Leavenworth is actually at the confluence of two rivers – Icicle Creek and the Wenatchee River. We really enjoy playing along and in both rivers in a few different ways. Try these top river adventures in Leavenworth.
Riverside Accommodations
We’ve stayed at a few different rental houses alongside the rivers. Each one was great in both their access to the river and the ability of our kids to play in rivers during the summertime, from wading, skipping rocks, to building dams. From the convenience of your own place, there is plenty to do on hot summer afternoons. You can find riverside accommodations on VRBO or Airbnb.
Public Parks – Waterfront Park & Icicle Creek
Another great way to enjoy the rivers are via Waterfront Park in Leavenworth, the Fish Hatchery, and the Snow Lakes Trailhead in upper Icicle Creek. In Waterfront Park in the middle of Leavenworth along the Wenatchee River, you can walk, scooter, stroll or bicycle through the park trails. There is no shortage of activities. You can play on the playground or pick any of the many sandy spots along the river for a picnic or just spend some time wading, swimming or skipping rocks. The Fish Hatchery also provides easy access to Icicle Creek with a nice trail system. We also enjoy climbing down a few large boulders by the trailhead bridge to access an upper portion of Icicle Creek. Parking is available at all spots.
On the River Adventures – Floating/Kayaking/Rafting/Fishing
There is a well-known and popular float on the Wenatchee River. It starts at the west side of town and meanders along the Wenatchee into central Leavenworth. It’s a really great, relaxing time to keep cool on hot summer days in a relatively safe section of the river. We recommended the outfitter we used: Leavenworth Outdoor Center. Bring your own innertube/kayak/raft or rent from one of the local shops. For the more adventurous there are guided kayak and white-water rafting trips available on more challenging sections of the river further up- and down-stream from Leavenworth, recommended outfitters include Osprey Rafting, Blue Sky Outfitters and River Rider.
Fishing
Although we haven’t put a line in the water yet, the owner of the last rental we stayed at alongside Icicle Creek raved about the great fishing in the river, especially around the release dates from the local fish hatchery. There are plenty of other good fishing spots are recommended by local guides, as well as a fully stocked kid fish pond right in town at Enchantment Park Pond on Blackbird Island near Enchantment Park!