Your guide to health and wellness services in the Methow Valley

Whether you are looking for a massage or facial while on vacation, or your vacation is a full on fitness boot camp, Winthrop has the professionals to take care of you. A town that attracts serious athletes and produces many Olympians has a massive brain trust of qualified health practitioners. Below is a sample of the many Physical,  Mental, and Spiritual health practitioners that call Winthrop home. 

Winthrop Physical Therapy & Fitness

Winthrop PT & Fitness is the Valley’s go to for sports medicine and rehab needs. Staff includes five PT’s, one PT assistant, and one Occupational Therapist.  

Amenities beyond PT & OT include a full gym, a 24/7 gym, and many group classes to choose from.  

Motive Yoga

Motive Yoga—your home away from home. Multiple classes per week taught by incredible teachers. Includes special workshops, retreats and more.

Nectar Skin Bar

Nectar has been providing high quality spa services and products to the Methow Valley since 2014. Nectar is dedicated to serving locals and visitors with results-oriented treatments and creating a uniquely relaxing experience for anyone in need of a little indulgence. 

Methow Valley Wellness Center

Dr. Sierra Breitbeil ND, is a veteran of naturopathic healing in the Valley. She and her husband founded the Methow Valley Wellness Center in 1997 and the Sunflower Resort in 2024.

The Methow Valley Wellness Center includes 16 professionals offering the full range of services including; massage, mani /pedis, talk therapy, acupuncture and hair styling.

Abby Bange MS, RD, LMHC

Abby is a holistic therapist specializing in both mental health and nutrition. She is looking at whole person wellness and uses this background to help you meet your needs and goals whether that is sports nutrition or eating disorder recovery Abby meets you where you are at. Check out her website for more offerings. 

Sue Peterson, Counseling, PLLC

Sue provides counseling services for individual adults and couples. Also offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy for PTSD/trauma, complex grief and other related emotional issues. 

Leslie Bower, LAc, EAMP

Leslie’s passion for holistic nutrition guided her toward the realm of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  She is a Board Certified Acupuncturist with a Master’s degree from the Seattle Institute of East Asian Medicine.   Leslie has 18 years of bodywork and Chinese Medicine experience and specializes in pain and injury treatment.

May 9-11, 2024

“Pre-Party”: Ride to the Rendezvous

The 79th annual 49r Days begins the week before the parade with the “Ride to Rendezvous”. This Wagon ride begins with the 3 day backcountry trek into Winthrop.  Over 100 people ride into Winthrop on wagons and horses through some of Washington States most beautiful country, just in time to start the party.   Limited tickets left, visit www.woga.org for details. 

Friday

Catch the backcountry troop as they arrive in downtown Winthrop on Friday May 10th, at High Noon.

Saturday: Parade

At 10am the parade begins with a dance performance by “West Coast Country Heat”, for the 26th year in a row. 

Parade begins at 11am followed by games (egg toss, gummy spitting, pie eating and more) , vendors, a mechanical bull, and the first annual “Firetruck Pull” fundraiser.  Where teams of 10 will try their hand at pulling a Vintage Firetruck. 

Saturday: Barn Dance

The party moves to mack Lloyd Park where WOGA hosts a mountain man camp with displays, vendors, music, and a BBQ from Winthrop Kiwanis.   

A cowboy Steak dinner is available to fuel you for line dancing lessons at 6pm before the Family Barn dance kicks off from 7-11pm at the Winthrop Barn Auditorium.

Sunday “After Party”

Recover from Saturday with a cowboy breakfast hosted by WOGA, and watch some packing demonstrations on live animals. 

8-10am Cowboy Breakfast at the Winthrop Barn, $10.

10am Live Auction and packing demonstrations.

During a recent trip to Winthrop, a charming small town in the glacial valleys of North Central Washington, a couple of mega TikTok influencers, Traveling While Black. They were blown away by its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. You can watch the episode showcasing their entire experience below. Staying at the Mt Gardner Inn right in Winthrop, provided Traveling While Black comfortable and cozy accommodations.

Learn about their choice dining selections of the Arrowleaf Bistro, Sun Mountain Lodge. Old Schoolhouse Brewery, and the Methow Valley Ciderhouse were some of their favorites. These eateries were some of the culinary highlights of the trip, offering delicious food and a great atmosphere to relax and unwind. However, they hope to come back to try more of Winthrop’s fantastic dining options.

One of the highlights of the trip was attending the farmer’s market and the Earth Day Festival presented by Methow Recycles. It was wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate and support sustainable practices. They loved the Methow Valley Interpretive Center. Marlie and Anthony also had the opportunity to go horseback riding with JD Outfitters, which was a unique and memorable experience.

They felt completely comfortable and welcome in Winthrop. The town’s friendly and hospitable residents made Anthony and Marlie feel at home. Winthrop’s openness and willingness to embrace all types of visitors were appreciated. We were honored to host them!

Overall, they said that Winthrop is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and inclusive retreat in the Pacific Northwest. Whether one is looking for outdoor adventures, delicious food, or a welcoming community, Winthrop has something for everyone. Traveling While Black excitedly told us they can’t wait to return during the Winthrop Rhythm and Blues Festival.

Winthrop and Okanogan County, WA | Traveling While Black™ | Episode 138

Find Lodging In Winthrop

WSDOT predicts the opening of Washington Pass to be Mother’s Day weekend- just in time for our annual ’49er Days Western Heritage Celebration.
As we anticipate the opening of the North Cascades Scenic Highway, let’s take a little journey back in time to learn about how the highway originated.

