Washington’s relatively temperate winter climate invites families to get outdoors and on the trails throughout the year. From moss-floored forests in the west to the rolling agrarian hills of the east, kids can engage with a variety of landscapes during these family friendly winter hikes in Washington.
Lower elevation trails often see less snowpack, making them more easily accessible for families throughout the winter season. From short forest loops to scenic river trails, these winter hikes in Washington are perfect for all ages and year-round outdoor fun.
Travel Tip: Be sure to check road conditions, weather forecasts, and whether your desired trail requires a Discover Pass or other permit to park.
At a Glance: Family Friendly Winter Hikes in Washington
- Cape Flattery, Olympic Peninsula: Coastal forest, boardwalks, and dramatic ocean views.
- Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, Yakima Valley: Flat canyon walk with sagebrush scenery.
- Twin Falls, North Bend: Short forest trail with waterfalls off Interstate 90.
- Bowl and Pitcher, Spokane: Bridge crossing and basalt rock formations along the Spokane River.
- Oaks to Wetlands Trail, Vancouver area: Winter bird viewing in a wildlife refuge.
- Marymere Falls, Olympic National Park: Short walk to a waterfall near Lake Crescent.
- Cascade Falls Trail, Orcas Island: Waterfall and old-growth forest on an island.
Family Friendly Winter Hikes in Washington
Cape Flattery, Olympic Peninsula
Distance: About 1.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 200 feet
This short seaward trail through coastal forest culminates at the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States. Kids can meander on the broad trail before a boardwalk channels them toward a spectacular view of the ocean, revealed from a series of platforms that feel as if they are floating above the Pacific. A network of sea caves, the ever-changing hues of the water, and Tatoosh Island—with its abundance of marine life—offer several visible points of interest. The cape is located on historic tribal land, home of the Makah people. A Makah Recreation Permit is required to park at the trailhead.
Also See: Things to do on the Olympic Peninsula
Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, Yakima Valley
Distance: About 3 miles point to point
Elevation gain: Mostly flat
East of the Cascade Mountains, the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy is a diverse habitat featuring over 20 miles of trails perfect for birders, bikers, and hikers. The Cowiche Canyon trail follows the creek along an old railroad grade through a riparian zone, crossing multiple bridges along the way. Several spur trails can be combined for shorter or longer loops. Kids can listen for bird calls and admire the rolling, sage-studded terrain on this fun family winter hike in Washington.
Also See: 10+ Ideas for a Family Vacation in Washington
Twin Falls, North Bend area
Distance: About 2.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 500 feet
Initially hugging the south fork of the Snoqualmie River, the well-groomed Twin Falls trail is a classic. With its gentle yet challenging grade and relatively low altitude, this hike features a rewarding reveal for young ones and adults alike: a three-tiered waterfall with staged access by way of a dramatic network of stairs. Look for a large boulder before the climb begins, and keep an eye out for views of the falls as you ascend to the benches. The deciduous tree line in winter allows for even better views. An added bonus? Leashed dogs are also welcome on this trail. A Discover Pass is required.
Also See: Discover Washington’s Stunning Waterfalls
Marymere Falls, Olympic National Park
Distance: About 1.8 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 500 feet
Stunning Lake Crescent is worth the trip alone, but kids will delight to also discover a roaring waterfall nearby, sometimes partially frozen in the deep winter. Check out the falls from a terracing loop trail with both upper and lower viewpoints. The forested Marymere Falls trail—shrouded in old conifers with an understory of ferns—can be accessed from the Storm King Ranger Station or Lake Crescent Lodge. Kids can also extend their hike along the lake with the Moments in Time interpretive nature trail. An Olympic National Park Annual Pass, or America the Beautiful Pass, is required. To explore more of the park and the peninsula, consider basing yourself in nearby Port Angeles.
Also See: Guide to Visiting Olympic National Park
Bowl and Pitcher, Spokane
Distance: About 2 miles
Elevation gain: 166 feet
A swinging bridge over the Spokane River and large basalt outcroppings makes Bowl and Pitcher in Riverside State Park an exciting outing for young ones. Wander through the dry pine forest along the river bank, using trail #25 to follow a short loop perfect for the whole family. A Discover Pass is required. While in Spokane, don’t miss the chance to get an up-close look at Spokane Falls with a gondola ride at Riverfront Park.
Oaks to Wetlands Trail, Vancouver area
Distance: About 1.8 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 95 feet
Located in the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge north of Vancouver WA, this loop trail is perfect for kids interested in flora and fauna. With minimal elevation gain, the trail passes the Cathlapotle Plankhouse before entering restored open oak woodlands. Fall and winter provide the best chance to view migrating birds such as swans, geese, and sandhill cranes.
Also See: 10 Wildlife Refuges to Visit in Washington
Cascade Falls Trail, Orcas Island
Distance: About 3 miles, roundtrip
Elevation gain: 200 feet
“An ancient castle perched on an island” describes a child’s view of the observation tower crowning Mount Constitution in Moran State Park on Orcas Island. It’s a must-see, but kids can further boost the wow factor by venturing into the park’s sloping old-growth evergreen forest. Here, water flows down from Mountain Lake to Cascade Falls, the largest waterfall in the San Juan Islands.
Descend to the lower viewpoint by way of a bridge crossing for an up-close experience. This natural spectacle can be accessed from multiple points: take the trail from Cascade Lake for a longer outing, or simply approach from the designated parking site off Mount Constitution Road. A Discover Pass is required.
Also See: Complete Guide to Washington Ferries
Winter Hike Safety
While these are all designated as family friendly winter hikes in Washington, weather conditions can often change unexpectedly, so be prepared. Check the WSDOT website for road conditions before heading out and trail trip reports from fellow hikers via the Washington Trails Association. Be sure to bring the 10 essentials, plus winter gear such as:
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof shoes/boots with good traction
- Warm layers (gloves, hat, vest, etc.)
- Headlamp/flashlight with batteries (it gets dark early in the winter)
Don’t let winter slow you down! Get out and explore on one of these family friendly winter hikes in Washington.
About the Author
Jay Kuehner is a writer, trail runner, and consultant who lives in Seattle but calls the Pacific Northwest home. He seeks alpine ridgelines and long winter swells. Favorite trail: Enchantments traverse. Preferred wave: La Push, Chosen neighborhood: Ballard