WABDR Section #4: Cashmere to Chelan
Start: Cashmere, WA
End: Chelan, WA
Distance: Approximately 119 miles
Time: 4–6 hours
Technical Difficulty: Moderate. Expect long, sustained climbs and descents. The final descent into Chelan is very steep and can be challenging for riders on heavy bikes.
Forecast: Chelan
Highlights
Chumstick Mountain: This is the highest point of the section. From the summit (accessible by a short spur road), you have a 360-degree view of the Glacier Peak Wilderness and the Enchantments.
Entiat Ridge: The route follows the spine of the Entiat Mountains. You’ll be riding along high ridges with deep valleys dropping away on either side, offering views of the Entiat River valley to the west and the Columbia River to the east.
The Lake Chelan Descent: As you crest the final ridge, the 55-mile-long Lake Chelan comes into view. The descent is legendary—thousands of feet of elevation loss via winding switchbacks with the deep blue water of the lake directly ahead of you! For this reason, section 4 is a favorite among BDR riders. Transitioning from the rugged central Cascades to the jaw-dropping, high-altitude views of Lake Chelan is truly awe inspiring.
Ardenvoir (Optional Detour): If you drop off the ridge into the Entiat Valley, you can visit the tiny town of Ardenvoir for a burger at the Cooper's General Store.
Gas & Refueling
Recommended Minimum Range: 125 miles.
Primary Fuel: Refill in Cashmere and Chelan.
Mid-Route Fuel (Emergency Only): There is no gas directly on the track. If you are desperate, you must descend the mountain to the town of Entiat or Ardenvoir (check local hours as Ardenvoir fuel can be inconsistent).
Where to Stay
Mid-Route (Forest Camping):
Dispersed: There are incredible dispersed spots along Entiat Ridge. Look for established fire rings on the flat "saddles" of the ridge for views of both the sunrise and sunset.
Developed: Fox Creek Campground or Silver Falls Campground (requires a detour down into the Entiat Valley).
Chelan (End):
Hotels: Campbell’s Resort (Upscale/Beachfront), Lakeshore Inn, or various motels in the downtown corridor.
Camping: Lakeshore Park (City-run, right in town but difficult to get reservations) or 25 Mile Creek State Park (about 20 miles up-lake).
Pro-Tip for Section 4
Dust & Heat: This section can be exceptionally dusty and hot in July and August. If you are riding in a group, leave plenty of space between bikes to allow the dust to settle, or you'll miss the views entirely. Also, keep an eye out for Black Bears; they are frequently spotted in the berry bushes along the Entiat Ridge sections.