7 Ways to Embrace Winter in Washington State!
Winter is one of the most magical seasons in Washington! The sunrises just hit differently and the snow covered mountain peaks are absolutely stunning! While winter in Washington can feel long, getting outdoors is the perfect way to embrace its beauty and support your physical & mental health. Here are 7 must-do winter activities in Washington State!
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DISCOVER LAKE WENATCHEE STATE PARK
Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains approximately 25 minutes from Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee is a winter wonderland just waiting to be explored. There is a North and South Entrance. While they both are beautiful, the north side is quieter and the south side is more open with a front row mountain view.
Each side features a snowshoe trail loop under 3 miles round-trip:
Each winter season, from Dec. 1 through Mar. 31, Lake Wenatchee becomes a Sno-Park and Sno-Park permits are required. Discover Passes are not valid during this time. Snow park permits are $25 per day or $50 annually. You can purchase one HERE.
For winter visits, I would recommend an all-wheel drive vehicle. I also like to check out the live camera for current conditions HERE.
RELAX & UNWIND IN A NATURAL HOT SPRING
There’s nothing quite like soaking in a natural hot spring while surrounded by a snowy winter wonderland.
In my opinion, Scenic Hot Springs is one of the best hot springs to visit in Washington! The hike to get there is about four miles round trip with approximately 1,100 feet of elevation gain. Be sure to pack microspikes and snowshoes as the area typically receives quite a bit of snowfall!
Since these hot springs sit on private property, you’ll need a reservation to visit. It’s $20 per person, or you can book the entire space for your group for $375
The hot springs were recently updated with a new pool and a changing room! More information on reservations and how to visit the hot springs HERE.
STROLL THROUGH THE ENCHANTING STREETS OF LEAVENWORTH
Leavenworth, Washington, is a charming Bavarian-style village tucked in the Cascade Mountains. It’s basically like stepping into a snow globe! Enjoy local breweries and wineries, authentic german food and wander through the town’s charming shops.
Each winter, Leavenworth dazzles with over half a million lights, illuminating the town daily from 6 AM to 11 PM, from Thanksgiving through the end of February!
December can get really busy. I actually prefer to visit in January or February. You still get to experience the lights, but with fewer crowds, making for a more peaceful winter getaway.
EMBARK ON A SNOWSHOEING ADVENTURE
Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to experience Washington’s stunning winter landscapes! There are countless trails across the state and it’s much easier to pick up compared to skiing or snowboarding.
For an unforgettable snowshoeing experience, head to the Paradise area in Mount Rainier National Park. Surrounded by towering, snow-capped peaks and breathtaking winter scenery, you will quickly realize why they call it paradise!
It is a destination that will leave you in awe. The area offers a variety of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, all with spectacular views of the mountains and forests. Always visit the NPS website before heading out to get the latest road and weather updates.
For more information on visiting Mount Rainier National Park, check out my recent post HERE.
Other Top Snowshoeing Spots in Washington Include:
- Snoqualmie Pass
- Artist Point, Mt Baker
- Stevens Pass, Central Cascades
- Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park
💫 What to Pack:
I’ve linked my favorite winter hiking gear HERE. Be sure to always pack the 10 essentials and stay prepared for all your winter adventures!
RENT A COZY CABIN IN THE MOUNTAINS
There’s nothing quite like escaping to a cozy cabin for a weekend of relaxation and winter adventure. Whether you’re enjoying a hot drink on the porch while watching snowflakes fall or settling in with a good book by the fire, a mountain cabin offers the perfect winter escape!
Many cabins are located near outdoor recreation so you can easily head out for snowshoeing, skiing, or even just a peaceful winter hike. Some cabins even offer fun amenities like saunas, cold plunges and hot tubs!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or an adventurous weekend with friends, a mountain cabin provides the ideal setting for creating memories in the heart of nature.
A Few of My Favorite Mountain Getaways:
- Das Tree Haus, Leavenworth, WA – If you want more details on this cabin, check out this post HERE.
- Whispering Timbers, Skykomish, WA
- Mt. Index Riverside, Gold Bar, WA
ZOOM DOWN THE SLOPES AT THE SUMMIT SNOQUALMIE TUBING PARK
The Summit Tubing Park at Snoqualmie offers fun for all ages and is a must-visit winter destination! Ride the magic carpet to the top, enjoy the 20 groomed tubing lanes, and take in the epic mountain views while you glide down.
Tickets range from $20-$52 per person for a 1 hour 45-minute session. Pro Tip: Make sure to book in advance, as spots fill up quickly! Also, it’s always a good idea to check current conditions before heading out and don’t forget to bring an extra set of clothes, things can get a little wet!
For more details about the park and to purchase tickets, visit HERE.
HIT THE SLOPES
Washington is home to some of the best ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find the perfect terrain to match your skill level.
Popular spots like Summit at Snoqualmie, Crystal Mountain, and Stevens Pass are all easily accessible from Seattle and provide fantastic skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Other Ski Resorts in Washington State
- White Pass
- Mission Ridge
- Hurricane Ridge
- Mt Baker
- Bluewood
CONCLUSION
Winter in Washington is nothing short of magical, with breathtaking scenery and countless activities around every corner. From soaking in secluded hot springs to relaxing in a cozy cabin, the state has endless opportunities to embrace the season. Come experience the wonders of a Washington winter for yourself!
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