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Ride To Rendezvous

Saddle up for one of the Methow Valley’s most iconic traditions: the annual Ride to Rendezvous.

Each spring, riders, packers, and wagon teams gather beneath the wide-open skies of the Methow to journey together into Winthrop for the beloved ’49er Days celebration. This isn’t just a ride, it’s a living tribute to western heritage, horsemanship, and enduring pioneer spirit.

Over several unforgettable days, participants travel scenic backcountry routes, camp beneath the stars, share hearty meals, and build lasting friendships along the trail. Horses, mules and wagons carry the load as they once did, wagons roll into town in grand fashion, and the community gathers to celebrate a tradition that honors grit, camaraderie, and the legacy of the Old West.

Whether you’re a seasoned outfitter, a recreational rider, or someone longing to experience the magic of a classic pack trip, the Ride to Rendezvous welcomes you. 

Come ride the trails. Share the stories. Carry on the tradition.

To secure your spot on the Ride To Rendezvous, all participants must complete the registration and liability waiver form below and submit full payment. Your space on the ride will be confirmed only once these steps have been completed.

Step 1: Complete this registration & liability waiver form.

Ride To Rendezvous 2026 Registration & Liability Waiver

Please complete this form and submit payment to secure your spot on the ride this year!

How will you be participating?
Riding your own horse - $850
Renting a horse - $850 PLEASE NOTE: horse rentals are arranged separately for an additional cost Early Winters Outfitting. Email: horse@methow.com Phone: 509-669-1218
Riding in a wagon, with WOGA outfitter - $850.00
Teamster: driving a team - $750.00
Second Driver or Outrider - $750.00

Waiver & Release Agreement

Please read carefully before signing.


This is a release of liability and waiver of certain legal rights. In consideration for my participation in Washington Outfitters and Guides Association (WOGA) activities and the use of the property, animals, and facilities, if any. I agree to the following Waiver and Release.


I acknowledge that horseback riding, wagon riding, hiking, and outdoor camping have inherent risks, hazards, and dangers that cannot be eliminated, particularly in a remote environment.


I UNDERSTAND THAT THESE RISKS, HAZARDS, AND DANGERS INCLUDE, WITHOUT LIMITATION:

1. The propensity of the animal to behave in ways that may result in injury, harm, or death to persons on or around them;

2. The unpredictability of the animal’s reaction to such things as sounds, sudden movement, and unfamiliar objects, persons, or other animals;

3. Hazards such as surface and subsurface conditions;

4. Collisions with other animals or objects;

5. The potential of any participant to act in a negligent manner that may contribute to injury to the participant or others, such as failing to maintain control over the animal or not acting within his or her ability;

6. Variations in terrain, including creeks, water, bridges, traveled roads, things of the wild, stumps, forest growth, debris, rocks and cliffs, and other obstacles, whether they are obvious or not obvious, man-made or natural;

7. Hiking in the rugged country on or off maintained trails;

8. Encounters with wildlife, animals, and insects;

9. Temperature extremes, inclement weather conditions, and the risk of fire;

10.The unavailability of immediate medical attention in remote areas in case of injury; I understand the risks, hazards, and dangers described above and have had the opportunity to discuss them with WOGA.


I understand and acknowledge that these activities do require good physical conditioning and a degree of skill and knowledge. I and/or my animal have the necessary physical conditioning and the degree of skill and knowledge required for me to engage in these activities safely. I understand that I have responsibilities and that my participation in this activity is purely voluntary. No one is forcing me to participate, and I elect to participate in spite of the risks.


I AM VOLUNTARILY USING THE SERVICES OF WOGA WITH FULL KNOWLEDGE OF THE INHERENT RISKS, HAZARDS, AND DANGERS INVOLVED AND HEREBY ASSUME AND ACCEPT ANY AND ALL RISKS OF INJURY, PARALYSIS, OR DEATH.


If I bring my own animals (including but not limited to horses and mules), I certify that said animals have the requisite stamina, health, and training to participate in the activities and are subject to all agreements herein.


