Winthrop, Washington, is a charming destination year-round, but spring adds a special touch to its incredible appeal.
Here are eight reasons why you should consider visiting the Methow Valley in the spring.
Spring brings a burst of color to Winthrop’s landscapes as bright yellow arrow-leaf balsam root, and purple lupine carpet the meadows and hillsides. In late May dinner guests will see broad patches of yellow covering whole sections of the hillsides across the valley. Take a hike or drive through the Methow Valley to witness this natural spectacle.
Spring in Winthrop offers pleasantly mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and exploring the area without the heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Many wide open hillside hikes like the Meadowlark Area are best experienced in spring before the harsh sun leaves hikers exposed.
Spring is the best time to see Pipestone Canyon for yourself, before the rattlesnakes wakes up as the summer sun warms the canyon.
With the snow melting away, spring opens up opportunities for various outdoor adventures such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding. The Methow Valley boasts an extensive trail network suitable for all skill levels.
The Sunflower Marathon takes place each spring during the peek of wildflower season. Be sure to sign up early before it sells out.
Spring is the season of bird migration, and Sun Mountain Lodge is a haven for birdwatchers with thousands of acres to explore. Grab your binoculars and head to nearby birding hotspots like Patterson Lake or Big Valley for a chance to spot a diverse range of avian species.
Sun Mountain Lodge hosts several wine dinners, concerts, and events in the spring, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and cuisine.
Keep an eye out for other local events like the Winthrop Balloon Festival or the Winthrop ’49er Days Celebration, which typically take place during this time.
Spring is an excellent time to embark on scenic drives around Winthrop and the Methow Valley. Cruise along the North Cascades Scenic Byway or the Cascade Loop Highway to admire breathtaking mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant spring foliage.
Our favorite local loop from downtown Winthrop, around Pearrygin Lake State Park and back to town by way of Bear Creek Golf Course. You’ll see stunning snow capped mountains over fields of spring time life with a few surprises along the way.
Indulge in the flavors of spring by dining at at the Wolf Creek Bar and Grill or the Dining Room at Sun Mountain Lodge both of which emphasize seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and producers. Savor farm-to-table cuisine, artisanal cheeses, and locally crafted beer and cider at the Lodge. Dine in in Winthrop while soaking in the town’s rustic ambiance.
Spring offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling summer months, making it an ideal time for relaxation and rejuvenation. Book at massage in the Spa. Unwind at a cozy Patterson Lake Cabin, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the hillside, or simply bask in the tranquility of Winthrop’s natural surroundings.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat amidst scenic beauty, Sun Mountain Lodge in the spring has something to offer for every traveler.
Find lodging specials during this slower time of year.
Welcome to a paradise tucked away in the heart of the Pacific Northwest – Sun Mountain Lodge in Winthrop, Washington. This enchanting destination offers an unforgettable experience that combines stunning natural beauty, a wide range of activities, and luxurious amenities. If you’re seeking a perfect getaway, especially when visiting North Cascades National Park, look no further. Here’s why Sun Mountain Lodge deserves a spot on your travel bucket list!
With North Cascades National Park at your fingertips, the location here is excellent. The town of Winthrop which is about 15 minutes down the hill, is a fun cowboy town that has cute shops and restaurants.
The lodge is located on top of a hill that allows you to look into valleys and see other mountain ranges in the distance, which is gorgeous.
From horseback riding to kayaking to a special Cowboy dinner, Sun Mountain Lodge has an abundance of activities that will keep you busy during your stay.
This was my favorite activity I did while staying at Sun Mountain Lodge! The guided trail ride was excellent and we were taken through forests, meadows, and to a beautiful overlook of the mountains. It was my first time horseback riding so I was a bit nervous, but they made me feel comfortable and explained everything perfectly for safety and comfort.
Kayaking on the property was such a great experience! Super easy to get in the water and we had the lake all to ourselves. There was an Eagles nest which was really cool to see from the kayak. I would recommend going kayaking in the morning because this lake can get pretty breezy in the afternoon. You can also go fly fishing on the lake as well!
