Complete Guide to Lake Chelan Neighborhoods
Explore the communities, lifestyle, and real estate options around one of Washington’s most beautiful lakes.
Living Around Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan is one of Washington’s most extraordinary places to live.
Stretching more than 50 miles into the Cascade Mountains, the lake is known for its crystal-clear water, surrounding vineyards and orchards, and the relaxed pace of life that defines the valley.
For many people, the appeal of Lake Chelan begins with the scenery — blue water framed by mountain ridges and sun-filled hillsides. But what keeps people here is the sense of community and the lifestyle that comes with living near the lake.
One thing new buyers quickly discover is that Lake Chelan isn’t just a single neighborhood.
Instead, the area is made up of a collection of communities and residential areas surrounding the lake and valley. Each neighborhood offers a slightly different atmosphere, setting, and style of homes.
Some areas are walkable and lively, close to restaurants, parks, and marinas. Others sit quietly above the lake with panoramic views stretching across the water. Some communities are known for luxury waterfront homes, while others feature hillside properties or shared lake access.
Understanding these differences is one of the best ways to begin exploring real estate around Lake Chelan.
This guide provides an overview of the neighborhoods and communities around the lake so you can better understand where each area sits and what makes it unique.
Lake Chelan Neighborhoods at a Glance
Downtown Chelan
Walkable small town living with restaurants, parks, and marina access.
Manson
A relaxed lakeside town known for wineries and scenic lake views.
Chelan Hills
Community waterfront living with fantastic amenities.
Crystal View Estates
Custom homes with panoramic lake and mountain views.
Legacy Ridge
Quiet hillside neighborhood with spacious homes & privacy.
Key Bay
Waterfront community known for boating and lakefront living.
Bear Mountain
Luxury hillside homes overlooking Lake Chelan.
Hawks Ridge / Meadow
Quiet residential neighborhoods overlooking the Chelan Valley.
Clos CheValle
Gated vineyard community, luxury homes.
Wapato Point
Resort community, vacation homes and condos. Most desirable beach in the valley.
Lake Chelan Shores
Waterfront condominium community.
Each of these areas contributes to the unique character of the Lake Chelan valley.
Understanding the Geography of Lake Chelan
The easiest way to understand Lake Chelan neighborhoods is to first picture the lake itself.
The city of Chelan sits at the southern end of the lake where the Chelan River flows toward the Columbia River.
From there the lake stretches north into the mountains.
Communities around the lake generally fall into several geographic areas:
• Downtown Chelan and nearby neighborhoods
• Hillside communities overlooking the lake
• The South Shore along Highway 97A
• The town of Manson and surrounding areas
Each area offers a slightly different experience of lake living.
Some locations place you close to restaurants and waterfront parks, while others offer peaceful hillside views and quiet residential streets.
For many buyers, the right location depends on how they want to experience the lake day to day.
Chelan
Downtown Chelan is the heart of the valley.
Located at the southern tip of Lake Chelan, it’s where the community gathers and where many visitors first experience the lake.
Living near downtown offers a lifestyle that is both vibrant and convenient.
Within just a few blocks you’ll find:
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public beaches and parks
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wineries
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coffee shops and bakeries
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restaurants and wine tasting rooms
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local boutiques
During the summer months the downtown area becomes especially lively, with farmers markets, concerts, and seasonal festivals filling the calendar.
For buyers who want to walk to restaurants, enjoy waterfront parks, and be close to the activity of the lake, downtown Chelan can be an ideal place to live.
Manson
About seven miles north of Chelan sits the lakeside town of Manson.
While Chelan has the energy of a small resort town, Manson offers a slightly quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
The town centers around Manson Bay Park, a beautiful waterfront park that features a swimming beach, marina, playground, and open green space.
Manson is also known for its connection to the Lake Chelan wine region.
Several wineries are located nearby, and tasting rooms throughout the area contribute to the relaxed wine-country character of the town.
Homes in Manson range from cozy lakeside cottages to hillside estates overlooking the lake.
Many residents appreciate the small-town feel and the strong sense of community that defines life in Manson.
Hillside Communities Overlooking the Lake
Several neighborhoods sit on hillsides above Lake Chelan.
Because of the valley’s topography, these communities often offer some of the most impressive views in the region.
Homes here frequently feature:
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panoramic lake views
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large windows and outdoor living spaces
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quiet residential streets
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proximity to Chelan without being directly in town
These hillside neighborhoods are particularly popular with buyers seeking scenery and privacy.
