Saturday, February 2

Winthrop has its own groundhog and his name is Wilbur! 

JOIN US on Groundhog Day, Saturday, February 2nd at 9am from the Town Trailhead as we ski in search of WILBUR! Winthrop prefers to have Wilbur predict our winter weather versus some groundhog 3,000 miles away. Last year Wilbur was spotted retreating into his home after seeing his shadow and ensuring 6 more weeks of winter. (which was correct!) What will the result be this year?    

Join us as we ski along the Community Trail towards the Bitterbrush and Barnsley Loops in search of Wilbur. And by search, we mean search...unlike his eastern brethren, Punxsutawney Phil, Wilbur is not much of a show-boat groundhog. Rather than mugging for cameras and fanfare, Wilbur prefers to be aloof and free to be a groundhog. We don't cage him here but rather search for him on the local ski and snowshoe trails through town and about.

Our ski tour will be led by local Naturalists from North Cascades Basecamp, who will assist us with groundhog spotting and tracking! We plan on skiing from 9-11:00am with the proclamation at 11:00am back at the Town Trailhead. 

Following the proclamation there will be an after party at the Old School House Brewery. Join us for lunch and a toast to Wilbur.  

Here is the video of last year's proclamation as seen on KOMO News 4.

Location: Winthrop Town Trailhead

Cost: Free with free food, drink and festivities provided by Winthrop Chamber businesses and groundhog loving locals.  There will also be a drawing for a free night stay at Sun Mountain Lodge!  Must be present to win!  Don't miss the fun.  

The 2012 proclamation ensured 6 more weeks of winter. What will it be this year? 

Thanks to these Groundhog Day sponsors:  Avant-Med, Winthrop Chamber of Commerce, North Cascades Basecamp, Old School House Brewery, Sun Mountain Lodge, The Merc Playhouse and MVSTA.