Like Stehekin [1], the old copper and gold mining town of Holden is off the main road system. The Lady of the Lake stops at Lucerne, and a bus takes you 12 miles uphill to Holden (509/687-3644, www.holdenvillage.org [2], $30 per person). The mine closed in 1957, but the historic buildings remain, now run as a friendly Lutheran retreat that is especially popular with families.
There are classes of all sorts, plus sessions on theology, the environment, and interpersonal issues. It’s a spectacular mountain-rimmed setting, and many fine trails surround Holden, becoming ski trails in winter.
You don’t have to be religious or a member of any church to stay here. Guests stay in simple but comfortable lodges, and three healthy meals are included in the rate. A sauna, hot tub, pool room, bowling alley, and snack bar are also in the village. The Lake Chelan Boat Company’s (1319 W. Woodin Ave., 509/682-2224, www.ladyofthelake.com [3]) vessels stop here daily.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/north-cascades/chelan/stehekin
[2] http://www.holdenvillage.org
[3] http://www.ladyofthelake.com