11 Unbeatable Reasons to Visit Washington State in April
Washington State in April: The days are getting longer, the trails are shedding snow, and the air is filled with that fresh, earthy spring smell.
Spring in Washington is one of the locals’ favorite parts of the year. The grey gloomy skies are phasing out, sunshine fills the sky, and wildflowers are starting to sprout.
As a local who practically lives in hiking boots, I’m sharing the best ways to enjoy Washington’s wild side this April. Spring is a great time to visit if you’re into hiking, kayaking, drinking coffee, attending a sporting event, or spending time outside.
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Washington State in April
By the time springtime makes its way to Washington, outdoor attractions, scenic drives, and travelers to Seattle start to pick up.
Wildflowers start popping up in the mountains, cherry blossoms hit full bloom in Seattle, and the waterfalls are absolutely raging from all that snowmelt.
It’s the kind of month where you can ski in the morning and hike in a t-shirt by afternoon. Plus, the crowds are still way smaller than summer, so you get all the beauty without the chaos. You’ll understand why Washington is called the “Evergreen State”.
Weather in Washington in April
Spring in Washington is anything but predictable—it keeps you on your toes with a mix of sunshine, rain, and everything in between. One moment, you might be relaxing in clear blue skies, and the next, a passing drizzle reminds you that this is the Pacific Northwest.
But that’s part of the charm—April is when Washington starts shaking off winter while still holding onto some of its colder-weather perks.
On the west side of the state, including Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula, and the Puget Sound region, temperatures generally range from the mid-50s to the low 60s. Rain is still common, but showers tend to be lighter and less frequent than in the winter months.
Meanwhile, on the east side—think Leavenworth, Spokane, and the Columbia River Valley—the weather tends to be drier, sunnier, and slightly warmer, with daytime highs often reaching the 60s.
This side of the Cascades experiences more of a true spring feel earlier in the season, making it a great time for outdoor adventures without the full summer crowds.
For those craving one last taste of winter, April is prime time for spring snowboarding and skiing. Many mountain resorts, including Stevens Pass, Crystal Mountain, and Mount Baker, stay open well into the month.
Personally, I love spring riding—warmer temperatures, softer snow, and the occasional late-season storm that drops a fresh blanket of powder before it all melts away.
Related Post: Does it Snow in Washington?
If hiking is on your itinerary, stick to lower elevations, as many higher-altitude trails are still covered in snow. Iconic spots like Hurricane Ridge and Dog Mountain will likely remain blanketed, but lower-elevation hikes along rivers, waterfalls, and coastal areas are excellent alternatives.
Speaking of the coast, April is a fantastic time to visit Washington’s rugged shorelines. The crowds are minimal, the sunsets are crisp and golden, and the slower pace of life makes it an ideal escape.
Whether you’re wandering the driftwood-strewn beaches of the Olympic Peninsula or watching waves crash along the cliffs at Cape Disappointment, the coastal magic of Washington is on full display in the spring.
Washington in Spring: Packing List
Stick to the layering game while visiting Washington State in April. A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm fleece or down jacket, and a waterproof shell will cover all your bases.
For my outdoorsy folks, don’t forget waterproof boots and extra socks—wet feet can ruin even the best hike. Toss in a hat and gloves if you’re heading to higher elevations where it might still feel like winter.
You know what they say, you can always point out a tourist/visitor in Seattle by the giveaway of using an umbrella. 😜
Packing List Must-Haves:
⭐ Packable Waterproof & Windproof Rain Jacket
⭐ Swimsuit (renting a hot tub boat on Lake Union is a hot attraction)
Related Posts: 15 Early Season Backpacking Tips in Washington (By a Local)
1. Tulip Festival in Skagit Valley
The tulip festival in Washington runs throughout April and showcases rows on rows of tulips and daffodils. Recently, the farms have added other pretty sections of flowers to walk through, too!
The top tulip farms are Roozengaarde and Tulip Town. I recommend visiting on weekdays because the weekends are fairly crowded, making the parking lots a bit of a headache.
What I love about the Tulip Festival is that the flowers are well taken care of, and they do a great job at making sure people don’t get too close or walk on them.
I’ve listed this as the first reason to visit Washington because it is one of the top attractions in Washington in April. Whenever I have friends visit, this is a place they always love to visit. The flowers are beautiful and fill the area with a sea of color.
