Winter Rec Archives

Sponsored by Methow Trails: Methow Trails is a nonprofit organization founded in 1977 that connects people, nature, and communities through a world-class trail system. Methow Trails is the largest cross-country trail system in North America and is based in Winthrop, WA. Located in North Central Washington, the Methow Valley is a beautiful destination for recreation in any month of the year, but it’s especially magical when snow carpets the valley in winter. Over 200 kilometers of trails interconnect to create a skier's paradise of unlimited exploration and fun in the largest cross-country ski area in North America. The team at Methow Trails is committed to quality, expertly grooming the trails seven nights a week to create the stunning corduroy and crisp tracks that the area is known for. Well-suited for skiers of all ages and abilities, the varied terrain, ample snow, sunny skies, and plenty to do on and off the trails make the Methow Valley a winter gem in the Northwest. Discover Methow Trails Photo Credit: Gerald Smith / Courtesy of Methow Trails Courtesy of Methow Trails The expansive Methow Trails system is made up of four distinct trail areas—Mazama, Rendezvous, Winthrop, and Sun Mountain—all interconnected by the 30-km Methow Community Trail. Mazama is known for the wide-open views of Goat Wall, gentle trails that are beloved by beginners and seasoned skiers alike, and several iconic trail attractions such as the Tawlks-Foster Suspension bridge, a StorySki loop popular with kids, and a culvert that allows users to ski under the highway. The Rendezvous trails provide sweeping views of the valley, long climbs, fun descents, overnight ski huts available for rent and several dog-friendly trails for anyone who wants to ski with their four-legged friends. The Winthrop area trails provide a mix of flat, beginner-friendly terrain along with rolling climbs and descents close to town. From Winthrop, it's a fun and challenging climb up to the Sun Mountain trails, which have something for everyone. Passes, maps, conditions, and grooming reports can be found on the Methow Trails website and app. Also See: Find More Winter Adventures in Washington Family Fun Courtesy of Methow Trails Kids under 18 ski free at Methow Trails, making the valley a fantastic place to plan a winter vacation. Beginner-friendly trails, family group lessons, and plenty of excellent options for cocoa and treats along the trails make skiing with kids fun and accessible. For younger skiers, three different "StorySki" loops in Mazama, Winthrop, and Sun Mountain allow families to read a full-color, illustrated children's book by local author Erik Brooks, page by page, as they ski along flat, 1-km routes. Warming huts and other family-friendly amenities are found throughout the trail system, and a dozen trailheads allow for quick access to trails, no matter where you might be staying. Dog-Friendly Adventure Photos courtesy of Methow Trails For families that include the four-legged variety, the Methow Valley can be a great place to visit. Dogs can proudly wear a Nordic Dog ski pass on their collar ($10/day or $50 annually) as they join their humans on select dog-friendly trails. Don't miss the annual Doggie Dash, a hilarious opportunity for dogs and their people to compete in a short sprint race that is more costume contest than ski race. Find information about this and more fun community events here. Other Activities in the Valley Courtesy of Methow Trails When you're ready to take off your skis, there is plenty to do in the valley. A stunning outdoor ice rink and local downhill ski hill offer other winter pursuits. Check out any of the local restaurants, breweries, distilleries, and bakeries for an apres-ski treat. Go for a walk in Winthrop or Twisp and watch for eagles fishing in the river. Art galleries, a movie theater, live music, and live theater are more great options for when you're ready for some indoor time. Also See: Year-Round Fun in the Methow Valley Methow Trails: A Community Partnership Courtesy of Methow Trails Methow Trails is made possible through the generous access allowed by over 200 private landowners who permit the ski routes to cross their properties. These trails wind through open meadows, along and over frosty rivers, and up and down scenic ridges and forests. It is only through partnerships with landowners, land managers, hundreds of devoted volunteers, and support of users that the trail system is thriving today.

Winter Rec

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Top Destinations for Cross-Country Skiing

8 Family Friendly Winter Hikes in Washington

Perfect Winter Getaway in the Cascade Mountains

The Best of Winter Birding in Skagit Valley & Beyond

Storm Watching in Washington: When and Where to Go

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