The Methow Trails system changes with the seasons: in winter, it includes more than 200 kilometers of cross-country ski trails. Many of the trails become routes for biking, trail running, hiking, and horseback riding in spring, summer, and fall. Grooming and seasonal conditions vary; check current information before your outing.
A high-desert region shapes the landscape of Okanogan County. Summers are generally dry and winters mild—a character you can experience on everything from an outing by the water to a trip along a trail.
Waterfronts, Lakes, and Winter Activities
Conconully State Park has 5,400 feet of freshwater shoreline and offers fishing at both the Lower Conconully Reservoir and the Upper Conconully Reservoir, also known as Salmon Lake. Pearrygin Lake State Park has 11,000 feet of shoreline, a little more than twice as much. The 3.1-mile Rex Derr Trail also runs through the park.
In winter, fat biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are possible at Pearrygin Lake State Park. Winter activities are seasonal, so check current conditions before visiting. The two-mile-long Alta Lake offers opportunities for trout fishing, water skiing, and windsurfing in summer. Family-friendly activities at Alta Lake State Park include swimming and hiking.
Trails for Different Ways to Explore
The Sinlahekin Wildlife Area covers about 22,500 acres in central Okanogan County. Its unit has about eight miles of trails for hikers and horseback riders. Some areas are suitable for use by people with ADA requirements. Seasonal road restrictions may apply, so check conditions in advance.
Whistler Canyon Trail offers views of the Okanogan River and Pasayten Wilderness, as well as opportunities to observe wildlife. It’s suitable for hiking and horseback riding, and also has challenging areas for climbers. In the Loomis Natural Resources Conservation Area, developed trailheads provide access to hiking and horseback-riding trails. The Loomis and Loup Loup State Forests in Okanogan County offer opportunities for camping, hiking, off-road vehicle riding, fishing, and hunting.
History and Events
The Fort Okanogan Interpretive Center shares the history of a trading post that operated from 1811 to 1860. Its portrayal of the fur trade is from an Indigenous perspective. The center also overlooks the remains of two Fort Okanogans and the Columbia River delta.
The Omak Stampede includes a family-friendly fair and Wrangler Kids Night. The annual Indian Encampment and Pow Wow at the Omak Stampede Grounds is a traditional gathering. The Indian Encampment includes an authentic tipi village, dancing, drumming, singing competitions, and Stick Games.
In the World Famous Suicide Race, horses and riders descend a steep 225-foot slope to the Okanogan River, then race 500 yards to the finish. The course makes the race’s progression tangible: from the steep descent to the long stretch to the finish.
Nature and Regional Discoveries
Okanogan Country lies along North America’s Pacific Flyway. Birdwatching opportunities include songbirds, game birds, waterfowl, and raptors. Okanogan Country also has horseback-riding trails, and outfitters lead wilderness rides lasting from several days to several weeks. This offers both brief wildlife-watching outings and longer horseback experiences as different ways to enjoy nature.
During the season, farmers markets in Okanogan Country invite visitors to shop and offer a local, seasonal selection. Pateros serves as the southern gateway to Okanogan Country. To get there, take Highway 2 and then head north on Highway 97 to Pateros; check road conditions before setting out.
Getting There and Camping
The RV park at the Okanogan County Fairgrounds offers full-hookup sites, water-and-electric sites, and dry camping. Camping information is seasonal; check the campground’s operating dates before making plans.
Explore more destinations: Brewster, Omak, Okanogan, Mazama, Twisp, Riverside, Conconully, San Juan County
For the main travel overview: Washington.
