If you’re a regular subscriber to Methow Arts Magazine, then you know that Twisp is home to an active artist community comprised of galleries, studios, theater, and more. No matter which time you visit this fall, get a start on the day with a locally-made award-winning coffee or organic smoothie and head down Glover Street to check out the town’s charming eccentricities.

Stop by TwispWorks—a former Forest Service complex turned eclectic studio space—for a peek at public art adorning the campus. If visiting on a Saturday, stop by the Twisp Farmers Market (open 9am-Noon through October) before touring TwispWorks’ studios during open house (11am-3pm). For a quick walk about town, take a self-guided art tour. The Confluence Gallery and Art Center is a great place to start, offering free galleries and rotating exhibits.

Not only is Twisp the heart of the Methow Valley – it’s also known for its scenic beauty. From Glover Street, it’s a short half-mile walk (or drive) west along Twisp River Road to the Twisp Ponds, a haven of scenic paths between native plants and rearing ponds. Art and nature coexist at the ponds, where you’ll find large-scale installations backed by stands of willow and black cottonwood. Between the various birds and busy beavers, you’re almost guaranteed a wildlife sighting.

For a bit more exercise and epic views, Lookout Mountain can’t be beat. This hike to a historic fire lookout tower is located approximately 8 miles from Twisp. Generally accessible through October, the 3-mile round trip trail delivers hikers through pine grass, lupine, and ponderosa pine to 360-degree valley views at 5,500 feet. It’s the perfect fall hike in the Methow Valley.

Restore your calories back in downtown Twisp with tacos, burgers, pizza or pasta from a block’s worth of family-owned restaurants. Then finish your night with one last dose of art: a live theater performance at The Merc Playhouse, a music concert at the Methow Valley Community Center (courtesy of Cascadia Music), or even live music by the river at Twisp River Suites.

To plan your next visit, or to learn more about the local goings-on this fall, contact TwispWashington@gmail.com or call Twisp’s Visitor Information Center: 509-997-2020. (PS: Mistletoe Madness Shopping Extravaganza returns to Twisp in early December – Stay Tuned!)