The title of this blog may be a bit deceiving. Perhaps, it should read: “ONE of Washington State’s Hidden Treasures.” The Evergreen State is filled with natural wonders, many of which are tucked away in the hills and valleys that line the area. This particular “treasure,” which I am sharing with you today, was discovered during a recent family vacation.
My aunt and uncle live in Milton, Washington (located south of Seattle and just east of Tacoma) and have graciously hosted us during a number of our family vacations. The first couple of times we visited we took in the traditional tourist attractions (Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the Seattle Aquarium, etc.), but a couple of years ago we decided to check out some of the area’s “natural” attractions.
We drove north to Methow Valley, located in the North Cascades region of the state. It’s considered one of the most beautiful areas in the nation and as you follow the roads that wind to Methow Valley you instantly know why. The sky seems bluer and the air crisper. The first thing I did after we parked the car was to take a big deep breath in and release a huge cleansing (okay, exaggerated) breath out. Ahhh!
If you enjoy mountain biking, river rafting or cross-country skiing, Methow Valley is where you want to be. The area boasts more than 120 miles of cross-country ski trails and is home to one of the biggest cross country ski centers in North America, if not the world. Back in the 1970s Methow Valley was credited with being one of the first places to focus on building and grooming ski trails. These days the area is known as one of the foremost cross-country ski destinations in the country.
We spent much of our day in the bustling town of Winthrop, which is the area’s center of activity. Even if you don’t ski there are a number of recreational activities for the entire family. The rivers are ideal for rafting; the trails are teeming with birds, flowers, and other furry friends; and the wilderness centers aid you in discovering it all. What’s more, unlike much of Washington State, during winter the sun actually shines on Methow Valley. The area offers a sunny, dry (albeit colder) contrast to Seattle.
If you are looking for an ideal winter getaway that boasts lots of snow, lots of trails, and lots of clean air, you won’t be disappointed with Methow Valley.
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