Discover northeast Washington This Winter

By Jennifer Coleman | Photos courtesy of Republic Regional Visitor Bureau

The Sherman Pass Scenic Byway was once a route for Native peoples traveling to traditional fishing grounds and later for wagon trains making their way through gold country. Located in Washington’s far-northeast corner, the byway begins right outside the town of Republic on SR-20. It climbs steadily through Colville National Forest and across Sherman Pass ­­— Washington’s highest maintained mountain pass at 5,575 feet — before descending toward Kettle Falls and the wildlife-rich lands beyond. Along the way, the modern world gives way to quiet forests of pine, larch, and fir. Waterfalls are hidden just off the road, and traces of human history from a Civilian Conservation Corps camp to the remnants of an old log flume that used to send timber down the mountains can be seen. Pull off the road anywhere along this route, and the noise of everyday life softens into the hush of wind, water, and deep forest stillness.

When winter settles over northeast Washington, the pace of life slows into something peaceful. Snow blankets the Kettle River Range in soft white, the forests go quiet, and the historic town of Republic seems to feel a little cozier during this season. Republic has always been shaped by the land. Its history of gold mining, logging, and ancient fossil beds make up the unique character of the town, as well as the seasoned residents who call this place home.

Republic’s small downtown feels welcoming on cold days. The air smells like wood-stove smoke, and some mornings the only traffic through town is a quiet line of deer strolling past the storefronts. A hot cup of coffee from Sparky’s Coffeehouse or pint of locally brewed beer from Republic Brewing Company is a great way to warm up. Known as a “down-home friendly place to enjoy craft beer, handmade soda and wine”, Republic Brewing Company is a longtime favorite meeting place for locals. Their lively taproom is located in Republic’s historic Fire Hall.

Photo ©Ferry County Rail Trail

Just outside town, the Ferry County Rail Trail winds for over 25 miles through forest and marshland, offering views and access to Curlew Lake and the Kettle River to the north. In winter, it becomes a corridor of calm, the perfect place for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or simply walking under a sky that seems bigger than it does in any other season. Some mornings, the only tracks in the snow belong to you and the local wildlife.