Spokane, WA, is a city unlike any other. Located in the northeastern part of Washington State, this picturesque city provides plenty to explore during the cooler winter months – from alpine skiing and snowshoeing to ice skating and cross-country skiing. Surprise, this area boasts some of the best outdoor activities for cold-weather enthusiasts looking to enjoy themselves year-round.
This post will provide an overview of what you can expect when exploring the various winter activities available in Spokane. Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or just looking for something fun outside to do with friends and family, there’s something here for everyone! Let’s take a look at some of our top picks!
Downhill Skiing
Pack your skis, bundle up in warm clothes, and make your way to the slopes! Spokane is a great destination for skiing enthusiasts since it has five ski resorts within two hours drive of the city. Whether you’re an experienced skier or starting, you’ll find a resort that meets your needs. So take advantage of this great opportunity and enjoy some winter sports enthusiasts!
Located 60 minutes from the city, Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park offer 52 ski runs for adventurers. Whether an experienced skier or a first-time visitor, you can make the most of your day on the slopes at this popular winter destination. From breathtaking views to the challenging slopes of Spokane valley, there is something for everyone at Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park.
Mt. Spokane, the highest point in Spokane County at an impressive 5,889 feet above sea level, is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. It boasts 16 runs suitable for night skiing and lessons to accommodate skiers of all levels, from novice to expert. With its breathtaking elevation and vast trails, Mt. Spokane is the perfect destination for winter sports lovers!
Don’t let the name mislead you; Children’s Choice Tubing Hill is open to people of all ages and offers a great way for families or groups of friends to have fun on the mountain without having to learn how to ski. Each 90-minute session provides an exciting downhill ride in a tube followed by a tow back up the hill, ready for your next adventure!
Do you prefer the thrill of tubing to ski? Then you’re lucky because Children’s Choice Tubing Hill has covered you. You can enjoy a carefree yet exciting time gliding down the slopes with your friends and family. It’s an experience providing hours of fun and memories that will last a lifetime!
Don’t take our word for it – Children’s Choice Tubing Hill in Spokane is a premier outdoor winter activity! Only In Your State has heralded it as an ‘epic snow tubing hill in Washington’ that can provide you with the ultimate winter thrill. It’s a must-see spot for anyone who loves fun and adventure during the cold season!
Located approximately two hours east of downtown Spokane, Washington, at the Idaho/Montana border, Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area is a popular winter destination for both novice and experienced skiers. Boasting 35 runs, including the longest, which extends 1.5 miles, this resort recently added new four-person chairlifts to its extensive list of amenities. With so many different slopes available to explore, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy!
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a popular and highly enjoyable outdoor winter activity that can be participated in and watched, especially in Spokane. There is something special about taking to the ice, whether for leisurely recreation or more competitive pursuits. Ice skating provides an excellent opportunity to get out into the cold and enjoy active fun with friends and family!
Spokane-area skating aficionados relish a one-of-a-kind skating opportunity at Riverfront Park thanks to the Numerica Skate Ribbon. Instead of navigating a limited elliptical route, thrill seekers can traverse an impressive 650 feet of winding terrain with thrilling inclines and dips for an exciting skating experience.
Scattered around the attraction, you can find fire pits, perfect for visitors to gather around and relish a hot beverage or bite to eat during their trip. Furthermore, options are available at the Ice Ribbon if you need extra warmth after being outside, such as a comforting cup of coffee or a steaming mug of hot chocolate. Additionally, those seeking shelter from the cold can enter the large cafeteria area with plenty of room to warm up.
The Ice Ribbon provides many opportunities to enjoy the ice, such as discounted and free-skate days, movies on ice, and expertly taught lessons. Aspiring skaters can learn the basics or perfect their skills, while experienced gliders can take advantage of special offers. It’s an ideal place for people of all ages to have fun and practice their skating abilities.
Are you eager to learn how to ice skate but not confident in your abilities? Then head down to Lake City Figure public Skating and join their team of experienced coaches who will help teach the basics of figure skating throughout December and January. Here you can gain the skills needed to become a great skater with confidence, so come on down and take advantage of this opportunity in our place, like the eagles’ ice arena!
