Wenatchee is all about apples, the self-proclaimed "Apple Capital" of the country thanks to the efforts of an early settler who first planted the seed in 1872 ala Johnny Appleseed. The region has remained fruitful ever since. Located on the west bank of the Columbia River, Wenatchee gets a lot of sunshine so plan to spend your summer hours enjoying a selection of activities close to the water, whether it's a leisurely peddle beside the mighty Columbia that takes your fancy or a day of recreational boating.

Most visitors head for Walla Walla Point Park or Rock Island Hydro Park to take a dip in the river or put in a boat when the temperature begins to climb, but there are other ways to get a glimpse of surging river.  In town, rent bikes and follow the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail along the Columbia, a ride at its best before the sun eliminates all chance at shade. Ohme Gardens north of town is a carefully cultivated oasis, a welcome stretch of green - amble through nine acres of foliage, stopping for a peak out over the valley before heading back to town.

In winter, Mission Ridge Ski Area regular snow but stays mostly sunny. Sometimes there is less snow than at surrounding resorts but the dry climate tends to keep the slopes from turning to slush, which is a plus. 

For a rafting adventure, take a tumble down the Wenatchee River, putting in at nearby Leavenworth. The Wenatchee River joins the Columbia at the north end of town.

Lincoln Rock State Park has camping sites and a safe swimming area on the Columbia. Buy a few fresh apples to add a local touch to your picnic spread.

Wenatchee is 95 miles east of Seattle and 137 miles west of Spokane.