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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2014
TOURISM OFFICIALS IN WASHINGTON’S WILDFIRE AFFECTED AREAS ANNOUNCE TO TRAVELERS THAT THEY ARE “OPEN FOR BUSINESS”
Tourism dependent communities eager to welcome visitors
(WENATCHEE, Wash.)—As if having to endure the disruption and devastation of recent wildfires in Okanogan County wasn’t enough, residents and businesses in Washington’s tourism-dependent communities (even those in other counties that have not sustained local fire damage) are now faced with the task of reassuring the traveling public that the region defined by scenic beauty and charming communities remains an attractive destination for leisure travelers this summer and fall.
“We have received numerous calls and inquiries regarding the fire, smoke, and related closures, and having just returned from a three-day tour of the region myself I can say without a doubt that these communities are eager to welcome visitors,” said Annette Pitts, executive director of the Cascade Loop Association which manages tourism promotion for the 440-mile Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. “We’d like to clear the air, so to speak, with regard to myths and rumors that are circulating and let people know that the entire Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is open for business.”
During a typical summer, the communities of Washington’s Okanogan and Chelan Counties would be bustling with tourists, many of them exploring all or part of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. But the fires have caused many visitors to alter, suspend, or cancel outright their plans to visit one of Washington’s most picturesque destinations. In many cases, these cancellations were unnecessary, and due to confusion over the location(s) of the Carlton Complex Fire, Mills Canyon Fire and Chiwaukum Fire.
Several of Washington State’s most popular tourism communities, including but not limited to Lake Chelan, Leavenworth, Pateros, Twisp, and Winthrop, were some of the communities most impacted by the disruption in visitation caused by the fire.
“If I could communicate one thing to the public it would be that the residents and businesses along the Cascade Loop welcome, want, and need visitors to resume their plans to travel to the region. The Cascade Loop is internationally-acclaimed for its spectacular natural beauty, and that has not changed.” said Pitts.
Local tourism partners agree:
Kristen Smith
Winthrop Chamber of Commerce
"Winthrop is open for all your summer recreation and fun! Winthrop and the immediate surrounding area including Mazama and the North Cascades were not affected by the fires. The same great experience visitors have always had in Winthrop is available right now. Businesses along Winthrop's historic western boardwalk, including lodges, hotels and campgrounds are open and ready to extend a friendly hello. The trails are great for hiking, biking and horseback riding and the rivers and lakes provide that perfect summertime experience of swimming, tubing, fishing or just dangling your toes from the lounge chair. Adventure is in the air with a certain western flair in Winthrop Washington."
Nancy Smith
Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce
“Despite what you’ve heard, there’s no fire in Leavenworth. We’ve enjoyed beautiful blue skies and warm temperatures. Call us, as an occasional wind shift can bring in a light smoky haze in the morning from area wilderness fires. Except for the media mix up, we’ve been gloriously open and welcoming guests.”
Mike Steele
Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce
“Lake Chelan is experiencing its typically beautiful summer weather under clear blue skies, and all activities and events continue as planned. All businesses and tourism related services are open and ready to welcome visitors to the Lake Chelan Valley.”
Amy Stork
Twisp Chamber of Commerce
“Twisp is open for business! We invite visitors to come meet our community full of amazing every day heroes."
Traversing Washington’s Cascade Mountains via State Route 20 to the north (North Cascades Highway) and US Highway 2 (Stevens Pass) to the south, the 440-mile Cascade Loop Scenic Highway travels through some of the most diverse and scenic terrain in eastern and western Washington. From tulip fields to apple orchards, and from Puget Sound to the Columbia River, the Cascade Loop features nine distinct, interconnected regions that National Geographic Adventure collectively described as “One of America’s grandest, most spectacular drives.” For more information and to begin planning a trip on the Cascade Loop, visit www.cascadeloop.com.
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Annette Pitts
Executive Director
Cascade Loop Scenic Highway
PO Box 3245, Wenatchee, WA 98807
(509) 662-3888, FAX (815) 301 8773
cascadeloop.com
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"One of America's grandest, most spectacular drives" National Geographic Traveler
