Wenatchee Riverfront Loop Trail

The idea of shoreline trails along the Columbia River has been a dream shared by many in our community for decades.

When Chelan County PUD completed the five-mile trail system along the Wenatchee riverfront in 1990, our valley came alive with a new focus and appreciation for the river. The parks and trails have added much to our quality of living.

The Douglas County side of the trail was opened in October 1994, completing the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail, the longest loop trail in Washington State. The loop trail traverses more than ten miles of Columbia River shorelands. The west side of the trail features a state‑of‑the‑art urban waterfront park system complemented by the rich diversity of natural habitat offered by the east side shoreline trail area.

Multiple Use of the Apple Capital Loop Trail
Since completion in 1994, the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail has been a resounding success. The trail has become a major transportation corridor that serves thousands of commuter and recreational trail users each year. The trail system can at times be busy with cyclists, walkers, joggers, and skaters. In the winter months, cross country skiers and snowshoers also share the trail.

Regardless of whether you are bicycling, walking, jogging, skating or skiing, your trip will be safer and more enjoyable for all if you observe trail etiquette.

Apple Capital Loop Trail Etiquette

Keep right. Stay as near to the right side of the trail as is safe, except when passing another user.
Use no more than half the trail when you are in a group or with a pet so as not to block the flow of other users. Wheeled participants (cyclists, bladers, skaters) must ride in single file unless passing.

Be Predictable. Travel in a consistent and predictable manner. Always look behind before changing positions on the trail.

Give An Audible Warning Before Passing. Always pass to the left. Give a clear signal by using voice, bell or horn before passing. Give the people you are passing time to respond. Watch for their reaction.

Pets Must Be On A Leash. Pets and domestic animals are prohibited in designated wildlife and sensitive habitat areas.

Obey All Traffic Signs And Signals. Use extra caution where trails cross streets and driveways. Stop at all stop signs and intersections. When entering or crossing a trail yield to traffic on the trail.

Stopping. When stopping, move off of the trail. Beware of others approaching you from behind and make sure they know you are pulling over.

Be Respectful Of Private Property. Trails are open to the public, but often the land adjacent to the trail is private property. Please respect all property rights.

Pack It In, Pack It Out. Do not leave glass, paper, cans, plastic, or any other debris on or near the trail. If you drop something, please remove it immediately.

Alcoholic Beverages, Controlled Substances And Legend Drugs Are Prohibited. Don’t overestimate the safety of the trail. You may need all of your reflexes quickly. Do not have them impaired.

The Nature Preserve portion of the trail on the east side will be CLOSED from DECEMBER 1 through MARCH 1 each year.

Trail hours are dawn to dusk, unless otherwise posted. Unlit portions of the trail are for daylight use only.

The Loop Trail currently involves six managing agencies. For more information regarding the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail you may contact the following:

Chelan County PUD
509-663-8121

Eastmont Metropolitan Parks & Recreation
509-884-8015

City of East Wenatchee
509-884-1829

Washington State Parks
509-664-6373

Washington State D.O.T.
509-662-0504

City of Wenatchee Parks and Recreation
509-664-3392