Winter in Clark County brings shorter days, gray skies, and that familiar itch to get out of town. A change of scenery can bring real relief from stress, even if it is just for a weekend. The good news is that some of the best winter escapes sit less than two hours away and these destinations feel special without requiring a long drive or complicated planning.

Here are six winter weekend spots that locals love for good reason.

Carson Hot Springs Resort

Carson Hot Springs Resort sits about an hour east of Vancouver and feels like a world away. Tucked into the Columbia River Gorge, this historic resort focuses on rest, warmth, and simplicity. The setting is rural and peaceful, surrounded by forests, trails, and waterfalls that feel especially calm in winter.

The heart of the experience is the traditional bathhouse. Mineral hot springs water fills soaking pools designed to relax tired muscles and ease tension. The mineral therapy soak and wrap combines warm water with a linen wrap that leaves the body deeply relaxed. Spa services include massages, facials, body wraps, and access to a sauna and therapy pool.

The resort dates back to the early 1900s and still carries that sense of nostalgia. There is no glitz here, and that is part of the appeal. It is a place to slow down, reconnect, and escape winter weather without driving far.

372 St. Martin’s Springs Road, Carson, WA 98610 | @carsonhotsprings

Skamania Lodge

Skamania Lodge is located roughly 25 miles east of Vancouver in Stevenson, Washington. Set along the Columbia River Gorge, it offers winter views that feel dramatic and grounding at the same time.

Winter at Skamania includes hikes through evergreen forests, frozen waterfalls, and wide river views. Fire pits and cozy gathering areas invite guests to linger outside, even on colder days. Inside, warm spaces and seasonal dining create a comfortable balance between outdoor adventure and indoor relaxation.

The lodge also offers spa treatments and wellness experiences designed for winter, making it a strong option for couples or families. Nearby access to Mt. Hood adds options for skiing and snowboarding, while the Gorge itself provides endless scenic drives and trail access.

1131 SW Skamania Lodge Way, Stevenson, WA 98648 | @skamanialodge

Guler Ice Cave

Guler Ice Cave near Trout Lake, roughly 97 miles from Vancouver, is also a must-visit. Formed by lava flows thousands of years ago, this lava tube system holds ice year-round, creating an underground winter world.

The cave stretches about 650 feet with multiple entrances and exits. You can explore areas like the Crystal Grotto, the Crack Room, the Animal Den, and The Tube. Ice stalactites and frozen floors add beauty and challenge to the experience.

Exploration requires preparation. Warm clothing, gloves, good footwear, a headlamp, and knee pads are essential. Some sections require crawling and squeezing through tight spaces. A Sno Park permit is also required in winter.

Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood

Timberline Lodge sits about 65 miles from Vancouver and offers one of the most reliable winter experiences in the region. Perched high on Mount Hood, it delivers snow, alpine views, and classic lodge comfort all season long.

Winter days here revolve around skiing and snowboarding across 4,540 feet of vertical terrain. Beginner areas, expert runs, terrain parks, and snowshoe trails make it easy for all skill levels to find their rhythm. Lift rides alone feel worth the trip, with views stretching across snow-covered forests and peaks.

After a full day outside, the lodge provides a warm place to land. Built in 1937, Timberline carries deep history and character. Stone fireplaces, hand-carved wood details, and thick beams create a cozy atmosphere that fits winter perfectly.

You can relax in the pool and hot tub, unwind in the sauna, or spend the evening playing board games or ping pong. Staying slopeside removes stress and keeps the focus on rest and fun.

27500 E Timberline Road, Government Camp, OR 97028 | @timberlinelodge

Snowshoeing at Mount St. Helens

Winter transforms Mount St. Helens into a quiet and powerful landscape. Snowshoeing near the Marble Mountain Sno Park offers beginner-friendly trails with striking views of the blast zone draped in white.

The route to June Lake is a five-mile loop with moderate elevation gain, making it approachable while still feeling rewarding. Snow-covered forests, frozen waterfalls, and open views of the mountain create a sense of calm mixed with awe.

Guided treks through the Mount St. Helens Institute add depth to the experience. Knowledgeable guides share stories of the area’s geological and human history while helping participants learn winter hiking techniques. Equipment like snowshoes and trekking poles is provided, which removes extra planning.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach sits roughly 87 miles from Vancouver and remains a favorite winter escape for Clark County locals. Cooler weather brings fewer crowds and a quieter pace that lets the coastline shine.

Haystack Rock anchors the beach, standing tall against rolling waves and moody skies. Long walks along the sand feel peaceful and grounding, especially during winter sunsets. Tide pools at Arcadia Beach and sea caves near Hug Point add small adventures to the day.

Ecola State Park offers trails with sweeping ocean views and forested paths. After exploring, downtown Cannon Beach provides cozy restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques within easy walking distance.

Cosmic Tubing at Mt. Hood Skibowl

For pure winter fun, Cosmic Tubing at Mt. Hood Skibowl delivers excitement without the learning curve of skiing. Located about 60 miles from Vancouver, this experience turns tubing into a full-on party. It features over 600,000 LED lights, laser shows, and music that light up the tubing lanes.

Dual conveyor lifts carry guests back to the top, so there is no walking uphill with heavy tubes. The Snow Tube Park is family-friendly and easy to enjoy for all ages. After tubing, Multorpor Lodge offers cozy après vibes with fireplaces and warm drinks.

87000 US 26, Government Camp, OR 97028 | @skibowl

A Winter Reset Worth Taking

Winter weekends offer a chance to step away from routines and reconnect with what feels good. Snowy mountains, quiet beaches, warm soaking tubs, and cozy retreats all deliver different kinds of relief. These destinations prove that a refreshing escape does not require a long drive. Sometimes, the best reset is closer than expected.

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