Okanogan County, the largest in the state of Washington, was one of those well kept secrets when it came to winter recreation. Providing excellent conditions from mid December to mid March, this section of northwest Washington on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains offers miles of skiing terrain. As the rugged peaks slowly taper toward the eastern plains, winter snows are plentiful and mostly fall as dry powder, creating prime conditions for skiing.
   Placing in the top ten must visit ski destinations, some of the standouts included Methow Valley, the Loup Loup Ski Bowl, the Winthrop Outdoor Ice Rink, and Bear Mountain. Featuring superb alpine skiing, plenty of lifts, and miles and miles of groomed trails, this area has more than enough elbow room and accommodations. Often called the American Alps, Okanogan trail associations apply their handiwork on the second largest trail network in the lower 48 states, all with a scenic backdrop of the majestic Cascade Range.
   With 300,000 acres of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest open for cross-country skiing, heli-skiing, snowshoeing and alpine skiing, this could be a dream ski vacation. Remember your Sno-park permits and responsibility code.

     Winter Rec Maps
     Area Map