Has Washington has it been on your travel radar for a while? Then winter is the perfect time to visit. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy all kinds of winter sports, while urban areas offer a range of fantastic restaurants and coffee shops.
Winter also puts an interesting twist on Washington’s state parks. Each park offers different seasonal activities, from snowshoeing and fat biking to wildlife watching or bird watching.
So pack some warm clothes and let’s explore our list of the 7 best places to visit in Washington State in the winter of 2023-2024.
Palouse Falls State Park
Palouse Falls State Park is a popular destination year-round. But in winter it is especially magical. One of the main attractions – the Palouse Falls – is covered in icicles and snow. In addition, there are fewer crowds than usual, which makes exploring the park much more fun.
If you want to stay overnight in the area, we recommend finding accommodations in the nearby towns of Walla Walla and Dayton. They are both approximately 45 minutes’ drive away and offer many comfortable accommodation options.
The Hoh Rainforest
Located in the beautiful Olympic National Forest, the Ho rainforest is one of the largest rainforests of its kind in the entire US and is a fantastic choice for all outdoor enthusiasts.
The Hall of Mosses is the forest’s much-loved circular walk, offering views of the diverse local flora. It is only about a mile long and suitable for all levels. On the other hand, the Hoh River Trail is the main in-and-out trail, and you’ll need at least two days to see all the sights.
Red cabin along Denny Creek
The Red Cabin along Denny Creek is a hidden gem in winter for those who want to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of nature, away from the bustling city life.
Lake Chelan
Do you like winter sports? There’s no better place to enjoy them all than at Lake Chelan. Head to Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort or Echo Valley for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
After a long day on the slopes, go wine tasting, shopping or relax at a spa in downtown Chelan. If you are in the area in January, don’t miss the famous one Lake Chelan Winterfest. There will be lots of fireworks, live music, snow slides and more.
Acid value
If you want to soak up the festive atmosphere, Leavenworth should be on your bucket list. This Bavarian-themed city features many light shows, restaurants, cozy bed and breakfasts and shops.
Nutcracker Museum and Shop is the best option to find unique Christmas gifts. And if you still feel like enjoying a bit of snow, you can ride a horse-drawn sleigh through the nearby forests.
Stevens Pass Ski Resort
There’s also something for sports enthusiasts in or around Leavenworth. Stevens Pass Ski Resort is the perfect place for winter fun, from skiing and snowboarding to cross-country skiing or epic night skiing under the stars.
Not a skier yet? No problem. This resort rents out coaches and equipment. To relax, there are many après-ski places where you can grab a snack, a cup of hot chocolate or a mug of craft beer.
Salish Lodge & Spa, Snoqualmie
Salish Lodge offers an unforgettable winter experience. Its location atop the majestic Snoqualmie Falls offers beautiful views of the snow-capped waterfall, making it a popular winter destination. Guests can indulge in relaxing spa treatments, indulge in gourmet dining, and bask in the warmth of the lodge’s fireplaces. The area, covered in snow, offers opportunities for winter activities such as hiking and snowshoeing.
San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are a popular weekend getaway. There are three main islands: Lopez, Orcas and San Juan. They all feature beautiful holiday lights and lots of different activities to take part in, such as hiking, cycling or orca spotting.
Although the islands are generally less crowded in winter, we recommend that you book your ferry tickets in advance. Another exciting way to get there is by plane or seaplane.
Franklin Falls
Visiting Franklin Falls in winter offers a magical and serene experience. Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, this natural wonder turns into an icy spectacle when temperatures drop. The waterfalls, partially frozen, create a stunning visual display of icicles and snow-covered environments. The hike to Franklin Falls is relatively accessible, making it a popular destination for winter enthusiasts.
Seattle
A visit to Seattle is always a good idea. Vibrant arts scene, gallons of craft beer, great coffee and even greater seafood. What’s not to like about it? Just don’t forget to bring a raincoat, because rain showers are more common than snow.
Seattle is known for its fireworks as one of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the US, so if you don’t have plans, now you do!
If you’re tired of the city, it will also make a fantastic home base to explore the area’s natural wonders, including the Olympic Natural Park, Mount Rainier, or Leavenworth.