What was the purpose of opening a North Cascades route? The highway opened for automotive travel in 1972, but few realize that efforts to open a North Cascades route, as first recorded by white men as far back as 1895, were likely used for thousands of years. Work continued for over a year to open a route between East and West for commerce. That route was opened in 1896, but much was passable only by foot or horseback.

We are so grateful for the tireless work on behalf of WSDOT. The latest date the highway has opened is June 30th. Here you can see the historical dates of the highway opening back to 1935 | WSDOT List

When will North Cascades Highway open?
There are about six miles of roadway yet to clear. Plenty of snow is still in the loading zones of the avalanche paths, and a round of avalanche control is scheduled for next week. Warm weather is melting the snow and helping the cause, but it also creates high avalanche danger conditions that limit the time crews can work in certain areas. It’s tough to say when exactly the road will be open. There are always some finishing touches to the reopening work that may or may not go smoothly, so pinning the exact date down is tricky. If weather and equipment cooperate, the North Cross will be open by Mother’s Day.

Cyclists Rejoice

In the meantime, avid cyclists enjoy the narrow window of time to bike up to the top of the pass without worrying about avoiding vehicles. While the road crews are away on Fridays and weekends, we can peak at their progress as we enjoy the incredible views along the way.

Helpful Links from WSDOT

• Northwest Avalanche Center issued a special avalanche bulletin: nwac.us/avalanche-forecast/#/snoqualmie-pass
  
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/WSDOT
  
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/wsdot/
  
• Twitter: twitter.com/WSDOT_East
  
• Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/wsdot/albums/72177720306984993

Check out other nearby scenic drives | Scenic Drives

Looking for running, cycling, and ski races in 2023?

Here in Winthrop, Washington, outdoor recreation is serious – in a fun way. If you’re wanting to achieve new fitness goals, why complete a race among wildflowers, snowcapped mountains, and pristine shared trails of the Methow Valley? Find a cozy hotel with steaming hot tub to relax those sore muscles. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, cross-country skier, or pickleball enthusiast, we have something for you. You can even reserve our outdoor ice rink for your next ice hockey or pickleball tournament. 

If you’re looking to get outside, why not experience the majesty of Winthrop, Washington’s snowcapped mountains? Here are some events to select:

Ski Rodeo

December 31st, 2022

Join us in kicking off the ski season with the family-friendly Ski Rodeo. A great way to spend time with friends and family, try a ski race, or cheer someone on! Participants can ski competitively or just for fun. Races for all ages, from 1 to 10 km, plus fun obstacle courses and relays.

Saturday Ski Shuttle

January 7th, 2023 — February 25th, 2023

On Saturdays in January and February, Methow Trails offers transportation service between Winthrop and Mazama for those looking for a one-way ski journey along the iconic Methow Community Trail. The shuttle is free, but a valid ski trail pass is required.

Winthrop Trailhead Parkrun

Every Saturday at 8:00 am (May – September) & 9:00 am (October – April).
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate – it’s up to you! The event occurs at Winthrop Trailhead, 21 Horizon Flats Rd, Winthrop, WA 98862. See the Course page for more details.

Fatbike Meetup

January 13-14th, 2023 (MLK Weekend)

Join Methow Cycle & Sport for activities Friday evening, Saturday, and Saturday evening.

Backyard Ski Day

January 27th, 2023

Methow Trails invites everyone for a day of FREE winter trail access. Try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or fat biking for the first time, or introduce a friend to the experience you love!

Hanz’s Big Adventure

January 27th, 2023

Hanz’s Big Adventure is a trials-format race for kids up to 100 years old at the McCabe Trails at Liberty Bell High School. You guess how long it will take you to do your chosen course and enter your time when you register. All you know ahead of time are the approximate distance of the courses you can choose from–1, 2.5 or 5 km.

Race of the Methow

February 4th, 2023 — September 29th, 2023

Two days of racing at this US Ski and Snowboard-sanctioned Pacific Northwest Junior National qualifier! Races for everyone with sanctioned categories and open/community categories too!

Evidence based holistic Mountain Retreat

February 10-12, 2023

Cradled in the North Cascade mountains we will combine yoga, mindfulness, and compassion training for an unforgettable experience. Release stress and safely open your mind, body and heart. You need time to decompress and nurture you, so you can engage in life from a place of wholeness. More Info…

Ski to the Sun

February 11th, 2023

Join Methow Trails and the Methow Valley Nordic Ski Education Foundation for the annual Ski to the Sun Marathon and Relay. The course travels through North America’s largest ski trail network and takes skiers from the tranquil banks of the Methow River to the beautiful mountain vistas at Sun Mountain Lodge. Ski the marathon as an individual or as a relay with up to five other friends or family members. You’ll enjoy food and fun along the way!

 

Snowshoe Softball

February 19-20, 2023

The Winthrop Snowshoe Softball tournament is a popular annual winter event sponsored by the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce. Now in its third decade, this tournament is held every February on the three-day President’s Day weekend.

Doggie Dash

February 19th, 2023

Get out your costume box. This race is all about the costume and a dose of good luck out on the course. Human-dog teams compete in short heats to go for the glory of the coveted Golden Poodle award. Humans must ski. Dogs must run. Dogs must be on a leash. Both must be in costume. It’s that simple.

