Why Spend Your Morning at Stutzman Ranch Wenatchee?
Pick-Your-Own Fruit Paradise
Immersive Orchard Experience
Stutzman Ranch Wenatchee invites visitors into a working family orchard bursting with seasonal treasures. Wander through shaded, well-tended rows of cherry, apricot, peach, nectarine, and apple trees. Depending on the time of summer, you could be handpicking ripe Rainier cherries, fuzzy golden apricots, or juicy, sun-warmed peaches—every fruit with its own sweet story.
Interaction and Education
Staff are on hand to share harvesting tips, fruit facts, and the history of one of the region’s oldest family-run orchards. It’s a living classroom for kids and adults, connecting you to the land and seasonal rhythms.
Family-Friendly and Relaxed Atmosphere
Safe, Welcoming Spaces
Children can run safely between orchard rows, sample fruit right from the tree, and learn where their food comes from. Shaded rest areas and picnic tables make it easy to regroup and savor a mid-morning snack together.
Stress-free Parking and Entry
The ranch offers plenty of on-site parking and spacious grounds, so crowds never feel overwhelming even at peak season.
Ultra-Convenient Location
Minutes from Downtown Wenatchee
Stutzman Ranch Wenatchee is located just outside the heart of the city. The drive is short, scenic, and easy to find, whether you’re coming from your hotel, a rental, or off the Apple Capital Loop Trail.
Close to Other Attractions
By noon, you’re positioned perfectly to transition to a river adventure, local lunch, or another Wenatchee highlight—maximizing your day without wasting time commuting.
Postcard-Worthy Scenery
Mountain Views & Sunlit Orchards
Take in the sight of the Columbia River valley backed by Cascade peaks and rolling green orchards—the ultimate photo backdrop for friends, families, or solo adventurers.
Seasonal Wildflowers and Pollinators
The ranch is alive with butterflies and birds in summer, providing plenty of opportunities for nature photography or just pausing to enjoy the environment.
Insider Tips for the Best Experience
Dress for the Day
Wear closed-toe shoes (orchard grass can be slippery!), a wide-brimmed hat, and layers for changing temperatures.
Bring Your Gear
Baskets, boxes, and totes are provided but bringing your own helps transport your harvest home.
Ask What’s Ripe
Not all fruits peak at once! Ask the staff what’s best to pick that week for maximum flavor and freshness.
Stay Hydrated
The Wenatchee sun can be strong by late morning. Bring water bottles and plan to take breaks in the shade.
Next-Level Adventure: Cool Off With a Jet Boat Ride
When your baskets are full and the midday sun is rising, shift gears from orchard calm to Columbia River excitement. Here’s why a jet boat ride is the perfect afternoon follow-up:
Instant Refreshment & High-Speed
Beat the Heat – Wiley’s Style
Nothing wakes you up like the full-throttle roar of a jet boat tearing across the Columbia River. Feel the spray on your face, the wind whipping through your hair, and the thrill of high-speed spins, Hamilton turns, and surprise drifts that send laughter echoing across the water.
Cool Down After the Orchard
After a sunny morning picking fruit, this is your reward—a rush of cool river mist and fresh mountain air as you power across open water with your friends or family. Whether you’re gripping the rail during an adrenaline-filled maneuver or cheering on the big splashes together, every moment is made for pure group fun.
Custom Thrills for Every Group
Your USCG-licensed captain knows how to read the crowd—dialing up the speed and spins for thrill‑seekers, or easing into scenic cruising for those who want to soak in the river views and chat. Either way, you’ll stay refreshed and smiling from start to finish.
Unmatched Wenatchee Scenery from the Water
Sweeping Vistas
Glide past dramatic basalt cliffs, lush riverbanks, and the striking profiles of the Cascades in the distance. See Wenatchee from a perspective you can’t get anywhere else—especially photogenic in the afternoon light.
Landmarks Along the Route
Your ride can take you near Rocky Reach Dam, the Apple Capital Loop Trail, Wenatchee Confluence State Park, and under the iconic bridges that span the Columbia.
Wildlife Encounters
Spot Eagles, Ospreys, and Otters
The Columbia is teeming with wildlife; your captain knows where to look for soaring eagles, fishing ospreys, and the quick splash of otter families.
Learn from the Crew
Captains share stories and fun facts about the river’s ecosystem, adding educational value to the adventure.
