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Outdoor winter fun — no snow needed
Editor’s note: Winter hikes can be a beautiful way to get outside, but conditions can change quickly this time of year. With recent flooding in our area, be sure to check weather forecasts, trail reports and local advisories before heading out. Stick to well-maintained routes, avoid flooded or unstable areas and always err on the side of caution, especially when hiking with kids.
Drive up to any pass during a Pacific Northwest winter and you’ll see powderhounds making tracks. But here’s a secret: Not all of us are crazy about snow! Not to worry — while our peaks are blanketed in white, lower elevations host miles of hiking trails perfect for an alternative, snow-free winter wander.
Why hike in winter? Plenty of rain, for starters — our temperate rain forests come to life when the sun is tucked away. Some wild creatures are more active in winter, and others are simply easier to spot among leafless branches. Plus, many trails offer solitude during the off-season.
Be sure to check trail conditions with the local ranger station and consult the recent hiker trip reports at Washington Trails Association. Remember that it gets dark early, so turn around with plenty of time to make it back to your car in daylight. Dress the whole family in warm, water-wicking layers under rain gear, plus hats, gloves and scarves. Expect rocks to be slippery and trails to be muddy; waterproof boots are a must.
Now, hurry off to hike these kid-friendly trails, perfect for our wet winters!
Browse through all hikes or jump to the one you want to try first:
- River hike: Bogachiel River
- Wildlife hike: Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
- Waterfall hike: Boulder River
- Peak-bagger hike: Oyster Dome
- Island hike: Fort Flagler
First stop: A river hike
More outdoor winter fun: |
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in 2019 and was most recently updated on Dec.12, 2025, by ParentMap’s editorial team with new details and a thorough fact-check.