Sunflower

April 29th, 2023

This unique course begins at 2180 feet elevation in Mazama and includes well-marked deer trails, single-track trails, and gravel roads. Stunning views of the Methow River, North Cascades, and Chelan Sawtooths abound from flower-carpeted meadows and fields.

SUN MOUNTAIN 50M/50K/25K

​50M: SATURDAY, MAY 13TH, 2023
50K: SATURDAY, MAY 20TH, 2023
25K: SUNDAY, MAY 21ST, 2023

Located on the eastern and sunny side of the North Cascades – on the edge of the Chelan Sawtooth Wilderness, above the Methow River Valley – these courses offer a great mountain trail running early in the year. You can expect fields of wildflowers, beautiful, snow-capped peaks of the Cascades in the distance, and primarily gradual, smooth, runnable trails.  Contact Rainshadow Running to register.

Cutthroat Classic

September 9th, 2023

Topping the charts in inspiration and popularity, the Cutthroat Classic provides incredible mountain views along a spectacular high alpine trail. The Cutthroat course is an 11-mile singletrack trail run through the North Cascades, following the iconic Pacific Crest Trail up and over Cutthroat Pass. This race is limited to 400 participants and sells out early every year.

Gran Fondo Winthrop

September 16th, 2023

Gran Fondo Winthrop road cycling event will take you deep into the North Cascades and dish out a whopping 10.000+’ of climbing.  There’s a reason we save this one for the end!

Looking for something more individually focused? Check out the yoga class schedules at Motive Yoga and Head and Heart.

Keep an eye on the Winthrop, Washington Calendar for more events like Frisbee golf at Loup Loup Ski Bowl.

After the gorgeous, smoke-free summer in Winthrop, WA, we look forward to cooler nights and warm beverages offered during fall travel. The temperate weather lends itself to more comfortable recreation opportunities that don’t require plunging into Pearrygin Lake afterward, although that’s fun too! Have you thought about traveling in the fall?

Fall travel certainly has distinct advantages

Avoid the crowds: 

The kids are back in school, so families are less likely to travel in the fall. Holiday breaks in autumn tend to be either brief or family-oriented, which limits recreational travel for some. Traveling at a time when more residents than visitors offers a more authentic and personalized experience.

Hot lodging deals:

In many tourist towns, the “shoulder season” allows for more affordable lodging. Winthrop, WA, is no exception. In addition to lower room rates, you’ll find that multiple hotels offer a “get the third night free.”

More recreation options:

Showing up between summer and winter means you can dip your toes into both options. Snow begins falling in at higher elevations while the valley floor remains comfortable. By the end of October, the Winthrop Rink will switch from roller skating to an outdoor ice rink. Camping is cooler but campfire bans are lifted. Some of our RV sites remain open year-round.

Experience the beauty:

Best of all, the larches. Need we say more? When the deciduous firs of North Central Washington turn a golden hue, it’s a magical experience. Taking a walk in a golden forest can be a life-changing experience. Some beautiful places to see the larches (aka tamaracks) are in the North Cascades National Park and the Okanogan National Forest near Loup Loup Ski Bowl – between which Winthrop, WA, just happens to be nestled.

If you have the travel bug of just need a break, the doors here will always be open for you to take off your hat and stay a while.

Next time you come to Winthrop, you’ll be delighted to learn that there are some new restaurants to sit down at and enjoy a delicious meal.

Jupiter

Formerly Duck Brand, the Jupiter offers dining on a beautiful deck overlooking the town of Winthrop. Jupiter is a counter-service restaurant offering ethnically infused, health-conscious food, baked goods, and espresso. Beverages include beer, wine, hard kombucha, and a large selection of nonalcoholic bubbly drinks. Food made to order takes between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on demand. Learn more on their website.

Meza

Formerly Six Knot Taphouse on the Downtown Winthrop boardwalk, you’ll find a delightful place to enjoy tapas and more. Learn more from a Facebook post about it.

Mazama Public House

Not quite in Winthrop, the Mazama Public House has opened to offer tasty bites and refreshing the brews of Old Schoolhouse Brewery to the avid recreation adventurers of Mazama. We hope you check out their scrumptious happy-fun bowls, panini, spent grain pizzas, and more. Learn more on their Facebook page.

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Don’t forget about Twisp! A new bourbon and BBQ restaurant should open on Glover Street soon.

Don’t forget about our faithful Winthrop Chamber of Commerce restaurant members by clicking the link below.

During the pandemic, we all know the restaurants struggled. The housing crisis still affects the restaurants in Winthrop and their ability to find employees. We hope you’ll understand if a particular restaurant doesn’t have enough employees to be open during their regular hours. We are grateful to have the best, most understanding visitors around!

You’ll find plenty to do in Winthrop/Methow Valley this weekend!

There’s one thing we know how to do in the Methow Valley: gather our community together to celebrate! You won’t find another party like a small-town party! You’ll never find a group of people more willing to go all out for a costume party, that’s for sure.

Fourth of July Events

The two main events on the Fourth of July are the 11 am Parade in Twisp and the Arts Festival at the Twisp Park.

Fourth of July Parade

Parades don’t get any more independent! Celebrated in the Methow Valley since 1891, join this fun, funky, and friendly event filled with horses, classic cars, live music, community organizations, and the (in?)famous fire truck water hose!

