Methow Valley

The Methow Valley was ablaze with wildfires. Power was interrupted and several towns were evacuated, including Winthrop. And, all highways out were closed. So, I delayed going for a few days. And then, the rains came.

North Cascades Mountains

Stopped at Rainy Pass and hiked out to see Rainy Lake and Waterfalls. An easy paved trail took me through the forest in a light rain, and past a small cascading stream.

Rainy Lake & Waterfall

Stream near Rainy Lake

Then, I pulled into the Washington Pass Overlook that was supposed to have a view of Liberty Bell Peak and Early Winter Spires. But, the clouds were so dense I couldn’t see anything beyond the parking area.

Methow River

It was getting late, so I stopped at Lone Fir Campground for overnight. And, it continued to rain through most of the night, and into the next morning. Good to control the wildfires.

(Winthrop WA)
Stopped in Winthrop to check it out, but not much happening there. A few shops were open using generators and the smell of smoke still lingered in the air. Hopefully, they will make it through the summer.

Winthrop

Chewuch River

(Twisp WA)
Passing through Twisp, I saw a lot of forest, power company and firefighting equipment. It was obviously operating in emergency mode. As I left the valley, on Hwy-20, I passed through numerous burned out areas.

I had planned to boondock near Winthrop and Twisp. Sadly, the wildfires ruined that plan. When I heard the highway had been reopened, after three days of rain, I felt compelled to make an early exit.

Camp: Okanogan NF-Lone Fir CG
Scene: Mountains, creek, river, lake, waterfalls