First article
Shorter days and colder nights shouldn’t keep you from experiencing all the glory that the Pacific Northwest has to offer during the winter. Instead of staying in and dreaming of those gorgeous summer nights, get out and experience our winter wonderland! Here are a few of our favorite winter activities our region has to offer.
Snowshoeing on Hurricane Ridge
- With an elevation of 5,242 feet, Hurricane Ridge is one of the most visited winter snowshoeing destinations in WA. During the winter season, adventurers can take to the trails with a 1.5-hour ranger-guided snowshoe tour to see fresh fallen snow and great views of the Olympic Mountains. Tours are offered on weekends at 2:00pm for a small fee. Although the weather in Seattle has been warm so far, winter at Hurricane Ridge goes through the end of March. Reservations are suggested so be sure to check out the link here for more information.
Ice Skating in Seattle
- Outdoor ice skating season is wrapping up but don’t worry! You can still enjoy this great sport indoors without exposing yourself to the elements. Most open public skating is available during weekends with select locations offering public skate time during the week. If you’re located north of the city, visit the Lynnwood Ice Center or Highland Ice Arena. On the Eastside, Sno-King Ice Arena in Kirkland or Renton would be your best bet. For those living south, check out Kent Valley Ice Centre. Be sure to take a look at the schedules posted online for each location prior to planning a trip!
Winthrop Cross Country Skiing
- Experience the most scenic routes along largest groomed Nordic ski trail system in North America. Downtown Winthrop is the center for all levels of cross country skiing trails. Equipment rentals and lessons are available at the Methow Cycle and Sport. There are novice, intermediate and advanced level trails and loops ranging from a half-mile to just over 4 miles. After a long day of physical activity, take a load off at the Sun Valley Lodge. Relax as you grab a bite to eat and watch the sun set over the foothills.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Crystal Mountain
- Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Crystal Mountain has something for everyone. Depending on when you arrive, you may find yourself parking in a satellite lot and taking a shuttle in. Don’t worry! The shuttles run every 10 minutes. Tickets are available for walk-up purchase but if you buy online prior to arriving, you could save some time! Accessories and full equipment packages are available for rental at the Equipment Center. If it’s been a while since you’ve taken to the powder, it might be a good idea to start out on the “Quicksilver Hill” before diving into a green or blue run. When you’ve worked up an appetite, visit one of many restaurants available – or bring your own! There’s a lunchroom style area in the warming house as well as a few restaurant options including an outdoor, slope side café warmed by heaters and tabletop fires. What could be better than spending a day with your friends or family surrounded by a beautiful, snow-capped mountain range?