Mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, jaw dropping scenic views and terrific trails, all waiting
for you on this Accessible Adventure in The Pacific Northwest. Hi I'm John Williams we're
in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest for a look at the upper Methow Valley. Come
on I'll take you Over The Top!
Over The Top pretty much describes what lies in store along this stretch of the North Cascade
Highway. Beginning in the western themed town of Winthrop we head out on The North Cascade
Highway to the summit at Rainy Pass.
Driving through the Methow Valley is like stepping back in time to the wild west of
yesteryear big weathered barns, corrals full of horses and jagged mountains for a backdrop.
I've found hiking trails on this adventure here's a couple of my favorites. First at
the Lone Fir Campground a paved trail along a beautiful creek. At about 4 tenths of a
mile my hike comes to an end. Won't even try to cross this well bridge in my wheelchair
but for our more mobile friends grab the railing and venture on!
Before I show you the next accessible trail let's take a break for some sight seeing!
Now here's a place to snap a few memorable photos. This is Washington Pass Overlook.
Plenty of parking, picnic area, accessible facilities and follow me out this paved trail.
That my friends is Liberty Bell Mountain and Early Winter Spires. One of the most photographed
mountains in the state!
The next trail I found goes all the way to Rainy Lake. It's paved and it takes about
20 minutes to get to the lake but wait until you see what's at the end of this hike.
Wow! Rainy Lake that is beautiful and I understand this lake has some very nice trout in it.
You can continue over the North Cascade highway all the way to Seattle but after a day of
hiking and sight seeing we're headed back to spend a little time in Winthrop and Twisp.
A cool beverage and dinner is in order and there are plenty of choices in both of these
quaint towns.
Just west of Twisp is Black Pine Lake Campground. It's an easy 20 mile drive although the last
few miles are over a pretty bumpy road.
Black Pine Lake Campground is a hidden gem. Un-crowded and away from the daily grind.
This beautiful dock is a great place to cast your line for a trout or just cool off with
a refreshing beverage and enjoy the view or there's always other measures to beat the
heat!
Here at Black Pine Campground you'll find accessible camp sites.
A paved trail along the lake that leads to a little surprise and don't forget to bring
your camera.
Check out this view! That's Hoodoo Peak.
Let's get back to camp with all this activity I'm getting pretty hungry!
Well if you like what you've seen in this presentation come explore the Okanogan-Wenatchee
National Forest. Recreational activities all year round! Whether you drive the entire North
Cascades Highway or you pick a spot like the Methow Valley and stay awhile! Click on another
Accessible Adventure in the Pacific Northwest and just watch where the roads lead us. I'm
John Williams I'll see you next time.