Winter in Portland arrives with its familiar mix of rain, mist, and soft gray skies, the kind of weather that makes hunkering down indoors sound tempting. But getting outside, even for short walks, offers kids and families enormous benefits. Here at Oregon Kid, we love a good opportunity to get outside, like going for a hike at a local park or going for walks with the family ,or exploring other places. With the right clothing, a flexible mindset, and a sense of adventure, winter walks can become a cherished seasonal tradition.
Why Winter Walks Matter
Boosts physical and mental well-being- Fresh air and movement help kids release energy, reduce stress, and regulate their moods. Nature exposure, even in winter, is linked to better focus, calmer behavior, and improved emotional resilience.
Builds curiosity and appreciation for nature– Trees, plants, and wildlife look different in winter. Bare branches reveal new shapes, birds behave differently, and evergreen forests stand out in striking contrast. Kids get to see firsthand how seasons change and how nature adapts.
Strengthens family connection- Slow wandering, conversations without distractions, and shared discoveries (like spotting a woodpecker or noticing moss glowing on a log) help families bond meaningfully.
Reduces cabin fever- Winter indoors can feel long, especially for energetic kids. Stepping outside breaks up routines, resets moods, and offers a healthy change of scenery.
Best Winter Walks with Kids in and around Portland
Forest Park
One of the largest urban forests in the country, Forest Park stays green and enchanting all winter. A favorite kid-friendly route is the Lower Macleay Trail to the Stone House (Witch’s Castle). It’s short, atmospheric, and full of interesting natural features, mossy logs, flowing water, and occasional wildlife.
Hoyt Arboretum (Washington Park)
With more than 12 miles of trails, Hoyt Arboretum is perfect for winter exploration. The paved loops are great for strollers or young walkers, and the tree collections are fascinating in winter. Kids can compare evergreen needles, inspect textured bark, or look for winter berries.
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Even when blooms are dormant, the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden offers peaceful, easy pathways and abundant waterfowl watching. Ducks, geese, and herons are often more visible in winter. Its size makes it ideal for toddlers or quick family outings.
Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
Just south of Portland, the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is wonderful for winter bird-watching. Migratory birds frequent the wetlands during the colder months, and the flat, well-maintained paths are accessible to many ages. It’s a great spot to teach kids about habitats and animal behavior.
Tips for Making Winter Walks Fun and Comfortable
- Layer up- This is Portland, you know what to do! Waterproof jackets, boots, hats, and gloves keep everyone warm and happy.
- Bring warm drinks- Hot cocoa or tea in a thermos transforms a chilly walk into a special treat. Hot tea and the outside are a tradition for our family.
- Let kids lead- Follow their pace, stop to explore, and let them choose which trail to take.
- Embrace the weather- A little mud or drizzle is part of the adventure! We don’t retreat because of a little weather.
- Keep expectations flexible- Even a 20-minute walk counts as a successful outing.
Why It’s All Worth It
Winter walks encourage kids to see beauty in all seasons, not just sunny ones. They build resilience, curiosity, and a deeper relationship with the natural world. For parents and caregivers, they offer a chance to slow down and connect with children in a peaceful, screen-free environment.
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.