The arrival of the very first Winthrop Artisan's Market has kicked off what promises to be a great summer in the Methow Valley filled with exciting events and festivals, lots of sunshine, and plenty of fun!

Here's a quick sample of what's coming up fast:

• Winthrop Wine Festival (June 19 - 21)

• Methow Arts Fest (July 4)

• Winthrop Rhythm and Blues Festival (July 17 - 19)

• Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival (July 24 - August 2)

• 40th Anniversary of Woodstock Concert (August 21-22)

• Methow Valley Rodeo (September 5 - 6)

• Winthrop Auto Rallye (September 11-12)

For a more complete list of local events, be sure to checkout the local Events Calendar and the Arts Calendar.

One bright side from the low snow pack this past winter is that the North Cascades SR-20 Pass is opening a little early this spring! The WSDOT announced this afternoon that the pass will be opening around 8pm tomorrow (April 24th), if not a few hours earlier.

This is a fantastic time to visit the Methow Valley! The wildflowers are out in force, the trees have fresh green leaves, and the temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities — not too hot, and not too cold. Even better, we're offering great Spring rates through the end of April. Browse online or give us a call at 800-422-3048 for a personal recommendation.

There may still be some snow on the ground, but there's no doubt that Spring is in the air! Temperatures are warming up, the birds are returning and starting on their nests, and the local cycling shop has begun its tune-up special. Spring is a fantastic time in the Methow Valley with the beautiful wildflowers, mix of recreational opportunities, and perfect moderate temperatures. And since the North Cascades Pass typically remains closed for the first half of the season, it's also quiet, and that means great bargains on lodging!

We have some fantastic Spring specials this year, and we're continuing to add more. Between now and the end of April, most of the local inns are offering heavily discounted spring rates and many of the premier vacation homes are renting at up to 40% off. Just look for the bright-green Specials when browsing Methow Valley lodging.

Spring is our personal favorite season. It's a bit of a local's secret that the Methow Valley is arguably at its most splendid during the least-visited time of the year. If you enjoy the sun on your face, the trails to yourself, and a landscape carpeted with wildflowers, Spring is the time to come!

With Presidents' Day Weekend coming up, we've been getting a lot of questions about the quality of the XC-skiing here in the Methow Valley. Many of you may know that we've had an unusually low snowpack this year, but the silver lining has been excellent skiing! To quote from today's MVSTA Trail Grooming Report:

"Hard to imagine, after our less than average snow year, how really good the skiing is out there. Day after day of near perfect tracks and fast and forgiving platforms."

So if you're thinking of getting in some great last-minute skiing this Winter, now's the time! Spring will be here before you know it.

We had a couple last-minute cancellations today that have freed up some great properties in the Methow Valley and in Leavenworth for the upcoming President's Day Weekend and Valentine's Day!

Spring Creek Cabin in the Methow Valley is set on 60 acres of land just across the river from Winthrop, within an easy walk to the shops, restaurants, and the new outdoor skate rink. And it's right on the XC-ski trails so you can ski from your door!

Alpine Breeze in Leavenworth is a great 2-bedroom condo that's just a 5-10 minute walk from the downtown shops and festivities. It's nearly impossible to find high-quality accommodations like this, for this price, this close to downtown!

Either property can be securely reserved online, or feel free to give us a call at 1-800-422-3048 if you'd prefer to book over the phone.

Thanks for looking!