FUN PLACES TO SKI

Okanogan Country Among Nation's Best Nordic Skiing

Great grooming & plenty of snow in Okanogan Country

Nestled in the Eastern shoulders of Washington’s North Cascades mountains is the largest groomed trail system in the United States.

   Located just four hours east of Seattle on the dry side of the Cascade Range, Okanogan Country offers a prime combination of topography, sun and powdery snowfall. Close proximity to the coast and glaciated peaks provide a blend of moisture and cool temperatures that yields snow ideal for Nordic Skiing.

   Discover challenging climbs, alpine views, wide-open hillsides, smooth valley trails and even hut-to-hut and town-to-town skiing. 300 km of groomed trails, varied terrain and fun family activities offer something for everyone.

   The beauty of Nordic skiing in Okanogan Country is that you can take in the views at your own pace. Choose an exhilarating skate ski along open hillsides with alpine views, or a gentle glide through forested glades on the valley floor.

   As the sun warms your face and clean crisp air fills your lungs, the only sounds you’ll hear are the twittering of birds and the swish of your skis as you glide across the cold glittery trail. It’s just you, your skis and the snow.

   Long considered a Nordic skiing mecca, the Methow Valley is listed in Gorp’s Top Ten for cross-country skiing destinations in North America. The Methow Valley Ski Trail Association (MVSTA) maintains 200 km of connected groomed trails traversing suspension bridges that span the picturesque Methow River, connecting the alpine communities of Mazama and Winthrop.

   Overnight accommodations range from rustic hut-to-hut skiing to luxury resorts with spas and hot tubs for après ski relaxation. QR tags at trailheads access grooming and weather reports. Warming huts, an outdoor skating rink and evening entertainment are all connected by trails!

   Further into Okanogan Country, explore groomed trails in county Sno-Parks: the Highlands, South Summit and Deer Creek Sno-Parks are all regularly groomed for both skate and track skiing. Sun Mountain Lodge and several valley organizations offer lessons and rental packages for Nordic skiing and snowshoe tours.

   If downhill skiing suits your fancy, the Loup Loup Ski Bowl boasts 1,240 vertical feet with 10 cut runs and a quad lift for the downhill skier. The rustic day lodge has food and beverages, restrooms and equipment rental shop. The Loup Loup also maintains 22 kilometers of groomed Nordic trails on the nearby North Summit and Bear Mountain North trail systems.

   Prime snow conditions, 300 sunny days a year and cross-country ski terrain make Okanogan Country a must see for your next Nordic ski adventure!

   For more information go to: www.OkanoganCountry.com