11 Things TO DO in the Pacific Northwest in April

Here is April’s list of 11 Things To Do in the Pacific Northwest.

The weather looks like it will be unreliable to start but at least the days are getting longer so why not take advantage of some early evening hikes, bike rides or kayaking. Then check out these ideas to make the month even more interesting.

1. On April 9th the Okanagan Fest-of Ale takes place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Center. Sample all kinds of ale and lager with over 20 brewers set to attend.
2. Canada’s largest Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show happens on April 24 -25 in Vancouver. Check out some of the latest gear.
3. It’s time to start thinking about wine as the grape vines come alive. On April 10-11 there is a North Williamette Wine Trail Weekend. Look for wine tastings, food, entertainment and activities at the 21 participating wineries, all found close to Portland, Oregon
4. In Seattle on April 18-20 check out the free Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival.
5. Head to Port Townsend, Washington with your bike and try out 30 miles of the Olympic Discovery Trail. Eventually a 100 mile bike trail will take you all the way from Port Townsend to the Pacific Coast.
6. Hop on a ferry and explore one of the Gulf Islands you’ve never visited. The islands that have particularly good accommodation choices include Saltspring, Galiano, Mayne and Pender. Visit BC Ferries to plan your getaway. You could also download my free cycling guide on touring the Gulf Islands.
7. Visit the world famous Butchart Gardens with lots of blossoms bursting with each passing week.
8. The Portland Farmer’s Market, located at the Portland State University is open every Saturday now from 8:30am until 2 pm. Get a taste of early spring.
9. Lower elevation hikes in the North Cascade Mountains usually open in early April. A particularly good book to give you an honest assessment of what hikes to try is ‘Hiking From Here To WOW: North Cascades‘ by Kathy and Craig Copeland.
10. Take a guided walking tour of Seattle’s culinary treasures. Choose from Pike Place Market or the Belltown Neighbourhood.
11. The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival has an amazing lineup of tastings beginning on April 19th and heading through to the 25th. Reserve tickets now. Some events are sold out already.

Leigh McAdam

HikeBikeTravel

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