Chelan Hills
Chelan Hills is one of the most recognizable residential communities on the north side of Lake Chelan.
Developed in the 1960s, the neighborhood has grown into a popular area for both full-time residents and vacation homeowners who want sweeping views of the lake along with convenient access to shared waterfront amenities.
Homes throughout Chelan Hills are positioned on hillsides overlooking the lake, which allows many properties to capture expansive views across the Chelan Valley and surrounding mountains.
What makes the neighborhood especially distinctive is its private community waterfront system. Rather than each property having its own dock, residents share access to several privately maintained parks along the shoreline.
Community amenities include:
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multiple private parks
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waterfront swimming areas
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docks and day-use moorage
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boat launch
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community pools
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tennis and recreation areas
Two of the parks sit directly on the lake and provide swimming areas and moorage, while additional parks include pools, play areas, and open green spaces for residents and their guests.
Because of this combination of lake access, hillside views, and community amenities, Chelan Hills has long been a favorite for buyers seeking a vacation property or second home near Lake Chelan.
The neighborhood also sits just a few minutes from downtown Chelan, giving residents easy access to restaurants, shops, and the marina.
Crystal View Estates
Crystal View Estates is a hillside community overlooking the north shore of Lake Chelan, known for its expansive lake views and quiet residential setting.
The neighborhood was thoughtfully designed so that homes could take advantage of sweeping panoramas across the lake while maintaining open view corridors between properties. The development covers roughly 100 acres of hillside terrain, with homesites arranged to protect both scenery and property values.
Because of its elevated location above the shoreline, many homes in Crystal View Estates enjoy wide views of the lake, rolling hills, and the distant peaks of the North Cascades.
Properties in the neighborhood are typically custom homes built to reflect the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Architecture and landscaping guidelines help maintain a cohesive feel throughout the community while ensuring that new homes complement the setting and preserve neighboring views.
One of the features that makes Crystal View Estates especially appealing is its collection of shared recreational amenities along the lake.
Community amenities include:
• a private marina with boat access
• two swimming pools
• tennis and pickleball courts
• lake access and swimming areas
These amenities allow residents to enjoy boating and lake recreation without each property needing direct waterfront ownership.
The neighborhood is located just a short drive from downtown Chelan, giving homeowners convenient access to restaurants, wineries, and the Chelan marina while still enjoying a peaceful hillside environment.
Legacy Ridge
Legacy Ridge is a hillside residential community overlooking Lake Chelan just outside the city of Chelan.
The neighborhood was designed around elevated home sites that capture expansive views of the lake, surrounding orchards, and the North Cascade foothills. The development includes dozens of generously sized lots positioned at varying elevations to maximize scenery and privacy.
Because of the natural topography, many homes enjoy wide panoramic vistas across the Chelan Valley. Properties here tend to feature larger lots and custom homes designed to take advantage of outdoor living and lake views.
Residents often appreciate Legacy Ridge for its quiet setting combined with convenient access to town. Downtown Chelan, restaurants, and the marina are only a short drive away, allowing homeowners to enjoy both privacy and proximity to the lake’s main activity centers.
Buyers who gravitate toward Legacy Ridge are often looking for:
• hillside homes with sweeping lake views
• larger lots and architectural homes
• a peaceful residential setting
• quick access to downtown Chelan
The community’s design and elevated location give it a sense of openness and scenery that reflects the landscape of the Chelan Valley.
Key Bay
Key Bay is a small waterfront-oriented neighborhood located just outside the city of Chelan.
The community is known for its quiet atmosphere and strong connection to lake living. Many homes sit close to the shoreline or within walking distance of shared waterfront areas, making boating and swimming part of everyday life for residents.
Key Bay has a reputation as a peaceful neighborhood with a mix of year-round residents and vacation homes. The setting offers beautiful views of Lake Chelan and easy access to outdoor recreation such as boating and fishing.
Some properties in the community also enjoy access to shared waterfront amenities including docks, swimming areas, and open shoreline spaces designed for enjoying the lake.
Because of its location just a short distance from downtown Chelan, Key Bay offers a balance between quiet lake living and convenient access to restaurants, marinas, and local shops.
Buyers are often drawn to Key Bay for:
• proximity to downtown Chelan
• easy lake access
• a relaxed residential atmosphere
• waterfront and near-water homes
The neighborhood remains one of the more low-profile communities around Lake Chelan, which is part of what gives it its appeal.
Bear Mountain
Perched above the Chelan Valley, Bear Mountain is known for its elevated views, open landscapes, and proximity to one of the most scenic golf courses in Central Washington.
