Saddle up and take a tour of a working cattle ranch from horseback or ride through forests and rangelands where the deer run free or an eagle glides across the sky.
     From guest ranches to wineries, fruit stands, farmers' markets and on-farm bed and breakfast inns, Okanogan Country abounds in agri-tourism sites.
     Agri-tourism is one of the fastest growing new industries in north central Washington, spearheaded by orchardists, ranchers and other small farm owners launching a variety of enterprises to attract visitors and explain the rural way of life.
     Enterprises sell produce, crafts, fresh juices, hay rides, tours, value-added products and a wide variety of other items.
     Many are featured in a brochure, "Okanogan Grown Agricultural Guide," published by the Okanogan County Tourism Council and Partnership for a Sustainable Methow. It includes a detailed, two-page map of agri-tourism sites.
     It can be ordered online at www.OkanoganCountry.com, through chambers of commerce and visitors centers, or by calling 1 (888) 421-3199.
     Visit a historic working farm that still uses equipment from the 1930s or book a room at a quiet country inn overlooking the beautiful Methow River and surrounded by acres of gardens filled with herbs, vegetables and flowers.
     Take a winery tour and see how hand-harvested grapes are made into wine that's available for purchase or sampling at the winery gift shop.
     Visit one of the many farmers' markets or fruit stands where Okanogan Country orchardists and farmers sell freshly picked fruits and vegetables, along with homemade baked goods, jams and sauces, spices and other items made with tender loving care by the local people and family businesses whose names are on the label.
     For more information, visit www.okanogancountry.com