Exploring Leavenworth: A Bavarian Gem in the Pacific Northwest

After the unexpected detour from Glacier National Park and our brief stay in Coeur d'Alene, we finally found ourselves in the picturesque town of Leavenworth, Washington. The drive from the eastern part of the state to the stunning mountains surrounding Leavenworth was an adventure in itself. As we approached, the landscape transformed from arid plains to lush, tree-covered peaks, setting the stage for our next chapter.

Setting Up Camp at Thousand Trails Leavenworth

Our home base for this leg of the journey was the Thousand Trails Leavenworth, a heavily wooded campground nestled near the national forest. The campground was a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, surrounded by towering trees and located just a short drive from beautiful lakes, hiking trails, rivers, and the Bavarian-styled village of Leavenworth. It was the ideal spot to unwind, reconnect with nature, and explore the local area.

A Taste of Bavaria in Washington

Leavenworth itself was like stepping into a storybook. The village is designed to resemble a traditional Bavarian town, complete with charming architecture, quaint shops, and delicious German cuisine. We spent our days wandering through the village, sampling bratwurst and pretzels, and soaking in the unique atmosphere that makes Leavenworth so special. The mix of local culture and stunning mountain scenery made it an unforgettable experience.

Hiking and Reindeer Adventures

Beyond the village, the surrounding area offered endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. We laced up our hiking boots and hit the trails, exploring the dense forests and enjoying the serene beauty of the lakes and rivers. One of the highlights of our stay was a visit to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. It was an incredible experience to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures, learning about their habits and habitats while getting a chance to feed them by hand.

Reuniting with Xscaper Friends

One of the most memorable moments of our time in Leavenworth was an unexpected reunion with some of our Xscaper friends. While out on a hike, they happened to spot our truck in the campground, recognizing it by the Xscapers sticker on the back. They sent us a message, and we quickly arranged to meet up for a campfire that evening. It was a night filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of good company. Our friends were heading out the next day to continue their journey, but we were so glad to have had the chance to reconnect, even if just for one night.

Reflecting on Our Time in Leavenworth

Our stay in Leavenworth was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and connection. From the charming Bavarian village to the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area, every moment was a reminder of why we love life on the road. And while we were sad to see our friends move on, we knew that more adventures and reunions awaited us down the road.

Stay tuned for our next update as we continue our journey through the Pacific Northwest and beyond!