The neighborhood sits on the hillsides south of Lake Chelan, where the terrain rises above the valley floor and reveals wide views of the lake, orchards, and surrounding mountains. Because of this elevation, many homes capture sweeping panoramas that stretch across the water toward the north shore and Chelan Butte.
One of the defining landmarks in the area is Bear Mountain Ranch Golf Course, a course that winds through the hills overlooking the valley. The setting adds to the relaxed atmosphere of the neighborhood and contributes to the area’s reputation as one of the most scenic places to live near Chelan.
Homes in Bear Mountain tend to reflect the landscape around them. Many properties feature modern mountain architecture, large windows, and outdoor living spaces designed to take advantage of the surrounding views. Decks, patios, and open interiors are common elements, allowing homeowners to fully experience the scenery that makes this part of the valley special.
Although Bear Mountain feels peaceful and removed from the busier parts of town, it is still only a short drive from downtown Chelan. Restaurants, the marina, wineries, and waterfront parks are all within easy reach, making it possible to enjoy both quiet hillside living and the activity of the lake whenever you choose.
Buyers are often drawn to Bear Mountain for several reasons:
• elevated homesites with expansive lake views
• proximity to Bear Mountain Ranch Golf Course
• contemporary homes and newer construction
• a quiet residential atmosphere
• convenient access to Chelan and nearby wineries
For those looking for a home with dramatic scenery and a sense of space, Bear Mountain offers one of the most distinctive settings in the Chelan Valley.
Hawks Meadow & Hawks Ridge
Hawks Meadow and Hawks Ridge are two neighboring communities set high above the Chelan Valley.
Located on the hills overlooking Lake Chelan, the neighborhoods are known for their wide-open landscapes, large homesites, and exceptional privacy. The community was designed around spacious properties, with roughly 49 homesites spread across the hillside, allowing residents to enjoy generous separation between homes and unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
Many properties in Hawks Meadow and Hawks Ridge sit on large acreage parcels, giving homeowners room to create private estates surrounded by the natural beauty of the Chelan Valley.
Because of the elevation, homes throughout the community often capture sweeping views of:
• Lake Chelan
• the surrounding Cascade foothills
• orchards and vineyards across the valley
The neighborhoods are also located near thousands of acres of protected public land, adding to the sense of openness and preserving the scenic character of the area.
Unlike some lake communities that focus on waterfront access, Hawks Meadow and Hawks Ridge appeal to buyers who value space, scenery, and a quiet residential environment.
Homes here are typically custom-built and reflect a wide range of architectural styles, with each property designed to take advantage of its individual homesite and surrounding views.
Although the setting feels peaceful and private, the community is still only a short drive from downtown Chelan, where residents can enjoy restaurants, waterfront parks, wineries, and marina access.
Buyers are often drawn to Hawks Meadow and Hawks Ridge for:
• large acreage homesites
• panoramic views of Lake Chelan and the valley
• privacy and space between neighbors
• custom home architecture
• proximity to Chelan while maintaining a rural feel
For those looking to build or own a home in a setting that emphasizes scenery and privacy, Hawks Meadow and Hawks Ridge offer one of the most spacious residential environments around Lake Chelan.
South Shore Communities
The South Shore of Lake Chelan stretches west from downtown Chelan along Highway 97A.
This shoreline offers a mix of waterfront homes, hillside neighborhoods, and vineyard properties.
Because of its location along Highway 97A, the South Shore also provides convenient access to both Chelan and Wenatchee.
Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is one of the most well-known stretches of shoreline around Lake Chelan.
This area is known for luxury waterfront homes and expansive lake views.
Many properties here feature custom architecture, private docks, and outdoor spaces designed for enjoying the lake.
Its location along Highway 97A also makes travel convenient for residents heading toward Wenatchee or Seattle.
Clos Chevalle
Clos Chevalle is one of the more distinctive residential communities along the south side of Lake Chelan. The neighborhood sits a few miles west of downtown Chelan just off Highway 97A, positioned on the hills overlooking the lake and surrounding vineyards.
The development was designed to reflect the character of the Lake Chelan wine region. Spread across dozens of homesites set among vineyard plantings and open space, the community offers wide views of the lake, valley, and surrounding Cascade foothills.
Clos Chevalle includes roughly sixty-plus homesites across more than sixty acres, with most lots ranging from about ½ acre to ¾ acre in size.
This layout allows homes to be spaced apart while still maintaining view corridors across the landscape.
