The Pacific Northwest (PNW) is a haven for outdoor activity enthusiasts across the globe. Blessed with a temperate climate and exciting terrain, this part of the US attracts countless tourists with its sights and experiences. You can’t call yourself a true adventurer if you haven’t been to the PNW at least once.
With so many things you can do here, choosing only one is challenging. So, keep reading if you’re planning to visit this part of the US. Let this list be your guide to the adventurous activities you must try in the PNW:
1. Glamping
You’ll need accommodation first before you try any extreme sports in the PNW. But instead of going to a hotel, why not try glamping outdoors? It’s one way of getting close to nature without sacrificing the comforts of a standard hotel room.
Many Airbnb accommodations that offer glamping use yurts as their primary mode of shelter. All you have to do is browse for the best yurt camping Washington and its neighboring areas.
Modern yurts are furnished with beds, cooking equipment, plumbing, and Wi-Fi. Once inside, you may not realize that you’re surrounded by evergreen trees and mountain air when you step outside.
2. Kayaking
Since the PNW is right by the west coast, there’s no shortage of water-related sports and outdoor activities for you to try. So, there’s no reason for you not to go kayaking with your friends and family. It’s easy to learn, and there are kayak options for those who aren’t keen on adventuring the currents alone.
Oregon and Washington have some of the best rivers and falls kayakers of all skill levels will surely enjoy. In addition, Steelhead Falls, Hosmer Lake, and Klickitat River are some places you can venture on a kayak.
3. Skiing
The PNW is one of the best places to go skiing. With so many mountains and snowy slopes available, it’s impossible not to feel the urge to ski on one of them. Among the most popular ski destinations include the following:
Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort
Mount Baker Ski Area
Crystal Mountain Resort
Sun Valley Resort
Several offer lodging, ski gear rental, and other exciting activities like snowboarding. Some are also next to quaint and peaceful villages where you can try out local drinks and relax after a long, eventful day.
4. Trail And Mounting Hiking
Since there are mountains almost everywhere you turn in the PNW, you can also go hiking if you prefer. It’s one of the ideal ways to explore a new place and take in the natural scenery. So, get your feet moving and hike up any of the long and winding trails of the Northwest.
Washington state offers many family-friendly hiking trails for large groups with kids or first-time hikers. These places are generally safe for anyone to traverse while enjoying the view of local flora and fauna. Moreover, Idaho’s numerous lakes are bordered by some of the most interesting trails in the country. You can even hike first and swim later on your trip.
5. Windsurfing
Thrill seekers will love the PNW for its various watersport activities. The Columbia River Gorge, in particular, boasts one of the ideal places in the world for windsurfers.
It would be best to visit during the summer to maximize your experience. The waves during this season are at a comfortable temperature which most people prefer. Despite that, you can still windsurf any time of the year. So, no matter when you arrive in the PNW, you can try out this fantastic and exciting sport.
6. Renting A Hot Tub Boat
Even the most seasoned adventurers get tired sometimes. Try renting a hot tub boat to relax while staying outdoors. It may sound boring, but if you consider any new, fascinating activity an adventure, go for it.
In Seattle, you can rent a boat with a private hot tub for up to five passengers. It travels across Lake Union, and the company offering the service is open all year round. The nippy weather of the winter months contrasting the hot steam of the tub is perfect for soothing your sore muscles after a fun day of extreme sports.
7. Whale Watching
If you love animals, this activity is the one for you. The PNW is the perfect place to go whale watching at a safe distance. Seattle and Vancouver have some of the best locations to spot humpbacks and orcas in their natural habitat.
Take a trip down the San Juan Islands in Washington state for this extraordinary opportunity. It’s best to visit between April and October when the whales are most active.
8. White Truffle Hunting
Lastly, for something unique, head over to Oregon to hunt for white truffles. Despite being found anywhere in the PNW, most tourists collect these edible, delicious treasures in Eugene, Oregon.
Visit the city in January when the truffles are fully mature and ready for picking. This time is also when the Oregon Truffle Festival happens. So, you get to have some extra fun with the locals while having a basket full of the yummy truffles you proudly collected.
Final Thoughts
There’s so much you can do in the PNW that only one day in any of the states isn’t enough. Thus, it’s best to plan ahead and carefully choose the activities you want to do with your travel companions. You can do the old ones you’ve done before or try the new ones. In any case, you will experience a multitude of enjoyable adventures.