However, if you don’t enjoy crowds, I would skip this attraction. Unfortunately, a decent amount of people stand right in front of the flowers for photos ops. The pictures are beautiful, but it can be frustrating when it’s a bit crowded. And don’t get me wrong, I love a good photo!
2. Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom
Cherry blossoms in Washington are stunning. Around April, the University of Washington’s (#Go Cougs) Quad transforms into a canopy of pink and white.
If you want a pretty stroll while visiting the heart of Seattle, this is the spot for you. For a less crowded experience, check out Point Defiance Park in Tacoma or the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle.
3. Hiking Heaven
As the snow begins to melt, some of Washington’s best hiking trails become more accessible. This unbeatable reason is my all-time favorite.
If you want to stay more local and don’t mind large crowds, Rattlesnake Ledge is a good starting point where you can view the snow-capped mountains. Mount Si is a bit more of a challenging hike for some, the crowds are a smidge less, and it is still in the greater Seattle area.
For seasoned hikers who are craving a bit more adventure and fewer crowds, check out these hikes:
🥾 Columbia River Gorge: Wildflowers are in full bloom, and trails like Dog Mountain or Catherine Creek will blow you away.
🥾 Oyster Dome: Overlooking Samish Bay, this trail combines a solid workout with postcard-worthy views.
- Note: I have hiked Oyster Dome more than a dozen times and I can report to you that the majority of the time it seems like I get fogged in and have very limited views of the islands.
🥾 Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls: Combine waterfalls and alpine views in one hike.
🥾 The Enchantments (Leavenworth): You will need to obtain a free, self-issued day permit at the trailhead for this hike. This area will more than likely have snow, so be prepared for the weather and stay up to date on the forecast.
- Note: It is important to pack layers for this hike. Road access can be difficult depending on how much snowfall the Enchantments received throughout the winter.
Related Posts: 25 Stunning Winter Hikes in Washington (All Dog-Friendly Hikes)
4. Powerful Waterfalls
Melting snow means waterfalls are roaring in full force. Snoqualmie Falls is one of the popular places that people like to visit. It’s close to Seattle and easy to get to, however, it’s an extremely busy area. The road near the falls typically has high traffic, so be cautious when crossing from the parking lot.
If you’re looking for something more secluded, head to Sol Duc Falls on the Olympic Peninsula.
Franklin Falls near Snoqualmie Pass is another favorite, especially for those seeking a shorter hike (I recommend packing micro spikes for this; it can be a bit icy in parts). Twin Falls near North Bend also shines during spring, offering stunning views without being too far from the city.
5. Start of Whale Watching Season
April marks the start of gray whale migration in the Puget Sound. Book a whale-watching tour from places like Anacortes or the San Juan Islands to catch these gentle giants in action. The waters are full of life, so keep an eye out for seals, porpoises, and bald eagles soaring above.
For a more hands-on experience, consider a kayaking tour around the San Juan Islands. These guided adventures often take you to prime wildlife viewing areas and give you a unique perspective of the region.
6. Spring Skiing and Snowboarding
Spring skiing in the Pacific Northwest is one of the best times to hit the slopes. Resorts like Crystal Mountain, Stevens Pass, and Mt. Baker offer some of the best spring skiing conditions. Enjoy softer snow, sunnier days, and the laid-back vibe that comes with the end of the season.
For snowshoers, the trails around Leavenworth and Stevens Pass are still accessible and provide a quieter way to enjoy the mountains. Check out REI if you need any gear rentals; they have a large selection at a good price.
Related Posts: Best Skiing Near Seattle | Insider’s Guide on Top 7 Resorts
7. Wine Tasting in Walla Walla
April is a perfect time to explore Washington’s wine country. Walla Walla offers incredible vineyard views and some of the best Syrahs and Merlots in the country. Spend a weekend sipping wines and enjoying the spring landscape.
🍷 My Favorite Wineries in Walla Walla:
- Valdemar Estates: A gorgeous tasting room offering a variety of wines paired with a menu featuring authentic Spanish delicacies.
- Pepper Bridge: Overlook the beautiful vineyards with one of their sophisticated Merlots or Cabernets.
Closer to Seattle, Woodinville Wine District is home to over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, making it an excellent option for a day trip. A lot of the wineries are within walking distance of each other. This is one of my favorite spots to spend a relaxing, warm spring day with friends.
🍷 My Favorite Wineries in Woodinville:
- Chateau Ste. Michelle: Lovely venue, outdoor concerts, tasty red blends, and plenty of space, both indoors and outdoors.