Arts Festival

The Arts Festival includes day-long music & performance, galore food vendors, hands-on Arts Booths, an ever-popular Pie-Eating Contest, Beer Garden, and much more.

Thanks to our generous sponsors and donors, kids get to do unlimited art projects all day for free. Thanks to our generous sponsors, kids 11 and under pay no admission whatsoever! Youth 12-17 are just $5, and all kids get unlimited art-making.

Due to fire danger, the Methow Valley does not allow fireworks of any kind during the summer months, but we sure do love them in the winter!

Fireworks Displays in Winthrop WA

Winthrop, WA, has some of the best fireworks displays in the state! It truly is a sight to behold. Visitors are astounded by the twenty-minute-long display! Almost the entire show seems like the finale of other shows in the state. The show is advertised through the generous donations of local businesses and individuals.

We owe a huge thank you to a local pyrotechnical, Doug Mohre, who has gone through extensive licensing and permitting hoops to purchase the fireworks at wholesale and set them off with his trained and qualified team.

The Fireworks Extravaganza is held in November on the Saturday after Thanksgiving as part of our Christmas at the End of the Road festival. The festival includes photos with Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, ice skating with Santa, food trucks, events at the Shafer Museum, and the town lighting.

More Fireworks in Winthrop

That’s not the only fireworks display in Winthrop, either. Sun Mountain Lodge also offers a fantastic fireworks show on New Year’s Eve! You won’t want to miss it.

The days are getting longer, and the air is getting warmer. It’s time to head to the North Cascades of Eastern Washington for some sunny skies and refreshing lakes! Camping is one of the most popular lodging options in Winthrop, WA.

We have fantastic campgrounds to recommend for you, whether you’re backpacking, camping, or RVing.

Pine Near RV Park and Cabins

Quiet, convenient Pine Near RV Park, Cabins & Campground – is one block above all the happenings on Main Street – right in Winthrop. The campground features an all-new 20/30/50 amp, Full Hookup, and Pull-Thru sites. Each RV spot is on beautiful green grass. You’ll have excellent satellite reception. Great cell service. Free Wi~Fi. One block above all the happenings downtown. For a truly western experience, stay in one of our Tipis or Mining Shacks! Only $20 to pitch your tent. Clean, new Coin Laundry and Showers on-site in our historic log cabin. Please take advantage of our Good Sam, Passport America, Escapees, Active & Retired Military Discounts. Offering weekly and monthly Snowbird rates. We invite you to stop by and visit with them. They’re next door to the Shafer Museum. Check out their website for more details.

Winthrop KOA

Enjoy KOA camping along the Methow River within the town of Winthrop, Washington. There is a spot for all camping types. For the glampers, they have covered wagons, deluxe and camping cabins. Tenters have several areas with excellent river views and grassy spots for bigger groups. For the RVers, there are several pull-through 30/50 amp RV spots and back-in sites with large grassy areas. The heated pool is open from mid-May to mid-October. See their website for more details.

Pearrygin Lake State Park

Pearrygin Lake State Park is located four miles from Winthrop. One of Washington’s most popular State Parks, Pearrygin Lake, offers camping, swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. They also provide day and overnight use fat biking, snowshoeing, and ice skating. ADA accessible. Don’t forget your Discover Pass. Check out their website for more details.

Silverline Resort

Silverline Resort is a full-service RV park and campground located on the shoreline of Pearrygin Lake, just a few minutes north of Winthrop. They provide a family fun atmosphere with quiet and relaxing evenings. They have beautifully landscaped grounds, level waterfront or lake view sites, grass sites and common areas, shade, clean restrooms and showers, convenience store, fishing docks, mini-golf, swim beach, and boat launch. Plus weekend pancake breakfasts, ice cream socials, and kids activities such as miniature golf. Rental paddle boards, kayaks, peddle boats, and row boats are available. They’re a Good Sam park and offer senior, active military, CampclubUSA discounts and weekly rates during select times. Visit their website for more details about this beautiful place!

Big Twin Lake Campground

Located on Big Twin Lake just three miles south of Winthrop, Big Twin Lake Campground is the perfect location for your next family vacation! Big Twin Lake is a quality lake stocked annually with rainbow trout – selective fishing regulations apply. Tenting, RV hookups, rowboat, and paddleboat rentals are available. Children’s play area, swim dock, and lots of room for playing. See us soon! Visit their website to learn more.

Backpacking Rules and Tips

Here’s what the North Cascades National Park advises for backpacking:
“Backpacking options in the park run the gamut from short, one-night trips along a river, lake, or high point to multi-day treks up valleys and over multiple passes. The region is also known for the multitude of mountaineering opportunities, also from short climbs to lengthy bushwhacking and climbing epics.

Designated Sites and Cross-country Zones

“Within the trail corridors, there are almost 140 designated sites. Learn more about these sites on our Wilderness Trip Planner page. Camping in the trail corridors is allowed only at these camps, designed to provide a safe and low-impact camping experience. Most camps are off the main trail to provide privacy and a sense of solitude for passing hikers. Each camp has a flat tent pad area, pit or composting toilet, and access to water. Designated camps at lower elevations also have an established fire ring.

