Why Chelan Butte Is a Great Fall Hike Near The Lookout
Golden autumn colors, crisp mountain air, and spectacular views of Lake Chelan make fall an incredible time to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail. If you’re looking for a challenging adventure that offers unmatched views of Lake Chelan from above, complete with the lake, mountains, Columbia River, and the surrounding valley, Chelan Butte makes an unforgettable choice. And, since it’s not far from The Lookout at Lake Chelan, it’s easy to include it in your fall getaway itinerary. Here’s why Chelan Butte is a great fall hike near The Lookout:
Fall Scenery That’s Hard to Beat
There’s something special about seeing Lake Chelan from a bird’s eye view at Chelan Butte! From up high, you can see the trees and hills change color, and the lake seems bigger and brighter against the fall backdrop. It’s cooler too, so you don’t have to battle the summer heat on the exposed trail, which makes the climb feel more inviting. With that said, there isn’t much shade, so remember to bring plenty of water. Wear sturdy shoes, throw a few layers in your backpack, and you’ll be prepared for the changing temperatures.
Pick the Hike That’s Right for You
Chelan Butte offers hikers a real challenge if that’s what you’re after. The full hike is about 7.5 miles out and back, climbing about 2,500 feet in elevation along the way. It’s a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers, but the good news is that you don’t actually have to reach the summit to enjoy the trail.
If you’re looking for something shorter and easier, aim for Elephant’s Head, a scenic overlook located along the way to Chelan Butte. It’s roughly 4 miles roundtrip, and it’s a more moderate hike without having to navigate the steepest part of the trail. It’s a great choice if you want to still enjoy gorgeous views, without having to climb all the way to Chelan Butte. Climbing to Elephant’s Head means you’ll still get views of the lake and the Columbia River. Many visitors find that hiking to this part is enough of an adventure. Past this point, the trail becomes much steeper, so Elephant’s Head makes a good point to turn around.
Getting There From The Lookout
Reaching the Chelan Butte Trailhead from The Lookout is quick and easy. Drive into downtown Chelan on SR 150 and take a right onto Sanders Street. You’ll take the Sanders Bridge Road Bridge over Peshastin Creek and then turn left onto Farnham Street. Turn left onto E Iowa Street. A trailhead parking lot is about 0.2 miles on the left.
Why Stay at The Lookout?
After a day spent tackling Chelan Butte, there’s nothing better than kicking back somewhere comfortable. That’s what The Lookout is all about! Our vacation home community is loaded with luxury amenities that help make your Lake Chelan vacation more memorable. Relax in your stylish and spacious vacation home and take advantage of our pools, hot tubs, parks, walking trails, games, and private waterfront and marina. Our location just minutes from downtown Chelan makes it easy to enjoy all the best restaurants, wineries, shops, and other attractions during your stay.
Whether you go all the way up to Chelan Butte or decide Elephant’s Head is far enough, you’re in for a gorgeous fall hike. Then, head back to The Lookout, relax, and enjoy every minute of your autumn Chelan getaway!
Ready to plan your fall escape to Lake Chelan? Explore our Lake Chelan vacation homes and get started planning your getaway today!
