The Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to visit in the Springtime. The weather is starting to warm up, and all the flowers will start to bloom. There are a ton of fun outdoor activities to partake in. You will not want to miss the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
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Table of Contents
Underrated Spring Destinations: Oregon
Lincoln City, Oregon
By Candice of CS Ginger
Lincoln City is a true gem on the Oregon Coast. A sleepy beach town, it’s definitely one of the underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest, perfect for a 3-day weekend stay.
The Oregon Coast is known for cloudy and rainy weather; the same can be expected in Lincoln City in the spring. Average high temperatures range from mid-50s to low-60s throughout the season. And rainy weather will prevail at least ½ if not ⅔ of the month, so be sure to bring an umbrella and a rain jacket!
Given that so many of the city’s attractions are outdoors and free, Lincoln City is a relatively affordable spot to visit. Hotel rates during the spring won’t be overly expensive either.
With both forests and beaches to explore, the landscape here can’t be beat. Given the widespread nature of the coast, travelers should plan on having access to a vehicle to best enjoy all that this area has to offer.
From searching the beach for hidden, hand-crafted glass floats to hiking Cascade Head Trail, there are so many outdoor, family-friendly activities to enjoy in Lincoln City. And nothing enhances your trip more than staying right on the beach!
Overall, Lincoln City in the spring is a lot of fun. Keep this spot in mind when planning a spring getaway to the Pacific Northwest!
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Oregon
By Jessica of Next Up Adventure
Oregon is a West Coast destination known around the world for many things: famous waterfalls, wild beaches, rainforests, and mountains. There are so many landscapes and regions to explore. Tucked along the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation area is a hidden gem for spring travel in the PNW. The national recreation area stretches for about 40 miles along the Oregon Coast and is bordered by the towns of Florence in the North and Coos Bay in the South.
These towns offer beautiful accommodations, dining, and unique shopping options to visitors while also serving as gateways to the Recreation Area. Multiple campgrounds are available for camping within the park and even right on the beach! You will need a car to fully experience the area. You’ll find the road trip itself has many beautiful views!
The main draws of this area are the wind-sculpted sand dunes that tower up to 500 feet above sea level, the largest in North America. The dunes create a unique ecological system where many animals, including rare and endangered species, make their home. In addition to visiting the towns, eating all the delicious food, and checking out the unique shops, there are so many outdoorsy things to do in this area!
Some of the best hiking is the John Dellenback Trail, where the dunes meet the ocean, birding, kayaking between the dunes down the Siltcoos River,-watching for salamanders, and exploring the lakes. There are also many areas where you can ATV and ride sandboards on the dunes. Such a fun way to explore this beautiful area.
The weather around the Oregon Dunes is characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. The rainy season is typically from November to April, with the majority of rain falling from November to February. The summer months (July to September) are most often dry and not as hot as the interior desert.
Geologically, the Oregon Dunes tell a story of the interplay between the wind, sea, and sand. Over thousands of years, the wind and waves have transported sand from the continental shelf, creating the enormous dunes we see today, and it makes for one of the best underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Seaside, Oregon
By Denise at Chef Denise
One of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest, Seaside, Oregon, sits on the northern side of Ecola State Park. On the other side of the park lies the more famous Cannon Beach.
While Seaside may not have the giant Haystack Rock like Cannon Beach, it is much more budget-friendly for hotels, even those near the beach. Restaurants are also more affordable, and you have more choices. Stroll down Broadway Street, the main route to the Pacific Ocean, and you’ll find lots of restaurants offering traditional Oregonian fare. Seafood lovers will be especially happy. Staples include clam chowder, Dungeness crab, and salmon.
At the end of Broadway, you’ll find the Historic Seaside Promenade that locals call “the Prom). The one-and-a-half-mile walkway takes you along the beautiful sandy beach. In the spring, you won’t be swimming, but the seaside strand is still a lovely walk. Go at dusk to catch gorgeous sunsets.