“Cross-country camping is also allowed but must be at least one-half mile from any trail and one mile away from designated camps. Camping is not allowed in alpine meadows, on fragile vegetation, or near water sources. Off-trail hiking can be very challenging in this steep and thickly vegetated terrain. In many areas, hiking one-half mile away from a trail may put you on the side of a steep slope or crossing a swift creek. Most off-trail travel is undertaken by mountaineers climbing objectives beyond the forested lower slopes. However, adventurous and experienced backpackers will find a wild park with plenty of opportunities to bushwhack, explore your physical boundaries, find solitude, and discover some hidden gems.

“Check out the climbing page for more information on climbing in the park.” Source

Disbursement camping is not allowed in the North Cascades National Park. Thank you for helping us keep this area beautiful and not loving it to death.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers these guidelines for disbursement camping:

“There are many undeveloped camping locations in the forest. Generally, there are no amenities available, such as restrooms, water, or garbage dumpsters. All trash and waste must be packed out. Campfires are not allowed at these sites during high fire danger. heck Fire Restrictions page.” Source

Link to details for camping in the North Cascades National Park. lick Here

Check out our list of hotels and cabins if it rains during your stay. lick Here

Take a short ride with a beautiful view

The wonderful thing about Winthrop is that you don’t have to be the most athletic outdoors enthusiast to view gorgeous scenery (although many of you are). It surrounds the Methow every time of year. Visitors often ask where they can take a short drive or a moderate bike ride to see the beauty of the Methow Valley. Here are our favorites.

Bear Creek Rd/Pearrygin Lake Loop

This nine-mile loop is primarily an unpaved road looping from the north end of town, past Pearrygin Lake, and then turns south toward Bear Creek Golf Course. After passing the golf course, take a right at the “T” to head back into town, or take a left to view the scenic route to Twisp. This loop is about nine miles, with nearly one mile having a 3% incline no matter which direction you begin.

What we love about this loop is the view of the mountains all year round. You’ll be traversing the hillsides east of town with a panoramic view of all of the Cascade Mountains to the west of town. Some of the peaks you’ll be viewing will be as far north as Canada. You’ll see Mount Gardner, the Sawtooth Ridge and so much more! Much of the drive is in the Methow Wildlife Area so most of the land is untouched with streams, hillsides and beautiful forests. There’s also a very curious art installation along the way.

There are places where the road is a little bumpy from fast drivers, so please drive carefully. Cyclists should find the road wide enough for two vehicles to pass safely, but please be aware of blind corners. The road is a fabulous place to walk the dog. Click here for where we recommend you park your car for the walk.

Chewuch Loop

This 13-mile loop begins by Methow Cycle & Sport, where you can rent everything you need for the ride! It runs north through the valley toward the Rendezvous and then back south along the other side of the river. It’s beautiful no matter which direction you begin. Along the way, you will see beautiful pastures and river rapids. We enjoy this ride on a warm day because of the shade it offers.

You will also see a bit of the forest restoring itself from the Cub Creek Fire in 2021. You might even see some ancient, sacred petroglyphs if you have a good eye.

Happy Riding!

We hope you’re able to visit Winthrop soon!

Our little tourist town of Winthrop, WA is still standing, and we thank firefighters for their heroic efforts.

Winthrop is nestled in the heart of the North Cascades National Park, and with numerous pristine places to recreate, it has also had many of the same challenges as other communities in the last 18 months. First, COVID-19 left our hotels empty and locals unemployed, then an employee shortage as summer 2021 grew near.

The final hit was two nearby fires, with each fire impacting tens of thousands of acres and threatening homes and livelihoods. It coated our skies with smoke and closed the most beautiful scenic byway in the state. The North Cascades Scenic Highway brings many thousands of visitors, primarily during the summer months. With its closure, restaurants were among the most severely impacted businesses.

A Herculean Sacrifice for Heroes

After all of these setbacks, you’ll see what Winthrop is really made of. Like most small towns, we have strong backs and soft hearts. Not knowing if their businesses would survive these fires or the accompanying economic downturn, several local restaurants dug deep and offered a huge thanks to the firefighters who were saving the town. This effort was a community wide collaboration, with locals helping businesses cover the costs. Restaurants paid their employees to serve free food not only to firefighters but also those displaced by the fires. Most offered this on the past two Sundays, but many others offered these deals for a majority of the duration of the fires.

Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon headed up the effort and asked for donations on their Facebook page to invite community members to the event, and there were many who generously contributed.

Seth Miles, the owner of Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon stated how it all got started: “As most people will tell you when there’s a wildfire nearby, we all want to give something back to the firefighters who are working to defend our homes and neighborhoods, but there is often little we can do. When we at Jack’s started offering our Employee meal discount (50%) to all firefighters and displaced residents in mid-July, we immediately started receiving donations from local residents who wanted to help cover the meal costs. The generosity from community inspired and allowed us, along with Old Schoolhouse Brewery and East 20 Pizza, to offer free meals for the last two Sundays to everyone working on the fire crews. Over the last three weeks we’ve raised $5141.45 in direct donations, as well as over $1600 in gift card purchases, which we used to directly pay for meals.”

“All together we have provided 355 free meals and 1323 discounted meals.” Miles continued.

This is all possible because of …”the generosity and giving nature of our community, coming together to show our appreciation to the fire crews for all their hard work.”

