SUMMER RECREATION
BallooningHot air ballooning offers the unforgettable experience of seeing the Methow Valley's spectacular landscape from a bird's-eye view. It's the perfect way to get the lay of the land at the beginning of a Methow vacation, or conclude a visit with a storybook ending. |
BikingThe Methow Valley has long been known as a mountain biking mecca with hundreds of miles of well maintained, easy to access single track and scenic Forest Service roads, but road biking has become just as popular. Few regions in the nation can claim such a perfect combination of stunning scenery, endless variety of terrain, and practically empty pavement. |
BirdingThe Methow Valley is host to over 250 species of birds thanks to the great diversity of habitats and elevation contained within the Valley walls and basin. Serious birders may find themselves unexpectedly ticking one species after another off of their life list. |
Camping & HikingGenerations of families have made the annual migration to the Methow Valley to camp by the river under towering Ponderosas, to hike its endless trails, and to fall asleep each night under a million bright stars. Camping options include National Forest tent sites, State Park camping, and private grounds conveniently located near Winthrop. |
ClimbingWeekend warrior climbers and experienced mountaineers have gathered in the Methow Valley for decades for its clean rock, classic routes and scenic summits. Learn the basics, bag a peak along the Pacific Crest, or revel in days of exploration. |
GolfingRemember the days when you could tee-off 18 holes of golf for only $30? Well, you still can in the Methow Valley on a certified Audobon Course that strives to complement the natural landscape. And for the less serious golfer, putt-putt golf can be found right in downtown Winthrop. |
Horseback RidingThe Methow is rich with a long history of horse riding and horsemanship, providing a diversity of options for visitors wishing to spend some time in the saddle. There are peaceful, easy to access valley-bottom rides, or more rugged and striking terrain at the higher elevations -- even multi-day pack trips for the adventurous. |
Hunting & FishingVast public lands that climb from a ribbon of river-bottom are home to one of the largest populations of mule deer in the country, while grouse, pheasant, and chukar are also abundant. Anglers come to the Methow for legendary steelhead fishing on the rivers, and plentiful trout fishing in the alpine lakes. |
Nature StudiesThanks to its diversity of habitats, the Methow Valley is home to a myriad of large and small mammals, fish, birds, amphibians and butterflies -- not to mention carpets of wildflowers and ribbons of aspen. It is no wonder that so many people are moved by the natural beauty of the region and are motivated to learn more about it. |
Scenic DrivesThe Methow Valley is a favorite outpost along the North Cascades Scenic Loop drive, known for its stunning scenery and charming towns. But what you may not know is that the official Loop bypasses some amazing local drives, including the well-worth-it journey up to Hart's Pass -- the highest point in the State of Washington that you can drive to, with immense views of the Cascade Range. |
Water SportsYou can't beat the Methow Valley's rare combination of easy access, crystal clear water, and striking scenery for a boating vacation. Whether you are coming with a motor boat or self-propelled option, there is a perfect niche for your watersport wishes amongst the many lakes and rivers. |
MotorcyclingThe North Cascades Highway is known as one of the great motorcycle routes in North America. Washington State Route 20 stretches from Burlington to Okanogan.The highway has been called "The Most Beautiful Mountain Highway in the State of Washington. |