Community January 3, 2023

Bundle Up & Enjoy These Outdoor Winter Activities in the PNW

Just because it’s winter in the Pacific Northwest, does not mean you have to stay cooped up inside. Bundle up and explore our area! Here are some fun outdoor winter activities in Kitsap County and beyond!

Chilly Hilly Bike Ride on Bainbridge Island

This late February event has been an annual tradition for over 50 years. More than 2,000 cyclists go on a 33-mile ride around Bainbridge Island. Participants come from all over to tackle two challenges: a climb of over 2,000 feet and the icy winter weather here in the Pacific Northwest. Also, entrance fees support Cascade Bicycle Club’s mission to make Washington a better place for people riding bikes. So, participants are supporting local nonprofits while getting great exercise. 

Cost: $40+
Follow
Cascade Bicycle Club’s website for more information about this event.

 

Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area in the Olympic National Park

While many people flock to the Olympic National Park in the summer, Hurricane Ridge is also a great place to visit in the winter. One of only two remaining lift operations in the National Parks, it offers a variety of winter recreation areas with scenic views. And, this small, family-friendly-oriented operation provides high-quality winter sports at a lower cost.

Cost: $24+ | Open: Saturdays, Sundays, and on Monday holidays

 

Lake Chelan Winterfest in Chelan and Manson

Both downtown Chelan and downtown Manson are home to Washington’s winter wonderland. With sprawling views of snow-capped hilltops and glacier-fed waters, Winterfest is sure to please. It includes intricate ice sculptures, fireworks shows, live music, and more. Also, there are many winter play activities in the area so that both kids and adults can enjoy the season in a variety of ways.

Cost: Varies | Open: January 13 – 22, 2023

 

Leavenworth in Winter

Leavenworth is a Bavarian town nestled at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. It offers outdoor winter activities for all. Whether it’s the Village of Lights: Winter Karneval throughout the month of January, petting a reindeer at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, or going snowmobiling with friends, there is something for everyone. Furthermore, for those looking for great dining and shopping, downtown Leavenworth provides a plethora of options. 

Cost: Varies | Open: Year-round

 

Night Skiing at Crystal Mountain in Enumclaw

Crystal Mountain Resort’s night skiing option is family-friendly and great for those wanting to hit the slopes. Discovery, Gold Hills, and Quicksilver chair lifts shine bright at night with their Snow-Brite LED lights. A new option at the resort is the Last Chair Pass, which lets you hit the slopes anytime after 1:00 PM for three hours of access to the whole mountain before skiing or snowboarding under the lights. 

Cost: Varies | Open: Friday and Saturday nights until 8:00 PM; now through February 19, 2023

 

Seattle Underground Tour

Although it’s more underground than outside, you will still need to bundle up for this attraction. If you’d like to explore a new side of the Emerald City, this unusual attraction will take you through the interconnected tunnels of the Seattle Underground. A 75-minute guided walking tour, you’ll get to explore the subterranean storefronts and sidewalks that were entombed when the city was rebuilt on top of itself after the Great Fire of 1889.

Cost: $10+ Please note that children under 6 years old are free but may find the tour challenging. | Open: Daily, year-round except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Valisblot in Poulsbo  

Every year, on the weekend closest to February 14th, the Poulsbo Sons of Norway Vikings host a fun Norse Valentine’s Day. They’ll take over downtown Front Street and then light the bonfire down at the Waterfront Park, giving a proclamation of love to their sweethearts. After the festivities, we suggest taking a stroll along the beautiful waterfront and then dining at one of downtown Poulsbo’s many wonderful restaurants.

Cost: Free

Want to stay in the know about more local events? Check out our free, digital Kitsap Events Guide. You’ll find a variety of recurring and annual events listed by month with helpful links, videos, and more.