Seeing The Massive Snow Sculptures At White Pass Winter Carnival In Washington Will Be Your Favorite Winter Memory

What are the best winter day trips in Washington?

We adore winter in Washington, and there are so many places that transform into veritable wonderlands during this season! In addition to the amazing Winter Carnival at White Pass Ski Area, here are some of the best things to do during the winter in Washington:

• Palouse Falls State Park. A popular day-use park in the spring and fall, Palouse Falls State Park is simply magical in the winter with a dusting of snow. Known as Washington’s “Little Grand Canyon” the 94-acre park offers idyllic views of the Palouse River Canyon and Palouse Falls.
• Franklin Falls. If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, bundle up and head to Franklin Falls. Starting from the Snoqualmie trailhead, you’ll experience deep snow and majestic views. The trail leading to the falls can be extremely slippery in the winter so be sure to take proper precautions and check the weather report before you head out.
• Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Olympia, Washington, is the home of Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Nature Refuge, where you can connect with nature as you wander through diverse animal habitats. The mile-long Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk offers abundant opportunities to view wildlife in their natural environment.
• Leavenworth. It's no secret that Leavenworth is a dream of a destination; this Washington town is straight out of a Hallmark movie all year long, whether you're paddling down the dazzling Wenatchee River mid-summer, eating your weight in brats and sauerkraut during Oktoberfest, or delighting in holiday festivities come Christmastime. But it's after the holiday season when the magic truly happens in Leavenworth, during the coldest months of the year. It's this peaceful, post-holiday time when Leavenworth truly glows; the crowds have left, and what remains is a twinkling little locale in one of the most beautiful areas of the country (the holiday lights in Leavenworth typically stay lit through Valentine's Day, in fact!). Add a blanket of fresh (though probably fleeting, because we are in the PNW) snow, and Leavenworth is a real-life winter wonderland that will make you weak in the knees.
• Hoh Rain Forest. On the west side of the Olympic National Forest, blanketed in lush green moss and ferns, you’ll find the Hoh Rainforest. Bring your wet weather gear and prepare for rain. It is, after all, a rainforest. But the spectacular hues winter brings to the forest offer an enchanting experience you won’t want to miss.
• Point Ruston Public Market. Nestled among waterfront boutiques and cafes, you’ll find the Point Ruston Public Market. With over forty permanent vendors, fresh, local flowers and produce, a full-service butcher, and seasonal artisans, all under one roof, you won’t have to look far to find the perfect gift for someone special. Take home a beautiful, locally grown bouquet, or treat yourself to handmade bath products and candles. There is something for everyone at Point Ruston.