On Saturday, my fiance, Brian, and I headed up to Twisp. We don’t really know anyone there, we just like the drive — and the

Vienna Lager at Twisp River Pub. The two of us go to Twisp every couple of months. Usually, we eat dinner at Twisp River Pub. Occasionally, we’ll head to Winthrop and check out the western kitschiness.

Last year, on a Twisp foray, we decided to continue all the way over the North Cascades Highway. It was lots of fun. It’s become a bit of a tradition to stop at Orondo Cider Works as we make the way from Wenatchee. It’s a nice spot to stretch, plus they sell yummy apple cider doughnuts.

When we stop, we buy a couple doughnuts and eat them while making our way to the Methow. Often, they don’t survive the 10 miles to Beebe Bridge.

Anyway, instead of just hanging out in Winthrop and Twisp on Saturday, Brian and I decided to head just over the pass and make a short jaunt to Rainy Lake. The not-quite-mile-long paved trail to the high mountain lake is well worth the half-hour drive from Winthrop. I have a feeling almost anyone can walk the trail.

The drive to Rainy Pass, where the trail begins, is gorgeous. You can stop at Washington Pass overlook (which we forgot to do this time) for one incredible, and possibly scary, view of the North Cascades. Really, those mountains look like a scene from “The Lord of the Rings.”

I think we’re planning on making another trek up there soon. Maybe sooner than normal.