Destination: Nordic Skiing in Washington’s Pristine Methow Valley

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Blue skies pinned up by rugged winter peaks. Dry powder snow. Sunshine five days out of seven. Nights so clear the stars come right down to say hello. Ski tracks outside your door. Enough groomed trails that you can ski for the weekend and never cross your own tracks.

Tucked high on the eastern slope of Washington's North Cascades, the Methow is the end of the road in winter, and the beginning of possibly the best winter vacation you'll ever have. With nearly 200 kilometers of machine-groomed, unrepeated trails surrounded by more than a million acres of national wilderness and forest lands, the Methow Valley today comprises the 2nd largest nordic center in North America. Novice or expert, you'll find skiing here to match your interests and abilities. From an hour-long lesson to a guided backcountry adventure. From a half-day tour with gourmet lunch, to intensive competition training coached by a resident pro.

The Methow's skiing, scenery, and coaching are all world-class. The crowds and the attitude are not. The nature of our unrepeated trail system provides for miles of skiing in peaceful, uncrowded conditions. Lodging, meals, and entertainment are modestly priced, with special discounts for midweek visits offered by many valley businesses. Rentals, lessons, guides, and equipment are available at many locations, and trail passes --Required for all groomed trails -- sold by the 1/2 day, 1 day, 3 day, and season are one of the best bargains in skiing today. Besides building and maintaining the trail system, the Methow Valley Sport Trails Association (MVSTA) sponsors ski races, clinics, and fun events for the whole family. MVSTA is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing and promoting environmentally sound non-motorized recreation year-around on and near the trails of the Methow Valley.

For a unique adventure, Rendezvous Outfitters, Washington's highest "hotel" chain, offers five remote huts available for rent, spaced along Methow ski trails at scenic locations. Freight hauls available. Contact Rendezvous Outfitters at (509) 996-2148 or 800-422-3048 in Washington State.

Detailed ski trail and trip planning information available at www.mvsta.com.

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