Arts

It’s a fact. Northwest winters can be a little bit dreary, but that’s no reason to avoid going outdoors. The fact is, Seattle winters are pretty temperate, all things considered. Snow is relatively rare as is heavy rain, making winter hikes a perfect outdoor activity throughout the colder months. While many popular winter hikes involve a drive up into the mountains, there’s no reason to bust out chains for your car unless you really want to. Seattle has many trails that make perfect cold-weather hikes right within the city limits or within a short drive out of town.

The Camino de Santiago begins from the front door of your house. This notion is rooted not in metaphor but in the historical pragmatism of pilgrims, who selected the easiest route possible to Santiago. Indeed, if you lived just 50km away, that distance defined your journey. Conversely, if your home wasn’t on a designated route, you would join the Camino wherever felt most feasible.

Walking across the Narrows Bridge in Tacoma is one of the many urban hikes or walks that you can enjoy right in the city limits. It stands out as one of the best walks due to its stunning views from 200 feet above the Puget Sound. This scenic route provides great opportunities to observe wildlife, mountains, and expansive skies, although it’s advisable to choose days with blue or mildly cloudy weather for the best experience. This paved path travels along the newer of the two bridges that crisscross this picturesque area.