We spent the last day of the year exploring Lake Wenatchee Sate Park.  After checking out the north side of the park first we decided to park and snow shoe the south side.  Why?  Two words - heated restroom.  The park falls under the "groomed" sno-park designation so we had to pay up to upgrade our "regular" sno-park permit.  So not cheap fun, but oh those warm restrooms.  There were snow-trail maps available, and for snow shoeing the choice is a loop for both the north and south sides of the park.

We started our loop from the lakefront and went clockwise, the trail is easy to follow and well marked with occasional small posts, and in between frequent blue flagging.  We followed the bank of the Wenatchee River then turned south along Nason Creek.  The second half of the loop is not as scenic but does offer solitude.  We met just a handful of other snow-shoers, and a few cross-country skiers where the two trails crossed.  Total mileage is limited perhaps two-three miles, and with stops for pictures we were out about an hour and a half or so.  Little in the way of elevation gain but a few ups and downs where a bit of momentum is needed.  The trail finishes back where you started, meaning you can appreciate the great views down the lake all over again.

Snow conditions were good to excellent, a little crusty and packed in places where you would probably be fine without snowshoes, to deeper and powdery where stepping off the trail can add to the fun - or not.  Overall we had a enjoyable and low key family outing.  Recommend this for newbie snow-shoers getting a handle on equipment, and for more experienced folks as a great and safe place to explore after a big storm.

We finished out the day with a drive to Leavenworth to admire the holiday lights, and an early dinner at the Mexican restaurant "South" - yum.

My family all got snowshoes for Christmas. This was our first outing, so I wanted to play it safe and go to a Washington State Sno-Park. There wasn't a great deal of snow at Lake Wenatchee, particularly on the trails through wooded areas. My son (age 9) ended up taking off his snowshoes. My wife and I could have easily as well, but we wanted to try them out. A good time was had by all. Lake Wenatchee State Park was beautiful today.

Hiked the north loop along the river and the lake. Good conditions, the wind was blowing so bugs were not around and I am not sure if they are still about. No smoke fm the fire was about, blue sky.

Did not went through. We came late in the afternoon and the south shore was filled with people. Bugs were following very badly and repellent is a must have.

Just a heads up:

The bugs were horrendous. The mosquitos chased us off the trails and into our tents at Nason Creek campground. No dinner, no sitting around the campfire. We hung out in our tents left the campground very early in the morning simply due to the mosquitos.  

PRO TIP: Visit Blewett Brewing, you won't be disappointed. Great beer AND air conditioning.