The three year old used to ski down that hill, skate on the frozen water, and wander off on animal trails.

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Sleds replace prams, dog owners ski instead of walk and young people skate across town to visit friends.

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If you are a beginner, the Methow Valley Ski School offers lessons in classic cross-country skiing and more technical skate-skiing at three locations, Winthrop, Mazama and the Sun Mountain Lodge.

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