Folks visiting Okanogan Country are sure to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including hunting trips, llama packing, heli-skiing, hot air ballooning, whitewater rafting, dogsled riding, mule packing, horseback riding and more.
     Guided seasonal hunting trips are available. Animals typically hunted include deer, bear and grouse. Fishing trips also are available.
     Hot air balloon rides in the Methow Valley offer folks the opportunity to view beautiful scenery from a bird's eye view.
     Balloons generally depart early in the morning when winds are the calmest. Each journey combines low-level views over the treetops and great panoramas from higher elevations.
     Surrounded by glacier-capped peaks, giant cedars, water falls and nesting osprey, thrill seekers are in for a real treat as they experience whitewater rafting in the Methow Valley.
     Rafting trips are led by experienced guides, and are available for novice, intermediate and experienced rafters.
     People looking for a unique experience can try out dogsledding trips through the beautiful Okanogan National Forest from December through March.
     Trips start off at the Twisp River Sno-Park, located about 12 miles west of Twisp.
     With personal instruction, people have an opportunity to guide their own team. In addition to sled handling, guides instruct customers on harnessing dogs, sledding safety and what to expect on the trail.
     Mule packing and horseback trips geared toward providing a good ol' time for children and adults are available throughout Okanogan Country. Trips can last anywhere from one to 12 days.
     People can travel with a guide or strike out on their own during the day, meeting up with the outfitters in the evening. Some outfitters provide equipment and tasty meals in their packages.
     Guides often lead folks through beautiful backcountry, pointing out landmarks and giving them a brief history on some of the local homesteads, cattle ranches and gold mines.
     Some companies provide burros that youngsters under 6 years old can ride or lead.
     Most outfitters require reservations.
     Guest ranches are popping up throughout Okanogan Country, and offer kids and adults a variety of activities to do in one central location including horseback riding, fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, hayrides and even learning how to rope a calf.
     Home-style meals generally are included in guest ranch packages.
     Some guest ranches rent cabins, RV spaces, tent spaces and single and family units from one to several nights.
     Heli-skiing, guided llama packing, horseback and stagecoach rides, mule packing and whitewater rafting are available in different locations throughout the area, offering visitors spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, rivers and valleys.