Winthrop Washington Tourism

The rustic “Old West” town of Winthrop, located in the sunny Methow Valley, is a historian’s delight. For 9,000 years, American Indians lived and camped along the banks of the Methow, Twisp and Chewuch Rivers. Once settlers moved in, cattle drives, medicine shows and pack trains became the way of life in the valley.

One can now step back in time with a stroll of downtown Winthrop with its wooden sidewalks, hitching posts and Shafer Museum. Winthrop’s history is rich and is reflected in the restoration of several of the original town buildings. The original Duck Brand Saloon (now the town hall) was built in 1891.

Waring’s Methow Trading Company, named for Guy Waring who settled here in 1891, operated for 49 years beginning in 1897. Owen Wister, Waring’s Harvard roommate, wrote America’s first western novel “The Virginian”, after honeymooning in Winthrop.

Almost completely surrounded by National Forest, State Game Range and Wilderness areas, Winthrop and the upper Methow Valley beckons adventurers of all kinds. From Winthrop, one can venture into miles and miles of back country roads and well defined trails for some of the best hiking, horseback riding or mountain biking an enthusiast could possibly want.

Swimming, boating, river rafting, kayaking, windsurfing and jet skiing are summer activities which lure vacationers to the many Winthrop area lakes and rivers. Camping, golf, fishing and hunting are only a few minutes from Winthrop also.

Winter time finds Winthrop blanketed in snow and winter sports abound. The upper Methow Valley is reported to have the second largest cross-country ski trail system in the country. Downhill and heli skiing, snowmobiling and ice skating are available as well. You’re sure to be enticed by Winthrop’s many shops, fine restaurants, museums, galleries, music festivals and other cultural events. Come experience your own personal adventure in the “Old West” town of Winthrop and the beautiful Methow Valley.