When the sun’s out and Lake Chelan is sparkling, there’s really no excuse not to make the most of it!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, summer in Manson and Chelan begs for a little adventure, a lot of lounging, and everything in between.
To help you squeeze the most joy out of the sunny season, we’ve created the ultimate Lake Chelan Summer Bucket List, packed with memory-making moments, delicious detours, and a few hidden gems you’ll wish you knew about sooner.
Let’s jump in!
Your Lake Chelan Summer Bucket List
☀️ Catch the Sunrise From a Paddleboard or Kayak
Start your day in the most serene way possible: floating on the glassy surface of the lake as the sky lights up in pastel hues.
Check out our guide to boating on Lake Chelan for your best rental options.
🍷 Go Wine Tasting
With over 40 wineries and tasting rooms in the Chelan Valley, you’re never far from a new favorite vintage.
From award-winning rosés to small-batch reds, there’s truly something for every palate! Check out our full wine tasting guide to plan your perfect day.
🚴♀️ Take a Bike Tour (or Make Your Own!)
Pedal through Manson and Chelan’s stunning landscape on a guided electric bike tour with Chelan Electric Bikes, or map out your own route through apple orchards and vineyard-lined roads. Either way, it’s a great way to get a sweat going while soaking in the valley’s beauty!
🥾 Climb The Chelan Butte
This one’s for the hikers. The Chelan Butte trail rewards you with panoramic views of the lake, valley, and Cascade Mountains. It’s a challenging trek, but the scenery at the top is 100% worth the leg burn. The trail is exposed, so pack lots of water and plan your hike for the cooler part of the day!
🌊 Make a Splash at Slidewaters & Lakeside Surf
No summer is complete without a little waterpark fun. Slidewaters has slides for all thrill levels (plus an epic lazy river), and Lakeside Surf next door offers inland surfing on their citywave machine. That’s right, you can literally hang ten in the mountains!
💐 Pick Flowers at Antheia
Stroll through dreamy flower fields and build your own bouquet at Antheia of Chelan. It’s equal parts peaceful, picturesque, and Pinterest-worthy. Bonus: the blooms make a perfect gift or dinner table centerpiece.
🧺 Enjoy a Picnic at Riverwalk Park or Willow Point Park
Grab your favorite snacks, a blanket, and a refreshing beverage, then head to Riverwalk Park for a casual afternoon by the lake.
Want something more secluded? Willow Point Park in Manson offers grassy lawns and lake access, perfect for a lazy picnic or sunset watch.
🤠 Hit the Chelan Rodeo
For a taste of true small-town summer fun, don’t miss the Lake Chelan Pro Rodeo from July 18-19, 2025! Bucking broncos, barrel races, and classic country charm make this event a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
🎬 Beat the Heat with a Movie at The Ruby
When the temps climb, duck into the cool, vintage-style Ruby Theatre in downtown Chelan.
Built in 1914, it’s one of the oldest operating theaters in Washington State, complete with a modern screen and cozy vibes. Catch the latest flick with popcorn in hand and AC on full blast.
🫐 Make a Meal from Fresh Produce at the Farmers Market
The Lake Chelan Valley is brimming with fresh produce all summer long!
On Wednesdays and Saturdays, head to the Manson Farmers Market from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., just steps from Mountain View Lodge. Every Thursday evening, the Chelan Farmers Market comes alive with local fruits, veggies, honey, baked goods, and artisan treasures from 2 to 6 p.m.
Load up on fresh finds and cook a hyper-local dinner…or just snack your way through!
🍔 Have a BBQ at the Mountain View Lodge Pavilion During Your Visit!
Staying at Mountain View Lodge & Resort? Fire up the grill at the guest pavilion, kick back with your crew, and enjoy a classic BBQ with a view of the hills.
Nothing tastes better than burgers cooked outdoors after a full day of summer adventures!
Book Your Summer Escape To Mountain View Lodge
Whether you’re chasing sunrises or rodeo nights, there’s a little magic in every corner of the Lake Chelan Valley. When you’re ready to soak it all in, book your stay at Mountain View Lodge & Resort, the perfect home base for all your Lake Chelan summer dreams!
Book online or give us a call today. We look forward to hosting you!