It’s officially winter in Washington, and depending on which part of the state you call home, that means different things. However, surviving comfortably until spring is a goal for all of us. And if this is your first Washington winter, there are a few things you should probably know.
- Don’t make a lot of solid (or non-refundable) plans.
John Westrock / Flickr Washington winters aren’t as treacherous as some of the other states, but they aren’t exactly mild, either. Our winter weather is wildly unpredictable and can ruin a lot of plans.
- If you live in the Seattle area, any snowfall will be treated like a snowpocalypse, and the city will basically shut down.
Joe Mabel / Flickr Cars will be put away, skis and sleds will come out, and the stores will run out of booze. Forget about taking public transportation.
- But if you live in Eastern Washington, good luck getting a snow day… ever.
Washington State Dept of Transportation / Flickr We’re used to it.
- Believe it or not, winter is a great time to go to the coast.
Beth Jusino / Flickr Hotels and resorts offer more affordable rooms, there aren’t any crowds, and the weather is usually mild.
- If you must drive over Snoqualmie Pass, make sure you check the conditions frequently.
Washington State Dept of Transportation / Flickr No one likes being surprised by closed roads or treacherous weather conditions.
- Winter sunsets are actually some of the most incredible sunsets you’ll ever see.
Parthiv Haldipur / Flickr This was taken at Golden Gardens beach in Seattle in early February.
- Learning to drive on black ice will save you a lot of pain and sorrow.
Bill Morrow / Flickr It’s not fun, but it’s necessary.
- Here’s a fun secret: You don’t have to go to Leavenworth in December to see this.
Visit Leavenworth WA Facebook The beautiful lights are left up until at least Valentine’s Day, long after the tree lighting crowds have dispersed.
- Enjoying snow sports isn’t a requirement of living in Washington, but it will sure help you enjoy our winters more.
Stephen Bentsen / Flickr When the weather cooperates, the skiing and snowboarding is excellent.
- The truth is, Washington winters really aren’t all that bad.
Robin Jaffray / Flickr Yes, the weather can be rough, and some of our more remote roads and trails are inaccessible. But winter is also a beautiful season, and we’re lucky to get to experience it here.
It’s fun to see Washington turn into a stunning winter wonderland. These gorgeous snowy photos are proof.
John Westrock / Flickr
Washington winters aren’t as treacherous as some of the other states, but they aren’t exactly mild, either. Our winter weather is wildly unpredictable and can ruin a lot of plans.
Joe Mabel / Flickr
Cars will be put away, skis and sleds will come out, and the stores will run out of booze. Forget about taking public transportation.
Washington State Dept of Transportation / Flickr
We’re used to it.
Beth Jusino / Flickr
Hotels and resorts offer more affordable rooms, there aren’t any crowds, and the weather is usually mild.
No one likes being surprised by closed roads or treacherous weather conditions.
Parthiv Haldipur / Flickr
This was taken at Golden Gardens beach in Seattle in early February.
Bill Morrow / Flickr
It’s not fun, but it’s necessary.
Visit Leavenworth WA Facebook
The beautiful lights are left up until at least Valentine’s Day, long after the tree lighting crowds have dispersed.
Stephen Bentsen / Flickr
When the weather cooperates, the skiing and snowboarding is excellent.
Robin Jaffray / Flickr
Yes, the weather can be rough, and some of our more remote roads and trails are inaccessible. But winter is also a beautiful season, and we’re lucky to get to experience it here.
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