This Town Nestled In Washington's Cascade Mountains Is Great For Camping & Stargazing

While Washington state is often viewed as a misty, quiet land complete with lush, otherworldly rainforests, the eastern half of the state actually enjoys a relatively dry climate. That includes places like Lake Chelan, which is a great addition to your wine vacation bucket list, and the small town of Twisp, which boasts abundant sunshine year round and enough winter snow to pique the interest of any skier or snowmobiler.

Situated in the idyllic Methow Valley on the eastern flank of the volcanic Cascade Range, Twisp is an outdoor-lover's paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, rafting, fly fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, or pulling up with a tent and soaking up the lovely natural surroundings. The town itself is home to a number of quality eateries and watering holes that will satisfy your cravings after a long day exploration. It can also be used a launch pad for exploring the nearby North Cascades National Park, one of the most rugged spots in the Lower 48. Despite its isolated feel, Twisp isn't hard to get to. It's accessible via I-5 and State Route 20 (also known as the North Cascades Highway), though it does take about four hours from Seattle.

While the Methow Valley was populated by Indigenous people for thousands of years, Twisp grew as a settlement as a result of a mining boom in the late 1800s. The actual town was incorporated in 1897 under the name of Glovers-Ville, though a year later it was changed to Twisp (though no one quite knows why). Today, the charming settlement occupies a spot at the confluence of the Methow and Twisp rivers and makes for the perfect base of operations for exploring the area.

While you're in town, make sure to check out the local art scene, as Twisp has developed into a creative hub. Confluence Gallery & Art Center is a community-supported complex with revolving exhibits, workshops, and an onsite shop, while TwispWorks is a revitalized 6.4-acre former U.S. Forest Service campus that now hosts over 40 businesses, non-profits, artist studios, and performance venues. To top it off, the Merc Playhouse is a local outfit occupying the historic Twisp Mercantile Building and features both theatrical and musical performances.

When it comes to food and drink, Twisp punches well above its weight. Stop in for a cold pint of local suds and quality pub grub at Twisp River Taphouse, or dive into a plate of family-style Mexican cuisine at La Fonda Lopez. Tappi features innovative takes on Italian fare — complete with an extensive wine list and wood-fired oven — and to satisfy your sweet tooth, swing by the Cinnamon Twisp Bakery, which offers oodles of pastries and other freshly-baked goods, along with a full array of caffeinated beverages.

While hanging out in Twisp is definitely worth your time, the unspoiled surrounding area is the real star attraction. After you've fueled up in town, head out into the hills to scratch that outdoor itch. The region is a hiking wonderland, so lace up your shoes and hit the Patterson Mountain Loop, a 3.7-mile jaunt featuring high desert scenery, wildflowers, jaw dropping vistas of the North Cascades; the very scenic Twisp River Trail can also be tackled on foot or from atop a mountain bike or a horse, and for a bigger commitment, hit the Golden Lakes Loop, a 24-mile trek which takes you to some of the most pristine country (and freshwater bodies) in the area.

When it comes to camping, there are loads of options. Blackpine Lake Campground is a first-come, first-served site in the majestic shadow of the North Cascades, while the Riverbend RV Park sits just 2 miles north of town on the banks of the Methow River, and offers everything from swimming and fishing to hunting, hiking, rock climbing, and more. For a bit more comfort, check out the Big Twin Lake Resort, which — in addition to tent and RV spots — has cabins for rent, as well as a fully-stocked lake that draws fly-fishermen keen to hook into some hefty trout.

The fact that Twisp is so far away from any major settlements also means that it's a prime stargazing destination, since the region suffers very little light pollution. Not only will you see the primordial lit-up dust of the Milky Way shimmering overhead, but if you arrive in late summer, you also may be able to witness a meteor shower. For more of the Methow Valley's many splendors, check out the nearby Old West-style tiny mountain town of Winthrop.