Your trusted source for local Leavenworth, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Washington State Department of Ecology issued an air quality alert for Chelan and Douglas counties due to smoke from ongoing wildfires. Residents are advised to take precautions as air quality levels decline.
Cascade School District's youngest students began the 2025-2026 school year at Peshastin-Dryden Elementary on September 2. The school welcomed Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten students as they joined their peers for a new academic year. This marks a significant milestone for the district's early education program.
The Wenatchee River Salmon Festival returns on September 20, featuring cultural traditions and environmental education at Rocky Reach Park. This year’s theme, “Currents of Connection,” emphasizes the Columbia River's significance to local communities and wildlife. The event includes participation from 45 Native American educators representing multiple tribes.
Dry lightning storms over Labor Day Weekend ignited multiple new fires in North Central Washington's Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service reported six fire incidents, including the 25-acre Lower Sugarloaf Fire and the three-acre Cougar Fire, both exhibiting high spread potential. Officials urge hikers to avoid affected areas and exercise caution due to increased emergency response activity.
A two-day FBI-led grid search near Leavenworth recovered items potentially linked to the investigation of Travis Decker, whose three daughters were found murdered in June. Over 100 personnel searched more than 247 acres, emphasizing the importance of thorough terrain documentation. Authorities remind the public that Decker is considered dangerous and urge immediate reporting of sightings.
NCW Libraries encourages North Central Washington residents to celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month in September with the theme “One Card, Endless Possibilities.” The initiative aims to promote library membership by highlighting the diverse resources available to cardholders. Residents are invited to participate in various activities throughout the month.
The Leavenworth City Council established priorities for 2025–27 during its annual retreat on August 26. The council aimed to provide clear direction to staff on key initiatives for the upcoming years.
Students in the Cascade School District returned to school this week, with first and second graders starting earlier than younger peers. The district implemented a ban on personal electronic devices in classrooms to enhance focus and foster better connections among students.
Stevens Pass targets December 5 for its 2025-2026 winter season opening, continuing a trend of early December openings. The previous season saw a successful early start due to heavy snowfall, while the 2023-2024 season faced delays from minimal snow.
The City of Leavenworth seeks public input on transportation safety through a new survey aimed at identifying unsafe areas for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. Feedback will inform a Safe Streets and Roads for All Safety Action Plan, funded by a $127,000 federal grant.