March 2023

Valley Ventures can include any of these places as destinations on a tour.

Are you tired of the same old tourist destinations? Do you crave something a little more unique and off-the-beaten path? Look no further than Central Washington, the hidden gem of of Washington state. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife, Central Washington offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Valley Ventures is just the one to take you there!

Explore Methow Valley

One of Central Washington's greatest treasures is the Methow Valley, a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills, the
crystal-clear Methow River and its tributaries, and snow-capped mountains. The valley provides exhilarating recreation during all seasons such as hiking, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, golfing, and cross country skiing. Every season brings about new activities and scenic colors to enjoy. 

One of Central Washington's favorite hidden gems in the Methow Valley is the western themed town of Winthrop. It is one of the most historic and scenic towns in North Central Washington. Your day of family fun can include visiting its local museum, shopping at its various shops, and dining at one of many popular restaurants. End you day with stopping at it candy shop where you can find homemade candy and ice-cream; a place where you don't have to be a kid to enjoy. 

https://winthropwashington.com/

Another hidden gem in the Methow Valley Sun Mountain Lodge "luxury at the edge of the wilderness". Winning "Best Mountain Resort" in 2022, this rustic lodge is tucked away in the heart of the valley, offering cozy accommodations and delicious meals. But what really sets the Sun Mountain Lodge apart from the rest is its access to some of the best cross-country skiing in the country. With over 120 miles of groomed trails, the Methow Valley is a skier's paradise.

If skiing doesn't appeal to you, you can wine and dine in their relaxing dining room. It is recognized for many awards including the AAA Four Diamond Award and Wine Growers Appreciation Award. Its dining program supports local and regional farmers, and its wine cellar boasts over 3,500 bottles of primarily Washington wines, which are unavailable outside wineries. 

Lastly, after a day at play, rejuvenate the body and soothe the soul than with a luxurious spa treatment. Experience sheer bliss!

https://www.sunmountainlodge.com/

Wenatchee River Valley

The Wenatchee Valley is another hidden gem of Central Washington, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreation. The center of the valley is where you'll find the city of Wenatchee. It is loaded with treasures for you to discover, including historic Main Street, Pybus Market, shopping. The Mighty Columbia stretches all through Central Washington, providing recreation and ultimate beauty.

https://pybuspublicmarket.org/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g58tivities-Wenatchee_Washington.html

Valley Ventures offers local tours for you to take in the valley's beauty no matter which season.

Cashmere Washington

Just a 10 mile ride west of Wenatchee, is the quaint town of Cashmere. It is home to an internationally famous fruit candy, fruit packing and processing industry, and a world-class historical museum. Recreation includes hiking, swimming, rafting, kayaking, tubing, bird watching, and fishing. Adults and children can find enjoyment shopping at some of the region's best antique stores and playing and relaxing in the local parks. The 9/11 Spirit of America Memorial, located at the city park, consists of monuments and statues representing and symbolizing all tragedies that occurred on 9/11/01, including victims names, crashes, and towers.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cashmere,_Washington

Leavenworth Washington

This Bavarian themed town is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The Cascades, the back drop of this beautiful and entertaining town, are the gateway to various recreation including hiking, skiing, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, floating, and camping.

The town itself offers entertainment from sun up to sun down for both adults and children ranging from shopping, golfing, and biking, to also the new thrill seeking Alpine roller coaster at Leavenworth Adventure Park.

https://leavenworth.org/leavenworth-visitor-guide/

https://www.leavenworthadventurepark.com/

https://leavenworth.org/

Getting Up Close with Wildlife:

Central Washington is home to an abundance of wildlife, from majestic elk to playful otters. One of the best places to get up close with these animals is the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. This hatchery raises and releases over 1 million Chinook and Coho salmon each year, making it one of the most important hatcheries in the Pacific Northwest.

But the hatchery isn't just a place to see fish. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and river otters. You can take a guided tour of the hatchery and learn about its mission to protect and restore the area's native fish species. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some of the hatchery's resident wildlife.

https://www.fws.gov/fish-hatchery/leavenworth

Chelan Washington

Chelan, known for famous apples, has many other things to be known for such as the beautiful Lake Chelan that is the nucleus of the community. It offers stunning beauty and adventures. It is a 50.5 mile of crystal clear, glacier-fed lake, surrounded by vineyards, mountains, and small town charm. It offers an array of activities as unique as the people who come here to play or live. Recreation includes boating, swimming, picnicking, wine and dining, and shopping.

Lake Chelan in home of Slide Waters. Splash all day and enjoy the feeling of an oasis in the desert at this 11 water slide park. Great fun for all ages. Valley Ventures can incorporate fun for both adults and kids. How about dropping off the older kids at the slides, while adults enjoy some local wineries? It would be a fun-filled day where both kids and adults can play.

https://www.lakechelan.com/

Okanagan Valley

Okanogan Valley is one of British Columbia's top-producing wine regions. Alongside wine tasting, festivals, and farmers-market hopping, popular recreation include cycling the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, watching The Omak Stampede in August, gambling at the 12 Tribes Casino, golfing at Gamble Sands, and boating on Okanogan Lake.

Omak Stampede

https://www.omakstampede.org/

12Tribes Casino

https://colvillecasinos.com/

Gamblesands

https://www.gamblesands.com

Always held on the second weekend in August in the Annual Omak Stampede. The weekend includes a family friendly carnival, Wrangler Kids Night, Indian Encampment and Pow Wow, Western and Native Art Show, Rodeo dances and Vendor Row, the action packed rodeo and the World Famous Suicide Race.

The Wenatchee and Methow Valley may not be the most famous tourist destinations in Central Washington, but it's certainly one of the most unique. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, recreation, and abundant wildlife, they offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. So the next time you're looking to get off-the-beaten-path, consider hiring Valley Ventures to provide you with a day tour of Wenatchee, Methow and Okanogan Valleys and discover the hidden gems that await you.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for a simple scenic ride, a cozy lodge with access to world-class skiing, or an educational tour of Native American history, Central Washington is just the place. And with its close proximity to other popular destinations like Wenatchee, Methow, and Okanogan Valleys, popular casinos, wineries, it's the perfect addition to any travel itinerary.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, sit back and enjoy the ride, and let Valley Ventures help with exploring the hidden gems of Central Washington. You never know what adventures await you just around the corner.