Here Are 10 Spots In Washington You Must Explore This Winter
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Nikki Cleveland
Author
Why stay inside this winter when our state has so many incredible places to discover? While we do have some spots that are too icy to visit right now, there are still plenty of areas around Washington that are open and even more spectacular to see this time of year. You may want to grab a hat and extra gloves, but here are 10 of the many places you’ve got to explore during winter in Washington this season:
98252, Granite Falls, WA 98252, USA
This path may be more crowded during the summer, however during the winter, visitors will find the trail empty and forests even more stunning when blanketed in snow. The lake area features several campsites, each with its own view of Mount Pilchuck or the Stillaguamish Valley.
Shi Shi Beach Road, Shi Shi Beach Rd, Washington 98326, USA
Not really up for a snowy hike? The beach is still a breathtaking place to visit during the winter, such as this gem on the Olympic Peninsula. Check out the "Point of the Arches" rock formations while you're here for a picture-perfect landscape.
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Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA
You can find areas to explore in this park year-round, but some of the most mesmerizing views can be seen here during the wintertime. Plus, it's not far from the main downtown area where you can find all of the town's Bavarian charm.
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34841 WA-14, Stevenson, WA 98648, USA
If you're up for an epic adventure, this hike along the Columbia River Gorge is also open year-round. The trail is gradual and features railings all the way up across several bridges & switchbacks, but once you get to the top of the monolith rock, the panoramic view is extraordinary.
98362, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA
Perhaps one of the most popular destinations in the Northwest to visit during the winter is this spot in the Olympic National Park! It's a perfect location for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, or just enjoying a chilly day out on the mountain.
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7201 East Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, WA 98115, USA
There's no need to head out to the mountains or the coast to find places to explore this season! Seattle's Green Lake Park is a wonderful spot to go for a stroll or bike ride year-round, although it's even more beautiful during the winter near the partially frozen lake. If you're closer to the Magnolia neighborhood, Discovery Park is another incredible area to visit this time of year!
98326, Clallam Bay, WA 98326, USA
The cedar-planked boardwalks along this trail may be a little more slippery this season, but the surrounding nature is just too phenomenal to miss out on. The loop will take you out to the beautiful beach at Sand Point, and if you head north you'll be able to find Cape Alava, the westernmost point in the contiguous states.
9711 W Charles Rd, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026, USA
Out in the Spokane area, you can find this park with several spots for exciting winter recreation. If you head across the swinging bridge on the Bowl and Pitcher Trail, you'll be able to catch a dazzling view of the white water rapids and trees covered in powdery snow.
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1812 Lake Sylvia Rd N, Montesano, WA 98563, USA
While this place is amazing in the summer, the spectacular scenery makes it a must visit during the winter, too. The lakeside park features a number of trails and even a kitchen shelter you can reserve where you'll be able to warm back up again!
Olympic National Park, 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA
If you're looking for the ultimate adventure this season, you've got to wander through this enchanting valley in the Olympic National Park. The magical area has even been nicknamed "The Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls", and it can be found along the Quinault River near several cascades that freeze into ice during the winter.
Where are some other amazing places to explore this winter in Washington? We have nine charming small towns that are well worth a winter visit! Share your favorite spots with us below!
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More to Explore
Winter In Washington
What are some of the most unique places to visit in Washington during the winter?
Some of the most unique places to visit in Washington during the winter include:
- The Palouse is considered the most beautiful place in Washington. With rolling green fields, multiple vineyards, and fields of wheat and barley, it is well worth seeing.
- The Hoh Rainforest is located in the Olympic National Park and is the largest rainforest in America. The area is made up of old-growth trees with mosses and ferns and much wildlife.
- Lake Chelan is an excellent place for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and other winter activities and is a local favorite due to its proximity to the town of Chelan.
Take a look at seven more of the most unique places to visit in Washington during the winter.
What is Washington like during the winter?
This is what Washington is like during the winter:
- Winter in Washington lasts for 2.9 months, from December 3 to March 1.
- The average low temperature in much of the state is 35°F and the average high is 54°F.
- Annual winter snowfall ranges from 20 to 40 inches.
- The coldest recorded temperature in Washington during the winter was -48°F in Winthrop in 1968.
Here are ten tips for surviving what Washington is like during the winter.
What are the best winter getaways in Washington?
These are some of the best winter getaways in Washington:
- Leavenworth is an excellent winter destination, especially during the holiday season when the town’s Bavarian Village turns into the perfect Christmas holiday spot with tons of light displays and shops.
- Carson Hot Springs is the perfect way to warm up in winter, with warm mineral pools that have been a respite for travelers sing the early 1900s.
- Coupeville is located on Whidbey Island and is packed with charm and character. It was also a filming location for the movie Practical Magic.
Here are seven resorts that make for more of the best winter getaways in Washington.