Location & Directions

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Skalitude, near Carleton, WA
See photos!

The name 'Skalitude' comes from a Salish word that means 'to be in harmony with Nature'. We at Skalitude Retreat believe in treading lightly on the earth, and our electricity comes from a solar power system. There is plenty of power in the summer, in winter and in cloudy weather we ask guests to be mindful and turn lights off when not in use.

Located near Carleton, WA, Skalitude is 160 acres nestled into a secluded basin in Methow Valley. It features 2 distinct topographical areas. The upper property with residences and utility buildings, and the lower area that is a grassy meadow for low impact camping.

Hikes around Skalitude range from a 20 minute stroll through the meadow, hour long hikes that take in old growth pines and views of snow-capped peaks, to all day hikes including to the top of Lookout Mountain, with stunning 360 degree views of the Sawtooth range and the Columbia basin. Here are brief descriptions of a couple of our favorites:.
The Meadow Loop - through the meadow and back along the Forest Service Road above the meadow, past several giant trees. Views up and down the canyon, including End mountain, North and South Navarre Peaks and Hoodoo Peak. One hour, moderate terrain.

Teddy Bear's and Seven Sisters - Teddy Bears is a little knoll where animals like to hang out, with a more expansive view of the Sawtooths. You can keep going up to the ridge, to look down on the booming metropolis of Carlton, walk along the ridge through impressive old growth trees, and follow a cow trail back home. To just go to Teddy Bear's is about 45 minutes up, the whole loop is about 2.5 hours walking time, but allow more time to stop and enjoy the views! Steep in places.

Lookout Mountain - About 2.5 hours up, with 3000 feet elevation gain! Past the biggest tree in the valley, at 5+ feet in diameter. The old lookout tower is still there, the views are unbeatable. A good workout!!

DIRECTIONS

There are 2 routes that you can take to Skalitude. Over the North Cascades Highway (234 mi - shorter way) , or I-90 to and up to Ellensburg and Wanatchee (226 mi - longer and flatter)

One mile south of Carlton on Highway 153, turn west onto Libby Creek Road  (turn right if coming from Twisp, turn left if coming from Pateros).  Libby Creek Road forks once at 2.5 miles from the highway, stay right,  The road forks again at 4 miles from the highway, stay right again.  Drive two miles, past the USFS sign to the end of the road and through the green gate.  The caretaker's cabin is straight ahead as you come up the driveway; follow the driveway around to the right to get to the lodge. 

Skalitude Retreat Center
P. O. Box 74  Carlton, WA 98814

There are 2 distinct areas that will be used by CM. Upper and Lower.
Upper will be RV and Heavy Camps and lower will be community structures.

A hay Silo for music and Low impact camps and camping. No vehicles will be allowed to park in this lower area. We will be arranging for shuttles for camping equipment and camp structures. There are several community structures that we will be allowed to use as part of the rental. They are sapling structures that are covered during the summer season for shade

Weather

Check area reports at the Winthrop, WA weather page.

Water

There is no water at Skalitude so come prepared! We will be offering an area that has good drainage to set up some rudimentary shower structures. Please make sure to bring ONLY biodegradable soap, as this run off will go directly onto the land.

Transportation

The 2 lane wide road up to Skalitude is partially paved and VERY well maintained. There are a few steep hills, but nothing that an RV, bus or semi trailer couldn’t make up without too much of an effort.

Carpooling

Carpooling is HIGHLY encouraged and will be generously rewarded.

This land is LOW impact and we want to keep as little vehicle traffic on it.

Gas is expensive. Specially on a 4 hour trip up and over the national Forest highway.

You will NOT be allowed to park where you camp

Let’s make the neighbors happy and keep the traffic up their road to a minimum and let them be merry with us!