Photo by Steve Mitchell
Feeling buoyant? Our rivers and lakes beckon swimmers, boaters and floaters BY M A R CY S TA MPER
O
n those long, sunny days of summer, there’s nothing like some time in — or on — the water to cool off. The Methow offers water activities for all interests and abilities, from shallow wading areas along the rivers to serene freshwater lakes to thrilling whitewater rapids. Because the Methow River is free-flowing, conditions change with the season. In early summer, consider a raft trip with experienced guides to safely navigate the whitewater while you take in the scenery. Later in the season, as
18
the river level gets lower — and the water gets warmer — people switch to tubing, where they can enjoy a relaxed float downstream in gentler conditions. Have your own boat or personal watercraft? Try sailing or jet-skiing on Pearrygin Lake or Alta Lake, where there are state park facilities. Or take a canoe to explore Blackpine Lake, a quiet, high-altitude lake with shimmering blue-green water. Swimmers and waders will want to check out Pearrygin Lake or Patterson Lake for a refreshing dip or languid float on a raft. For a truly invigorating experience, try one of the many swimming holes on the Methow’s rivers. Paddleboards are a familiar sight on lakes and rivers. Wind sailing is popular at Patterson Lake when there’s a good breeze.
■ SWIMMING • Patterson Lake: near Sun Mountain Lodge: swim in a cool freshwater lake surrounded by picturesque hills. Numerous informal beaches along the shore. Access from Patterson Lake Road. • Pearrygin Lake: swim in a large, roped-off area or explore other areas of this spring-fed lake ringed by mountain scenery. Access from East Chewuch Road and Bear Creek Road east of Winthrop. • Blackpine Lake: swim in a crystal-clear, high-mountain lake. Access from West Buttermilk Creek Road (11 miles west of Twisp on Twisp River Road) or Libby Creek Road off Highway 153, 1 mile south of Carlton. • Confluence of Methow River and Twisp River (Twisp Town Park): splash and wade through river rocks
where two of the Methow’s finest rivers converge. Lots of options for sunbathing. • Carlton swimming hole: a favorite with locals, with a deep pool, sandy beach and some shade. Access across from the Carlton Store on Highway 153. • Alta Lake State Park: clear mountain lake with day-use area with picnic tables and shade trees. Access 2 miles north of Pateros on Highway 153. • Chewuch Campground swimming hole: a generous pool for splashing and dunking. Access through Chewuch campground, 15 miles north of Winthrop on the West Chewuch Road toward Thirtymile.
■ BOATING • Pearrygin Lake State Park: Bring your own rowboat, kayak,
Methow Valley News
