the sun-baked hillsides.
The trail ends in Stehekin, a remote settlement accessible only by boat, float plane, or foot. Most parties hike south to north, taking the ferry to Prince Creek and hiking to Stehekin over 2 to 3 days. Spring is the prime season; summer heat on the exposed south-facing slopes can be punishing. Ticks are common from April through June.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Ferry access limits numbers. Spring weekdays can be nearly empty. Summer weekends see moderate backpacker traffic. Book ferry tickets in advance for peak dates.
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- Ticks are common April through June
- Summer heat on exposed south-facing slopes can be dangerous
- Creek crossings at Hunts, Flick, Fourmile, and Hazard creeks can be challenging
- Rattlesnakes possible on dry slopes
Getting There
Park at Field's Point Landing or the Chelan ferry dock. No trailhead parking at Prince Creek since access is by ferry only.
Take Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan or Field's Point to Prince Creek. Book tickets at ladyofthelake.com in advance; summer dates sell out. Most parties hike south to north toward Stehekin.
Ferry schedule dictates start time. The Lady Express from Field's Point departs at 8:30 AM. Plan first day's mileage around drop-off time.
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