While we can’t always guarantee snow in December throughout the Pacific Northwest, those with snow can enjoy an honest-to-goodness sleigh ride, while the milder climates enjoy their own version with horse-drawn wagons, carriages, and trolleys. Grab a lap blanket, a mug of hot cocoa and enjoy a special holiday treat.The cheerful jingle of the bell-covered harnesses and clip clop of horse’s hooves will surely bring you a little holiday spirit!
Oregon
Albany
The historic downtown of Albany is host to horse-drawn carriage and trolley rides during their Christmas Parlour Tour which includes tours of historic buildings and homes, bringing a 19th century celebration and fun for the whole family. Albany Visitors Association
Baker City
The Grand Geiser Hotel offers traditional horse-drawn sleigh rides touring the beautiful Baker City Historic District. Make memories while laughing at Ol’ Man Winter. Saturday evenings through February 29. GeiserGrand.com
Government Camp
Bring your family, friends and loved ones as Belgian Horses guide you along the holiday lights to the village Christmas Tree! Depending on the snow conditions at the time of your trip, you will be seated in either a Large 7 seated sleigh or a covered Visavi carriage. December 13 – January 4. MtHoodOutfitters.com
Sunriver
Sunriver Resort offers aan old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh ride. Glide under the sparkling evergreens in the paths around the resort. Snuggle under a blanket with your loved ones as the faint jingle of sleigh-bells ring in your ears and a hot cup of cocoa warms your hands through your mittens. Experience the magic of a Christmas scene fit for Courier and Ives. Sunriver Resort
Washington
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is he perfect alpine Christmas setting with almost guaranteed snow, millions of sparkling lights, and an old-world European ambience. A horse drawn sleigh ride is almost a required experience, and the town has several options so you can find the perfect one for you. Leavenworth.org
Bellingham
Free horse drawn carriage rides through the historic Fairhaven district as part of the Fairhaven Winterfest in a three week celebration November 29-December 21st. Every Saturday from noon to 3:00. A team of four draft Percheron horses will lead the carriage each week. FairhavenWinterfest.com
Spokane
Free holiday horse and carriage rides will take you through downtown to enjoy the clip clop of horse hooves and the sights of Spokane in its holiday finery. Begins Nov 25 through Christmas Eve. Rides 3:00-8:00 on Fridays or noon to 5:00 on weekends. DowntownSpokane.org
Port Orchard
Part of the town’s Festival of Chimes and Lights, Santa’s Sleigh on the Bay includes hay rides, pictures with Santa, and free refreshments. 4:00-7:30 December 7th and is part of a full day of events including a Pooch n’Purr Parade, tree decorating contest, magic show, and free chili… CityofPortOrchard.us
Poulsbo
This charming town was originally a Norwegian settlement, and celebrates the Christmas season in true Viking style. They traditionally have horse drawn carriage rides through downtown between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Check for details to come on their website: HistoricDowntownPoulsbo.com
Winthrop
Sun Mountain Lodge
Sleigh rides Dec. 19,20,21,22 at 3pm. Dec. 23-Jan4 (except Christmas Day) 1,2,3pm. Sleigh ride dinners Dec. 22,23,24,27,28,29,31, Jan 2, 4. Offered daily. Includes stop at the miner’s tent to take in the view and enjoy a hot chocolate or choose a sleigh ride and dinner combination. SunMountainLodge.com
Anacortes
As part of the town’s Coastal Christmas, you can enjoy free horse-drawn trolley rides through downtown. The trolley can hold 18-24 people, so there is plenty of room for you to bring your friends. Saturdays beginning November 30 through December 21st. Noon to 4:00. Anacortes.org