Seattle to Winthrop Part 2

Consider what kind of entrance you want to make in the town of Winthrop, Washington.

While the building code guarantees that all the structures are within the theme of Wild West-theme town, unfortunately you are not likely to see any cowboy cosplayers. But if you happen to wear bright red lipstick with Thelma and Louise vibes, your vintage cowboy boots, and blast one of the many remixes of “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “Old Town Road” with the windows down as you turn onto the main street, I promise it will be a good time.

My travel companions had to do a little work when we arrived and set up shop at one of the cafes in town. The river was calling to me so I walked across this footbridge on my way to find the Homestream Park.

While I walked, I took this artsy shot of the walking bridge in Winthrop:

The riverside park has a family-friendly interpretation center with a little observation area to spot local osprey families. Did not spot any, but I was impressed by the set up.

On my way back to the Main Street, I caught the tail end of a parade of cars celebrating the 2024 senior graduating class. I joined the neighbors on the roadside to cheer on the next generation. I commented on how big the parade was. A blonde woman defensively replied, “Well, Winthrop is a big town.” She thinks I am a city person, I tell myself. She thinks I am looking down on them and shocked by their significance. Not prepared to engage in urban/rural diplomacy just then, I smiled back and said, “That’s what it looks like!”

I considered stopping in at the library on my way back, but instead I just looked at the de-iced ice rink for a long time and pictured how charming it must be in the winter time.

We stayed at the Abbeycreek Inn which is convenient located next to the big grocery store. The best part of the accommodation is not the room (fine, but basic) nor the pool (a little TOO family-friendly), but the area by the river where you could fish and relax. Or, as two Canadian bikers did, pitch a tent for the night.

I really love the Methow Valley and it is a perfect place to go and just play around. I know some love it for the winter sports, but I know nothing of that. Although perhaps I am about to add skating in the Winthrop Ice Rink to my bucket list. Speaking of buckets, let me end the recounting of my little adventure on this provocatively labeled bucket:

Me and my river-sitting buddy Leroy hope you get to drink in late summer nights in good company. Take good care!