Here in Portland, we technically have a winter season, but it’s more commonly referred to as the rainy season. That’s because once the rains begin in earnest, which could be November, they won’t truly let up until July. True, our seasons have become seemingly more mild and dry in the last few years, but that doesn’t really make the rainy season much easier.

Come this time of year, the rain can start to really sink in and feel burdensome. But with a few simple rainy season hacks, you can rock this season like a true Portland pro. Here’s how.

Chase the Chill Away

Wet cold is a special kind of cold - it chills you to the bone. It might not be all that cold out, but once your core feels cold and wet, it can be hard to shake that feeling.

That’s why we love jumping in the bathtub on cold days. Whether you just got off a soggy trail hike, you’ve had a long day at work or just because, nothing warms the body quite like a hot soak.

Turn on the music, grab your book and spend some time truly relaxing, the Portland Rainy Season way!

Escape to Baja!

These days, it seems like everyone in Portland is in Baja for at least a week in the winter. And it’s no wonder why: with tasty tacos, ample sunshine and inexpensive short flights, Baja is an easy way to escape the Portland rain, even if it’s just for a little while.

While in Mexico, look for the off-the-beaten path areas of Baja where you can meet locals, enjoy fresh seafood and maybe even brush up on your high school Spanish skills.

A Hood River Escape Act!

So close by! Hood River is just about an hour from Portland, but often the weather is world’s apart. Check your weather app and if it’s sunny, hop on I-84 and enjoy the drive. That stretch through the Columbia Gorge is one of the most gorgeous drives in the entire US, a real treat as you make your way toward the sunshine.

Once you’re in the Hood River area, there is so much to do… or not do. You could go for a hike, grab pizza and craft beer at Double Mountain (even though there’s on in Portland, this one is the original), enjoy the views from Full Sail Brewing, browse the shops, visit the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum, stop by Multnomah Falls or tour the wineries.

Stick With Your Plan

So, you’ve got plans to go hiking, for a run or some other outdoor activity, then you look out the window and it’s just dumping rain. What to you do? Suit up and go! That’s the Portland way.

Here in the Portland rainy season, if you let the weather get the best of you, two things happen: You never make it outside, and you start to feel down in the dumps. Seasonal affective disorder is a very real thing, especially around these parts. Invest in good rain gear, embrace the challenge, and reward yourself with cozy treats afterwards (a hot drink, an even hotter bath, etc.)

Get Cozy

Order a coffee (or make it at home), surround yourself with a pile of magazines or a great book, plate up a treat and settle in for a relaxing hour or two of just reading and immersing yourself in another world.

Portland winter is the perfect time to catch up on your reading as you explore a world of hot drinks. Hot toddy, rich hot chocolate, all the coffee drinks possible, Spanish Coffee, Irish Coffee and more!

This might be the time of year for you to join a book club, take up knitting, or learn a new hobby.

Whatever you wind up doing, make the most of this season! The lushness and vibrancy we enjoy all year long in Portland is thanks to our wet, wet winters.