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Central Washington's Top Outdoor Date Ideas
Known for its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor adventures, Central Washington is a magical backdrop for romantic dates and getaways. Whether you’re impressing a first date or celebrating an anniversary, there are plenty of opportunities for enchantment as you explore Central Washington together.
SUNSET PICNIC
Central Washington provides the perfect setting for a memorable day of adventuring with your significant other. Choose one of the picturesque trails that wind through our area and head out to explore together. Make the day even more special by packing a picnic with a meal from their favorite local eatery. Bring a few blankets and find a spot near the viewpoint to enjoy dinner while you admire the striking Central Washington sunset. An evening hike with a sunset picnic is romantic and thoughtful, fitting for an adventurous couple.
SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
Take your love to the top with a day of skiing or snowboarding on the mountain! From playful conversation on the chairlift to sharing hot chocolate in the lodge to some friendly competition as you race down the slopes, the mountain is a perfect setting for an unforgettable date. Enjoy the breathtaking peak views together and reward yourselves at the end of the day with a refreshing beer and a hearty meal from a nearby restaurant.
WILD HORSE RENEWABLE ENERGY CENTER
Blow them away at Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center! The center provides visitors with an up-close look at the facility’s 149 wind turbines, as well as remarkable 360-degree views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount Hood, and the Columbia River Basin. The visitor center has informative displays that cover the basics of wind power, environmental impacts and the location itself. Outdoor trails lead to a solar array, blade, turbine generator and additional astonishing displays. Even more, a tour will take you inside the base of an active wind turbine! Visiting the wind farm is free, including the twice-daily guided tours, which allows you to splurge on a nice meal afterwards to experience a full day of adventure and quality time spent together.
Please note: The Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center is open April 1 through October 31 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with tours running daily (weather permitting) at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Try something new with a guided horseback trail ride through the Washington Cascades! This is a relaxing and enriching experience, perfect for couples that want to get out of their comfort zone. A truly unique Washington adventure, a horseback ride through Central Washington backcountry offers a new perspective and a greater appreciation for the outdoors. Several guides offer trail rides through the area, including Three Peaks Outfitters, Dragonwood Equine Facility, High Country Outfitters, and Flying Horseshoe Ranch. These guides are highly dependent on weather, so be sure to call ahead and ask about current offerings!