If you’re looking to get the family outside but don’t want to take them on a 10-mile hike that will leave everyone tired and grumpy, there are still plenty of amazing adventures to choose from around the Pacific Northwest.
With wildlife watching, exploring sand dunes, and hiking deep into underground caves, these family-friendly activities will keep everyone’s spirits high. The activities are perfect for families with young kids to teens, as there is plenty to do for every age group.
So hop aboard as we explore some of the best family-friendly outdoor activities from around this incredible region.
Exploring the Oregon Coast Sand Dunes
The Southern Oregon coast is home to one of the largest stretches of sand dunes found anywhere in the country. This area is a playground for folks looking to explore either by foot or by dune buggy. Beware, though, if you choose to rent a buggy, as one day in the dunes aboard these adrenaline-pumping machines may mean a hit to the wallet, as you’ll probably want to buy your own!
Hiking to Silver Falls
It is hard to choose a trail in the entire PNW that packs more sights into a short, family-friendly distance than the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park. This well-graded trail winds its way through stands of big-leaf maple and past (and even behind) numerous thundering waterfalls.
There are plenty of options to cut the loop short to make it the perfect distance for big or little hikers.
Wildlife Safari in Winston
How about an outdoor adventure that doesn’t even require you to get out of the car?? You can find that at the drive-through wildlife safari in Winston, Oregon. With lions, zebras, elephants, and even giraffes, there are plenty of animals here to keep the whole family entertained.
The safari is open 363 days a year, so no matter when you choose to visit, you can almost be guaranteed that they will be open for business.
Whale Watching in Depoe Bay
Depoe Bay is a unique spot along the Oregon coast in that it is here that a few Grey Whales making their way from Mexico to Alaska choose to stop and spend the summer. That means that you can see whales hanging out around the shallow reefs in the bay, feeding on tiny marine life, all without even leaving the shoreline.
The Whale Watching Center is the best spot to view these stunning creatures. With commanding views of the bay and volunteers there to help you spot your first spout, this spot is a must-visit.
Picnicking at Mount Rainier’s Paradise Area
It is hard to pick a more stunning location in the entire PNW than the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier. With commanding views of the glaciated peaks above and stunning meadows filled with wildflowers, you don’t have to venture far from the parking lot to see some of the best that this incredible park has to offer.
If you feel like stretching your legs, then make the short walk to Myrtle Falls. You may even see one of the resident marmots or black bears along the way!
Kayaking at Trillium Lake
Located only an hour from Portland, Trillium Lake is a popular getaway for families looking to get out on the water. As an added bonus, Mt. Hood stands directly behind the lake, making for one of the best views you’ll find in the area.
This small lake is usually pretty calm, which makes it a great spot for beginner paddleboarders and kayakers. Just watch out for the overflow drains. They are capped but look a little intimidating when they are flowing.
Exploring Lava River Cave
Just south of Bend, Oregon, you’ll find a cave that extends more than a mile underground and gives off spooky vibes and chilly temps year round. Once filled with lava, this lava tube cave now passes under the highway and is open to visitors who want to venture along the 2.2-mile hike into its deepest recesses.
