You came to Manson for the sunshine, the lake life, and a perfectly chilled glass of rosé on the patio. But let’s say you’ve got a little extra itch to explore beyond the beach towel, just for a day. We see you!
Luckily, Manson sits in the heart of a day-tripper’s paradise. Within just a couple of hours (or less), you can find yourself in alpine villages, remote wilderness, or a garden oasis, all while making it back in time to fire up the grill in the Mountain View Lodge pavilion.
Here are four epic day-trip ideas for your summer stay at Mountain View Lodge:
1. Stehekin: Where the Road Ends (Literally!)
- Distance from Manson: 50 miles by ferry, 1.5-4 hours depending on which boat you take
- Vibe: Remote, wild, and beautifully unplugged
Have you ever wanted to visit a town so remote you can’t even drive there? Allow us to introduce you to Stehekin!
Nestled at the head of Lake Chelan and reachable only by ferry, floatplane, or serious hiking boots, this off-grid gem is perfect for a full-day adventure.
Hop on the Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan in the morning (just 15 minutes from Mountain View Lodge), then spend the day exploring waterfalls, biking quiet roads, or devouring fresh cinnamon rolls from the legendary Stehekin Pastry Company.
Pro tip: Pack a picnic, your camera, and leave the cell phone. This is off-the-grid magic at its finest!
2. Leavenworth: Bavaria in the Cascades
Photo credit: Leavenworth
- Distance from Manson: 90 minutes drive
- Vibe: Storybook alpine village meets bratwurst and beer
Leavenworth is Washington’s own Bavarian village, where you can stroll past timbered rooftops, hear the sweet sounds of yodeling on the breeze, and browse shops full of cuckoo clocks and craft chocolates.
In summer, it’s a hub for tubing the Wenatchee River, al fresco beer gardens, and mountain hikes with breathtaking views. If you’ve got kids in tow, don’t miss the reindeer farm or ice cream at Whistlepunk.
Pro tip: Try to hit Leavenworth midweek to dodge the big weekend crowds and snag better parking.
3. Ohme Gardens: Wenatchee’s Secret Alpine Oasis
Photo credit: Ohme Gardens
- Distance from Manson: 45 minutes drive
- Vibe: Serene, lush, and unexpectedly magical
If you’re looking for a refreshing, garden-side escape that’s a bit different, Ohme Gardens is your ticket.
Perched atop a bluff just north of Wenatchee, this nine-acre alpine garden bursts with towering pines, shaded stone paths, cascading pools, and sweeping views of the Columbia River Valley.
Wander nearly a mile of hand-carved trails, pause beside trickling waterfalls, and discover secret nooks that feel plucked from a fairy tale. It’s a perfect mix of natural beauty and quiet reflection.
Pro tip: Plan for at least an hour to explore comfortably, and bring sturdy shoes—some paths are rustic and uneven.
4. Winthrop: Wild West Charm in the North Cascades
Photo credit: Winthrop
- Distance from Manson: 90 minutes drive (via scenic Hwy 153)
- Vibe: Old West nostalgia meets artsy mountain cool
Dust off your boots and head north to Winthrop, a western-style town that looks like it time-traveled straight out of an old cowboy movie. Wander the wooden boardwalks, explore quirky boutiques, and check out Shafer Museum for local lore and pioneer vibes.
Outdoor lovers can use the Methow Valley Trail system for hiking or biking, or simply find a shady spot by the river with an iced drink and watch the world mosey by.
Pro tip: Venture about 15 minutes past Winthrop to enjoy The Mazama Store, famous for its delicious baguettes!
Ready, Set, Road Trip
Whether you’re in the mood for waterfalls, reindeer farms, or Wild West adventures, there’s something special just beyond Manson’s doorstep!
Book your stay at Mountain View Lodge & Resort today, the perfect home base for all your North Central Washington adventures!
Book online or give us a call today. We look forward to hosting you!