Lastly, I, for myself, my heirs, successors, executors, and subrogees, hereby KNOWINGLY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVE AND RELEASE, INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS WOGA, their directors, officers, agents, employees, and volunteers from and against any and all claims, actions, causes of action, liabilities, suits, expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) which are related to, arise out of, or are in any way connected with my participation in this activity including, but not limited to, NEGLIGENCE of any kind or nature, whether foreseen or unforeseen, arising directly or indirectly out of any damage, loss, injury, paralysis, or death to me or my property as a result of my engaging in these activities or the use of these services, animals, or equipment, whether such damage, loss, injury, paralysis, or death results from the negligence of WOGA or from some other cause. I, for myself, my heirs, my successors, executors, and subrogees, further agree not to sue WOGA as a result of any injury, paralysis, or death suffered in connection with my use and participation in the activities of WOGA.


I will take responsibility for my own health at the time of the ride. If I am experiencing any symptoms suggesting Covid I will not participate.

I am in good physical health and have the ability to safely engage in equine activities.


In the event of a medical emergency, a report will be filed in W.O.G.A.’s records by the attending paramedic. All H.I.P.P.A (patient privacy act) regulations will be adhered to.


I HAVE CAREFULLY READ, CLEARLY UNDERSTAND, AND VOLUNTARILY SIGN THIS WAIVER AND RELEASE AGREEMENT. INDEMNIFICATION: If less than 18 years of age, the parent or legal guardian/custodian must sign.


Please indicate your level of ability below and provide your signature.

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Step 2: Pay for the Ride

About the Ride To Rendezvous

The Ride to the Rendezvous traces its roots to both determination and tradition. In 1999, the Washington Outfitters and Guides Association committed to sending a representative to Washington, D.C., to advocate for legislative support that would keep our wilderness accessible by ensuring proper trail maintenance, responsible management, and equal opportunity for all to experience our public lands. Early fundraising efforts included packing clinics and an inspiring event known as Women in the Wilderness.

But the spirit of the ride reaches back even further.

In 1974, North Cascade Safari set out to rediscover the historic stagecoach route from the Columbia River to Winthrop for the 49ers Days celebration, honoring the Methow Valley’s rich mining heritage. That first attempt included just three guests and proved to be a rugged and demanding journey. Yet the vision endured. When WOGA officially sponsored the ride years later, 55 guests joined the trail, and the event was declared a tremendous success.

Since then, the Ride to the Rendezvous has become a treasured annual tradition and, for many, the experience of a lifetime.

Each year, the ride takes place the week before Mother’s Day, culminating in the vibrant 49ers Days celebration in Winthrop, Washington. The journey begins Monday, May 4th, as riders establish the first camp. Registration runs from 12–4PM, followed by time to settle in and enjoy a mountain-crafted feast prepared by skilled outfitter cooks in traditional wall tents, cast iron in hand. Evenings come alive with community gatherings, cowboy poetry, and singer-songwriters around the campfire before a restful night under wide Methow skies.

From Tuesday through Friday, May 9th, the rhythm of the trail takes over. Breakfast rings at 7AM, rides depart at 9AM, and packed lunches fuel the day’s adventure. Evenings are filled with hearty meals, laughter, music, and stories shared among fast friends. On Friday, riders make their celebratory entrance into Winthrop at high noon, a moment that connects past and present in true western fashion.

Throughout the journey, we handle all the details, trail logistics, meals, and personal support. Hay and water are provided for your stock. All you need to bring is your gear and spirit of adventure.

The weekend invites everyone to settle into the festivities at Winthrop Park, enjoying parades, live music, community gatherings, and continued celebration of our western heritage.

The Ride to the Rendezvous is more than a trip. It is tradition, connection to the land, to history, and to one another.

We invite you to join us on the trail and become part of the legacy.

For any inquiries or concerns, feel free to reach out. Your well-being is our priority, and we look forward to welcoming you to the timeless adventure of the Ride To Rendezvous. 

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