Hikes with family or friends in town
When the holidays roll around in Washington, it's cold and and the days are short. Add to that relatives or friends visiting and it can be tricky to find a way to get outside that satisfies everyone. Luckily, we've pulled together a few ideas for where you can take visitors to show off Washington, get some fresh air or just stretch your legs a little bit.
Get outside with young kids (or grandkids)
It can be hard to get outside with young ones, especially in winter, when everyone needs extra gear and daylight is in short supply. We've got plenty of ways you can get outside close to home, or on easier trails.
See Wildlife
If there are birdwatchers or wildlife buffs in your family, there are plenty of places to see wildlife here.
For more ideas, you can use the wildlife filter in our Hiking Guide.
Walk Beaches or lush Forests
Not so much into snow? There are plenty of places to find gorgeous scenery without it. Check out these 11 locations across the state.
Play on Snowy Trails
Show off Washington with these beautiful, kid-friendly hikes across the state. They're often snow-covered, so be sure to have good shoes and traction devices if you visit.
Visit Places Kids Love
There are great spots to take kids in Washington, but it always helps to have something for them to interact with on trail. Here are a few hikes like that, plus some bonus recommendations from author Joan Burton for hiking with kids or with grandkids.
Show off Washington
Washington is famous for our variety of gorgeous landscapes. If you have family visiting from out of town, consider looking for wildlife together, checking out coastlines and forests, or simply visiting a snow-covered low-country trail or a close-to-town getaway.
Visit Nature Nearby
You don't have to go far to find fabulous scenery in Washington. Check out these lovely locations less than 30 minutes from where you're at.
City Gardens to Explore
In-town gardens are great ways to get outside in the winter — we've got 18 to recommend, and there are plenty of others in our Hiking Guide.
Stroller-Friendly Trails
Flat, wide trails are a great option for a large family, or folks in it who are mobility-limited. Double check trip reports for these; some can get snow on them in wintertime.
Get some space
Family can be a lot. If you need some space, a riverside ramble or just a quiet walk, we got you.
Flee the Frenzy for a Moment
Take a breath on one of these 20 trails to relax if you need it.
Walk in a circle
Loop hikes can be very meditative. Here are 10 loops to visit. If you want more, you can search for loops in the Hiking Guide.
Riverside Rambles
A quiet riverside walk can be a nice way to de-stress. If you need more than these suggestions, try searching for rivers in our Hiking Guide.