You won’t find Old Schoolhouse Brewery tooting their own horn, but in a message to staff members a manager stated: “Thanks for keeping the energy high and being so upbeat in spite of the fires. We had a super successful Sunday last week of giving away food to firefighters and those who are displaced–we gave away almost $1700 in food, and the community donated most of the funds to cover that! We also just raised over $3000 for the Volunteer Firefighter Benevolent Fund from our Fire6 IPA. Very exciting!”

Several businesses offered discounts every day, not just on August 1st.

Estuardo Collier, manager at East 20 Pizza, stated that they gave away about four thousand dollars worth of food to firefighters. “The Vinmo idea from Seth at Jack’s was brilliant! A real sense of community and oneness. I’ve never felt we were competitors, but to show our solidarity to the the community was priceless. Only good comes of that.”

Collier went on to explain why he so admires the local heroes who saved our community. “I was a forest firefighter in 1999. I know what it’s like. The best way to describe is, hard *#@ ?”*%^ work!! I’m thankful I don’t have to do that job anymore. These guys were extremely thankful!”

The firefighters actually begged to pay and tipped the servers very generously. “I’ve been extremely blessed by  East 20 Pizza, along with Lindsay and Luke Evens is to help support our Valley when we can. I’m thankful to all our employees because without them none of this happens!!” Collier concluded.

Rocking Horse Bakery gave over $1500 away in food according to owner Mark Westerfield.

We are so grateful to live is such a fantastic community and that is has not only survived these challenges, but it continues to thrive.

With Highway 20 open, and the smoke clear, we hope our visitors will return to continue enjoying the magic of our valley.

CONTEST | YOU CAN WIN A FREE NIGHT IN WINTHROP IF YOU CORRECTLY GUESS WHEN THE HIGHWAY WILL OPEN.

Each winter Washington State Route 20 (the North Cascades Highway) closes for the winter, due to heavy snow accumulation and avalanche danger. This highway, built in 1972, is considered one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest. Each spring, when Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announces the clearing of the highway, there is much anticipation for the opening date of this beautiful byway.

On April 5th, WSDOT announced they were clearing SR 20, indicating that the pass usually opens four to six weeks after the crew begins their dangerous work.

THE CONTEST

Here’s how it works: First your guess a date when you think the highway will open, which enters you for the contest. When USDOT announces the highways opening, if you guessed correctly, you can spend a free night in Winthrop on the date the highway opens. The last date you can guess is April 26th. See rules and regulations below.

AbbyCreek Inn in Winthrop, WA is the generous sponsor of this contest.

Rules and Regulations:

1. No purchase is required to enter the contest
2. This contest is promoted by AbbyCreek Inn and the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce.
3. Must be 25 or older to enter.
4. Only available at participating hotels.
5. Limited to availability.
6. By entering this contest you are consenting to receive email promotions from Winthrop Washington.
7. You may enter to win no later than April 26, 2021.
8. The winners will receive one room worth up to $149 dollars. The room must be used on the date the highway opens. It is not transferrable, and cannot be used on any other date, although it can be combined for a multi-night stay (with the winning date being the free night).
9. The odds of winning are one in 49 (49 dates to choose from).
10. One entry per person.
11. The free room is only available in the town of Winthrop on the date SR 20 opens in the spring of 2021. Anyone from any geographic area can enter.
12. The winners will be notified on the date SWDOT announces that SR 20 opens.
13. Winners must be presents on the night in Winthrop on the date the highways opens to utilize their prize.
14. The winners names will not be published.
15. For a list of winners, please contact the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce.
16. Winners are responsible for applicable state or federal taxes.

In 1941, Winthrop, Washington was a very small logging town, homesteaded from the local mining quarries back in the 1850’s, with several ranches around. When the spring thaw brought the dirt roads back to view after months of being hidden under a blanket of snow, the loggers, and ranchers would gather for a spring celebration.

Back in the early days, these were unofficial gatherings of some rough riders who (usually) knew how to hold their whiskey. By 1945, there began an annual parade and the heritage event – 49er Days was born, 76 nostalgic years ago.

Back then, this valley was the very end of the road, before highway 20 connected the valley to the Northwest corner of Washington state (during the months when the highway is passable). These celebrations revitalized this little valley with a liveliness that only the Wild West can provide, replete with barn dances and hoedowns.

The book The Virginian (1909,by Owen Wister) was based on Winthrop and had circulated around enough to draw some attention to the valley as well. At least one story from the book really happened in Winthrop.

If you can believe it, families came in their wagons from several miles around to join in the barn dance. The original town dance hall was a Quonset hut that caved in from heavy snowfall in the 1970’s when a group of volunteers worked to together to raise the current Winthrop Barn Auditorium from the ground for future coronations and dances. When the residents were having their hoedown in the barn, the babies were usually left in a room designated for them to sleep in. Some tricky fellow went in and switched the babies in their baskets while the dancing got ruckus and no one noticed until the wagon was a ways down the road. Tough to imagine in these days, right?

Ray Campbell, a true cowboy, and a current board member of the 49ers heritage event recalls growing up going to these barn dances. “The parking lot would be jammed full of cars and back in the day there would have been horses too.” He remembers these barn dances even more than the parades.

Two major changes brought major revitalization to the authentic “49ers Days” event.

The first event was in 1970 when the town knew the North Cascade Highway would be opening, and Winthrop would no longer be the end of the road. Cars would be driving through by the hundreds to see one the most beautiful scenic byways in the nation, and have unprecedented access to pristine outdoor recreation. The residents of the town got ahead of the change and renovated the storefronts back to their 1850’s look complete with wooden boardwalks and places to tie up horses. The Western look of the town was preserved and 49er Days was the town’s crown jewel event to show off its western roots!

