Your Complete Guide to Portland, Oregon in Winter

Your Guide to Portland, Oregon in Winter Title Image

So, you’ve got questions about Portland, Oregon in winter? You’re in the right place! Whether you are considering moving to Portland or just simply wondering if Portland is worth visiting in winter, this guide will answer the most common questions about Portland, Oregon in winter.

If you’re just looking for the answer to one question, use this quick navigation guide to quickly click to the section you’re interested in:

WEATHER IN PORTLAND, OREGON IN WINTER
How is the weather?
How cold does it get?
How often does it rain?
Does it snow?
Why don’t people drive in the snow in Portland?
Does the weather affect your mood?

ATTIRE & UMBRELLAS IN PORTLAND OREGON IN WINTER
What should you wear in Portland, OR in winter?
Do people use umbrellas in Portland?

VISITING AND THINGS TO DO IN WINTER
Should you visit Portland in winter?
What are things to do in Portland, OR in winter?

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WEATHER IN PORTLAND, OREGON IN WINTER

How is the weather in Portland, Oregon in winter?

In my opinion, “it’s alright.” The hype about the rain is a bit overblown. Yes, it does rain a lot in Portland in winter, but a lot of those days are more mist than downpour. Temperatures are cooler (highs in the high 40s are common) but not bitter cold. The days however are often overcast. In the height of winter, you can expect to have ten day stretches of gray days. For me, the consecutive gray days get rough.

Your view of it will probably depend on where you are coming from. Midwesterners typically call it a mild, easy winter. People from places that get a lot of sun typically call it dreary and wet. Floridians typically call it hell (joke).

Portland Winter Forecast — Pretty typical Portland winter forecast

How cold does it get in Portland, Oregon in winter?

These are the average highs and lows for winter months:

Month	Avg High (°F)	Avg Low (°F)
December	46°	37°
January	47°	37°
February	50°	38°

Source: NOAA via Google

How often does it rain in Portland, Oregon in winter?

These are the average number of rainy days in Portland according to the internet:

Month	Avg # of Rainy Days
December	18.5
January	18.3
February	16.9

Source: weather-us.com

Interestingly, Portland has about 50-60 more rainy days than the US average, but it only gets about 5” more of rain per year than the US average. That tracks with my experience: lots of mist and light rain days.

Does it snow in Portland, Oregon in winter?

Yes, it can and usually does snow in Portland, Oregon in winter…a little bit. Snow is infrequent and the amount of snow is generally negligible.

Month	Avg # of Snow Days	Avg Inches of Snow
December	.8 days	.28”
January	1.3 days	.91”
February	2.3 days	1.22”

Source: weather-us.com

Once you get out of city limits and into higher elevations (e.g. towards Mt. Hood) the frequency and amount of snow increases significantly.

Why don’t people drive when it snows in Portland, Oregon?

Two primary reasons: ice and logistics. Due to Portland’s moderate winter temperatures, it’s not uncommon for snow to melt as the daily temperatures rise, then refreeze as they drop leading to…you guessed it: ice! Then if it snows more, the ice is hidden and it looks like “just an inch or two.” Additionally, since Portland does not get frequent or large amounts of snow, the city just isn’t set up for it. There aren’t a lot of plows and some roads wouldn’t be accessible even if there were.

If you want a laugh and a much better description, I highly recommend Jennifer Kristiansen’s article “Hey, Midwestern Transplants: You Can’t Drive in Portland Snow, Either” which I stumbled upon last year after a failed attempt to drive in Portland snow. (Spoiler alert: I made it three houses and it was embarrassing).

Ice. Ice. Baby.

ATTIRE & UMBRELLAS IN PORTLAND, OREGON IN WINTER

What should you wear in Portland, Oregon in winter?

Portland is a staunchly casual city anytime of year. Winter is no exception.

Key Portland, Oregon Winter Wardrobe Items

There are 2 – 3 key items you need for winter in Portland:

Water-resistant/waterproof shoes – My first year, I wore fully waterproof Land’s End duck boots which kept my feet 100% dry but they were a little bit of overkill for daily use and could be a pain to pull on and off. Today, I prefer easy on, non-rubber options.
Quality Jacket – You can go with a classic jacket and layer underneath in accordance with the day’s weather or a quality outdoor brand water-resistant or proof puffer or similar jacket. The key is just making sure your jacket is a functional jacket, not just fashion. Easiest way: buy from an outdoor gear score like REI or Backcountry.
[Maybe] Rain Pants – If you’ll be getting around via bike, a pair of rain pants you can pull on and off is a useful addition to your Portland winter wardrobe. They’ll keep you from arriving to your destination soaked and dirty from bike splash. If not, I find my regular pants (jeans) work just fine. The rain here [usually] is not a heavy downpour or accompanied by strong winds.

Beyond these essentials, just wear your favorite long pants and long sleeve tops (occasionally adding a second top layer) and you’re set. If you’re visiting for a trip, you can bring one slightly “nicer” outfit for going out to a fancier cocktail bar or dinner. But for most places in Portland “dressing up” just means not wearing hiking clothes.

My Portland, Oregon Women’s Winter Wardrobe

These are the items I wear all-the-freaking time in Portland in winter (and beyond). My camera roll has the evidence.

