SNOFLO

       




WENATCHEE NATIONAL FOREST

PARKS
March 27, 2025

Hydrologic Outlook
None

ESFPDT Temperatures in the 60s and 70s Wednesday will increase snow melt of the mid and high elevation snow pack. This will be followed by mountain rain Wednesday through Friday. Saturated mountain soils will allow for efficient runoff and will increase water levels on mountain rivers, creeks and streams. The primary concern is the John Day River at Service Creek which is forecast to reach minor flood stage Friday morning through Saturday morning, peaking Friday afternoon. The Naches River at Cliffdell is currently in action stage and is forecast to peak Thursday night before slowly declining to below action stage Tuesday evening. The Yakima River at Umtanum is also currently in action stage and is forecast to peak Thursday evening before dropping below action stage Friday evening. The Grande Ronde River at Troy is forecast to reach action stage this evening and peak Thursday night into Friday morning before dropping below action stage Sunday morning. The Naches River near Naches is forecast to reach action stage Thursday morning and peaking Thursday night before dropping below action stage Saturday morning. The Yakima River at Kiona is forecast to reach action stage Friday morning, peaking Saturday morning before dropping below action stage Sunday night. Several other rivers are forecast to approach but not quite reach action stage. Smaller creeks and streams may also have significant rises but at this time they do not appear to reach levels that would cause flooding. People with activities near creeks and streams should exercise caution as flows will be swift and very cold water can quickly lead to hypothermia if someone were to fall into the water. Those with interests along rivers, creeks and streams should continue to monitor forecasts as there is some uncertainty in the expected water levels. Stay tuned to for the latest forecast updates along with any flood warnings or advisories that may be issued.


°F

°F

mph

Windspeed

%

Humidity

Wenatchee National Forest, located in the state of Washington, offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that make it a worthwhile destination for nature enthusiasts. Here is a summary highlighting some of the good reasons to visit, specific points of interest, interesting facts about the area, and the best time of year to plan a trip:

Reasons to visit:
1. Spectacular Scenery: Wenatchee National Forest showcases stunning landscapes ranging from rugged alpine terrain to lush forests, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
2. Outdoor Recreation: The forest provides excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.
3. Abundant Wildlife: The area supports diverse wildlife species, including elk, deer, black bears, mountain goats, and numerous bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
4. Rich Cultural Heritage: Wenatchee National Forest is home to several historical sites, Native American rock art, and remnants of early settlements, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural past.

Points of Interest:
1. Lake Wenatchee State Park: Located within the forest, this park offers a beautiful lake for boating, swimming, and fishing, as well as hiking trails and campsites.
2. Enchantments Wilderness: Known for its pristine alpine lakes and stunning granite peaks, this area is a hiker's paradise.
3. Leavenworth: Situated near the forest, the charming Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth offers unique shopping, dining, and cultural events throughout the year.
4. Icicle Gorge Trail: This scenic trail winds through a deep gorge, following the Icicle Creek and providing breathtaking views of waterfalls, rock formations, and old-growth forests.

Interesting Facts:
1. Wenatchee National Forest spans approximately 2.4 million acres and is one of the largest national forests in Washington.
2. The forest is home to the largest population of mountain goats in the state.
3. The area boasts an extensive network of trails, including a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail, attracting hikers from around the world.
4. Wenatchee National Forest is located in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains, resulting in a drier climate east of the crest.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Wenatchee National Forest depends on the activities you plan to engage in. Summer (June to September) offers pleasant temperatures and abundant recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and water activities. Fall (September to November) brings vibrant autumn colors and fewer crowds. Winter (December to February) is ideal for snow sports like skiing and snowshoeing. Spring (March to May) offers blooming wildflowers and opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, it's important to check weather conditions and road accessibility, especially during winter months.

Please note that while efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, it is always recommended to verify this information through multiple independent sources before planning your trip to Wenatchee National Forest.

       

Weather Forecast