5 Amazing Kid-Friendly Swimming Holes

This spot on the Wenatchee River is basically within the town of Leavenworth and truly, no matter where you are within the heart of Leavenworth, you’re only a couple blocks away from the water. The river corridor is protected by the town’s Waterfront Park.

From the park’s big lot right off of Main Street, walk a couple blocks to the river. Though there are a few access points to choose from, this one has a beach that is bigger and broader, and therefore it accommodates the most people. This is where it’s at if you’re looking for a scene. However, if you come after Labor Day, when hints of fall are in the air, it’ll likely be less crowded, occupied by just a few loungers and waders. Whether you’re pro- or anti-crowd, this is the nicest beach on the Wenatchee River.

The park’s main parking lot can also be used to access Waterfront Park’s whole trail system, which interfaces with the town in different areas. Just head south toward the river on Division Street, Commercial Street (west of Eighth), or Enchantment Park Way and you’ll quickly find yourself in Waterfront Park’s trail system. If you are already in town celebrating one of the Bavarian customs, such as brats, beers or lederhosen, the park can be your launching point to explore town.

Getting there

From US Highway 2 in Leavenworth, find Waterfront Park off of Main Street and park in the main lot.

Details

• Type: Lowland river, beach
• Location: Roadside in city park in Leavenworth via U.S. 2
• Water: Cold to cool, clear, clean, blue-green
• Season: Summer into early fall
• Who’s here: Kid-friendly; everyone, tubers
• Amenities: Parking (with portable toilet in season); food and lodging nearby
• Local’s tip: Many upstream tubers exit the river at Leavenworth’s main town beach. There’s at least one company (maybe a couple) that rents inner tubes and provides shuttling so you can tube downriver through town to this point.
• GPS coordinates: 47.5941 N, –120.6565 W