It’s that time of the year when dollops of snow balance on luscious flowers and plump chickadees play on branches. Winter not just brings the promise of festive season, but also of snowy adventures. So stop curling in your couch with that T.V remote and head out on these 4 fantastic Winter day trips from Seattle !

Packed with gorgeous sights, Seattle offers as many offbeat gems as insanely famous icons. But her true personality lies in the  rugged outdoors that handsomely hugs her.  Just as a snowflake from sky would melt in your palm, this winter, allow Seattle’s spectacular outdoors to melt your heart. 

Awesome Winter Day trips from Seattle – Snowy Getaways for the whole family

Until you have filled your lungs with the mountain air and sipped from glacial streams, you’ve seen nothing. So grab those hiking shoes, fill up on coffee and scoop your little ones- It’s time for a road trip!

1. Paradise, Mount Rainier :

Located just 2 hours away from the bustling heart of downtown Seattle, is Paradise in Mount Rainier. It is one of the snowiest places on planet. The soft white blanket of snow just begs you to show off your snowman making skills!

We ignored our freezing noses and numb fingers and played in the snow till we lost all track of time. There is a welcoming Lodge just a short walk away from the parking lot. You can go in, to warm up with muffins and coffee.

Lovely interiors and the cozy fireplace may keep you in longer than you want to. But eventually the snow will beckon the child in you (or with you !)

Head right back out to the alpine wilderness to play some more as the majestic peak of Mount Rainier smiles at you from 14,000 ft in sky. This is one of the best winter day trips from Seattle.

Rangers at Jackson Visitor Center will tell you interesting trivia about the resident glaciers and volcanic activity at site. Restrooms are located in visitor centers and there is always ample parking space available.

Paradise is our all time favorite day trip from Seattle. It is gorgeous in every season and is sprayed with fascinating colors in Fall.

Though the last time Mt. Rainier erupted was 1000 years ago, this is an active volcano, much more active than you and me would like to believe ! !

So all you intrepid travelers who like to flirt with danger and play with fire, go ahead and enjoy the unpredictable beauty at Paradise.

Acquaint yourself with FAQs and some essentials before heading out. Don’t forget to carry tire chains at all times, irrespective of whether you go in a 2WD or 4WD vehicle. Check the webcams to know how much snow to expect.

2. Leavenworth:

Don’t be surprised if Leavenworth features again and again on our Seattle topics. To see gorgeous Fall colors or to play in soft snow, it is our four season favorite. In winter, Leavenworth really outdoes itself. Sparkling tree lights and snow capped cottages lend a charm you will never find in the city.

It turns into a white wonderland in winter. The magic of Christmas comes alive here. One of the most beautiful and quaint villages of USA, Leavenworth is a great winter day trip from Seattle.

Some of the best winter activities in Leavenworth are horse drawn sleigh rides in snow dusted conifer forests, skiing in Stevens Pass and visiting friendly Reindeers in local farms.

3. Summit at Snoqualmie:

This beautiful winter resort is located 50 miles outside Seattle. It is a quick getaway from the city and wonderfully snowy. The slopes are perfect for beginners and the scenery is breathtaking.

4. Crystal mountain :

Crystal mountain is a ski lover’s dream. With inviting slopes and majestic curves, the valley is dusted with powdery snow and looks right out of some story book. Cascade mountains offer a range of fun activities to make it an exciting winter day trip from Seattle. Pick from gentle gondola rides rising above ravines or adventure packed skis down untamed slopes.

It’s no secret I love freebies ( and you do too, so drop the “I am very classy” charade 😉 ) Traveling as a family is expensive so a few budget tips never harmed anyone. Crystal mountain apart from being simply stunning has lots of free activities for kids like snow tubing and much more. 

We took a gondola ride to the top and dined in the Summit House restaurant. I cannot rave enough about the views during that ride. It is simply breathtaking. 360 degree views of 5 northwest Volcanoes. The restaurant is slightly pricey but oh so worth !

If you go on a clear day , you are rewarded with amazing vistas. The gondola holds about 4-5 people and takes approximately 10 mins to reach the summit. Even if you are claustrophobic with a fear of heights, the extraordinary ascent in a glass box might make you forget it !

Did I convince you to stop scrolling through your Netflix list for the millionth time and head out already ? I know it worked on Sandeep 😉

Hope you enjoyed reading these amazing winter day trips from Seattle. Where are your fondest snow memories near Seattle? We’d love to hear!