Family Fun in Chelan: August Adventures for All Ages
August in Chelan has a rhythm to it. Mornings start slow with coffee on the porch, afternoons are for the water, and evenings wind down with everyone a little sunburned and a little tired in the best way. If you're planning a family trip this month, you've got more options than you'll be able to fit into one stay. Here's a rundown of the best family activities in Chelan, organized so you can pick and choose based on who's coming along and how many naps you need to work around.
Endless Trails Steps from your Cabin
You don't need to load everyone into the car to get your family out on a trail here. The Echo Ridge Trails are accessible right from the resort property, with nearly 30 miles of trails covering every skill level. The Pops trail runs anywhere from about a mile and a half to just over two miles depending on the route you take, with rolling terrain and views that make the climb feel worth it, and it's a good one for kids who are ready for more than a flat lakeside stroll. For a longer outing, the Outback and Mallory's Trail loop covers about five miles with sweeping views along the way for families who want a bigger adventure.
Since the trailheads are right there at our cabins, you can head out for a morning hike and be back for lunch and pool time without losing half the day to driving.
Cool Off at the Pool
Some days the plan is just the pool, and that's a good plan in our book. Our pool area (with a newly renovated pool deck, furniture AND outdoor shower) gives everyone a place to unwind between adventures, whether that means the toddlers are splashing in the shallow end while the teenagers work on their cannonballs, or the whole family is just floating and doing nothing in particular.
Water Activities
If your crew wants something splashier than the lake, Slidewaters Waterpark in Chelan is the go-to. It's got slides for the thrill seekers, a lazy river for everyone else, and shaded areas for the grandparents who'd rather watch than swim. (PS we’re including 2 FREE Slidewaters tickets and a bottle of local wine or cider with your booking when you book 4+ nights throughout the summer!) Right next door to the water park, Lakeside Surf is home to a massive standing wave, and it's worth a stop even if nobody in your crew has surfed before since coaches are on hand to help beginners get up on the board. For families who want to get out on the water itself, Shoreline Watercraft & Boat Rentals has boats, pontoons, jet skis, and paddleboards for rent, with locations around the lake that make it easy to hop on the water for an afternoon.
Playgrounds and Parks
For the mornings when you just need somewhere for the kids to run, Chelan and Manson have you covered. Don Morse Park in Chelan has playgrounds, a marina, and mini golf all in one spot, which makes it easy to keep different age groups occupied at once. Manson Bay Park is a favorite for its kid-friendly steps and lifeguarded swimming area, and Willow Point Park offers a quieter option with a small playground and plenty of grass for spreading out a picnic. Chelan Falls Park is worth the short drive out of town too, with a playground, swim spots along the river, a big covered picnic area, and plenty of grass to run and play without the crowds you'll find at the lakefront parks.
Wineries That Welcome the Whole Family
Wine country and family vacation don't always go together, but Chelan makes it work. Wapato Point Cellars in Manson has a full restaurant with a genuinely family-friendly atmosphere, so the adults can enjoy a glass while the kids dig into their own meal. Vin du Lac welcomes kids and dogs alike, with a farm-to-table menu and a lawn area where the little ones can stretch their legs while you take in the lake view. Chelan Ridge Winery is known for wood-fired pizza and lake views, Radiance Winery in downtown Manson serves up Neapolitan pizza and crispy chicken wings alongside their tasting room, and Lake Chelan Winery hosts BBQ in the Vineyard, a casual outdoor dining setup with a kid's menu and space for the little ones to run around while the grown-ups relax.
Where to Get Ice Cream
No August trip is complete without a stop for something cold, and Chelan has options in every direction. Our on-site store carries the basics if you'd rather keep it simple and stay close to the cabins. In town, The Landing serves ice cream alongside its regular menu with a nice view of the water, and Chelan Toys & Sweets in downtown Chelan pairs a full toy selection with a solid lineup of flavors and dirty sodas, which tends to make for a good rainy afternoon stop. For soft serve, Lakeview Drive-In is a Chelan institution that's been serving burgers and ice cream since 1957. Over in Manson, Bigfoot Burger rounds out its burgers and fries with milkshakes and ice cream. For something a little different, Goldie's in downtown Chelan makes acai bowls and smoothies that are a good cold treat option for anyone looking for a lighter alternative. And if you find yourself exploring the south shore, Pat & Mike's is a local favorite with a reputation for some of the best scoops in the valley.
August moves fast in Chelan, and the best trips usually come down to a good mix of activity and rest. Whether you're chasing views on Echo Ridge, catching a wave, or just watching the kids splash around the pool, there's plenty here to keep every generation happy. Book your stay and start putting the pieces together.
