The Wenatchee River Institute is based on a nine-acre nature reserve, encompassing forests, fields, trails along the Wenatchee River, several art installations, and seven gardens. On this walking tour, you’ll experience a small section of this unique space from the perspective of the artists who were inspired by the landscape you’ll see around you.

While you meander through the reserve, you’ll see The Bird Nest Rock Garden by Kasey Koski, the iconic River Haus with the Watershed art collection housed inside, as well as the ELY Community Garden which was named after Leavenworth’s first female mayor, and is a work of art in its own right. Along the way, you can look forward to:

• Hearing highlights from River Haus’ 100+ year history
• Learning about the Wenatchee River Institute’s mission to connect communities and the natural world through environmental education
• Finding out about “Magical Realism” and its role in art
• Sampling a delicious strawberry from the public patch (when in season, of course!)
• Seeing the Bavarian Rhapsody mural created by Ginger Reddington on a metal canvas

What makes this tour magical is the location! Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, wild meadows and wildlife, enjoy making your way along shaded gravel pathways on this art exploration. There are only a few steps on this tour, which makes it accessible for all. Enjoy hearing a bit of history and get inspired by some of the wonderful artists who make this valley their home.