REI Puffer Jacket – LOVE my REI puffer – and so do my friends that have one. Lightweight, packable, surprisingly warm. I have a version with synthetic fill that I’m not sure they even make anymore, but friends that have the down version love it and that’s what I’ll buy next. Specifically, I’ll get the Stratocloud hoodie because its wind resistant and filled with water resistant down, or maybe finally get some Patagucci with the famous Patagonia Nano Puff.
Blundstone Chelsea Boots – Thanks to my podiatrist cousin for this recommendation. They are the best! Easy on, water-proof, and great traction in my opinion. I’ve even done some hikes in them.
Columbia rain jacket – on warmer days, I just throw this over a sweatshirt on colder days I can throw it over a more insulated jacket.
Altra Lone Peak shoes – my go-to running shoes for road or in-town trails. They’re not waterproof but designed to drain well and dry fast. (Might give their ALL-WTHR version a try at some point)
Wool Socks – But like, if you haven’t converted to wool socks yet, what are you waiting for?! SmartWool socks are still my #1.

Do people use umbrellas in Portland, Oregon in winter?

Up to you. Most PNW locals don’t use one. (This longstanding anecdote backed up by the Oregonian’s survey of 1,700 people where 66% said they “never” bring an umbrella when it’s expected to rain). However, some do and if you like using umbrellas by all means you do you!

Does Portland, Oregon’s winter weather affect your mood?

The short-answer is yes, for most people. The long, gray days make getting out of bed a little harder and saying no to social invitations a lot easier. Lower-energy is how I’d describe it. For me, it’s not always an unpleasent feeling. The slowing down can feel nice. At other times, I drink a lot of coffee hoping to add a little more pep to my step.

“Happy lamps” like this one are supposed to help. I find getting outside and doing things even when I don’t feel like it also provides a welcome burst of energy.

For some, the weather causes Seasonal Affective Disorder, seasonally linked depression. If you think there’s even the slightest chance that you may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, contact your trusted physician or mental health provider stat. You are not the only one and there are treatments.

ACTIVITIES & VISITING PORTLAND, OREGON IN WINTER

Should you visit Portland, Oregon in winter?

I say “yes!” You can get a peek into what Portland feels like as a local and enjoy a lot of the same things that draw people to Portland in other seasons: excellent food and drinks, quirky vibe, live music, and epic outdoor access. As an added bonus, since it’s off-season, lodging prices are less expensive than other times of the year.

That being said, if the weather is going to make you miserable, plan your visit in late spring, summer, or early fall.

Quick Links for Planning Your Portland, Oregon Visit
Check Flight Prices
Check Hotel Prices
Research Things to Do

What are things to do in Portland, Oregon in winter?

The pace of Portland in winter is slower but there is still plenty to do. The following are a few ideas of things to do in Portland, Oregon in winter*.

Attend an Event

Even in winter, there are still lots of local events to attend. The Portland Winter Lights Festival held in February each year is a city-wide highlight for kids and grow-ups alike. Local museums and art galleries often have events too. For example, OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science & Industry) puts on an event called “OMSI After Dark” that combines science, alcohol, and music for the 21+ crowd.

Go to the Movies

If you’re thinking yawn, think again! Portland has a plethora of cool neighborhood theaters like Laurelhurst Theater, Clinton St. Theater, and Cinemagic Theater. You can catch the latest blockbuster hit, check out an indie film, or join the Rocky Horror Picture Show cult!

Eat, Drink, & Be Merry

Portland is a foodie destination. It has incredible food and drink at largely affordable prices. The city boasts an impressive variety of cusines. I particularly love the gazillion varieties of Thai food (from high-end fusion to mom and pop) and the equally impressive number of Portland craft beer options. For ideas or if you’re looking for something in particular check out Portland Eater.

Play in the Snow

Portland may not get a lot of snow but it’s just a hop, skip, and a drive away from a number of places that do. Skiing, snowshoeing, snow-mobiling, and ice caving exploring (be cautious!) are fun ways to get outdoors and get a little city break in winter.

The go-to Oregon ski trip spots are Mount Hood, Oregon and Mount Bachelor (Bend, Oregon). Mount Hood is day-tripable (apx 1.5 – 2 hours from Portland, depending on exactly where you are going, where you are coming from, and weather).

Check out a Concert

Portland, Oregon is known for its music scene and catching a show is a favorite winter past-time. You won’t have any trouble finding live music here, but if it’s a popular artist at a smaller venue, buy those tickets pronto before they sell out. Doug Fir Lounge, Aladdin Theater and the Crystal Ballroom are just a few of Portland’s iconic music venues.

Head on a Hike

Winter is a great time to get out and enjoy some Oregon hiking trail time with fewer crowds. There are year-round hiking opportunities in and near Portland. In-town park hikes (click for three I love) and the Columbia River Gorge (Oregon & Washington side) are my personal winter go-tos but not the only options.

I’m a big fan of guidebooks for locating hikes then using Google to check for any important weather notices and trail condition updates. The 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Portland guidebook has nearby hikes and a chart that breaks down the best time of year to do each one.

Enjoy the Great Indoors

Leaving the house is very important for mental health in Portland in winter but on occasion, it is glorious to enjoy the great-indoors on a cloudy, gray, misty day!

I’m not sure if it’s technically an activity or a non-activity but introverting is a thing in Portland, Oregon in winter. Think: staying indoors, turning off your phone, and cuddling up with a cup of local Smith Teamaker tea on a Saturday night. The extroverted version is to “get cozy” Think: movie or game night (helloooo Ticket to Ride!), comfy blankets, and craft beers or hot chocolate with your friends on a Saturday night.

If you’re visiting, you might want to treat yourself to a homey VRBO (check prices), AirBnB, or nicer hotel than normal (check prices) than normal and enjoy a night of introverting or getting cozy.

*at the time of writing this, COVID-19 concerns and infections remain high, so just a gentle reminder to choose your activities responsibly and follow local, state, and federal rules.