A Guide to Year-Round Weather at Lake Chelan
The weather in Chelan is often said to be the best in the state of Washington — and with great weather comes more chances to get outside! In Chelan, there are plenty of days to enjoy the beauty and adventures in the area, and distinct differences in the weather makes it an all-season destination.
So what can you expect when planning your vacation? Here is your guide to the weather in Lake Chelan year-round.
300 Days of Sunshine a Year at Lake Chelan
Sound like a myth? It’s not! It’s true that on average, Chelan gets 300 days of sunshine a year, meaning full sun or partly-sunny days. Imagine that most of the year, you can wake up to see blue skies, spend long days outside, and enjoy colorful sunsets. The sunshine is a big reason why many people spend their vacations here, whether at their own vacation home or a Lake Chelan vacation home rental.
4 Distinct Seasons in Chelan
Chelan is one of those special places with four true seasons. Each one is beautiful and offers opportunities for outdoor activities, but let’s start with our infamous Chelan summer weather…
Summer Weather in Chelan
Hot, dry, sunny: that sums up weather in Chelan in the summer! You can count on every day to require sunscreen, shorts, and a dip in the lake. Chelan is known for its heat, and average high temperatures are as follows: June, 77 degrees; July, 85 degrees; August, 86 degrees. This weather means the lake is the best place to be – a perfect time for boating, kayaking, swimming, and parasailing. The sun sets between 8 and 9 pm, so days are long, and evenings are still warm! This weather brings sun-seekers from all over the state and beyond. A Chelan summer vacation is truly a special thing!
Fall Weather in Chelan
The rush may be over, but fall weather in Chelan still feels like summer, with high temperatures in the 70s and sometimes 80s even into October. It’s typically still dry, so hiking, biking, boating, and swimming in the lake or pools are still options. As the leaves and grasses change color, it’s a beautiful time to get out in nature and to experience the harvest season, like the annual Chelan Crush wine event. As late fall comes in November, temperatures drop to the 50s and 40s, with more rain and sometimes a sprinkle of snow in the lower elevations. Don’t forget to pack a hat and scarf when you visit in the fall – but also your sunglasses!
Winter Weather in Chelan
While a bit lesser-known, winter weather in Chelan is nearly as exciting as summer for many people. Winter brings guaranteed snow! An average of 34 inches blankets the Valley, with much more in the high mountains. January is the snowiest month in Chelan, with an average of 7 inches. Many days are still sunny (remember those 300 days!), making for sparkly snow and a magical feeling. Skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are all popular winter activities, though most trails and hills are relatively uncrowded. With most days around 30 to 40 degrees, the contrast of Chelan weather from summer to winter is extreme, but it makes Lake Chelan truly a year-round destination!
Spring Weather in Chelan
After a few months of freezing fun, the warmer air of spring is a welcome relief for those ready to ditch the layers of clothes. As the days get longer (spring forward with daylight savings!) and the sun gets brighter, you can have an evening glass of wine on the porch. While the mountains in the distance will still be snow-capped, the lower elevations will get progressively greener, offering spectacular views from The Lookout hilltop, from nearby trails, or from your boat out on the lake. With temperatures in the 50s and 60s, it’s a pleasant time to get out on local hikes, hit the golf courses (open in April), or go fishing. Spring rain may keep you inside once in awhile, but most days will be a breath of fresh air!
In any season, Chelan weather is a huge perk of this special place. Don’t miss our monthly guides on activities, events, and more specifics on the temperature and forecast for each month.