Seaside is a small town that you can easily explore in a couple of days, but you should stay longer if you can. Spend a day hiking in Ecola Park. The views are absolutely breathtaking. If it’s not raining (it is the PNW, after all), the cool 50s and 60s of spring are perfect for outdoor activities. Of course, you’ll want to check out Cannon Beach since it’s just 15 minutes away. The half-hour drive to Astoria is also worth the trip.
McMinnville, Oregon
By Jennifer of Dinkum Tribe
McMinnville is one of Oregon’s local secrets and would be the perfect place to spend spring break, either with kids or with adult friends. It is one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest. It’s about an hour’s drive from Portland International Airport, and having your own vehicle will allow you to explore both McMinnville and the surrounding cities, vineyards, and farms.
McMinnville is home to the Evergreen Air and Space Museum, a complex of three huge buildings that house dozens of aircraft and spacecraft, including the Spruce Goose, a Titan IV rocket, and the SR-71 Blackbird. Right next to the Evergreen Museum is the Wings and Waves waterpark, where you can waterslide from an airplane atop the building and splash down four stories below.
Downtown McMinnville is walkable and full of fun shops, amazing restaurants, tasting rooms, and breweries. Check out the McMenamins Hotel Oregon for an authentic and unique Oregon restaurant experience, or enjoy beer and burgers at Grain Station Brew Works. Stay in one of several boutique bed and breakfasts downtown or at the Red Lion Inn & Suites if you’re traveling as a family.
Springtime in McMinnville is gorgeous, with crocuses, daffodils, and tulips blooming everywhere. If you love flowers, drive over to Woodburn for the TulipFest or enjoy the cherry blossoms at the Capitol in Salem. Plan for some rain most days and temperatures between 40-60 degrees F on average.
I’d suggest visiting for a three-day weekend or staying the full week and planning to explore some other nearby cities like Newberg, Salem, and Woodburn.
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Oregon
By Christine of Live Love Run Travel
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor along the southern Oregon coast is a great place for a spring vacation without the crowds. You’ll find fewer people along this section of the coast than the more popular beaches near Portland, making it a great place to enjoy the views and some peace and quiet.
This area of the coastline can be explored in a single day if you are doing a road trip or as a weekend getaway. You’ll need a car to get here as the towns are spread out and there is no public transportation here.
In the spring, the weather ranges from the 50s to the low 60s in the day and 40s in the evening. Winter and early Spring see more rainfall, so bring a raincoat and enjoy the moody feel it gives to the coastal views. Thus, this makes for one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Brookings is one of the best options for places to stay near the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. It has hotels and restaurants and is located near the south end of the corridor. Your stay, meals, and gas will be the only costs of this trip, as the area is free to explore. You’ll find hotels range from $70 USD – $250 USD depending on your budget.
While it is harder to access this part of Oregon since it is away from major cities, the views overlooks, and beaches make it worth the effort required to get here. Natural Bridges has become a popular viewpoint, but the hike to Secret Beach is one of the best in the area. It is not too difficult, but it yields a great return on investment in terms of views, sea caves (at low tide), and the possibility of spotting wildlife.
Underrated Spring Destinations: Washington
North Bend, Washington
By Sydney of Sydney Brown Travels
Located just 30 minutes East of Seattle is the small town of North Bend, Washington. Did you know that town was made famous by David Lynch’s critically acclaimed television show Twin Peaks? Locally, it’s acclaimed for its abundance of outdoor recreation activities and popular hiking trails.
One of the most popular trails in the area (and in all of Washington State) is Mount Si Trail, an 8-mile round trip hike that gains over 4,000 feet of elevation and features incredible views of Snoqualmie Valley and surrounding Olympic Mountains.
North Bend is a great weekend destination, especially in the springtime when temperatures are mild, and the vibrant flora and fauna begin to emerge again after retreating for the winter. In April and May, visitors can expect temperatures to range from the upper 50s to low 60s during the daytime.
