Located in Washington’s North Cascade Mountains Lies a Bustling Tourist Destination Offering Endless Recreation

Mazama is a tiny Washington community about 4.5 hours northeast of Seattle. It’s improbably small, home to just a few hundred full-time residents, yet this speck on the map manages to host around 0.5 million visitors every year. Mazama and the surrounding Methow Valley are remarkably beautiful. With the North Cascades towering off in the distance, dense forests ripe for exploration, and the Methow River coursing through town, it’s easy to see why travelers of all types flock to Mazama for their adventures.

If you want to join in on the outdoor fun, be prepared for a rugged experience. Mazama only has a few options for lodging, and you won’t find anything like Seattle’s vibrant Pike Place Market with hundreds of unique shops. Instead, a visit to Mazama is one that puts you at nature’s doorstep. Whether it’s skiing, hiking, or kayaking, there are countless ways to spend your time here. You can even set foot on a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail, giving you a glimpse into what life is like for those who attempt the 2,650-mile trek.

If you want to stay near Mazama, it doesn’t get much better than hiking the Goat Creek, Founders Trail, and Methow River Loop. Weaving through the valley for 6 miles, you’ll pass by the river, dive into forests, and trek across wide open prairies during the challenging hike. To get above the landscape, hike the 1,450 feet to Goat Peak. The trail is incredibly steep at just 3.5 miles, but you’ll be rewarded with epic views of the North Cascade Mountains. And while there’s a bit of mystery surrounding vanished hikers of the Pacific Crest Trail, you can explore a picturesque portion of it around Cutthroat Pass.

Since Mazama is so small, anyone interested in getting on the Methow River will want to take the quick drive down to neighboring Winthrop. It’s here you’ll find Methow Rafting. The highly-rated outfitter can set you up with a rafting or kayaking tour. You can also pick up standard kayak rentals if you prefer to make your own adventure.

If it seems more interesting to visit Mazama in the winter, you’ll be treated to miles of groomed cross-country skiing paths. Over a dozen different routes are located right in town, with options for all skill levels. Novices can check out the mellow Inn Run Loop or MCT Founders Trail, while experts can dive headfirst into the challenging Inside Passage or Upper Winthrop Trail. Rental skis and passes are available at the Methow Valley Ski School or Goat’s Beard Mountain Supplies.