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6 Best Winter Hikes for a Charming Romantic Getaway

Looking for the perfect winter getaway to share with someone special and even a few unique and memorable experiences? Winter hikes are a great way to transform any ordinary date or retreat into a magical experience that’ll put you in touch with nature while you reconnect with each other.

Winter hikes are enchanting and can offer Insta-worthy moments. Everything is calm, quiet, and serene like nature has fallen asleep. These hikes set the stage for the ultimate winter romance. Set out to explore after you’ve enjoyed a hearty breakfast at the Estate. 

1. Cape Lookout Trail

No romantic getaway or hiking adventure is complete without venturing up Cape Lookout Trail. This trail is breathtaking and dreamy, all bundled together in one experience. The trail views are panoramic and certainly bragworthy in their own right.

  • Sapphire blue waves crash against the rocky shore

  • The deep blue sea stretches out to kiss the horizon

  • Mist lazily rolling in for that moody, intimate vibe

Yes, this is the perfect trail — a pure lovers’ delight. So, don’t miss it when you visit, and remember to take your camera or smartphone. You’ll want a picture — or several to remember your trip.

2. Our Lady of Guadalupe Trappist Abbey

This abbey is ideal for those looking for the perfect blend of history, tranquility, romance, and reflection. And it offers fantastic views! The unique setting offers winding paths through the rolling hillside to explore. Rustic charm? Definitely! And plenty of it.

One of the great things about hiking here is that the paths are easy to navigate, which makes it the perfect locale for a winter date or a must-stop any time of year.

3. Tice Park Trail — Rotary Nature Preserve

Not everyone wants a challenging hike … every time. If this sounds like you, head to Tice Park Trail in Rotary Nature Reserve and say hello to the gentle trails and mixed scenery.  

And the short 0.84-mile trail system here is also well-maintained. It weaves through woodlands, wetlands, and natural and wooden walkways. And, yes, there’s plenty of nature to see, hear, and observe. So, if you love wildlife, you’ll love this place, too.

4. Joe Dancer Park Trail

Joe Dancer Park is a short drive — less than five minutes — from A’Tuscan Estate, and it’s perfect for couples looking to vary their hike. This easy 1.8-mile loop winds along the South Yamhill River, offering fantastic views of open meadows, forested sections, and scenic water.

The Joe Dancer Park Trail is perfect to inspire or ignite romance. Plan about half an hour — give or take — to complete this hike. And if you love birding, bring your binoculars, you’ll see plenty of species here.

5. Miller Woods Trails

Miller Woods trails are part of the Yamhill Soil & Water Conservation District and a short drive from A’Tuscan Estate — less than 10 minutes, depending on the route. That said, this trail is pretty spectacular for nature lovers and adventure hikers alike. The trail is about 4.1 miles, so plan to spend about two hours meandering it from start to finish.

You’ll also want to mind your step; there are plenty of rocky areas, and parts of the trail system have exposed roots and a 587-foot elevation gain. So, this trail is moderately challenging but not overly so.

a winter waterfall with a snow-dusted rocky ledge

6. Silver Falls State Park

If you don’t mind a road trip, Silver Falls State Park offers some spectacular views and trails to explore. After all, this park is called the “Crown Jewel” of Oregon’s State Parks for a reason. And its many perks and natural beauty have helped this park garner national and international attention.

Silver Falls offers the stunning — and iconic — Trail of Ten Falls with ample waterfall views framed by lush greenery. Best of all? You can hike to all ten waterfalls and walk behind four on this trail. That said, the Trail of Ten Falls is a lengthy hike of 7.4 miles, making this perfect for a day hike.

The total hike will take you about three and a half hours. So, pack a lunch during decent weather, or plan to stop for a bite on your way back. There are many great McMinnville eateries to satisfy your taste buds and refuel you from your winter hike.

We also offer a picnic hike package to elevate your experience at the inn and during your hiking adventure, so you can enjoy a gourmet lunch for two in a serene landscape.

Plan Your Perfect Winter Hike for a Memorable Stay

Ready to plan your winter hikes? Simply choose one of these breathtaking trails to explore. Whether you prefer waterfalls, coastal views, or peaceful woodlands, Oregon offers countless ways to embrace nature, connect, and explore.

Remember to layer up, pack snacks, and bring your sense of wonder for your journey. These hikes are more than simple outdoor activities — they’re moments to treasure for a lifetime.

Book now for your hiking getaway adventure. If you want to wind down after a day of exercise in nature, take a self-guided wine tour or visit one of our breweries for a pint. Then return to your luxurious accommodations at A’Tuscan Estate. 

Photo Credit: © 1BSG via canva.com, © Alish Bube via canva.com