To our guests traveling to celebrate with us, we’re truly honored and grateful for your journey. We hope this website helps with your planning. To our local friends and family, we can’t wait to celebrate with you and hope you’ll be able to join us!
Airport Shuttle
There is also a shuttle available from the airport dropping off in Wenatchee several times a day. You can purchase one way or round trip tickets. Please check the website for prices and departures:
Primary Route (Fastest & Most Popular)
đźš— Via I-90 E & US-97 N (~145 miles, ~2.5 hours)
The drive through Snoqualmie Pass, a scenic yet sometimes snowy mountain pass in the Cascade Range can be breathtaking, especially in winter. Blewett Pass, another mountainous section contains winding roads and great forested views.
Alternative Route (More Scenic, Slightly Longer)
đźš— Via US-2 E (~135 miles, ~2.75 hours) route is slower but incredibly scenic, with mountain peaks, waterfalls, and rivers along the way.
Road Conditions: This is a straightforward drive with no mountain passes, making it more predictable than the Seattle route.
Traffic: Generally light, except near Spokane and Wenatchee during rush hours.
Scenic Views: The landscape changes from Spokane’s pine forests to the rolling wheat fields of the Palouse, then into the dramatic desert cliffs along the Columbia River Gorge.
Here are a few suggestions for hotels close to the Apple Loop Trail and downtown Wenatchee. There are also several AirBnB/VRBO options in Wenatchee and Leavenworth for those of you wanting more room or are planning a longer stay.
Find us along the banks of the Columbia River, less than a mile from the Wenatchee Convention Center and downtown. Live music, artisan shops, and dancing at Pybus Public Market are steps from our door. Start your day with our cooked-to-order breakfast and enjoy cocktails and dining on our patio at night. Unwind in our indoor pool. WiFi and parking are on us. Under the SPECIAL RATES heading, use CORPORATE CODE: N0110175
Residence Inn Wenatchee is the perfect hotel, whether visiting for one night or an extended stay. With our spacious studios and one-bedroom suites that include full kitchens, separate living areas and peaceful sleeping spaces. Start your day with our complimentary hot breakfast. Enjoy our indoor pool, fitness center and 24-hour on-site market. Connect with friends at our onsite Orchard Bar + Bites and dine on our expansive patio with firepits and spectacular views. With the Apple Capital Loop Trail and Walla Walla Point Park at our doorstep, you’re moments away from Pybus Market, Wenatchee National Forest Trails, and Ohme Gardens.
With crisp air, golden leaves, and harvest-time festivities, September is one of the best times to visit both Wenatchee and Leavenworth! Whether you're exploring Bavarian-style celebrations, hiking among fall colors, or tasting fresh apples and wine, there's something for everyone. 🍂🍎🍷
Things to Do in Wenatchee (September)
Apple & Pumpkin Picking – September marks the peak of apple harvest season. Visit farms like Stutzman Ranch for a U-pick experience or grab fresh apples, cider, and baked goods from local farm stands.
Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market – Located at Pybus Public Market, this market is bustling with fresh produce, artisan crafts, and live music in late September. Pybus itself is a great spot for dining and exploring local shops.
Apple Capital Loop Trail – The 11-mile scenic trail along the Columbia River is perfect for a crisp morning bike ride or an evening walk to enjoy the changing leaves.
Arlberg Sports is located in Pybus Market. They rent a variety of bikes, including e-bikes and bikes for exploring the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail. https://www.arlbergsports.com/about/riverfront-rentals-pg176.htm
Wine & Cider Tasting – With the grape harvest underway, it's a great time to visit wineries like Chateau Faire Le Pont Winery or try craft ciders at Snowdrift Cider Co.
Hiking & Fall Colors – Explore nearby trails like:
Saddle Rock (Best for panoramic views of Wenatchee)
Horan Natural Area (Perfect for birdwatching and fall foliage)
Ohme Gardens (A peaceful botanical retreat with stunning views)
Things to Do in Leavenworth (September)
Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival (Last Weekend of September) – One of Leavenworth’s longest-running traditions, this festival celebrates fall with a grand parade, live music, street performances, and Bavarian-style festivities.
Hiking & Fall Foliage – Late September is the perfect time to see the golden larches and vibrant autumn leaves. Some of the best hikes for fall colors include:
Icicle Ridge Trail (Moderate, panoramic views of Leavenworth)
Colchuck Lake (Challenging, but breathtaking alpine scenery)
Blackbird Island & Waterfront Park (Easy, peaceful stroll along the Wenatchee River)
Wine & Cider Tasting – Enjoy the harvest season with a visit to local wineries like Icicle Ridge Winery or try locally crafted ciders at Bushel & Bee Taproom.
Bavarian Food & Beer Gardens – While Oktoberfest officially begins in early October, many beer halls and restaurants start serving special German brews and seasonal dishes in late September. Munchen Haus is a great spot for bratwurst and local beer!