To get to North Bend, you’ll definitely need a car, but it’s a pretty direct trip if you’re coming from Seattle along I-90. There are a ton of great camping sites in North Bend, and there are also a number of awesome AirBnbs. As for hotels, there aren’t many in North Bend, but you will find several motels and Bed and Breakfasts.
As for things to do, North Bend is a hiker’s paradise. My favorite trails around North Bend are Mount Si Trail, Little Si Trail, and Twin Falls Trail. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is also a great day hike just 3 miles outside of North Bend. If you’re a Twin Peaks fan, spend some time exploring several of the famous local filming spots in North Bend! North Bend is one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Since there are a ton of free things to do, North Bend makes an awesome budget destination for couples, families, or spring break groups. The biggest expense in visiting North Bend will likely be lodging costs, but even those won’t break the bank compared to other popular PNW destinations. On average, lodging costs will range from $60 to $150 per night. If you’re choosing to camp, this cost will be significantly less. Food and gas/vehicle costs are the only other main expenses to consider when planning your trip to North Bend.
Skykomish, Washington
By Rachael of A City Girl Outside
Skykomish is one of the underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest due to its quiet location, small population, and off-the-radar cabins.
A 45-minute drive from Seattle, Skykomish, Washington, is an ideal weekend escape from Seattle. To get to Skykomish, you can drive north on I-405, then take U.S. Route 2 east. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the Cascades.
Once in Skykomish, you will find plenty to do. The Scenic Hot Springs is a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Soak in the natural mineral waters while taking in the stunning mountain views.
For hiking, you will love exploring Wallace Falls State Park with its scenic trails leading to waterfalls and breathtaking overlooks. Spring is the best time to visit Wallace Falls, as the snow melts and makes the rushing water more powerful.
In winter, enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at the nearby Stevens Pass Nordic Center. Or head to Summit Stevens for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
There are many beautiful cabins in the area, such as the Sky Haus and Tye Haus; although expensive, there are budget options as well, such as the nearby Beckler River Campground. While Skykomish offers some exciting outdoor activities, it’s also a quiet retreat where you can easily unplug from the world.
Mount Baker, Washington
By Aswani of A Charming Escape
Nestled in the Northern Cascades, Mount Baker is a great destination to visit not just in the summer and winter but also in spring. It is one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest, as other PNW destinations often overshadow it, and is often budget-friendly for the same reason. Mt. Baker is about 1.5-2hr drive from the nearest city, Bellingham. Renting a car is advisable, as public transportation options are limited.
The best area to stay near Mt. Baker is the town of Glacier. The hotel accommodations are limited to a few lodges, like the Mt. Baker Lodge. However, there are several Airbnb and VRBO options available in the form of cozy cabins, A-frames, and condos. Spring is a slow season in Mt. Baker, so the accommodations are often offered at a discounted price. A long weekend or a 3-day visit is recommended in order to have enough time to explore the spring hikes around Mt. Baker.
Spring at Mount Baker is a time of transition. The melting snow reveals spring blossoms and wildflowers, painting the landscape in vibrant colors. The temperatures in Mt. Baker in spring can vary between 50 – and 65F, and it is perfect for wildflower hikes around the mountain.
The Mt. Baker area is one of the best places to see wildflowers in Washington. Several hiking trails become accessible during this time and pave way to wildflower trails and incredible views. Easy trails like the Artist Ridge Trail offer stunning views of wildflowers without having to hike too far.
Heather Meadows near Mt. Baker Ski Area is another easily accessible place to see an array of flowers in spring. Heliotrope Ridge Trail is a challenging but incredibly rewarding hike for wildflower seekers. As you hike, you’ll encounter fields of vibrant wildflowers with the spectacular backdrop of Mount Baker.
Fairhaven, Washington
By Mia of Walk a While with Me
Located in the city of Bellingham in Washington State, the Fairhaven Historic District is a small but charming neighborhood perfect for spring vacation. It is one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Established in 1853, Fairhaven is filled with adorable boutiques, delicious restaurants, and enchanting beaches. Some of the best activities include wandering around Fairhaven Village (which is also the perfect area to stay) and exploring Marine Park.
