Shore Street River Access provides a convenient Wenatchee River entry point in residential Leavenworth, located along Shore Street where local residents and visitors can access the river for swimming, fishing, and riverside recreation. This neighborhood access area sits downstream from the main downtown parks, offering a quieter alternative to the busier Waterfront Park and Enchantment Park beach areas. The access point features natural riverbank with a mix of sandy patches and river stones, surrounded by the residential character of Leavenworth's riverside neighborhoods. Mature trees line the banks providing shade during summer afternoons, while the clear mountain waters of the Wenatchee River flow past at varying speeds depending on seasonal snowmelt from the Cascades. The location at 12463 Shore Street places it within easy reach of Highway 2 and downtown amenities while maintaining a more local, less touristy atmosphere. Views extend across the river to forested slopes and distant mountain peaks, creating a scenic backdrop for river activities. This access point serves both as a take-out location for tubers and rafters completing downstream floats and as a put-in spot for those beginning river adventures toward Cashmere.
Swimming and wading are popular during summer months when the Wenatchee River's flow drops below 900 cubic feet per second, creating safer conditions for recreational water activities. Families living nearby often bring children to this access point for supervised water play, though life jackets are essential and legally required for children under 12 even during low-flow periods due to persistent currents that can strengthen unexpectedly. Tubing is common, with many visitors using Shore Street as either a launch point for downstream floats or as a convenient exit from the river after floating from upstream locations like Waterfront Park or Enchantment Park. Fishing from the riverbank attracts local anglers pursuing rainbow trout, bull trout, and mountain whitefish in the Wenatchee's cold, clear waters. The residential setting means fewer amenities compared to the developed city parks - no restrooms, parking areas, or picnic facilities - so visitors should come prepared with necessary supplies. The quieter atmosphere appeals to those seeking a less crowded river experience while still enjoying easy access to Leavenworth's dining and shopping. During spring runoff when snowmelt swells the river to dangerous levels with powerful currents and cold temperatures, the access point becomes more suitable for viewing the rushing water from the safety of the bank rather than entering the water.
After enjoying Shore Street River Access, Leavenworth's downtown restaurants are just a short drive or walk away. Gustav's Grill and Beer Garden features German-inspired cuisine including multiple schnitzel variations with traditional golden breading, bratwurst platters served with sauerkraut and artisan mustards, fresh seasonal salads with house-made dressings, and house-brewed Icicle Ales crafted on-site in styles ranging from pilsners to IPAs. Mozart's Restaurant delivers fine European cuisine with over 25 years of family tradition, pairing regional Pacific Northwest produce and premium meat cuts with classical European cooking techniques, an extensive wine selection featuring Washington and European vintages, and elegant presentations. Leavenworth Coffee and Waffles elevates breakfast and brunch with deliciously stuffed waffles including savory options like ham, cheddar, and eggs, and sweet choices featuring berry compotes, Nutella, whipped cream, and fresh fruit, all served with locally roasted Leavenworth Coffee Roasters coffee. Rhein Haus Leavenworth serves house-made bratwurst in varieties including traditional Bavarian, spicy Italian, and specialty sausages, traditionally prepared schnitzel with lemon wedges, giant soft pretzels with warm beer cheese dipping sauce, and 12 rotating craft beers on tap alongside creative cocktails featuring local spirits. Lost Pig Cafe provides creative breakfast and lunch including breakfast kolaches stuffed with chorizo, peppers, and scrambled eggs, innovative tacos featuring locally sourced meats and vegetables, nourishing grain bowls with seasonal ingredients, and freshly prepared margaritas and other cocktails.
