Pacific Northwest living requires getting used to enjoying these beautiful landscapes in some different ways come winter! We have to get bundled up and always be prepared for rain. 😊 Here’s a few ideas to get outside and appreciate our great outdoors!
VISIT OUR LOCAL WEBSITE
Click the picture above to check out our town’s local website! This is such an awesome resource of a variety of activities and you can also find a local events calendar. Check out the link “331 Things to Do.”
HIKING
Yes, you can still hike in the winter! We have quite a few trails that are not in our snow-covered mountains! The Olympic Discovery Trail and The Spruce Railroad Trail are always a great option if you’re not quite prepared to brave the elements. Striped Peak is a 3.3-mile trail accessed from Salt Creek Recreational Area. This trail offers some great views of the ocean along your climb to the top, which is also accessible by Freshwater Bay Road if you feel like driving instead of hiking!
If you’re looking for a challenge, Griff Creek Trail starts in the Elwha Valley and climbs about 3,000 ft. to a view of The Straits, Hurricane Hill, and of course the Elwha Valley. Remember, the road is closed, so to access you will need a bike to get to the trail head, or just add some extra miles by walking!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING
‘Tis the season for lots of shopping. Head down town to our local shops and support your community! It’s always fun to take a trip to Port Townsend downtown as well!
EMBRACE THE SNOW
It’s Winter! Enjoy this snow while it’s here! Hurricane Ridge is one of the best places to ‘embrace the snow.’ The Ridge is generally open Friday to Sunday in the winter, but be in the know and click this link to check the webcams, road conditions, and any unforeseen closures!
The Hurricane Ski and Snowboard Area is a small family-oriented ski area operated by the Hurricane Ridge Ski Club. The ski area includes two rope tows, a poma lift, and tubing area. The ski area is generally open from mid-December through the end of March, weather permitting. You can also rent snowshoes at Hurricane Ridge Lodge.
DAY TRIPS
One of the easiest day trips from Port Angeles has to be catching the Coho Ferry to Victoria! Take advantage of this historic city with great shopping, food, coffee, and of course – the lights! Another great option is to take a drive out west to see that beautiful coastline in its winter state.
