Springtime in the Wenatchee Valley is full of new growth and greenery. Balsamroot begins to pop up, along with smaller flowers like shooting star, buttercup, yellow bell and bluebell. Wildlife makes itself heard with songbirds reappearing and you may even spot a marmot or grouse. Hiking in the outdoor mecca called Wenatchee is simply unbeatable!

If you’re planning on hitting the trails, here’s a beginner’s guide to properly prepare, figure out where to go and where to grab a bite and a drink afterwards!

Top Tips:

·Bring adequate water. No matter the weather, always bring enough to casually sip throughout your hike. And hydrate before you leave!

·Pack out what you pack in. Grab all trash and any food scraps, as food could disrupt the ecosystem and animals could become accustomed to human food.

·Check out the weather beforehand. You'll know if you need a raincoat or sunscreen. Dress in layers for temperature changes

·Hiking alone? Tell someone where you’re going. And if you’re going on a more isolated trail, make sure you have the proper GPS tools in case you get lost.

Top Hikes:

·Horan Natural Area: Minutes from downtown Wenatchee, this trail is located within Confluence Park and along the river. You’ll walk through bottomlands filled with critters like muskrats, beavers, warblers and more.

·Squilchuck Trail: This 3.8 mile out-and-back trail is a bit more challenging but less crowded and fantastic for seeing wildlife.

·Saddle Rock: One of Wenatchee’s most infamous hikes is right next to town. It’s great for seeing balsamroot and getting a spectacular view of the valley!

·Sage Hills: There’s so much to explore in the Sage Hills trail system. Also not far from town, it’s a peaceful, more open area with gorgeous views over the Columbia River and hills.

·Twin Peaks: Twin Peaks offers a respite above the clouds with beautiful wildflowers blooming in the spring and summer and meadows to graze through.

P.S. Download the TREADMap app (Trails Recreation Education Advocacy and Development) to get real-time information about a trail’s latest conditions like wildfires, downed trees, muddy trails, or full parking lots. You can also filter by summer/winter activities and find details about community-based events that benefit outdoor recreation groups.

Top Post-Hike Stops:

·SaddleRock Pub & Brewery: It only makes sense to hit up Saddle Rock after hiking its namesake. You won’t be disappointed with the hand-tossed pizza and amazing selection of craft ciders, beers and wine.

·Sweetwood BBQ: Nothing like hearty BBQ after a long day outdoors. Sweetwood offers cherry wood smoked BBQ, wings and salads, with six craft beers on tap.

·South in Pybus: South is the spot for Modern Latin in Wenatchee! Enjoy a Cubano Burrito with the popular Caipirinha, Brazil’s muddled lime & sugar drink with Boca Loca Cachaça.

·The Taproom by Hellbent Brewing in Pybus: Fresh, local, seasonal ingredients comprise the delicious menu in the taproom. Expect to find high quality brews and community atmosphere, too.

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Now, go enjoy nature’s playground! Check out more hikes in the Wenatchee area here.