Ski Echo Ridge at Lake Chelan
A Beginner's Guide
Echo Ridge is one of Lake Chelan’s best-kept winter secrets: miles of groomed cross-country ski trails twenty minutes from downtown. The cross-country ski area sits like a jeweled crown atop the valley’s northeastern ridgeline. Here’s how to enjoy it.
Basic Technique
There are two styles of cross-country skiing: classic and skate. Classic as the name implies is the oldest style and the simplest to learn. You will ski along the trail following a track made by the groomer.
Watch this delightful introduction to classic skiing. The technique isn’t hard. Watching the beginner skier in the video will give you confidence for your outing ahead.
Gear and Clothing
Classic ski gear can be rented from Lake Chelan Sports. Both will get you ready for your first lovely trip through the woods.
In terms of clothing, wear long underwear, a sweater or light fleece, and then a breathable shell. You will want a good pair of gloves or mittens and then a hat or headband. Finally, remember warm socks.
Your clothing needs are related to how fast and hard you will be skiing – and of course the temperature. As a beginner, your pace will be slower and the need for warmth greater. Here’s a great overview of cross-country clothing. As you gain in skill and speed you will wear fewer layers.
Finally, one member of your group should ski with a small fanny pack or backpack. Carry water, snacks, and extra clothes should anyone get cold.
Getting There and Buying Passes
Echo Ridge is a short 11 miles from downtown Chelan on the north shore.
The drive to Echo Ridge requires some skill and a good set of tires. The Ridge is located eleven miles from Chelan in the foothills along the north shore.
The first ten miles of the road leading to Echo Valley Downhill Ski area are easy to navigate. But as you pass by Echo Valley, the road grade increases. Did I mention good tires are a must? Drive with care.
On the way up you will pass smaller parking areas for snowshoeing and skiing named Zoom, Shoe, and Switchback Alley. These each accommodate 2-6 cars. Keep driving. You are looking for the large and well-signed “Lower Echo Ridge Trailhead”.
Once you arrive, be sure to purchase your ski passes. Day ski passes are $15 per person and can be purchased at the self-service fee box with cash or check. Kids 17 and under ski free.
Best Routes
Finally, the routes! Echo Ridge has miles of trails to explore, but for your first trip stick close to the Lower Trailhead. Tootsy Roll, Lolly Pop, and Whoop-Di-Do offer moderate terrain and lovely views of the Lake Chelan valley.
As you gain experience, you can park at the Upper Parking lot and explore trails such as Nuthatch and Windsinger. You will find maps and signs at every parking lot and trail junction. Here is the entire trail network as a PDF. Current trail conditions can be found online.
Final Encouragement
I am excited you will be skiing at Echo Ridge. You can pick up your ski gear at the rental shop and be on the trails in less than an hour. The exercise and fresh air does any soul good in the depths of winter. Enjoy!