Architectural and landscaping guidelines within the neighborhood encourage homes that complement the wine-country setting. Many residences reflect Mediterranean or contemporary Northwest styles, often featuring large windows, outdoor terraces, and landscaping that blends into the surrounding vineyards.
The community itself is gated, adding a sense of privacy and quiet that many residents appreciate. Walking paths weave through the development and open space areas, allowing homeowners to enjoy views of the lake and valley without leaving the neighborhood.
Another appealing aspect of Clos Chevalle is its location. The community sits only a short drive from downtown Chelan, making it easy to reach the marina, waterfront parks, restaurants, and wineries while still enjoying a peaceful hillside setting.
Buyers are often drawn to Clos Chevalle for several reasons:
• gated neighborhood with privacy
• vineyard surroundings and wine-country atmosphere
• expansive views of Lake Chelan and the valley
• larger homesites with custom homes
• close proximity to Chelan and the south shore wineries
For those seeking a home that blends scenic views with the relaxed character of the Chelan wine region, Clos Chevalle offers a unique residential environment along the lake.
Resort-Style Communities
Lake Chelan is also home to several communities designed around vacation living and recreational amenities.
These neighborhoods are popular for second homes and investment properties.
Wapato Point
Wapato Point is one of the most recognizable residential and resort communities on Lake Chelan.
Located on a peninsula extending into the lake in the town of Manson, the neighborhood is surrounded by water on multiple sides and offers extensive shoreline access along Manson Bay.
Because of its unique location, many homes at Wapato Point are just a short walk from the water, and several areas of the community provide lake access, beaches, and dock moorage for boating and recreation.
The development is known for its resort-style atmosphere. Spread across a large lakeside property, the community includes a wide range of amenities designed for recreation and relaxation.
Amenities at Wapato Point include:
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multiple swimming pools
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tennis and sports courts
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lakefront beaches
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boat moorage and marina access
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walking trails and recreation areas
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family activities and seasonal events
Homes within Wapato Point range from townhome-style condominiums to detached vacation homes, many of which are used as second homes or short-term rental properties.
Because the community sits just outside Manson, residents and visitors are also close to local wineries, waterfront parks, and the small-town charm that defines the north end of Lake Chelan.
Buyers are often drawn to Wapato Point for:
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abundant lake access
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resort-style amenities
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vacation and rental potential
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proximity to Manson wineries and restaurants
For those looking for a property that combines lake living with recreation and convenience, Wapato Point remains one of the most well-known communities on Lake Chelan.
Lake Chelan Shores
Lake Chelan Shores is a waterfront condominium community located along the south side of the lake just outside downtown Chelan.
The development sits directly along the shoreline with hundreds of feet of lakefront access, providing residents with easy opportunities for swimming, boating, and enjoying the lake.
The community was designed as a private resort-style property, with buildings arranged throughout landscaped grounds overlooking the water.
One of the defining features of Lake Chelan Shores is the range of shared amenities available to residents and guests.
Community amenities include:
five swimming pools (one open year-round)
outdoor hot tub
six tennis courts and pickleball courts
private boat ramp and day-use dock
beach and designated swimming areas
fitness center and recreation spaces
Because the community is made up primarily of condominiums, many homes offer a low-maintenance way to enjoy Lake Chelan, making the neighborhood especially popular for vacation homes.
The property is also located just a short drive from downtown Chelan, allowing residents to easily access restaurants, wineries, and waterfront parks while enjoying a quieter lakeside setting.
Buyers often choose Lake Chelan Shores for:
direct lake access
resort-style amenities
lock-and-leave condominium living
proximity to downtown Chelan
For those looking for a relaxed way to enjoy life on the lake without the maintenance of a large property, Lake Chelan Shores offers one of the most established waterfront communities in the area.
Waterfront Living at Lake Chelan
For many buyers, living at Lake Chelan means having direct access to the water.
Waterfront homes can be found throughout the lake in areas such as:
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Downtown Chelan
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Manson shoreline
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Gold Coast
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sections of the North Shore
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parts of the South Shore
These homes often include features such as private docks, boat lifts, sandy beaches, and outdoor living spaces designed around the lake.
Because waterfront properties represent a unique segment of the market, many buyers find it helpful to explore a dedicated guide focused specifically on Lake Chelan waterfront homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Lake Chelan offers a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a safe community atmosphere. While summers are busy with visitors and lake activity, the rest of the year provides a quieter pace that many full-time residents appreciate.
