When October arrives in Washington, most people plan trips to places like Leavenworth, which is surrounded by colorful foliage and buzzing with events like Oktoberfest. But considering the west side of the state tends to get much colder (and wetter) faster, your best bet may be to head east for an autumn day trip—or in this case, southeast. If you’ve never visited Walla Walla in the fall, make this the year you do.
There’s the Walla Walla Balloon Stampede, which is actually happening now.
Fall is a great season for wine tasting here. The Fall Release Weekend is November 4-6, though you may want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway if you want to try all the new releases.
The small town of Snoqualmie, Washington is about as charming as it gets. Visitors flock to the area in the spring and summer to take in the awe-inspiring views of Snoqualmie Falls. But did you know that this little town, just 30 minutes from Seattle, comes alive in winter when snow blankets the area, creating a magical winter wonderland? You've got to see Snoqualmie Falls in December. Read on to learn more about Snoqualmie, a town surrounded by natural beauty, like Snoqualmie Falls in winter. It's one of the loveliest waterfalls in Washington.
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Whether you’re staying for the day or a weekend getaway, Snoqualmie has plenty of activities to keep you busy. The perfect place to sip, shop, and eat, Historic Downtown Snoqualmie is full of kitschy shops, restaurants, local breweries, and more. Spend the afternoon wine tasting and searching for the perfect, locally curated gift to take home.
Pack your cold-weather gear for a winter hike. Mount Si is a popular hike year-round, but if you’re prepared for winter conditions, views from this 8-mile round-trip climb will take your breath away. For a shorter hike, check out Little Si, a 4-mile trek with a 1,200-ft. elevation gain. Always check with AllTrails for trail reports before you head out.
A total of 45 miles of pristine water make up the Snoqualmie River. The three main tributaries of the Snoqualmie River are the North, Middle, and South Forks. Its relatively low altitude makes the Middle Fork a popular wintertime recreational destination.
Take the family to the Historic Northwest Railway Museum, where you can view railroad artifacts and history exhibits and walk the grounds of the completely restored, historic Snoqualmie Depot. Be sure to check out the Depot Book Store and peruse its selection of unique train-themed gifts, books, puzzles, games, and more. Take a scenic ride through the upper Snoqualmie Valley on the Historic Snoqualmie Valley Railroad.
You can’t beat the spectacular views of Snoqualmie Falls and the valley below as you wind through gorgeous wintertime scenery aboard the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad. Train rides are available on Saturdays during the winter, and advance ticket purchase is recommended.
If you’re into skiing, the Summit at Snoqualmie is the place for you. Located less than an hour from downtown Snoqualmie, the Summit at Snoqualmie offers a variety of wintertime activities for skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a great tubing area, a Nordic center, equipment rentals, and lessons, the Summit at Snoqualmie is the perfect winter escape.
Perched high above the Snoqualmie Falls sits the lavish Salish Lodge and Spa. Elegantly appointed guest rooms and luxurious accommodations await, not to mention the spectacular wintertime views.
Take a virtual winter drive to experience Snoqualmie Falls in December:
Snoqualmie, Washington is a town small in size but big in adventure. Whether you want to ski the backcountry, sip local wines, hike through snowy forests, or enjoy a scenic train ride, Snoqualmie is the wintertime destination for you. The breathtaking view of snow-covered Snoqualmie Falls in winter is one natural wonder you’ll remember for a lifetime.
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Have you visited Snoqualmie, Washington during winter? What snowy activities did you take part in? We'd like to hear from you in the comments. For more winter wonders, check out these winter getaways in Washington.
I hold a special place in my heart for many of the small towns throughout Washington. Having lived in Idaho’s panhandle for several years, I have spent a lot of time in many of these towns on various road trips and getaways. While there are towns like Chelan, Port Orchard, and Pullman that captivate me, there is another small town that I just can’t get enough of but it often doesn’t get the attention it deserves — Clarkston.
Clarkston, Washington is actually located right on the Washington and Idaho state line. In fact, it’s located just across the Snake River from Lewiston, Idaho. Clarkston isn’t a large town and has a population of less than 8,000 people but it’s a fabulous place for a day trip and a small town I’ve explored countless times.
This Washington town dates back to 1862 when it was first settled by Robert Bracken. It was incorporated in the early 1900s and had many names throughout its history. Today, it is named after William Clark who was part of the dynamic Lewis and Clark duo. They explored the area by canoe in 1805. (Fun fact: Lewiston, Idaho, right on the other side of the river, is named after Meriwether Lewis.)
Clarkston is located in the Lewis-Clark Valley and at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. One of my favorite places to capture views of Clarkston and the surrounding area is the Confluence Overlook on U.S. Highway 95, approximately 8 miles north of Lewiston. It’s a small pull-out in Idaho where you can enjoy views of Clarkston and Lewiston, the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, Hells Canyon, and the Bitterroot and Wallowa Mountains.
Town of Lewiston, Idaho
The river is vital to Clarkston and has been since its early beginnings. Fishing and hunting are popular activities in the Lewis-Clark Valley and you’ll find multiple public boat ramps and marinas where you can receive easy access to the water. In the summer months, you’ll also find people rafting, paddling, and boating on the water. Plus, all along the river you’ll find numerous city parks including Beachview Park, the largest city park in Clarkston.
While there are many things to love about the small town of Clarkston, many people venture to this area as they travel to the breathtaking Hells Canyon. This incredible natural wonder is actually North America’s deepest river gorge and is home to incredible whitewater rafting, hiking, wildlife viewing, and more. While you can always explore Hells Canyon on your own, we recommend booking a tour such as a jet boat or rafting tour. This is one of the best ways to learn more about the geography of the area, history, and the people who called this place home.
Early Morning Sun Rising Across Hells Canyon
And, of course, right in the heart of town you’ll find all types of local shops and restaurants to enjoy. Consider grabbing food at places like Roosters Waterfront Restaurant or Hayes House.
There is so much to explore and enjoy in this small Washington town. It’s perfect for a day trip or even a weekend adventure. And no matter how long you stay, you’ll quickly see why we just can’t seem to get enough of it.
For more information on Clarkston, Washington, visit the City of Clarkston's official website.
Have you ever spent time in this small town in Washington? What are some of your favorite towns to visit in the Evergreen State? Let me know. I’m always looking for new places to explore. And, if you do choose to stay for a while in Clarkston, consider booking a cozy vacation rental like this charming tiny home.
