What’s the weather like? It’s a common question no matter where you are but I sometimes think Washingtonians hear it most. Washington has a reputation for being wet, that it’s always raining. While it may be like that for part of the year way over on the coast, the weather at Lake Chelan is an entirely different story!

Washington’s “always raining” reputation is overstated for all but the rain forest region along the upper coast – and maybe even there. The simple fact of the matter is that, like many if not all states, Washington is home to a variety of climates. In comparison to the “wet” coast, Lake Chelan’s home on the eastern side of the state is a much drier and sunnier world.

In fact, it is often said that weather at Lake Chelan is some of the best in the state. For example, did you know that we average 300 days of sunshine a year? It’s true! That includes full and partly sunny days, of course, but it’s still a great average.

The Chelan area is also treated to four very distinct seasons, each with its own advantages.

Seasonal Weather at Lake Chelan

As far as most people are concerned, Lake Chelan is at its weathery best between mid June and late August. Our summers are gloriously hot, dry, and sunny, with temps sticking to the upper 70’s and 80’s, on average. Perfect weather for being on – and in – the lake! As anyone who has been here in summer knows, it is truly a gorgeous season.

Kelly’s Resort opens for the season every Memorial Day, giving you an opportunity to enjoy the start of summer on the lake.

Spring and fall, too, have their pluses.

While March and April can still see more than a few drab and chilly days, the month of May is right behind summer for lovely weather. Watching the foliage green up all around the lake in the spring rains is a truly rejuvenating experience.

Fall, too, offers some lovely weather, with summer-like temperatures – sometimes even up to the 80s well into October. Warm and dry enough for hiking, biking, boating, and even swimming in the lake. The changing fall colors make it lovely and magical, as seemingly every day the landscape has a new look. Fall is also harvest season, which typically includes lots of fun events at area wineries and orchards.

Our Lake Chelan resort season ends on Labor Day every year.

As November moves to December and winter approaches, temperatures drop considerably. The chance for rain or even a little snow goes up, too.

Speaking of snow, winter weather at Lake Chelan practically guarantees some. We get an average of 21 inches of snow in the Lake Chelan Valley every winter and much more at the higher elevations. January sees the most snow, with average temps in the 30’s and 40’s – yet the sun still shines! Skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling pick up where hiking, biking, boating, and fishing left off.

All of us at Kelly’s Resort look forward to seeing you soon and we are currently accepting spring reservations.