Yes. Families are drawn to Lake Chelan for its safe community, strong local schools, and outdoor lifestyle. Children grow up with easy access to parks, lake recreation, youth sports, and community events throughout the year.
Popular communities include Downtown Chelan, Manson, Chelan Hills, Bear Mountain, Crystal View Estates, Legacy Ridge, Clos Chevalle, Hawks Meadow, Wapato Point, and Lake Chelan Shores. Each offers a different lifestyle, from waterfront living to scenic hillside homes.
Chelan is the larger town and the main hub for restaurants, shops, the marina, and community events. Manson is located about seven miles north and offers a quieter lakeside atmosphere centered around Manson Bay Park and the Lake Chelan wine region.
Yes. Waterfront homes are located throughout the lake including downtown Chelan, the Gold Coast, parts of Manson, and sections of both the north and south shorelines. Many properties feature private docks, boat lifts, and expansive lake views.
Waterfront homes sit directly on Lake Chelan and typically include private shoreline and docks. Community waterfront neighborhoods, such as Chelan Hills or Crystal View Estates, provide shared lake access through private parks, docks, and boat launches.
Lake Chelan offers a wide variety of homes including luxury waterfront estates, hillside view homes, vineyard properties, golf course homes, vacation cottages, and communities such as Wapato Point and Lake Chelan Shores.
Yes. Lake Chelan is one of Washington’s most popular destinations for second homes. Many buyers purchase vacation properties for summer recreation, boating, and wine tourism, and some communities also allow short-term rentals.
Life at Lake Chelan revolves around outdoor recreation and community events. Residents enjoy boating, paddleboarding, hiking, wineries, golf, and waterfront parks. The area offers a balance of natural beauty, small-town charm, and active lake living.
Home prices vary depending on location, views, and waterfront access. Waterfront properties tend to be the most expensive, while hillside homes and condominiums provide more accessible entry points into the Lake Chelan real estate market.
Lake Chelan is approximately 180 miles from Seattle, typically about a three-hour drive. Its proximity makes it a convenient destination for weekend visits, vacation homes, and seasonal living.
Lake Chelan is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts! A few popular activities include boating, fishing, paddleboarding, hiking, cycling in the summer and skiing nearby in winter. The lake and surrounding mountains create year-round recreation opportunities.
Yes. Bear Mountain Ranch Golf Course sits just outside Chelan and offers scenic golf with views of the lake and valley. Homes nearby provide access to the course along with expansive hillside views.
A few nearby communities include Entiat, Orondo, Wenatchee, Cashmere, and Leavenworth. These towns offer additional services, shopping, and recreation while remaining within driving distance of the lake.
The best neighborhood depends on lifestyle preferences. Downtown Chelan offers walkable living, Manson provides a quieter lakeside atmosphere, hillside communities offer panoramic views, and waterfront areas provide direct access to the lake.
Nearby Communities
Some buyers exploring Lake Chelan also consider nearby towns within a short drive.
These communities offer different lifestyles while remaining close to the lake.
Entiat – a quiet riverside town between Chelan and Wenatchee.
Orondo – a rural area known for orchards and sweeping valley views.
Wenatchee – the region’s largest city with shopping, healthcare, and an airport.
Cashmere – a historic town surrounded by orchards and mountain recreation.
Leavenworth – a Bavarian-style mountain village famous for festivals and tourism.
Finding the Right Lake Chelan Neighborhood
Every buyer approaches Lake Chelan with slightly different priorities.
Some people want to walk to restaurants and waterfront parks.
Others prefer hillside privacy with sweeping views of the lake.
Some are searching for luxury waterfront homes, while others want a quiet neighborhood close to vineyards or outdoor recreation.
The good news is that Lake Chelan offers all of these possibilities within a relatively small area.
Exploring the communities around the lake is often the best way to discover which neighborhood feels right.
Explore Lake Chelan Real Estate
If you're considering buying or selling property around Lake Chelan, understanding the neighborhoods is an important first step.
Every area around the lake offers something unique — whether it’s waterfront living, hillside views, wine-country surroundings, or a walkable town lifestyle.
Working with a local expert can help you navigate the market, understand the differences between communities, and find the property that fits your goals.
If you’d like to explore homes around Lake Chelan or learn more about specific neighborhoods, feel free to reach out anytime.
I’m always happy to answer questions about the market, the communities around the lake, or what it’s like living here year-round.
Contact
Arturo Zavala
509.630.6365
arturozavala@windermere.com
Address
Windermere RE/ Lake Chelan
115 East Woodin Ave
Chelan, WA 98816
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