If you’re torn between a Lake Wenatchee cabin and a Fish Lake hideaway, you’re not alone. Both lakes deliver classic Leavenworth‑area fun, but the lifestyle, access, and ownership details are different in ways that matter. In this guide, you’ll get a clear comparison of recreation, property patterns, short‑term rental rules, and practical living details in ZIP 98826. You’ll also find a quick buyer checklist so you can move forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Quick compare: two lakes, two vibes
Size and feel
- Lake Wenatchee is large at roughly 2,400 to 2,500 acres, glacier and snowmelt fed, and the headwater of the Wenatchee River. It supports diverse boating and summer fishing. Lake overview.
- Fish Lake is much smaller at about 492.5 acres with a quieter, more rustic character. Much of the shoreline borders U.S. Forest Service land. Fish Lake overview.
Access and amenities
- Lake Wenatchee centers around Lake Wenatchee State Park with campgrounds, a swim beach, a boat launch, rentals, and winter Nordic grooming.
- Fish Lake access is primarily through the Cove Resort, which runs the boat launch, rentals, dock fishing, and camping. There is limited walk‑in access at the east end.
Recreation highlights
- Lake Wenatchee draws families for beach days, motorized boating, and, when open, a seasonal sockeye fishery that WDFW manages based on returns. Check current openings and emergency rules before planning a trip. Sockeye fishery example update.
- Fish Lake is an angler favorite for yellow perch and stocked rainbow, plus winter ice fishing when conditions allow. Fish Lake species and access.
Proximity to Leavenworth
- Fish Lake sits about 16 miles north of Leavenworth and roughly 1 mile northeast of Lake Wenatchee. Drive times vary by parcel and season.
Lifestyle and recreation by season
Lake Wenatchee: full‑service summers, groomed winters
Lake Wenatchee offers a classic summer scene with a swim beach, a boat launch, and rental gear at the state park. The large water body suits a wide range of boating. In some summers, WDFW opens a sockeye season based on escapement forecasts, which can draw additional visitors. Always confirm current rules before you go. In winter, the park maintains groomed Nordic and snowshoe trails, so you can step into a four‑season rhythm without leaving the neighborhood.
Fish Lake: fishing focus and a quieter pace
Fish Lake’s smaller size and USFS backdrop give it a forested, tucked‑away feel. The Cove Resort is the practical gateway for most visitors, with boat rentals, a launch, camping, and cabin rentals. Anglers target yellow perch and stocked rainbow, and ice fishing is popular when safe conditions allow. The overall vibe is relaxed and less beach‑day oriented than Lake Wenatchee.
Property patterns and price signals
Lake Wenatchee homes
You’ll see a mix of classic A‑frames, chalet and log styles, plus newer mountain‑modern builds. Many waterfront lots are small, often under an acre. Upland homes can sit on larger parcels. Premium north‑shore waterfront with modern square footage can reach multi‑million prices. A recent example sale near Lake Wenatchee closed around 2.09 million, which reflects top‑tier frontage with a larger, modern home. Pricing still varies widely by frontage, dock status, condition, and lot size.
Fish Lake homes
On Fish Lake, private waterfront is more limited and often in smaller, older cabin clusters. Many homes date from the 1960s to 1980s, and some properties have grandfathered dock rights. Because private shoreline is scarce and much of the perimeter is USFS, parcel access and easements deserve early attention. Recent examples in the low‑to‑mid 1.2 to 1.4 million range for private waterfront show how limited supply and permitted short‑term rental status can drive value.
Rules that shape use and value
Short‑term rentals in Chelan County
Chelan County regulates STRs with a tiered permit system, renewals, and transfer rules that changed in 2025. Permits and their transferability can significantly affect income potential and resale. If rental income matters to you, verify the current status directly with the county and ask for a copy of the permit. See the county’s short‑term rental program for tiers, fees, and application steps.
Shoreline Master Program and buffers
Shoreline designations and buffers around Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake were updated in recent years. Work within 200 feet of the ordinary high water mark can require shoreline permits and state concurrence. Tree removal, docks, and replanting all have specific rules that vary by parcel. Start by confirming your property’s designation on the county’s Shoreline Master Program page.
