Give A Schnitzel and Explore the Leavenworth Area Responsibly Ahead Of Sunny Summer Adventures

As alpine recreation ramps up in and around town, a few simple dos & don'ts can help ensure a safe and memorable season for all

(LEAVENWORTH, Wash.) – As the days grow longer and adventures begin calling, visitors and locals alike are heading to Leavenworth to soak in alpine lakes, rushing rivers, scenic trails, and the charm that makes this Bavarian-themed Cascade mountain hideaway so alluring. But while summer in Leavenworth is undeniably beautiful, enjoying it responsibly is what helps keep it that way.

To help preserve this treasured place for everyone, Visit Leavenworth encourages everyone to “Give a Schnitzel!” – a playful reminder about the importance of caring for shared lands, observing proper fire and water safety, practicing good trail etiquette, and embracing the Leavenworth way by being patient, kind, and mindful while exploring the region. 

And while safety and schnitzels are both serious business, Visit Leavenworth is offering a few lighthearted but important reminders to help everyone enjoy a safe and memorable summer in the mountains.

Fire Safety

Smokey Bear already has enough on his plate, so let’s not make the wildfire season harder than it needs to be. Campfire restrictions increase as fire danger rises, so always check current conditions before lighting a fire. Never leave campfires unattended and fully extinguish them before leaving (if it's too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave).

And remember: fireworks of any kind are illegal in Leavenworth and throughout Chelan County, even on the Fourth of July. If you want fireworks, leave it to the professionals in Wenatchee. 

Water Safety

Rivers are beautiful. Rivers are refreshing. Rivers can also be dangerous. Our pristine waterways are fed by snowmelt and glaciers, meaning even calm-looking water can hide strong currents, cold temperatures, and unexpected hazards. Those who are not strong swimmers should stay close to shore and leave the leash behind when paddleboarding on rivers (trust us on this one). Always wear life jackets when boating or rafting, know your limits, and avoid mixing alcohol with water activities unless you want to become a cautionary tale.

Obey All Posted Signs and Warnings

We fully support your “do it for the gram” photo shoot, but please don’t climb over fences, ignore warning signs, or wander off trail in search of the perfect Instagram shot. If there's a railing, rope, or sign telling you not to go somewhere, there's probably a very good reason for it.

​Wildlife Encounters

The Cascade mountains are many things, but a petting zoo is not one of them. Please don’t touch, pet, feed, ride, or otherwise disturb the wildlife. Deer, bears, elk, and other animals are wild creatures in their natural habitat and should be appreciated from a respectful distance. If you're looking for safe animal selfies, the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm has you covered year-round for all the pets and pics you could ever need.

Trailhead & Parking Etiquette

Summer means trailheads fill up quickly, and blocking roads is a big no-no with law enforcement, first responders, and emergency services. Likewise, inventing your own parking spot halfway into a ditch does not count as “finding a spot.” Around here, hikers and bikers know the rule of thumb: “If the lot is full, the trail is full.”

​Have backup options in mind, consider carpooling, and if possible, explore midweek for a little extra breathing room. Even better, the Link park-and-ride shuttle makes getting to and from town a whole lot easier and parking far less stressful.

Embrace the Leavenworth Way

Keep it friendly; a wave or a smile goes a long way. Embrace the slower pace Leavenworth offers, be patient with crowds, and remember that everyone is here to enjoy the region's beauty together. Respect Park Rangers, Recreation Ambassadors, and locals who help keep things running smoothly, and support local businesses that help maintain Leavenworth's unique character.

“Leavenworth is committed to being a good steward of the surrounding land while helping ensure visitors have a safe, memorable, and enjoyable experience,” said Troy Campbell, executive director of the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce. “We encourage and expect everyone to Give a Schnitzel by treating the land, waterways, trails, and community with care and respect. By taking a few simple steps, visitors can help preserve Leavenworth’s natural beauty and unique character for future generations.”

To offer a friendly “willkommen,” Leavenworth employs a team of Recreation Ambassadors who are stationed at popular trailheads, as well as river put-ins and take-outs throughout the area. These ambassadors are full of information, maps, supplies, and even a little swag to help visitors enjoy the outdoors responsibly and safely

For more information on how to stay safe and protect the environment, please visit leavenworth.org/give-a-schnitzel. For comprehensive information on all things Leavenworth, stop by the official Leavenworth Willkommen Center at 645 Front St., email info@leavenworth.org, or call (509-548-5807). Staffed with experts seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., the center provides details about current activities and events, shopping and dining options, attractions, outdoor recreation, and more.

About Leavenworth

Just two hours from Seattle and nestled at the eastern base of the Cascade Mountains, the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth offers year-round festivities, themed attractions, and outdoor recreation for every season. Home to renowned festivals like Oktoberfest, Village of Lights, and Maifest, this charming Christmas town features Alpine-style buildings, themed shops, and restaurants serving authentic German dishes. Transporting visitors to Western Europe, locals are committed to the town's tourism and are known for their strong sense of community and friendliness. Due to its location, the Alpine village is a mecca for hiking, rock climbing, rafting, snowshoeing, and skiing. Featuring premier lodging and nationally ranked attractions, Leavenworth is a sought-after destination year-round. For more information and to learn more about how to visit Leavenworth responsibly and sustainably, visit www.leavenworth.org/give-a-schnitzel.