If you are staying at Sun Mountain Lodge, you must go to the special Cowboy dinner that they put on! It was such a wonderful evening where they take you in a horse-drawn carriage to a beautiful spot in the woods. There you enjoy wonderful comfort food and live music. The company was excellent and the blueberry cobbler pie at the end was to die for! Once you are done with dinner, they take you back in the carriage and drop you off at the hotel entrance. This was a magical experience and I highly recommend it for all ages!
We found the food on the property to be excellent, so much so that we didn’t even go into Winthrop to get food during the trip. There were a variety of options on the menus and we were very happy with the quality of the food and the service in the restaurants on the property.
Dining Room:
Had an absolutely wonderful dinner at the Dining Room in Sun Mountain Lodge. The food was incredible and the filet mignon was the best my boyfriend had in a very long time! We also enjoyed the strawberry burrata appetizer and the chocolate cake for dessert was delicious. Whether if you’re staying at the lodge or not, I definitely recommend eating at the dining room for a nice dinner.
Wolf Creek Bar & Grill:
The Wolf Creek Bar & Grill which is also on the property was a great lunch spot! We got the charcuterie board and the mac and cheese. Both were delicious and it was a great place to fuel up before more outdoor activities.
Overall, Sun Mountain Lodge is a hidden gem in Washington that needs to be added to any outdoor and nature enthusiast’s bucket list. Especially being so close to North Cascades National Park, this is a perfect destination. I had such a wonderful stay and loved the town of Winthrop as well.
Fall might just be the perfect time to visit the Methow Valley (pronounced met-how) in North Central Washington. Warm sunny days give way to cool crisp nights, where it is dark enough to see dazzling stars in the night-sky and breathe in fresh mountain air.
There is a special place in this valley, perched high upon a mountain and away from the bustle. As soon as you round the last bend on the road up to Sun Mountain, it feels like you are entering into a place where time slows down and you can throw your to do list out the window. Sun Mountain Lodge is a classic mountain getaway, complete with rustic décor and a welcoming stone hearth situated among exposed timber. The Lodge welcomes visitors with cozy accommodations and few distractions from the natural beauty of the Methow Valley. It is very easy to stay in the present here, relaxation is at hand.
There is lots to see and do at Sun Mountain Lodge. Accessible in every season, it is a perfect getaway for couples, families or even a girlfriend’s getaway. The outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs offer a relaxing respite after a day exploring the miles of hiking and biking trails that start right on the Lodge’s property. The trail network becomes a winter wonderland once the snow starts falling, with visitors enjoying cross country skiing on expertly groomed trails during winter months.
The Cowboy Dinner is a must-do dinner experience! This culinary adventure takes you back to the original homestead meadow, steeped in rich history and authentic charm. A horse-drawn wagon ride, guided by seasoned wranglers, offers a glimpse of the beautiful valley, as you amble along the trail above Patterson Lake. As you make your way down through a thicket of pine trees, the old homestead area opens with a covered outdoor kitchen and a chef prepared cowboy-inspired dinner on the grill. The food is fantastic, and is prepared with locally sourced meat and produce, and is paired with local wine and beer options.
If you bring the family on your getaway, plan to visit the petting zoo down at the horse stables to see some friendly farm animals. Goats, pigs, chickens, and rabbits happily doze and lounge near the horse enclosures and kids enjoy feeding and interacting with them. If you are interested in a trail ride, book a guided horseback ride that takes you out among the 1,500+ acres of wilderness surrounding the Lodge.
Sun Mountain Lodge offers luxury at the edge of the wilderness. This recreational paradise is perfect in every season – from hillsides bursting with spring wildflowers, to autumn leaves of gold dotting the hillsides in fall, then the cool blanket of snow that softens the sights and sounds through winter.
We look forward to welcoming you. (509) 996-2211
Get in Touch