What Are the Top Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in Seattle Year-Round?
Seattle is the Emerald City for a reason. Surrounded by evergreen forests, mountains and Puget Sound, Seattle is an outdoor lover’s playground no matter the season. Whether you’re a local looking to get some fresh air or a visitor wanting to experience the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside. And as a bonus, getting outside is a great way to work up an appetite for Seattle’s food scene!
One local business that knows the importance of balancing urban living with outdoor adventures is Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy. This eco-friendly cleaning service helps Seattleites keep their homes clean so they have more time to get outside. Their top tip? “Don’t miss the views from a hike in the Cascade Mountains no matter the season!”
Some of the best year round outdoor activities in Seattle:
Hiking and trail running - With hundreds of miles of trails in the nearby Cascade and Olympic Mountains, you can hike through old growth forests, alpine meadows and along wild coastlines. Great hikes for all levels can be found at Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park and the many state and county parks in the area.
Biking - Seattle is a bike friendly city with an extensive network of bike lanes and paths. Ride the 27-mile Burke Gilman Trail along a former railroad track or take a spin around Lake Washington on the 50-mile Loop Trail. Mountain bikers can hit the world-class singletrack trails of Tiger Mountain or Duthie Hill Park.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding - Rent a kayak or SUP and explore Seattle’s waterways, from the peaceful Arboretum to the bustling Ballard Locks. Paddle out to Blake Island State Park for a scenic picnic or beach camping adventure. Orca whale watching tours by kayak are a once in a lifetime experience.
Skiing and snowboarding - In winter, head to the Cascade Mountains for some of the best powder on the planet. Crystal Mountain, Stevens Pass and Snoqualmie Pass offer terrain for all levels, from beginner slopes to backcountry bowls. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular at mountain Sno-Parks.
Whatever way you choose to get outside in Seattle, you’ll be sure to work up a sweat. And when you get back to your home, Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy will make it sparkle like a Cascade Mountain stream. So get out there and get wild!
