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Wenatchee sits at the confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers, in the heart of apple country. Located just beneath a ridge of spectacular, semi-arid and rocky mountains, the alpine peaks of the Cascades lie just beyond, making the Wenatchee Valley one of Washington State’s most scenic areas.
At the turn of the 20th Century, the Columbia Basin Project and other irrigation projects opened the door for farming the previously barren land, and orchards become the area’s leading industry. In 1907, the first bridge built across the Columbia River connecting East Wenatchee and Wenatchee supported vehicle traffic and an irrigation pipeline that carried water to the west side of the valley. The area’s hot summers and cold winters were perfect for apples back then. Today, they are also perfect for visitors to enjoy exceptional outdoor recreation that includes rafting, skiing, mountain biking and golf.
In town, Wenatchee’s national award-winning historic downtown features shops, museums, theaters, restaurants and a unique Art on the Avenues tour, with sculptures by nationally known artists that are changed annually. The Riverfront Loop Trail along the Columbia makes for a pleasant stroll or bike ride. Just north of town, Ohme Gardens gives a spectacular view of the valley, river, city and mountains from 600 feet above the Columbia. Traveling west on Highway 2, you’ll find two other fascinating East Cascades communities. Cashmere is a small orchard town famous for the fruit and walnut treat, Aplets and Cotlets. Leavenworth is a Bavarian-themed town in a beautiful alpine setting, with lots of shopping and festivities, especially during the holidays. Surrounding Wenatchee are more than 25 wineries offering exceptional Washington State wines for every palette, from whites to reds to dry to sweet.
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