Recreation

Some of us are drawn to mountain tops,
some to caves, some to forest clearings.
For each person there is a place of alignment.
Sanctuary has no further purpose.
Being there is reason enough.

Frederic Lehrman, The Sacred Landscape, Celestial Arts (1990)

 

  

View of the lodge (lower right corner), from our groomed trail system
Skalitude is home to majestic Ponderosa Pine, a family of coyotes, white-tailed deer and occasional black bear. It is heaven for nature enthusiasts, with each season offering its own special gifts.

Hikes around Skalitude range from a 20 minute stroll through the meadow, hour long hikes that take in old growth pines and views of snow-capped peaks, to all day hikes including to the top of Lookout Mountain, with stunning 360 degree views of the Sawtooth range and the Columbia basin. Here are brief descriptions of a couple of our favorites:
  • The Meadow Loop - through the meadow and back along the Forest Service Road above the meadow, past several giant trees. Views up and down the canyon, including End mountain, North and South Navarre Peaks and Hoodoo Peak. One hour, moderate terrain.
  • Teddy Bear's and Seven Sisters - Teddy Bears is a little knoll where animals like to hang out, with a more expansive view of the Sawtooths. You can keep going up to the ridge, to look down on the booming metropolis of Carlton, walk along the ridge through impressive old growth trees, and follow a cow trail back home. To just go to Teddy Bear's is about 45 minutes up, the whole loop is about 2.5 hours walking time, but allow more time to stop and enjoy the views! Steep in places.
  • Lookout Mountain - About 2.5 hours up, with 3000 feet elevation gain! Past the biggest tree in the valley, at 5+ feet in diameter. The old lookout tower is still there, the views are unbeatable. A good workout!!

The sled run, with banked turn

  In winter, groomed cross-country ski trails wind through the property, about 4 miles of trail altogether. The surrounding hills provide an endless selection of back-country runs. There is an array of sledding possibilities, our favorite sledding hill is right behind the lodge and features a couple of banked curves for thrills and excitement!
In the summer, some of the Methow's most popular swimming holes are just down the road. Experience the crystal-clear waters of the Methow River at the Carlton Beach, or try Black Pine Lake, a tranquil mountain lake with impressive views of Hoodoo Peak and Raven Ridge. Our friends at Osprey River Adventures offer an exciting white-water trip down the lower reaches of the Methow River.

The clear skies, dry air and low light pollution make the stargazing from Skalitude some of the best you'll find. The meteor showers in the summer and fall are most exciting, but the view of the Milky Way on any evening is inspiring.

Further afield, the Methow Valley as a whole presents even more opportunities for hiking, downhill and cross-country skiing, fine dining, and other cultural activities. A farmer's market, art gallery, and professional theatre are all available in the nearby town of Twisp, the town of Winthrop offers more art and shopping. All against the stunning backdrop of the North Cascade mountains!