7 Brilliant Reasons Why Leavenworth is the Ultimate Retirement Town
Retiring in Leavenworth, Washington is the perfect opportunity for those seeking a scenic location to spend their golden years. With its picturesque mountains, outdoor recreation opportunities, and unique Bavarian architecture, Leavenworth is a popular destination for retirees.
1. The Weather in Leavenworth
One of the most significant benefits of retiring in Leavenworth is the area’s weather. The region features four distinct seasons, with warm temperatures in the summer and crisp winters with plenty of snowfall. The average high temperature in July is 88°F, and the average low temperature in January is 20°F. This climate is perfect for year round outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. Winter months can bring heavy snowfall and below-freezing temperatures. In January of 2022, Leavenworth broke records with 56” of snow falling in a 48 hour period!
2. Hospitals and Healthcare in Leavenworth
Another essential factor to consider when retiring in Leavenworth is healthcare. Cascade Medical Center is an accredited Critical Access Hospital with an Emergency Room, ambulance service, and a family practice clinic, all located in downtown Leavenworth.
Larger hospitals are located in Wenatchee, which is about a 30-minute drive away. This may be a concern for retirees who need frequent medical attention or have underlying health conditions that need specialized care. However, Wenatchee has excellent medical facilities, and retirees can access quality healthcare services in the area.
3. Leavenworth Public Library
Leavenworth’s public library is well-stocked and provides numerous resources for both residents and visitors. The main library is on Highway 2 in Leavenworth by the city hall and offers a wide range of books, magazines, and digital resources. Additionally, the library hosts community events, such as book clubs and children’s storytime, making it a valuable resource for retirees who want to stay engaged. The Leavenworth library is one of thirty libraries that make up the North Central Washington Library system which makes requesting a book easy.
4. Golf in Leavenworth
For retirees who enjoy golfing, Leavenworth has several golf courses in the area, including the Leavenworth Golf Course and Kahler Glen Golf & Ski Resort. These courses offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the sunshine and a round of golf. Kahler Glen is located near Nason Creek and the shores of Lake Wenatchee, while the Leavenworth Golf Course is bordered by the Wenatchee River near the confluence of Icicle Creek.
Condominium living is available both at Kahler Glen and at the Leavenworth Golf Course which is a very attractive option for retirees.
When the golf courses shut down for the winter, they are groomed for nordic skiing.
5. Leavenworth Community Pool
Swimmers are lucky to have a public swimming pool in downtown Leavenworth on Highway 2 next to Lions Park. The Leavenworth Community pool is an outdoor swimming pool that is open in the summer from roughly Memorial Day in May through Labor Day in September. An annual pass for local seniors is only $60.
6. Outdoor Recreation
Leavenworth is known for its breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. The area offers numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and water sports activities.
Additionally, Leavenworth is home to Stevens Pass Ski Resort, which offers excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months. Nordic Skiing (cross-country skiing) is available at the Stevens Pass Nordic Center, Plain, Lake Wenatchee, and Kahler Glen. Closer to town, the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club grooms ski trails at the golf course, the Fish Hatchery and the Leavenworth Ski Hill.
The town is also located near the Wenatchee National Forest, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, camping, hunting, and wildlife viewing. Retirees who enjoy the outdoors will find plenty to do in Leavenworth, making it an ideal location for those who want to stay active and engage in physical activities.
7. Proximity to Airports
Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT) is located in East Wenatchee, about 40 minutes away. Commercial flights from Alaska Airlines / Horizon fly to Seattle, sometimes with multiple flights depending on the season.
Leavenworth is located about 2 hours away from Seattle, which is home to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the United States. This proximity makes it convenient for retirees to travel to other parts of the country or the world. Retirees who enjoy traveling will appreciate the convenient access to air transportation.