Personalized Experience Every Time
Tailored to Your Group
Private jet boat tours accommodate families, couples, or friend groups—usually up to five guests per outing. Want a leisurely scenic ride? Or a high-speed thrill? The captain adjusts the ride to your preferences.
Photography & Fun Included
Many rides come with complimentary action cameras or a photo/media package so everyone can enjoy the adventure—and the view—without worrying about their own phone.
Accessible and Family-Friendly
All Ages Welcome
The boats are designed with safety and comfort in mind, with easy boarding and attentive instruction for younger participants or seniors.
Bring Your Own Snacks
Pack a picnic from your orchard harvest! Many guests enjoy fruit on deck, along with cold drinks and simple snacks.
Sample Itinerary: The Perfect Wenatchee Day
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at Stutzman Ranch Wenatchee, check in, and meet the staff.
- 9:15–11:00 AM: Stroll the orchards, sample and pick your chosen fruits, take family photos, and enjoy the shade.
- 11:00–11:30 AM: Relax at the picnic area, enjoy your fresh-picked snacks, and prepare for the next adventure.
Midday/Afternoon
- 12:00 PM: Head downtown (a quick drive) and grab a bite at a local riverfront café, or enjoy a shaded riverside lunch with your fruits.
- Your Wiley’s Boat Rides jet boat cruise
- Book your ride slot in advance online. Multiple slots are available throughout the day (morning, midday, afternoon).
- Plan to arrive at Wenatchee marina at least 10–15 minutes before your selected slot time to check in, meet your captain, and board the boat.
- Jet Boat Departure: Enjoy your cruise at your chosen slot—adventure or private cruise styles available, based on group preference.
Note: Adjust the timing of your itinerary around your booked jet boat slot—Wiley’s Boat Rides offers several options every day. Always confirm your boat ride time and plan your other activities to finish before check-in at the marina.
Evening
- 4:00 PM: Dock and enjoy ice cream or a cold drink at Pybus Public Market or another riverside spot.
- 4:30 PM: Stroll the Apple Capital Loop Trail, visit a local cidery, or simply relax by the water before heading home.
What to Pack for the Ultimate Wenatchee Combo Day
- Personal Fruit Containers (optional, for larger hauls)
- Sturdy Walking Shoes (orchard and marina terrain can be uneven)
- Sun Protection: Wide-brim hats, SPF sunscreen, sunglasses
- Reusable Water Bottles: Stay hydrated from field to river
- Layered Clothing: Mornings may be cool; afternoons on the water can be breezy
- Camera/Phone with Water Protection: For all those orchard and river memories
- Snacks or a Picnic: Pair just-picked fruit with Wenatchee bakery treats or local cheeses on your cruise
Book Your Perfect Wenatchee Adventure
Ready for the ultimate Wenatchee experience?
- Contact Stutzman Ranch Wenatchee directly online or by phone to confirm the current harvest, season hours, and group policies.
- Reserve your jet boat ride in advance with Wiley’s Boat Rides to guarantee your post-orchard splash on the Columbia River.
- Pack a basket, your sense of adventure, and a sweet tooth—this is the memorable summer outing everyone will talk about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fruit seasons vary—cherries typically ripen in late June/early July, peaches and apricots in July/August, and apples in late summer to early fall. Contact or check the ranch’s official website or social media for the latest harvest updates before planning your visit.
Absolutely! The ranch is beloved by families, groups, and solo travelers. Children love the hands-on experience, and adults appreciate the scenery, relaxation, and unbeatable fruit quality.
Advance booking is recommended—especially for weekends or peak summer dates. Visit Wiley’s Boat Rides website or contact them directly to reserve your preferred time and specify any special requests.
Yes! Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, fruit from orchard visits, and non-alcoholic beverages. Please use secure, spill-proof containers. Alcohol and controlled substances are strictly prohibited both on board and at the dock
No previous boating experience is necessary. All safety gear is provided, and your captain will offer instructions before departure. Just show up, buckle up, and enjoy the fun.
Summer in Wenatchee is typically warm and clear, but the boats run in most weather conditions except for severe storms. Your captain will communicate any adjustments if needed. Bring a lightweight jacket for peace of mind on breezy afternoons.
The Columbia is home to eagles, osprey, herons, river otters, beavers, and salmon. Your captain will point out sightings and offer fun river facts along the way.