May. The first travelers across each spring are often awed by the cool temperatures and abundant snow along the road. They're then surprised to be greeted by warm sunshine only a few miles later on the Methow Valley floor. Early in the season, visitors will find the Valley carpeted in brilliant wildflowers. A profusion of yellow arrowleaf balsamroot provides a backdrop for purple lupine, Indian paintbrush and other varieties. In summer the nearly 200 kilometers of trails used for winter skiing become favored routes for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders.
Fishing is rewarding in lowland lakes and streams all the way to the wilderness backcountry.
In May horsepackers kick off their season with 49er Days complete with a parade, packing demonstrations, a street dance and great campfire food. Memorial Day and Labor Day are noted for one of the best small town rodeos in the country. And before the early snows of winter, the Valley becomes a palette of vivid fall colors with the turning of aspen, cottonwood and alder. Pick your time to visit. There'll always be many friendly local people to make your stay more enjoyable.