WOGA Joins the Festivities

Now in the 1980’s the Washington Outfitters and Guides Association (WOGA) were in the prime of their day. These sportsmen, lead groups of packers through the federal and state land on horseback to experience the natural resources this state is proud to preserve. The sportsmen from across the state would rendezvous in various locations for an annual celebration – Puyallup, Ellensburg, and then someone asked about Leavenworth. When some red tape made things look too tricky for a Leavenworth rendezvous, the name of the town of Winthrop came up and it seems like a perfect fit.

Tom Graves who remains a key member of the 49er Days planning committee (pictured below) and a character named Claude set to work planning out a route for the 3-4 day horseback camping trek starting in Pateros, winding through Finley Canyon and ending up in Winthrop.

They researched the landowners and made decisions over whiskey at Sam’s place until a plan was hatched. Some of the land owners were sketchy individuals who had no connection to Tom or Claude but every single one of them agreed to allow the packers to cross or even camp on their land. Some of people who seemed the most likely to say no were just elated to participate and went out of their way to make the packers comfortable.

That first year the outfitters camped on the baseball diamond across from the Barn. This was in the early 1990’s. There were camp fires, storytelling, whiskey, and some of the best cowboy poets in the nation.

The event has been held in Winthrop every year on Mother’s Day weekend. Even this year in 2021 you can see the horsemen ride into town around noon on Friday all dusty and parched. Many years they even bring along at least one authentic covered wagon!

The encampment has moved locations, though, across the street in Mack Lloyd Park next to the Winthrop Barn Auditorium where the barn dances continue to be held (aside from when there’s a global pandemic). The sportsmen set up nostalgic canvas tents and sell goods straight out of them during the day. Each year on Mother’s Day weekend, you can experience this heritage event at the Cowboy Breakfast, along with a dinner they also host.

This is the main fund raiser for WOGA in their work with legislation to continue to allow horses on public lands. The back country horsemen care deeply about preserving these natural resources and have volunteered hundreds of hours in maintaining the trails to be used for years to come.

This year marks the 76th annual event. It was a major disappointment when the diamond year of 49er Days couldn’t take place. We felt especially sad for the senior class royalty who had waited their whole lives to be in the parade and wouldn’t get another chance.

The parade isn’t the only tragedy of COVID-19. In the fall of 2020 the Washington Outfitters and Guides Association lost a member from the Leavenworth Chapter. This year’s 49er Days will be dedicated to Sandy Wick and Shirley Haase who passed in 2020. One was due to COVID-19 and the other was not. Then again in March of 2021 even closer to home, another life was lost to COVID-19 from our own community, and one of the few female members of the heritage event planning committee. We are so saddened by the losses of these precious lives and all of the lives taken by the global pandemic.

Below you can take a walk through the newspaper archives of 49er Days events in the past. Special thanks to the Methow Valley News for preserving these archives and making them available to the public.

Upon entering the newspaper archives, the first page I laid my eyes was our most honored member of the 49ers planning committee, Tom Graves. This photo was posted in the newspaper around the time of the third annual heritage event. Tom continues to be an important part of the planning committee every year.

Some of these photos are cut off due to their margins being covered by the way the newspapers are bound together, but I did my best to show as much of the pages as possible without damaging them.

If you’d like to see the photos better, click on each one to see a high-resolution version.

Click here for more details on the history of Winthrop WA prior to State Highway 20 crossing over the North Cascade Mountain range.

Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate, the leading residential real estate firm in Central Washington, has continued their investment in community food banks this holiday season.

The firm made donations totaling $10,000 to local non-profit organizations this month, helping families provide necessities, food, and toys for the holiday season. Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate operates full-service real estate offices in Wenatchee, Chelan, and Winthrop and has served north central Washington residents for over 40 years.

Coldwell Banker Cascade donated $4,000 to Serve Wenatchee’s Fresh Hope Market, a local community food bank that provides a variety of items a family may need to fill the gaps month to month, ranging from food to hygiene products.

“Our firm was happy to support the great work of Serve Wenatchee. The Fresh Hope Market allows families to choose the fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and other food items they want and need. It’s a great model,” said Adam Rynd, owner and designated broker of Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate. The donation was made in conjunction with a local REALTORS® campaign that raised over $22,000 from several real estate firms.

An additional $4,000 donation was sent to the Manger Mall operated by Chelan Valley Hope and a $2,000 donation was made to the Manger Mall operated by The Cove Methow Valley. Both Chelan and Methow Valley Manger Malls provide toys to children, ages infant to 18, who may otherwise not receive presents on Christmas.

“Our Lake Chelan office has supported Manger Mall with toy donations for several years,” said Rynd. “This year they were unable to collect toys. We felt it was especially important to help their efforts and expand our support to the Methow Valley. The cash donations provide gift certificates that local families can use in small businesses, helping both the recipients and businesses that are struggling due to the pandemic.”

The holiday season can be a difficult time of year for countless families who work hard to provide for their loved ones. This year has been particularly challenging for many families due to increased unemployment from pandemic-related business closures. These donations from Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate are aimed at easing financial and emotional pressure on families working hard to make ends meet.

As the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions continue – Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate felt it was important to partner with all three local non-profit organizations to support their community efforts.