- DeLille Cellars: I love the Signature Syrah paired with the truffle popcorn as a snack (GF-friendly).
Related Post: Is Seattle Worth Visiting? (From a Local)
8. National Parks (Without the Crowds)
Spring is the perfect time to explore Washington’s national parks.
Mount Rainier National Park feels way more peaceful this time of year, and some of the lower trails—like Grove of the Patriarchs and Silver Falls—are finally opening up for hiking. And when the clouds lift just enough to reveal Rainier’s peak? It’s one of those jaw-dropping, can’t-believe-this-is-real moments.
Note: With more visitors heading to the National Parks, you’ll need to book your entry reservations in advance.
Olympic National Park’s mossy rainforests and snowcapped peaks are breathtaking in April. Hit the coast for a beach hike—Rialto Beach and Second Beach are stunning this time of year with dramatic waves and tidepools to explore.
The Hoh Rainforest and its emerald trails are a springtime must. Meanwhile, North Cascades National Park offers dramatic snowy views and serene alpine lakes.
9. Seattle Sporting Events
Seattle’s sports scene is next-level and is worth the experience. The Mariners games at T-Mobile Park (yep, that’s the name now) are a blast, especially with the retractable roof, so rain won’t ruin your plans.
If soccer’s more your vibe, Sounders matches at Lumen Field are straight-up electric, though be ready for whatever weather Seattle throws at you since it’s fully open-air.
The food scene at both stadiums is solid, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, so you’re not stuck with just nachos (unless that’s your thing).
Mariners Opening Day lands in April, while the Sounders kick things off in February, making it the perfect excuse to book a trip, grab a ticket, and dive into Seattle’s epic game-day energy.
10. Kayaking & Paddleboarding
April is one of the best times to paddle in Washington—before the summer crowds take over, but with just enough sun to remind you that winter’s finally over. If you’re into quiet alpine lakes or city views from the water, there’s no shortage of incredible places to put in.
👉 Lake Crescent – This place is unreal. Crystal-clear water, mountain views, and a whole lot of quiet, especially in spring. It’s one of those spots where you just float for a minute, take it all in, and wonder why you don’t do this more often.
👉 Lake Union – More of a city vibe? Paddle around Seattle’s famous houseboats (yes, that one from Sleepless in Seattle) and catch some up-close skyline views. The best part? You can dock ready for a break.
Spring paddling in Washington just hits different—cool air, calm water, and fewer people. If you’re looking for a solid excuse to get outside, this is it.
11. Road Trips
Washington State in April is a fantastic month for scenic drives. The Palouse region is a standout with its rolling green hills, and Chuckanut Drive offers coastal views and charming small towns. For mountain lovers, the North Cascades Highway might open later in the month, offering jaw-dropping scenary and alpine lakes.
Related Posts:
Day Trips from Seattle: Guide to The Best 22 Spots (From a Local)
Weekend Trips from Seattle | Insider’s Guide on 27 Hot Spots
If you’re up for a coastal adventure, Long Beach provides wide-ranging sandy shores and a relaxing getaway vibe. Alternatively, the Columbia Gorge offers impressive cliffs and waterfalls, perfect for an unforgettable road trip.
Tips for Travelers
✅ Rent a Car: Many of the best experiences are outside Seattle, so having/renting a car is key.
✅ Start Early: Whether it’s a trailhead, tulip field, or a restaurant, mornings are quieter and peaceful.
✅ Check Trail Conditions: Snow can linger on higher elevation trails, so check trip reports on WTA before heading out (micro spikes might still come in handy).
Washington State in April: FAQ
💡 Is April a good time to visit Washington State?
Yes! Fewer crowds, beautiful scenary, crisp sunshine, and rain.
💡 What is the cheapest time to visit Washington State?
November to February is the cheapest time to visit Washington.
💡 Is Pike Place Market worth a visit?
It’s a cool place to see a bit of Seattle all in one place. Beautiful bouquets, fresh fish and produce, local artwork, and of course the original Starbucks are all located in the Pike Place Market.
Washington State in April Wrapped Up
April in Washington is a vibe. The snow starts to melt, trails get a little less muddy, and the first pops of color remind you why you love it here. It’s a killer time to get out before summer crowds roll in and the secret spots aren’t so secret anymore.
That sums it up! We have covered the 11 unbeatable reasons why you should visit Washington State in April.
P.S. Have you got a hidden gem or favorite hike you love this time of year? Share it with me—I’m all about finding new spots to explore!
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
