Methow Valley Experience
Methow Valley
Located in the North Cascades, the Methow Valley is a scenic destination with beautiful mountain vistas, forests and wildflowers. With warm, dry summers and snowy winters, the valley offers a variety of outdoor adventures for all ages and skill levels. The charming towns of Twisp, Winthrop and Mazama are also worth exploring for their summer farmers’ markets, shops, bakeries and pubs.
The valley is home to one of the world’s longest cross-country skiing trails, stretching for 120 miles (193 km). Other popular activities include rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, horse-back riding, hunting and fishing, golfing, spectacular sight-seeing and other outdoor activities. Events include the Winthrop Rhythm and Blues Festival, the Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival, live theatre and many art galleries.
Nature Trails & Hiking
- AllTrails – Mazama Area Hikes
Discover a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, complete with user reviews and maps.
AllTrails – Mazama - AllTrails – Methow Valley Hiking
A comprehensive list of hiking trails in the Methow Valley, complete with user reviews, difficulty ratings, and trail maps.
alltrails.com/ - Winthrop Washington – Hiking
Highlights a selection of must-visit trails near Winthrop, suitable for various skill levels and offering scenic views of the valley.
winthropwashington.com
Scenic Drives & Car Touring
- North Cascades Highway (SR 20)
Known as one of Washington’s most beautiful mountain highways, SR 20 offers breathtaking views of the North Cascades and is a must-drive route. Wikipedia - Cascade Loop Scenic Byway
This 440-mile loop encompasses diverse landscapes, including the Methow Valley, and is perfect for a multi-day road trip.
Cascade Loop
Motorcycle Touring
- Washington Pass via SR 20
This route offers thrilling curves and stunning vistas, making it a favorite among motorcyclists exploring the North Cascades.
FunTransport – Washington Motorcycle Rides
Biking
- Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance (Methow Chapter)
Advocates for trail education and access, focusing on mountain biking opportunities.
evergreenmtb.org
Nature Photography
- Methow Dark Sky Coalition
Dedicated to preserving the valley’s dark skies, this organization offers information on prime stargazing locations like Gunn Ranch Road, Pearrygin Lake State Park, and Harts Pass.
methowdarksky.org
Architectural Design
- AIA Seattle – Methow Valley Architecture Tour
An annual tour showcasing innovative architectural projects throughout Twisp, Mazama, and Winthrop, highlighting the region’s unique design aesthetics.
aiaseattle.org
Cross-Country Skiing
- Methow Trails
Boasting over 200 kilometers of groomed trails, Methow Trails is the largest cross-country ski area in North America, catering to skiers of all levels.
methowtrails.org - Winthrop Washington – Cross Country Skiing
Provides information on the extensive network of trails operated by Methow Trails, emphasizing family-friendly options where kids 17 and under ski free.
winthropwashington.com
Fishing
- Cascade Loop – Methow Valley Fishing
Offers insights into fishing opportunities in the Methow Valley, including popular spots like Pearrygin Lake and the Methow River.
cascadeloop.com/methow-valley-fishing - Methow Fishing Adventures
Provides guided fishing trips and a detailed fish map, catering to both novice and experienced anglers seeking to explore the valley’s waterways.
flyfishersproshop.com - Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation
Focuses on community watershed projects and student engagement to support salmon recovery.
methowsalmon.org
Stargazing
- Methow Conservancy
A land trust dedicated to protecting healthy land and water in the Methow Valley.
methowconservancy.org - International Dark Sky Week
Is part of a worldwide celebration honoring the beauty of star-filled skies, the role of darkness in healthy ecosystems, and our deep connection to the cosmos. As artificial light increases globally, the Methow Valley remains a rare haven for some of the darkest night skies in the country. mvcitizens.org - North Cascades Institute
Provides nature-based education, retreats, and youth programs to inspire environmental stewardship.
ncascades.org - Methow Valley Nordic Ski Foundation
Offers youth Nordic programs and family winter recreation opportunities.
methowvalleynordic.org - Methow Valley Back Country Horsemen
Promotes equestrian access and trail maintenance for backcountry riders.
mvbch.blogspot.com - Trail’s End Bookstore
An independent bookstore offering readings and book club tie-ins.
trailsendbookstore.com - Methow Arts Alliance
Offers a comprehensive calendar of art shows, live performances, workshops, and community gatherings throughout the Methow Valley.
methowarts.org - Methow Valley Interpretive Center
Focuses on the region’s Indigenous heritage, hosting events like storytelling nights and cultural workshops.
methowvalleyinterpretivecenter.com - Methow Valley Community Center
Hosts annual events such as the Christmas Bazaar, Puzzle Palooza, and various community gatherings.
methowcommunity.org - Methow Valley News Calendar
Provides listings of concerts, theater performances, lectures, and more across the valley.
methowvalleynews.com - Winthrop Washington Events Calendar
Highlights major events such as the 49er Days, Balloon Roundup, and Christmas at the End of the Road.
winthropwashington.com - Twisp Chamber of Commerce Events
Showcases local happenings including art walks, farmers markets, and seasonal festivals.
twispwa.com
