Winter Activities
Winter at Cavebridge: A Guide to Cold-Season Experiences in Quincy, Washington
Winter transforms the Quincy and Columbia River Gorge region into a quiet, dramatic landscape filled with crisp air, soft light, and peaceful views. While this part of central Washington is known for its summer concerts and sun-soaked vineyards, the colder months offer a completely different kind of beauty—calm, cozy, and refreshingly slow-paced.
Whether guests are looking to unwind, explore, or enjoy a scenic winter road trip, here are the best activities to experience near Cave B Ridge along with recommended stops on the way from Seattle or Spokane.
Winter Activities Near Quincy, WA
Next to Cave B Estate Winery
Winter Wine Tasting at Cave B Estate Winery
Quiet Walks
The Gorge is especially striking in winter, with snow-dusted basalt cliffs and wide, open skies. Guests can take explore the nearby hiking trails or meander through the vineyards to enjoy peaceful views. While trails are generally safe for winter walks, bringing snowshoes can add a playful twist to exploring the snow-covered landscape.
Outdoor Fire Pits and Cozy Evenings
Many of our accommodations feature outdoor fire pits, allowing guests to enjoy the crisp winter air while staying warm by a fire. These spaces are perfect for gathering with friends or family, sipping hot drinks or a bottle of wine, and enjoying the winter landscape after a day of exploring.
Stargazing
Clear winter nights make for exceptional stargazing. The Quincy area has low light pollution, and in winter the skies are especially crisp. Guests can bundle up with blankets, hot drinks, and enjoy a night under the stars—often one of the most memorable moments of their stay.
Winter Recreation Nearby
Within about an hour’s drive, guests can enjoy a variety of winter recreation. Just 45 minutes from Cave B Estate Winery, Mission Ridge Ski Area offers skiing, snowboarding, and a full range of winter activities. It’s the perfect way to embrace the season before returning to the warmth and comfort of Cave B Ridge.
Frenchman Coulee Winter Photography
Just minutes away, Frenchman Coulee offers remarkable winter landscapes. The basalt towers, frosted sagebrush, and occasional patches of snow create a photographer’s dream setting. Winter mornings and overcast days bring especially beautiful lighting.
Cozy Indoor Time
Winter is the perfect season for slowing down. Guests often appreciate board games, movie nights, reading, or simply warming up after a day of exploring. Many visitors choose Cave B Ridge specifically for its quiet atmosphere and peaceful setting during the off-season.
Winter Road Trip Stops From Seattle to Quincy
A winter drive from Seattle to Quincy takes about 2.5 hours and offers several enjoyable stops.
Snoqualmie Pass
A natural winter playground. Guests can stop for snowshoeing, sledding, or simply to stretch their legs and enjoy the snow-covered mountains. The pass is especially scenic after fresh snowfall.
Roslyn and Cle Elum
These historic towns feel especially charming in winter. Guests can warm up at a local café, enjoy a brewery lunch, or take a quiet walk through the small, snowy streets. It’s a perfect halfway break.
Ellensburg
A good place to stop for coffee, a quick meal, or a stroll through downtown. Even in winter, the area is lively with shops, galleries, and small-town charm.
Wild Horse Monument Overlook
Just before descending into Quincy, guests can pull over for a winter photo stop. The view of the Columbia River Gorge and the iconic wild horse sculptures is even more dramatic against a winter backdrop.
Winter Road Trip Stops From Spokane to Quincy
The drive from Spokane to Quincy, about 2.75 hours, offers its own set of seasonal highlights.
Spokane Riverfront Park
Before leaving the city, guests can enjoy ice skating, winter lights, or a peaceful walk along the Spokane River. It’s a great way to begin the trip.
Moses Lake
A convenient halfway point for fuel, food, or a warm drink. The lakeside views can be beautiful in winter light, and the stop is easy even in colder weather.
Potholes State Park
Although not a long stop in winter, the dramatic combination of frozen water edges, winter desert, and open skies makes for a quick but scenic visit.
Columbia Basin Farmland
The stretch between Moses Lake and Quincy offers understated winter beauty: frosted orchards, quiet vineyards, and pastel sunsets over wide-open farmland. It’s a surprisingly picturesque drive.
Embracing Winter at Cavebridge
Winter brings a special kind of calm to the Quincy area. With dramatic landscapes, cozy indoor moments, outdoor fire pits, and peaceful walks through vineyard country, this season invites guests to rest, reconnect, and enjoy a slower pace of life.
For those traveling from Seattle or Spokane, the journey itself can be part of the experience, with scenic stops and winter highlights along the way.
