Chelan County, Washington is situated in the North Central region of Washington State, near the Cascade Mountains. It is bordered by Okanogan County to the north, Kittitas County to the east, Douglas County to the south, and Grant and Chelan Counties to the west. The county’s total area is approximately 2,994 square miles with an elevation ranging from 1,000 feet in the valley floor to 8,000 feet in the Cascade Mountains. The county contains four major rivers including Wenatchee River, Entiat River, Chelan River and Columbia River which provide a source of recreation for residents and visitors alike.
The landscape of Chelan County consists of rolling hills covered with dense forests as well as open grasslands and sagebrush steppes. There are several mountain peaks located within the county including Mount Stuart which stands at 9,415 feet tall. The county also has numerous lakes which provide opportunities for fishing and other recreational activities such as boating and swimming. The climate in Chelan County is generally mild with hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from a high of 86°F in July to a low of 28°F in January.
The population of Chelan County is approximately 79,231 people according to 2019 estimates making it one of the least populated counties in Washington State. Its largest city is Wenatchee which has a population of 32,171 people as of 2019 estimates. Other cities located within Chelan County include Cashmere (4,743), Leavenworth (2,073) and Entiat (1,370).
Country Seat and Other Main Cities of Chelan County, Washington
The county seat of Chelan County, Washington is located in the city of Wenatchee. It is the largest city in the county and as of 2019 estimates, it has a population of 32,171 people. The city was founded in 1888 and is home to many historic landmarks such as the Apple Capital Loop Trail, Mission Ridge Ski Area, Ohme Gardens and Walla Walla Park.
According to countryaah.com, Cashmere is the second-largest city in Chelan County with a population of 4,743 people as of 2019 estimates. The city was founded in 1889 and is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking trails at Cashmere Mountain Park and fishing on Icicle Creek. Other attractions include Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, Lake Wenatchee State Park and Peshastin Pinnacles State Park.
Leavenworth is another popular destination located within Chelan County with a population of 2,073 people according to 2019 estimates. The city was founded in 1906 and is known for its Bavarian-style architecture which gives it a unique look compared to other cities in Washington State. Popular attractions include Waterfront Park, Nutcracker Museum and Ski Hill Park.
Entiat is the fourth largest city located within Chelan County with a population of 1,370 people as of 2019 estimates. The city was founded in 1892 and is known for its stunning mountain views as well as outdoor recreation opportunities such as camping at Entiat River Park or fishing on Lake Entiat. Other attractions include Lincoln Rock State Park and Entiat Historical Museum which houses artifacts from early settlers of the area.
History of Chelan County, Washington
Chelan County, Washington is located in the north-central part of the state and has an estimated population of 75,932 people as of 2019 estimates. It is one of the least populated counties in Washington State with its largest city being Wenatchee. The history of Chelan County dates back to 1854 when it was initially established as part of Thurston County. In 1863, Chelan County was officially recognized by the Washington Territorial Legislature and became a separate county.
The area that is now Chelan County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Wenatchi people who were living in the region for thousands of years before settlers arrived. In 1858, gold was discovered near present-day Leavenworth which brought more settlers to the area and led to increased development in Chelan County.
In 1889, Cashmere was incorporated as a city which marked an important milestone for Chelan County. Wenatchee followed suit in 1888 and soon after that, Leavenworth and Entiat were also incorporated into cities in 1906 and 1892 respectively. This marked a period of rapid growth for Chelan County with many new businesses and industries being established during this time.
During World War II, the economy of Chelan County shifted from agricultural production to industrial production with many factories being built throughout the county. The population also increased significantly during this time due to an influx of workers looking for employment opportunities at these new factories.
Economy of Chelan County, Washington
The economy of Chelan County, Washington is largely supported by agriculture, tourism and manufacturing. The county is home to many orchards and vineyards which produce a variety of fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, cherries, grapes and more. This agricultural production is one of the main economic drivers for the county.
Tourism is also an important source of income for Chelan County. The area has become a popular destination for outdoor recreation with its stunning mountain views, numerous lakes and rivers as well as camping opportunities at Entiat River Park or fishing on Lake Entiat. Other attractions include Lincoln Rock State Park and Entiat Historical Museum which houses artifacts from early settlers of the area.
In addition to agriculture and tourism, manufacturing also plays an important role in the economy of Chelan County. There are many factories located in the area which produce a variety of products such as furniture, electronics, food products and more. These factories employ a large number of people in the county providing much needed jobs and income for its residents.
The county also has several other industries that contribute to its economy such as retail stores, restaurants and hotels. These businesses provide employment opportunities for local residents as well as attract tourists to the area who spend money on lodging, dining out and shopping during their stay here.
Overall, Chelan County has a diverse economy that provides employment opportunities for its residents while also attracting visitors from all over who come to enjoy its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation activities.