The Best Day Trips from Seattle for Every Season

Photo by Michael Denning on Unsplash

By Rachel Rowland - Real Estate Matchmaker and Networking Extraordinaire

Seattle’s proximity to mountains, coastline, and picturesque small towns makes it a perfect launching point for exploring the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re looking to hike through alpine meadows in the summer or cozy up in a charming town in the winter, Seattle offers countless day-trip destinations that showcase the region’s seasonal beauty. Here’s a guide to the top day trips from Seattle for every season.

Winter Day Trips

1. Stevens Pass Ski Resort

• Best Time to Visit: December to March

• For a winter wonderland day trip, head to Stevens Pass Ski Resort, located about 1.5 hours from Seattle. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just want to try snow tubing, Stevens Pass has activities for all skill levels. The resort’s scenic mountain setting and cozy lodges make it a great way to enjoy winter’s charm.

2. Snoqualmie Pass

• Best Time to Visit: December to March

• A quick 45-minute drive from Seattle, Snoqualmie Pass offers excellent skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing opportunities. The Summit at Snoqualmie provides runs for all skill levels, and nearby trails are perfect for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. After a day on the slopes, warm up with a hot chocolate at the lodge.

3. Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival

• Best Time to Visit: December

• Leavenworth’s annual Christmas Lighting Festival transforms the Bavarian village into a holiday wonderland. While it’s a bit of a drive (about two hours from Seattle), this festival is worth it for its twinkling lights, carolers, and festive atmosphere. Stroll through snow-dusted streets, visit holiday markets, and enjoy a hot drink as you take in the magic of the season. Don’t forget a stop at the Reindeer Farm to visit Santa’s furry pals!

Spring Day Trips

1. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – Mount Vernon

• Best Time to Visit: April

• Just an hour north of Seattle, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a vibrant celebration of spring’s arrival. Acres of blooming tulips and daffodils fill the fields, creating a sea of color. The towns of Mount Vernon and La Conner offer cafes, art galleries, and restaurants to round out a perfect spring day. But be warned, the traffic can be quite gnarly!

2. Snoqualmie Falls – Snoqualmie

• Best Time to Visit: March to May

• With snowmelt increasing the waterfall’s flow, spring is one of the best times to see the majestic 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls. Located just 30 minutes from Seattle, the falls are accessible year-round, but spring’s misty atmosphere makes the experience even more magical. After viewing the falls, stop by nearby Snoqualmie or North Bend for some small-town charm. Beer lovers have several local breweries to choose from, but No Boat gets my vote for best brews!

3. Whidbey Island

• Best Time to Visit: March to June

• A quick ferry ride from Mukilteo or a drive around the north end, Whidbey Island comes alive in spring. Take a scenic drive or bike ride through green pastures and colorful wildflowers, visit Deception Pass State Park for coastal hikes, or explore the historic waterfront town of Langley, known for its quaint shops and cafes. A must do for me is A Touch of Dutch European Market in Coupeville with an expansive licorice selection. For camping, I recommend Fort Ebey. Sunset on the bluff is phenomenal!

Summer Day Trips

1. Mount Rainier National Park

• Best Time to Visit: July to September

• In summer, Mount Rainier National Park transforms into an outdoor paradise with blooming wildflower meadows and clear, sunny skies. Take the scenic two-hour drive to Paradise or Sunrise for easy access to some of the park’s best hikes, like the Skyline Trail. Pack a picnic to enjoy with views of Rainier’s iconic snow-capped peak. If you hear locals say “The mountain’s out today” they are referring to Rainier in all her breathtaking glory!

2. San Juan Islands

• Best Time to Visit: June to August

• Hop on the ferry to the San Juan Islands from Anacortes for an unforgettable day trip. You can spot orcas on a whale-watching tour, kayak along serene coastal waters, or stroll through Friday Harbor’s art galleries and shops. The islands’ sunny summer weather and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination. At the very least it’s a ferry ride with spectacular views and the smell of salt air. If you’d like to see orcas without a trip to the islands, schedule a tour with Island Adventures out of Anacortes. They are THE best whale watching company around!

3. Lake Chelan

• Best Time to Visit: July to September

• Although it’s about a three-hour drive from Seattle, Lake Chelan’s pristine waters and summer warmth are worth the trip. This gorgeous lake offers a variety of outdoor activities, from paddleboarding to jet skiing. Wine lovers will also enjoy exploring the area’s vineyards and tasting rooms, which offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Add a stop at Lake Chelan Cheese to try their carmelized onion cheddar!

Fall Day Trips

1. Leavenworth

• Best Time to Visit: October

• Known for its Bavarian charm and annual Oktoberfest celebration, Leavenworth is a magical fall day trip destination. Located about two hours from Seattle, this picturesque village transforms with autumn foliage and festive decorations. Stroll through the village, savor bratwurst and pretzels, all while enjoying several local breweries. Hiking trails nearby provide a chance to see the season’s colors up close.

2. North Bend and Rattlesnake Ledge

• Best Time to Visit: September to November

• Just a 40-minute drive from Seattle, North Bend is the gateway to several fantastic hiking trails, with Rattlesnake Ledge being one of the most popular. The trail offers an easy-to-moderate hike with sweeping views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding forests, which blaze with color in the fall and avoid peak summer season. Afterwards, grab a hot drink at The Trail Youth Coffee Home and a Burger at Scott’s Dairy Freeze.

3. Woodinville Wine Country

• Best Time to Visit: September to October

• Nestled in the Sammamish River Valley, Woodinville Wine Country offers the perfect fall escape. Home to over 100 wineries, this area allows visitors to sample a wide range of Washington wines just 30 minutes from Seattle. Many tasting rooms have outdoor seating, allowing you to sip wine while enjoying the crisp fall air and golden-hued vineyards.

Tips for Day Trips Around Seattle

• Check Ferry Schedules: If you’re heading to Whidbey Island or the San Juan Islands, check ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary based on the season and weather conditions.

• Prepare for Weather: Seattle’s weather is unpredictable, so bring layers, rain gear, and plenty of water no matter where you’re headed.

• Start Early: Some of these popular destinations, especially in summer, can get crowded. Starting early ensures you get the most out of your day and can enjoy a peaceful drive.

Seattle’s diverse surroundings provide an abundance of natural beauty, culture, and seasonal activities. Whether it’s hiking among wildflowers, sipping local wine, or hitting the slopes, each season offers a unique experience and endless adventure options just a short drive away. So grab your gear, set out from Seattle, and discover the magic of the Pacific Northwest all year long!