The best walks and hikes in Douglas County

Discover the Ohme Gardens Trail, an easy hiking route that takes you through a unique cultivated alpine garden perched on a rocky bluff. This short, accessible path covers just 0.5 miles (0.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 105 feet (32 metres), making it a perfect 14-minute stroll. As you hike, you will find rustic stone pathways winding past towering cedar and fir trees, lush foliage, and tranquil pools, all designed to evoke the feeling of a mountain trail.

Planning your visit to Ohme Gardens is straightforward, but keep in mind the trail is open seasonally from April 15th to October 15th. While the route is easy, the natural stone pathways and stairways feature irregular footing and can be steep in sections, so good walking shoes are recommended for your comfort and safety. Please note that wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers are not suitable for most of the terrain, ensuring a more natural and rugged experience.

What makes Ohme Gardens truly special is its blend of natural rock formations with carefully integrated plant life, creating an evergreen oasis high above the valley. From various vantage points along the trail, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Columbia River, the Wenatchee Valley, and the majestic Cascade Mountains. You can also find quiet spots like the "Hidden Pool" or rest on one of the many handcrafted stone benches, offering peaceful moments amidst the beautiful scenery.

Explore the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail, an easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike that takes you along the Columbia River. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of just 29 feet (9 metres), making it a relaxing outing. Expect to spend around 1 hour and 8 minutes enjoying the diverse scenery, from urban waterfront parks with sculptures to the natural edge of the Horan Natural Area.

This trail is paved, wide, and ADA-accessible, welcoming hikers, cyclists, and even cross-country skiers year-round. While the main path is multi-use, remember that bikes are generally not permitted within the Horan Natural Area itself. Its convenient location near Pybus Public Market makes it easy to combine your outdoor activity with a meal or some local shopping.

The route offers excellent views of the Columbia River, the city of Wenatchee, and the surrounding mountains. As you walk along the Horan Natural Area, a significant wetland preserve, keep an eye out for various birds and wildlife. This section provides a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience, connecting you with both urban amenities and natural beauty.

Embark on an easy hike along the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail, a paved route spanning 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 53 feet (16 metres). You can expect to complete this relaxing journey in about 1 hour and 21 minutes. As you follow the Columbia River, you will enjoy diverse scenery, moving between urban waterfront parks and more natural habitats, with picturesque views from the unique three-bridge system that connects both sides of the river.

Planning your visit to the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail is straightforward, as it remains accessible year-round for various activities. You will find numerous access points along the route, making it easy to start your adventure. Ample parking, convenient trailhead facilities, restrooms, and picnic areas are also available, ensuring a comfortable experience for you and your companions.

This trail is particularly notable for its blend of city and nature, offering a chance to spot local wildlife like bald eagles, marmots, and otters. It provides a family-friendly outing with plenty to see, making it a great option if you are looking for a leisurely outdoor experience in the region. The loop's design allows for continuous scenic enjoyment without retracing your steps.

The Chelan Bob Trail & Frank's Pond loop offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, guiding you through a diverse landscape that shifts from arid desert to tranquil riverside. You'll enjoy expansive views of the Columbia River and McNeil Canyon, with the peaceful Frank's Pond serving as a highlight, especially vibrant with frogs and wildflowers in the spring. This 4.0-mile (6.4 km) loop, with a gentle 431 feet (131 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty without a strenuous effort.

Accessing the trail is simple, as the trailhead is conveniently situated within the Beebe Springs Wildlife Area, which also provides ample parking. The route is well-suited for a relaxed outing, taking approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. While enjoyable year-round, visiting in spring allows you to witness the hillsides adorned with blooming wildflowers, adding an extra layer of charm to your hike.

Beyond the natural scenery, the trail offers a unique blend of cultural insight with steel sculptures depicting Native American daily life and informative interpretive signs along the way. These features provide a deeper connection to the region's heritage, making it more than just a walk. The easy difficulty and varied points of interest make this loop a family-friendly option and a great choice for those seeking a rewarding, yet undemanding, outdoor adventure.

The Entiat City Park Columbia River Trail offers an easy 4.4-mile hike with scenic views of the Columbia River and abundant birdlife.