FAQ’S About Stehekin
Frequently Asked Questions
Stehekin is a very unique and beautiful place, but creates a lot of questions for folks. We are here to help answer some of those questions.
How do I get there?
Stehekin is located at the very beginning of Lake Chelan. The only way to access Stehekin is by boat, hiking or flying via small airplane. Some have even thought Stehekin was an island with how remote it is, but it’s not! No roads lead to Stehekin keeping it just as pristine as ever.
We would recommend taking traveling with Lake Chelan Boat Company to get there: www.ladyofthelake.com
Cell Service?
Nope! There isn’t any cell service in Stehekin. You lose cell service around Fields Point Landing, which is the last spot you can drive to catch the Lady of the Lake to get to Stehekin.
What better way to completely disconnect and enjoy nature? Cell phone free! It might sound scary to some, but it is a wonderful thing.
Wifi?
Depending where you stay, there could be some access to WiFi. But, if you don’t actually need it, enjoy the freedom of technology!
Cash or Credit?
There are NO ATM’s in Stehekin. Most businesses will take credit cards, but there are a few left that only accept cash. Please bring enough cash to purchase things at the House that Jack Built Craft Shop, The Garden, and for tipping (wink, wink).
Who Lives There?
There are about 85 year round residents that live year round in Stehekin. These people own, work and operate all the private and unique businesses that you will see when visiting. Some also work for the National Park Service.
How do vehicles get there?
Since there isn’t any roads leading to Stehekin, it can be a mystery to some on how the vehicles you’ll see got there. The Mountain Barge Service is how! There is a large barge that will haul all large items in and out of Stehekin, including vehicles. This also includes propane, fuel, bulk groceries for businesses, building supplies, and whatever else someone might need that is too large for the Lake Chelan Boat Company (lady of the lake) to handle.
Groceries?
Nope, no grocery store. Locals will order groceries through the local stores in the Chelan area. Those stores will then do the grocery shopping for them, get them on the boat, and the Boat Company will drop them off on the dock for the locals to pick up!
Now, if you are going to be visiting Stehekin, there are of course restaurants open during the summer to enjoy, but if you are looking to do your own cooking, you’ll have to come prepared. There is a little general store at the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin, but it only holds a few grocery type items.
How much does it snow?
The weather in Stehekin is on average very similar to Eastern Washington, just a little more precipitation. On average, Stehekin gets about 4-7 feet of snow pack. Makes great for winter stays! Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are great past time activities to enjoy.
It is truly a winter wonderland.
Hospital?
There isn’t a hospital in Stehekin. That is nothing to be worried about, though! We have volunteer EMT’s always on call in the valley and ready to respond to anything.
If there was anything that needed more assistance, a helicopter is called to take the person out. It is very quick, and very efficient.
Is there a road in Stehekin?
You might not be able to drive TO Stehekin, but yes, there is a road in Stehekin! It is 13 miles long and full of sight seeing. It used to be 23 miles long until it washed out, making us lose 10 miles of road. It still has yet to be fixed and they community is pushing hard to get it approved.
If you are visiting the Stehekin Valley there are plenty of ways to explore the Stehekin Valley Road:
- Walking
- Biking
- Electric Bikes
- Can Am Rentals
- Shuttle Bus
- Private Rental Cabin Vehicle (Some rental cabins come with a vehicle!)
The Stehekin Valley Road gives you access to all the sights in Stehekin and the hiking/backpacking trails.
Boat Mooring?
There is a public dock for private boaters to dock their own boats along with a gas pump. For more information and docking permits on Lake Chelan, visit the Forest Service website.
Where can I stay overnight?
There are multiple options for places to stay in Stehekin. Private Rental Cabins, Stehekin Valley Ranch, North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin, or camping.
Visit our lodging page for some options: www.stehekin.com/lodging
Camping is free, but they recommend booking your camp site in advance here: www.recreation.gov