While the weather isn’t the warmest, with temperatures ranging around 55°F to 60°F with some precipitation, it’s still a great time to spend outdoors! I’ve visited Fairhaven year-round, and I’ve always found something fun to do.
And while you can explore all of Fairhaven in a day, I recommend spending at least three to five days there. This will give you time to explore more of Bellingham and check out some of the stunning day trips, including Larrabee State Park, Deception Pass State Park, and Vancouver (needless to say, Fairhaven is also one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver!
The easiest way to get to Fairhaven is by car. However, you can also get to Fairhaven by train using Amtrak. It’s also a pretty affordable travel destination, with the cheapest hotels in the area costing around $80 USD. There are also tons of free activities in the area, so it’s perfect for travelers on a budget.
Overall, Fairhaven is a hidden gem nestled near the Canadian border, filled with historic buildings, cute shops, and beautiful ocean views. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Underrated Spring Destinations: Idaho
Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho
By Natasha and Cameron of The World Pursuit
Nestled in the picturesque Selkirk Mountains of northern Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain is one of the best places for a spring vacation in the US, and we love visiting in the month of March. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a peaceful ambiance that sets it apart as a must-visit destination.
March at Schweitzer Mountain boasts a unique charm as the winter snow begins to give way to the promise of spring, but skiers and snowboarders will still get excellent riding in on the mountain. There’s a possibility for bluebird powder days or warm spring skiing conditions.
I recommend spending at least four to five days to immerse yourself in the region’s amazing activities. We spent three days skiing here in March and could have definitely used more time in the area.
Weather in March at Schweitzer is characterized by mild temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor pursuits. Expect daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the low 50s F, offering a comfortable atmosphere for skiing, hiking, and other activities.
To reach Schweitzer Mountain, we recommend a car for convenience and flexibility in exploring the region. From major cities like Spokane, a scenic 1.5-hour drive will bring you to this alpine paradise. There are plenty of rental car agencies in Spokane to rent from and drive yourself to Schweitzer. However, if you plan to stay only in the resort area, you may find you don’t need a car, though you will be limited to that area.
For accommodations, the village at Schweitzer Mountain Resort itself offers a range of options, from cozy lodges to spacious condominiums. Staying within the resort area provides easy access to the ski slopes, hiking trails, and vibrant village life, enhancing the overall experience. It will be the perfect stop to visit one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
For nonskiers seeking a more relaxed pace, the mountain offers scenic hiking trails and panoramic views of Lake Pend Oreille. If you want some easy hikes in Spring, check out Stewart’s Loop (0.3 miles) or the Summit View Loop. The village features charming shops, restaurants, and even a spa for those looking to unwind, and you can always venture down to Sandpoint for a fun brewery and bar scene.
Schweitzer Mountain remains somewhat underrated, offering a quieter alternative to more popular spring destinations in Idaho, like Sun Valley. This allows visitors to enjoy the tranquility without the crowds and high prices. The vast and diverse terrain ensures something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a chill nature enthusiast.
The best part is Schweitzer Mountain is surprisingly affordable compared to some more mainstream mountain destinations. Lift tickets are $125, which is lower than places like Aspen and Vail. Accommodation and dining options cater to a range of budgets, making it an attractive option for those looking for value without compromising on the quality of their vacation.
Boise, Idaho
By Lisa Garrett of Travel to Lyon
If you’re looking for a less touristy and one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest, look no further than Boise, Idaho! Boise flies under the radar but is the perfect choice for a spring trip, especially if you’re a nature lover.
Plan to spend three days in Boise so that you can explore all the city’s top attractions and venture further afield to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. It is also home to various wineries for wine tasting.
The Boise River runs through the city, and there are plenty of riverside green spaces and parks to explore. Check out Ann Morrison Park (including a dog park for your furry friends) and Julia Davis Park, where you’ll find the Boise Zoo.