Wells, septic, and documentation
Many retreat properties use private wells and on‑site sewage systems. STR applications often require septic documentation. Request septic permits, inspection records, and well logs early. Chelan County provides guidance for renewals and new applicants on its permit and records page.
Fire risk and insurance
This is a seasonally dry, forested landscape. Ask about defensible space, local fire district response, and insurance availability before you close. Your agent can request seller disclosures and recent vegetation management details.
Access and nearby services
Roads and winter access
Lake Wenatchee neighborhoods connect via SR‑207, which provides maintained, paved access into the state park area. Local roads are generally year‑round, but heavy storms can impact conditions. Learn more about the corridor on SR‑207’s overview. Fish Lake access commonly runs off Chiwawa Loop Road with resort access through the Cove Resort. Some side roads are narrower or seasonal, so confirm plowing and maintenance responsibilities for your specific parcel.
Services and supplies
Leavenworth provides groceries, dining, medical clinics, and most services. Drive time from either lake typically ranges from about 15 to 35 minutes depending on location and season. Near the lakes, you’ll find essentials at camp stores and the Cove Resort, which can be handy for quick trips.
Which lake fits you best?
- Choose Lake Wenatchee if you want big‑lake energy. You’ll enjoy a sandy swim beach, more boat activity, and quick access to groomed winter trails. During years with a sockeye opener, the lake can feel especially lively.
- Choose Fish Lake if you prefer an angler’s pace. You’ll get a quieter, more rustic setting with strong fishing culture and fewer broad public beaches.
- For potential rental income, either can work. What matters is the specific property’s STR permit status and capacity. Always verify with the county.
- For privacy, Fish Lake’s limited private shoreline can feel more secluded. That said, premium Lake Wenatchee waterfront can deliver wide views and high‑end builds that feel tucked into the trees.
Buyer checklist for 98826 lake homes
Use this list to focus your due diligence before you make an offer.
- Confirm the parcel’s shoreline designation and buffers. Start with the county’s Shoreline Master Program page.
- Verify STR permit status and transferability. Check the Chelan County STR page and request a copy of any active permit.
- Clarify lake access, docks, and easements. This is critical on Fish Lake where USFS land is adjacent. Review WDFW’s Fish Lake page and ask for recorded easements.
- Get well logs and septic records. See the county’s renewals and new applicants guidance for documentation.
- Confirm winter access and plowing. Ask who maintains the road and driveway, and whether there are HOA or county obligations.
- Discuss fire risk and insurance early. Ask for defensible‑space details and talk with your insurance broker about coverage.
- Review comparable sales for the past 12 to 24 months. Pay close attention to direct waterfront vs. near‑water, dock status, and STR permits.
- For fishing and boating plans, check current rules. Seasonal sockeye openings and emergency rules can change. See a recent fishery update example and confirm with WDFW during your season.
Ready to match your lifestyle with the right shoreline, access, and rules? Reach out to Lynn Stoddard for local, hospitality‑first guidance on Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake retreats.
FAQs
How big are Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake in 98826?
- Lake Wenatchee is roughly 2,400 to 2,500 acres and Fish Lake is about 492.5 acres, according to Lake Wenatchee and WDFW’s Fish Lake page.
What recreation can I expect at Lake Wenatchee State Park?
- The park offers a swim beach, boat launch, gear rentals, campgrounds, and groomed winter trails, as outlined on Washington State Parks’ page.
How do most people access Fish Lake?
- Primary public access is through the Cove Resort, with limited walk‑in access at the east end noted by WDFW.
What should I know about short‑term rentals near these lakes?
- Chelan County uses a tiered STR permit system with rules that changed in 2025, so verify current status and transferability on the county’s STR page.
Do I need special permits for shoreline work on a lake home?
- Work within 200 feet of the ordinary high water mark may require shoreline permits and state concurrence, so start with the county’s Shoreline Master Program.
