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| Hit the slopes |
Winter Sports: From Cross-Country Skiing to Snowboarding
For those who love winter sports, Washington is a haven. With miles of pristine trails, snow-covered slopes, and picturesque mountain vistas, the state is ideal for both novice adventurers and seasoned thrill-seekers.
Cross-Country Skiing: Washington’s 40 sno-parks cater to Nordic skiing enthusiasts, offering a variety of landscapes to explore. The Methow Trails System, located in the Methow Valley, is the largest cross-country ski area in the state, with 130 miles of groomed trails ranging from easy loops to challenging mountain traverses. For a scenic view of the Enchantments and Okanogan Highlands, check out the Echo Ridge Nordic Ski Area near Leavenworth. And for a more remote experience, the Koshko Sno-Park, located just south of Mount Adams, offers 15 miles of ungroomed trails through old-growth forests and pristine mountain lakes.
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding: Washington's mountain resorts are famous for their excellent conditions and diverse terrain. At Crystal Mountain, you can enjoy everything from beginner slopes to advanced runs, all with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. Stevens Pass, near Leavenworth, offers night skiing and a range of runs for all skill levels, while Mount Baker near the Canadian border is renowned for its abundant snowfall. For a quieter, family-friendly experience, Bluewood in southeastern Washington is a hidden gem with famously dry snow.
Snowmobiling: For those looking to explore the mountains at a faster pace, snowmobiling is an exciting option. The area surrounding Lake Wenatchee State Park boasts 200 miles of snowmobile trails through towering forests and powdery meadows. For guided tours, head to Leavenworth, Cle Elum, or the Methow Valley, where snowmobile operators offer everything from beginner-friendly rides to more challenging terrain.
Winter Wildlife: Watch Storms and Spot Birds
Storm Watching on the Coast: If you're looking for a more tranquil winter adventure, head to Washington’s storm-watching hot spots. The winter months bring powerful storms to the Olympic and Long Beach peninsulas, creating a dramatic show of crashing waves and high winds. Head to Westport’s Marina, where an open-air observation tower offers the best views of these coastal storms. For a more sheltered experience, visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Cape Disappointment State Park, where you can watch the waves pound the cliffs from an indoor observation deck.
Bird Watching: Winter is also a fantastic time to watch migrating birds in Washington. The Skagit Valley becomes a hotspot for bird watchers, with trumpeter swans, eagles, and snowy owls spotted near Butler Flats and Samish Flats. Over on the Olympic Peninsula, Salt Creek Recreation Area offers sightings of black oystercatchers and loons. For an immersive experience, the Sandhill Crane Festival in Othello celebrates the return of these majestic birds to the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge.
Adventure on Snowshoes & Fat Bikes
Snowshoeing: Washington offers a variety of snowshoeing routes, from easy hikes to challenging mountain trails. One of the most iconic snowshoeing spots is Artist Point on Mount Baker, where snowshoers are rewarded with stunning views of the North Cascades. For a beginner-friendly option, head to Gold Creek Pond near Snoqualmie Pass, a scenic 1-mile loop through the snow-dappled woods.
Fat Biking: A growing trend in the Pacific Northwest, fat biking allows riders to explore snowy trails on special bikes with wide tires designed for snow. The Methow Trails System offers 22 miles of dedicated fat bike trails, while the Leavenworth Ski Hill opens portions of their Nordic trails to fat bikers, offering a unique way to explore the area.
Ice Fishing: A Winter Tradition
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| Ice Fishing |
Cozy Up in a Lodge
For those looking to combine outdoor adventure with relaxation, Washington offers a number of luxurious winter lodges perfect for unwinding after a day in the snow.
Suncadia Resort: Located in the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Suncadia Resort offers a wide range of winter activities, from ice skating and tubing to cross-country skiing. After a day of adventure, relax in the heated outdoor pool or indulge in a cedarwood sauna.
Salish Lodge & Spa: Perched on a cliff beside Snoqualmie Falls, Salish Lodge is an ideal winter retreat. Enjoy breathtaking views of the 269-foot waterfall, which is especially magical when surrounded by snow.
Sun Mountain Lodge: Located in Winthrop, Sun Mountain Lodge is the largest cross-country ski resort in the U.S., offering over 130 miles of groomed trails. Other winter activities include sleigh rides, guided backcountry skiing, and snowshoeing.
Ice Skating: Glide into Winter Fun
Washington’s winter ice skating rinks are perfect for families and couples alike. In Spokane, the Numerica Skate Ribbon at Riverfront Park is a festive 650-foot loop lit by twinkling lights. In Bellevue, just outside Seattle, the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink offers over 9,000 square feet of real ice for skating. For a more laid-back experience, visit Moses Lake, where you’ll find a large open-air pavilion and family-friendly amenities.
Soak and Relax in Hot Springs
Nothing beats soaking in a hot spring after a day of winter adventures. Washington boasts several hot spring resorts, such as Carson Hot Springs Resort in the Columbia River Gorge, where you can enjoy geothermal mineral baths in a historic bathhouse. On Orcas Island, Doe Bay Resort offers jetted soaking pools with views of the Rosario Strait, while Soak on the Sound in Port Townsend offers copper saltwater tubs and saunas in a tranquil setting.
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie looking to hit the slopes or someone seeking a peaceful retreat in the winter wilderness, Washington State has something for everyone this season. From cross-country skiing in the Methow Valley to storm watching on the coast, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the winter magic in this beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest.
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