Cross Country Skiing
This winter activity is an excellent way to experience the outdoors regardless of your skiing ability. Cross-country skiing can be enjoyed by all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise while appreciating the beauty of Spokane in the winter season. Whether you’re looking for a stroll through nature or an adventure down a steep hill, cross-country skiing offers something for everyone!
The city has recently made roughly five miles of terrain available at Riverside State Park for cross-country skiing. However, this activity depends on the prevailing weather conditions, so it’s advisable to check the website beforehand to ensure that your ski outing will succeed.
The trail commences at Seven Mile Trailhead, and a Discover Pass is mandatory for parking there. This pass must be obtained before setting off on the trail, as it grants access to any car parked in the designated area. You may be subject to fines or other penalties for violating the regulations without this pass.
Snowboarding
Surfing on snow is an exhilarating experience and an incredible feat that requires tremendous skill, agility, and talent. Snowboarding down mountain trails can be incredibly challenging yet rewarding as you master the terrain and gain confidence in maneuvering through the snowy landscape. It is truly a unique way to experience nature, combining elements from both skiing and surfing. The feeling of gliding across the powdery snow with the wind against your face is unparalleled!
The surrounding five ski resorts may offer snowboarding runs, but for those looking to maximize convenience and minimize travel time, Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park is the optimal destination. This esteemed locale is closest to the area, providing an excellent opportunity for avid snowboarders to quickly and easily access the slopes without venturing too far from home.
Mt. Spokane is the perfect skiing and snowboarding destination for those looking for an exciting yet demanding experience. Boasting four terrain parks with various features to explore, from jumps and jibs to rails and boxes, it’s no wonder that Mt. Spokane attracts snowboarders from all around seeking thrills and adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy!
Progression Park, situated at the summit of chair lift three, is ideal for novice snowboarders and skiers to practice their skills. This area provides progression-structured rails and tables of a smaller size which are suitable for those just starting on their journey on the slopes. It’s an excellent spot for beginners to hone their technique and get comfortable with the basics before venturing to more advanced areas.
Gnarwood Park is a great run for freestylers, boasting natural features such as logs and other obstacles to challenge them. Half Hitch Terrain Park offers rails, hits, and jumps that will test the skills of any shredders who dare take the course. It’s an exciting run that provides both thrills and a great workout!
Lamonga Park, located adjacent to Half Hitch Terrain Park, provides more difficulty for more experienced skiers and snowboarders with its larger jumps and rails. Accessing the park from Half Hitch Terrain Park couldn’t be easier, making it an ideal location for those pushing their limits and looking for a thrilling new experience.
Snowshoeing
Even if you’re not an avid skier, wintertime can still provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Hikers who normally traverse trails in warmer months may switch up their routine and try out snowshoeing instead. The sport is simple enough to learn quickly, and it’s easy to start exploring the snowy terrain with the right pair of shoes. So grab your gear and head off into the beautiful winter wonderland!
Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboarding Park is an exceptional place for snowshoeing, offering a wide range of trails to explore the great outdoors without encountering any skiers on your journey. There is something special about being surrounded by majestic mountains in winter and strolling around in nature with a pair of snowshoes, making it an unforgettable experience.
As you embark on a journey of exploration at McKenzie Conservation Area, located approximately an hour northeast of Spokane, you may be graced with the opportunity to witness majestic eagles and other wildlife as you meander around Newman Lake. It’s the perfect way to appreciate nature and its inhabitants in all its glory!
Conclusion
Spokane is an ideal destination for those looking to make the most of the winter season, with many outdoor activities. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and snowshoeing, there is something to suit all tastes. During the colder months, Spokane offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration, making it a great choice for anyone who loves the outdoors during their holiday season. Whether you want to participate in exhilarating activities or relax in nature’s beauty, Spokane has something for everyone.
From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and ice skating, Spokane, WA, offers various winter activities for all types of adventurers. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for thrills on the slopes or want to take in the spectacular winter scenery while strolling through the trails, Spokane has something for everyone to enjoy. So if you’re searching for a fun and invigorating way to make your winter season memorable, be sure to plan a trip to this breathtaking city!