If you enjoy visiting museums, check out the Boise Art Museum or the Discovery Center of Idaho, a family-friendly science museum. Train enthusiasts will want to visit the Boise Depot (plus you’ll enjoy great city views from here).
Fly into the Boise Airport, located just a few miles south of downtown Boise. It’s best to rent a car to give yourself the flexibility to explore the area. Stay in downtown Boise, where you’ll be close to most attractions. Spring hotel rates are generally less than $200 a night, so you can enjoy a budget-friendly vacation in Boise.
Boise’s downtown features a restaurant-lined pedestrian zone with a wide range of cuisine to tempt your palate. If you’ve got a car, it’s worth a trip to the Morris Hill neighborhood for some delicious and inexpensive empanadas from Tango’s Empanadas.
March in Boise is still fairly brisk, with highs around 56°F and lows near freezing. But the temperatures warm up nicely in April (with highs around 65°F), and May is beautiful with highs around 74°F. Spring can still be a bit rainy, so plan accordingly, and you’ll have a great time!
Bonners Ferry, Idaho
By Taryn from Chasing Trail
Home to a handful of waterfalls and a short drive from several others, Bonners Ferry, Idaho, might just be the most underrated (and affordable!) spring destination in the Pacific Northwest.
In Bonners Ferry, you can explore Myrtle Falls and Snow Creek Falls, which actually have two cascades, upper and lower. Thirty minutes away, across the Montana border, you can see the roadside Yaak Falls right from your car. Just a bit further afield is Copper Falls, as well as Montana’s famous Kootenai Falls and Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge, all within 45 minutes.
Speaking of Montana, Bonners Ferry is also only three hours from the dozens of amazing waterfall hikes in Glacier National Park. Whether you have a weekend or a full week, it’s the perfect basecamp for exploring this stunning slice of paradise.
Most of the waterfalls near Bonners Ferry are accessible year-round, and spring is one of the best times to see them. In March, you may get to see magical, partially frozen falls while they’re thundering in April and May, thanks to increased water flow from snowmelt. Weather can be wildly unpredictable in this area in the spring — you’re just as likely to get sunshine and 50s as you are freezing temperatures and snow. Pack lots of layers, as well as microspikes or other traction devices like trekking poles.
If you need some indoor options during your visit, stroll around charming downtown Bonners Ferry, check out Kootenai River Brewing Company, and stop into The Gathering Place, a coffee shop, bakery, and general store. You’ll find the small town’s nightlife (and best hotel rooms) at the Kootenai River Inn Casino & Spa.
Many people visit Bonners Ferry as part of a road trip. However, if you fly in, the closest airports are Spokane, Washington, or Kalispell, Montana (Glacier Park International Airport). Bonners Ferry is one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Teton Valley, Idaho
By Jen of Passions and Places
The Teton Valley in Idaho is called “The Quiet Side of the Tetons” for a reason. It has all the stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures the Teton Mountains can offer, with fewer crowds and lower prices than you’d find on the Wyoming side.
While it does get busier in the summer, and some of the biggest attractions aren’t open until after Memorial Day, spring is the perfect time for a low-key getaway. It’s also much cheaper to visit then, as you can probably score a budget hotel room for under $100/night. It’s still chilly in the early spring, but not too cold. Average springtime highs can be anywhere in the 40s-60s, with overnight lows often around freezing.
Driggs and Victor are the main towns in the Valley, both with small but quirky downtown areas that you’ll want to take some time to explore. While they’re both totally walkable, you’ll need a car to get around the Valley. If you’re up for it, though, you can actually cycle a trail that runs between the two towns – they’re only eight miles apart.
There are several hot springs in the Valley to rest your muscles afterward! Otherwise, you can hike to the Darby Wind Cave, drive the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, get a milkshake at the famous Victor Emporium, take a tour of Grand Teton Distilling, or see a film at the historic Pierre Theatre.
