Stehekin on Lake Chelan

I took a vacation trip to Stehekin, Washington with friends and family. Stehekin is operated by consessions inside the North Cascades National Park. Here is a view of "downtown" Stehekin, a lodge and restaurant.

The only ways to get to Stehekin are by hiking (about 20 miles), by boat up Lake Chelan (50 miles long, two boats, 2 or 4 hour ride), or by float plane from Chelan (50 miles away, half-hour ride).

The float plane is a 1952 DeHavilland Beaver with a wonderful-sounding 9-piston radial engine.

We rode the float plane into Stehekin and left on the Lady Express. Here is the view from the marina at Stehekin, looking at McGregor Mountain.

There are a variety of activities available at Stehekin, and this sign lists many of them. Our group biked, hiked, canoed, kayak, and laid in the shade letting the breeze keep us cool.

The Stehekin Valley "Ranch" had a certain rustic flavor to it. Note the hot coffee sitting in front of the fire, and the sawdust floor.

Stehekin had nice sunsets, and starry skies at night.

Looking back at Stehekin as we left on the Lade Express.

If this sounds like an advertisement for Stehekin, it kinda is. It was beautiful, the staff were friendly and helpful, the rooms at the lodge were clean, but the place was almost empty. Not many people are visiting this year. Gas prices? Dunno.