Float the River
The picturesque Wenatchee River that flows through Leavenworth offers a variety of spring and summer recreation.
A hub for activity, Leavenworth is the location where in the late spring/summer, paddle boarders and floaters exit the river and in early to late spring, where whitewater rafters and kayakers begin.
With multiple put in and take out locations, a free shuttle, various parking options, there is a lot to know if it is your first time.
This site is your source for learning more about the river recreation in the Leavenworth area with links to all the best resources you need to plan your river visit.
Since this in a fragile and popular area as well as a salmon habitat, please recreate responsibly.
I simply want to book with an outfitter to…
Icicle Creek
Floating the Icicle Creek (which then flows into the Wenatchee River) begins from the US Fish Hatchery Boat Launch. The boat launch parking area gates typically open in May when the spring chinook salmon fishing season begins and then close when flows of the creek reach 200 cfs. This year the gates will close July 6th.
It equals approximately 1,496 gallons or 42.5 cubic meters of water rushing past a given point every single second.
Want to learn more? Visit the Fish Hatchery Website
Want to check the current CFS on Icicle Creek, click the button below:
Wenatchee River
Floating the Wenatchee River begins from Icicle Bridge boat launch which has a VERY small parking lot so we recommend using the FREE SHUTTLE if you are departing from here.
You have two options for take out, East Leavenworth Boat Launch or Barn Beach. Please note: If you are going to get out at East Leavenworth, we advise NOT adding on the Blackbird Island Loop.
River Recreation Map & Info
Put-In Locations:
You have two public options for put-in:
• Icicle Bridge
• Fish Hatchery
Please note that the Fish Hatchery parking lot gate will be closed starting in early July due to river flows.
Take-Out Locations:
You have two public options for take-out:
• Barn Beach
• East Leavenworth Road Boat Launch
Pro-tip: If you plan to take out at the East Leavenworth Boat Ramp, it's advisable to avoid going around Blackbird Island.
Mileages: (Rounded)
Icicle Bridge >Takeouts = 2 Miles
Add Blackbird Island Loop = Plus .2 Miles
Fish Hatchery > Confluence = 3 Miles
Fish Hatchery > Takeouts = 4 Miles
Fish Hatchery to the confluence of Icicle Creek and the Wenatchee River including beaches, are on private land
Float Times:
The float times listed are approximate and can vary based on weather and water conditions.
Fish Hatchery > Enchantment Park/Barn Beach
June: 1.5+ hours
July - August: 3+ hours (we do not recommend after early July, you will scrape bottom and have to walk in places,)
Icicle Bridge > Enchantment Park/Barn Beach
June-July: 1+ hours
August: 2+ hours.
Patrols are ongoing and offenders will be ticketed or towed!
Do not impede traffic.
Do not park in the roadway, stay to the right of the fog lines.
Do not damage the roadway, move barricades or interfere with maintenance.
Be Safe, Park Smart
Shuttle Service
Make your summer river day stress-free! The City of Leavenworth is providing a FREE River Shuttle over the summer!
How it works
Drop your crew and gear off at your chosen launch site first.
Drive to the East Leavenworth Public Boat Ramp to park your car.
Hop on the free shuttle back to the put-in to meet your group and hit the water!
Schedule
Days: Weekends & Select Holidays
Dates: July 4 – September 7, 2026
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Frequency: Departs approximately every 30 minutes
Pickup Location: East Leavenworth Boat Ramp (First-come, first-served)
Rules of the Ride
To keep the shuttle safe and clean for everyone, please note the following policies:
No alcohol permitted on board.
No pets (trained service animals are welcome).
No smoking or vaping in or around the vehicle.
Limited gear capacity—please pack light and secure your floaties.
How does one Give a Schnitzel?
As you plan your summer river adventures, don’t forget to Give a Schnitzel about your safety, the safety of others, and the health of our rivers. Whether you’re floating, paddling, or wading in to cool off, smart choices—like wearing a life jacket, staying sober, and being aware of river conditions—help keep the good times rolling for everyone.
Our Recreation Ambassadors have some helpful pointers so look for them at the put in and take out locations.
Let’s make the river fun, safe, and welcoming all summer long!
Know Before You Go – Spring brings powerful flows! The Wenatchee and Icicle rivers run high and fast—check conditions before heading out.
Choose Quality Gear– Leave the bargain floats at home. Trust licensed outfitters for safe, durable equipment that won’t let you down mid-float.
Stay Sober on the Water– Mixing alcohol or drugs with river time? Bad idea. Impaired judgment + swift currents = real danger. Plus, drinking is illegal on the river!
Keep the Vibes Local-Friendly– Live music might be your jam, but it’s not for the river’s residents, people or wildlife. Keep it quiet, keep it respectful.
Use Public Bathrooms– Nature’s not your restroom—seriously. Most riverbank land is private. Plan ahead and use the facilities beforehand, otherwise remember that dillution is the solution to pollution.
Protect the Salmon– Late summer = low water + vulnerable spawning beds. Avoid dragging your tube and consider skipping tubing altogether during this time.