There are tons of things to do in Driggs and the surrounding area, but three days is probably enough time to hit all the highlights. If you’re an avid hiker, however, you could spend much longer exploring the many trails in the mountains. No matter what, it is one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Wallace, Idaho
By Jen of Thrifty Northwest Mom
If you are looking for one of the most quiet, gorgeous, and underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest, you will not want to miss Wallace, Idaho. It is a charming, quirky town nestled in the Bitterroot Mountains. Located in northern Idaho’s panhandle, between Coeur d’Alene, ID (less than an hour to the west) and Missoula, Montana (less than 2 hours to the east) along Interstate 90, makes it the perfect for day trips.
We love staying at the Silver Mountain resort in Kellogg, the town next door. The resort consists of condos at the base of the Silver Mountain ski resort, with studios up to 2 bedroom condos for larger families. Or stay right in town at the Wallace Inn with an indoor pool that has a gorgeous large skylight.
Both of these locations are quite affordable for Spring Break, with rates as low as $100 at the Wallace Inn and under $200 for Silver Mountain. The bonus for staying at Silver Mountain is the Silver Rapids water park on-site, and two visit days are included with your stay. Plus, packages are available if you are planning to go tubing or skiing at the ski resort, which is typically open through mid-April (depending on snow levels). The water park is our personal favorite indoor waterpark in the PNW with the flow rider (for surfing/body boarding), lazy river, water slides, splash zones, and more.
Wallace’s past includes years of mining (gold and silver), and a fun activity is to visit the authentic 1880s underground Crystal Gold Mine tour, which is open year-round & and easily accessible for all ages/abilities. Pan for gold after the tour, too!
For a quintessential Wallace dining experience, head to the quirky Red Light Garage restaurant, with a funky, life-sized spacecraft in their parking lot, perfect for photo ops. Inside, you will find eclectic, antique décor (including a bathtub “couch”) and hundreds of license plates filling the walls. Huckleberry pancakes are a must!
Stanley, Idaho
By Jess of Uprooted Traveler
If you are looking for a uniquely beautiful place to stay, check out Stanley, Idaho, the gateway to the rugged Sawtooth Mountains. It is one of the most underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Stanley is at a fairly high elevation, at over 6,000 feet over sea level and thus, remains on the chillier side in the spring. You can expect average highs in the mid-40 to low 50s during the day and snow may linger on the ground through March. However, even if snow persists, Stanley is still a dreamy place to visit—and arguably, a blanket of white powder makes the alpine scenery that much more stunning.
Stanley is primarily known for its outdoor adventures. For example, if you’re visiting during the early springtime, you can consider snowshoeing to Redfish Lake, sitting at the foot of the Sawtooths, or alternatively, skiing at the nearby Sun Valley. As the springtime wears on, more and more hiking trails will become accessible, like Fishhook Creek Trail, which offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, or Lady Face Falls, which will be especially impressive in the springtime.
The best part of visiting this area is taking advantage of the incredible hot springs in Stanley, like Boat Box Hot Springs, in an old mining cauldron along the Salmon River, or Pine Flats Hot Spring, overlooking the Payette River. You could honestly spend a weekend just exploring all of the incredible natural hot springs in Stanley and the surrounding area!
To reach Stanley, fly into Boise, rent a car, and drive three hours and 45 minutes northeast to Stanley. Stay for a long weekend—it’s the perfect amount of time to soak in Stanley’s epic beauty and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Make the Mountain Village Resort your home base during your stay—it’s one of the only hotels in town, plus it has an absolutely stunning hot spring with jaw-dropping views of the Sawtooth Mountains. During spring, you’re likely to snag better rates on hotels, given it will be before Stanley’s busy summer season, but be prepared for limited services—this small mountain town just has a handful of businesses that are open outside of the summer season.
Final Thoughts on Underrated Spring Destinations in the Pacific Northwest
There are so many underrated spring destinations in the Pacific Northwest. You cannot go wrong with whichever area you choose to explore. Visiting in another season? Make sure to check out these underrated fall destinations in the PNW and these underrated summer destinations in the PNW.