About Coldwell Banker ® Cascade Real Estate

The COLDWELL BANKER CASCADE REAL ESTATE team is ready to help you find your home in this unique and enchanting place. As the #1 Real Estate Firm in North Central Washington, our friendly team of 75+ LOCAL real estate agents provides professional, world-class real estate services with integrity. We can help you realize your dream of owning a piece of North Central Washington, as we have for so many clients in our 40+ years!

Our firm includes brokerage offices in Wenatchee, Chelan, and Winthrop and we have specialists in all types of property: full- time residences, vacation homes and cabins, ranches, riverfront, vacant land, commercial properties, and off-grid getaways. Please browse our Property Search, with listing details on all properties for sale throughout North Central Washington. Learn how to plan for buying real estate or prepare to sell your property in the Buyer and Seller sections. Visit the Meet our Team page to get to know our local brokers ready to guide you in your search. When you are ready to learn more and work with the best real estate team in North Central Washington, give us a call or send an email. We truly love where we live, and we love what we do!

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Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker ® organization has been a premier provider of full-service residential and commercial real estate. ColdwellBanker ® is the oldest national real estate brand in the United States and today has a network of more than 90,000 sales agents working inapproximately 3,100 offices in 50 countries and territories. The Coldwell Banker brand is known for creating innovative consumer services as recently seen by being the first national real estate brand to create an iPad application and the first to fully harness the power of video in real estate listings, news and information through its Coldwell Banker On Location SM YouTube channel.

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Many visitors have been asking how our tiny tourist town has been doing during the worldwide pandemic. Of course, the answer is always evolving. Here’s an honest perspective about the impact from a (relatively new) local.

COVID-19 Impact

Living in a tiny town with one clinic, and a majority of our residents being retirees, we were set up for a very fearful situation at best, and a disaster at worst.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of our mayor, Sally Ranzau, as well as commitment from local businesses, we have essentially kept COVID out of our remote town. (Knock on wood.) According to Okanogan County Health, at the time of writing this blog, there have been 11 confirmed cases in the Methow Valley and no deaths.

The Mayor, and the City Council put up posters, large wooden signs around town, encouraged businesses to follow the state guidelines, and provided free masks. We are grateful for local businesses, and visitors who continue to help contain the virus.

Local nonprofit, TwispWorks, is helping businesses navigate the protocols and is providing small business grants to offset the challenges.

Businesses are Resilient

Some of our local businesses have reported an increase in revenue while others have struggled. The sit-down restaurants have been hit hard in particular. Several successful businesses have changed hands since March including Kind Grinds, The Cascades Outdoor Store and Winthrop Mountain Sports. Riverside Grill which has been closed for about four years has been purchased and is being renovated.

Our local, independent movie theater, the Barnyard Cinema, and the Shafer Museum have not officially opened their doors as of yet. We have lost Kittie’s Old Time Photo Parlor for good. One retail location is available next to The French Quail. One more retail location will be coming available as soon as construction on the new Winthrop Library is complete.

Considering the numbers of businesses permanently closing in other communities, we count ourselves fortunate. We are aware of the fact that local businesses depend on the revenue from our busy touristy summers to make it though the less busy months. (Fall, winter, and spring are a great time to visit in an authentic, socially-distancing way.)

Up in Smoke

The wild fires across the west coast in September impacted the ability of locals and visitors to enjoy the last weeks of summer in the valley, but locals knew better than to complain.

The smoke has covered us in summers past and many of us have lost our homes to its hungry flames. Winthrop residents wanted to help when fires broke out on the eastern side of Okanogan County. Locals offered those in need clothing, essentials, and even hay for the livestock of those displaced. Okanogan Wildfire Relief Fund

Winter Sports

We are looking forward to a strong winter season with our alpine ski hill, Loup Loup Ski Bowl, offering twice as much indoor space after a successful construction project.

Our world-famous cross-country trails, Methow Trails, will boast of more miles of groomed trails than ever! They will also offer online passes so you can enjoy nature without the need to go into a shop for the purchase.

Although organized sports are on a hiatus across the state. However, our outdoor ice rink, The Winthrop Rink, has worked closely with the Governor’s office to allow for open skate, skate lessons, and skate rentals. They might be able to organize some adult tournaments later in the winter if further approval allows.

Winter sports like snowshoeing, fat biking, snowmobiling and other similar sports shouldn’t be effected.

Other Impacts

Another huge impact of this worldwide pandemic has been our housing market. Vacant land and homes have been selling like hotcakes around here. Locals who rent have been particularly hit hard by this trend. The Methow Housing Trust works to increase the valley’s affordable housing.

I heard a rumor that the local school is seeing an increase of enrollment from families who have moved into their second homes here. I don’t have any evidence or data to show if this is true. The local school district is offering in-person instruction two days a week for all of the pupils, K-12. They are going above and beyond by offering students free breakfast, lunch, and transportation, as well a school-sponsored outdoor social learning pods.

Overall, the business owners, residents of Winthrop and the entire Methow Valley are among some of the most optimistic and resilient people you’ll ever meet. Our outdoor recreation continues to be worth the short drive from anywhere in the state of Washington.  

When this pandemic is over, we hope you’ll think of us when you need a getaway. We are thinking of you and hope you’re well too.

How has 2020 impacted your town?

-Anne Young
Winthrop Marketing Director

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