Twisp

The town of Twisp sits at the confluence of the Methow and Twisp rivers. Originally founded in 1897, Twisp was the first town to be established in the Methow Valley. The name "Twisp" comes from the Native American word meaning "yellow jacket" or "sound of the buzzing wasp," and is the sunflower capital of Washington state. Twisp is the eastern entrance to North Cascades National Park, and its location provides year-round access to premier outdoor recreation including whitewater rafting, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, climbing and much more.

If you head there in the winter, you’ll find great snow and world-class skiing and snowshoeing. Twisp is located near Loup Loup Pass, which offers downhill runs for all ages and ability levels, as well as groomed Nordic trails, snowshoe routes and a tubing area.  In the summer Twisp and the Methow Valley are never short on sunshine or great hikes (Recommendations: Twisp Pass  and Lookout Mountain.) Summer is also a great time to take advantage of the valley’s agricultural bounty.  Visit a farm and learn how your food is grown, sample delicious produce and even help feed the animals or weed the garden!  Click here  for more info on farm tours and activities.

This beautiful area also affords you the opportunity to spot dozens of wildlife species.  The Methow Wildlife Area is 31,000 acres in seven units located in the Methow River watershed in the western half of Okanogan County. This area is particularly well known for the largest herd of mule deer in the state, but you should also keep your eye out for blue forest grouse, ruffed forest grouse, woodpeckers, ducks, geese, bald eagles, golden eagles, white-tailed deer and rattlesnakes.

Whether you spent the day playing in the snow, hiking, climbing or just taking in the gorgeous scenery, finish off your day by kicking back at the Twisp River Pub  where you’ll find great locally-brewed beer, fresh fare, live musicand maybe even a Methow Conservancy First Tuesday lecture.

For more information about Twisp, visit the website for the town of Twisp and this site for history, recreation, and lodging information.

Photo credit: Town of Twisp website