The town of Winthrop, population 415, sits in the northern portion of the Methow Valley on North Cascades Highway 20. Modeled after an American Old West town, it’s home to the nation’s largest cross-country skiing spot. But there’s a lot more to Winthrop than skiing… in fact, even if you leave your skis at home, you won’t be bored when you visit.
Here are some other ways to occupy yourself in Washington’s ode to the Old West:
1. Spend a day strolling along the boardwalk shops downtown.
You’ll find clothing stores, antiques, home decor, custom jewelry and an old time photo parlor.
2. Check out the lively art scene.
Between the Winthrop Gallery, Winthrop Glassworks and the Paula Christen Watercolors class, this tiny town is a big place for art lovers.
3. Visit the Old Schoolhouse Brewery.
Not only was it voted the number one small brewery in Washington a few years ago at the Washington Beer Awards, the Old Schoolhouse is a fun place that happens to serve some tasty beer.
4. Go ice skating at the Winthrop Ice & Sports Rink all winter…
… Winthrop’s outdoor ice rink opens when it gets cold enough.
5. … and go horseback riding all summer.
You can sign up for a half-day trail ride, a chuckwagon breakfast outing or even a more remote pack trip in the Methow Valley.
6. Taste wine at the Lost River Winery.
Sip locally made Washington wines from 11 am-5 pm, Friday-Monday and by appointment all week.
7. Check out the Winthrop National Fish Hatchery.
You’re always welcome to visit Winthrop’s hatchery, which sometimes offers guided tours.
8. Enjoy the wilderness at North Cascades National Park.
This is where to go for backcountry camping and hiking in the Winthrop area.
9. Catch some live music at the Methow Valley Ciderhouse.
Listen to the band as you drink delicious local cider—and bring the family. The ciderhouse welcomes people of all ages as well as pets.
10. Find an event or festival.
This small town has a lot of fun festivals and events like the Winthrop Vintage Wheels Show and Winthrop ‘49er Days.
11. Go hiking.
Winthrop is close to some great hiking trails that are accessible in all seasons (except in the case of excess snow). You’ll never run out of hiking options in the Methow Valley.
Winthrop is definitely one of Washington's most charming small towns. Here are some others you may not have heard of.
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