One of Washington’s hidden gems, Ohme Gardens, is a breathtaking stop on your next Wenatchee visit or road trip through Washington. Perched high above the river and valley, Ohme is a hillside oasis full of lush evergreens, wildflowers, and winding stone paths. The beautifully tended gardens are a testament to patience and creativity spanning nearly a century.  

The story of Ohme Gardens begins in 1929, when Herman Ohme purchased what was a dry, rugged land on a hillside. Ohme married Ruth Orcutt a few years later, and together they envisioned turning the land into a lush, alpine landscape. Over decades, they carefully transplanted young trees from the Cascade Mountains, shaped pathways using naive stones from the Columbia River, and slowly brought life to the land. The land became a thriving alpine garden, complete with open meadows, cascading waterfalls, and shady forests. Eventually, the Ohmes sold the land to the Washington State Parks to be preserved and shared with the public.  

Today, the vision continues to bloom, inviting visitors into a tranquil, immersive oasis. You’ll wander through towering cedar and Douglas fir trees, take in the scenic overlooks that frame the valley below, and follow meandering trails that pass-through water features.

Spring is an especially amazing time to pay the gardens a visit, with wildflowers in full bloom across the gardens. Beyond the natural beauty, the gardens also host a lineup of seasonal events from outdoor yoga and live music to movie nights and comedy shows. Be sure to check out their lineup of events before planning your visit.

Ohme Gardens will reopen for the season on April 15, welcoming visitors through October 15. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from city life or a family road trip through Washington, Ohme Gardens is a must–see stop on your trip. Learn more at https://www.ohmegardens.org/

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