Skip the Crowds: 5 Hidden Gems to Discover in Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is known for its 300 days of sunshine, iconic beauty and vibrant summer buzz, but sometimes the best adventures happen away from main street. If you’re craving a little quiet or just want to experience something off the radar, we’ve rounded up five lesser-known spots that showcase a different side of the valley.

1. Chelan Falls Park

Just a short drive from downtown Chelan, Chelan Falls Park is a peaceful waterfront escape located at the confluence of Lake Chelan and the Columbia River. This 35-acre park has something for everyone: a large open field perfect for playing catch or tossing a frisbee, shaded picnic tables, a scenic walking path, and a quiet swimming hole that’s ideal for cooling off. It also features tennis courts, a playground, and a basketball court, making it a great stop for families or anyone looking to stretch their legs away from the usual lakefront buzz.

2. Pingrey Centennial Park

Pingrey Centennial Park sits just above the U.S. Forest Service ranger station on 3rd Street and is one of Chelan’s quieter treasures. This small, lesser-known park offers beautiful views of Lake Chelan along with a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Pick up takeout from your favorite downtown spot and enjoy a relaxing picnic on the lush green grass. Once you’ve soaked up some sunshine, wander down the hill to the Forest Service station for a refreshing dip in the lake.

3. Deer Point via Lady of the Lake

If you’re up for a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, hop aboard the Lady of the Lake ferry and head to Deer Point—a remote drop-off spot about halfway up Lake Chelan. This backcountry destination offers primitive camping, hiking, and access to a rugged stretch of shoreline. With no roads, no cars, and hardly any foot traffic, it’s one of the most secluded places in the valley. Pack your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to unplug completely.

4. Fields Point Landing

Located about 17 miles up the South Shore, Fields Point Landing is best known as a ferry dock, but it’s also one of the most scenic and peaceful spots in the Lake Chelan Valley. The site features shaded picnic tables, interpretive signs, short walking paths, and panoramic lake views. It’s a great place to catch the Lady of the Lake, pick some blackberries or just relax and take in the scenery. Time your visit around sunset for a stunning, crowd-free view over the water.

5. Rootwood Cider in Manson

Lake Chelan is full of wineries, but if you want something a little different (and a little quieter) head to Rootwood Cider in the backroads of Manson. This family-run ciderhouse is small but mighty, offering handcrafted ciders made from apples grown right in their orchard. Their outdoor space offers plenty of cozy seating and a laid-back view of the very orchard the cider starts in, making it an ideal place to kick back with a flight and enjoy the slower pace of the Manson side of the lake.

Ready to Explore the Quiet Side of Lake Chelan?

These hidden gems offer a fresh take on familiar territory. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for your tenth summer, taking time to explore the lesser-known spots around Lake Chelan will reward you with beauty, calm, and a deeper connection to the valley.