Here in eastern Washington a web of small rivers and creeks quickly descend out of the lower Cascades and form the Wenatchee River Basin. The White and Little Wenatchee both flow into Lake Wenatchee, where the Wenatchee River begins.
   Just northwest of the Bavarian village of Leavenworth, a section of the river parallels U.S. Route 2 before it heads southward through the outskirts of town. Depending on the time of year, the Wenatchee varies between a racing torrent or something similar to this tame autumn view. Summer's toasty temperatures increase the snowmelt high upon the Cascade Range. On days when the river is running fairly high, many river-runners test their kayaking skills on this extreme stream. Because of the great depths of snowpack, whitewater rafting often extends into August on both sides of the Cascade Mountains.
   Adventure trips can be found throughout the Washington Cascades, but on the east side bragging rights include plenty of sunshine, miles of whitewater and inviting emerald pools. With over a half dozen rivers in the area, the biggest problem may be choosing what river to tackle.
   This is also salmon country. Every September, thousands of people join in to celebrate the return of the salmon to northwestern river basin. One year’s theme, Dancing with Salmon, was held on the grounds of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Here at the mouth of the Icicle River, guests will discover the significance of salmon to people of the northwest.

    Area Map