Weather in PNW

Hey everyone!

So I am looking at going to grad school in Seattle; however I hear that it rains on a regular basis there. I live in the Southeast and have never been to Washington or even west of the Mississippi River. I plan on coming to visit if I get accepted to U of Washington but I was wondering how the rock climbing was year around for both Trad and Sport (I prefer Trad, especially multi-pitch Trad). I hope to eventually move into the alpine scene.

So I guess my question is... how good is the climbing?

The weather is rainy, winter can be difficult but you can usually still find dry stone (right now we're in a several week long wet time, even on the east side). From seattle, you're looking at a bit of a drive to a lot of stuff that stays dry/climbable for most of the year (~2 hours).

There are good climbs in washington, though it lacks a standout crag or area that is world class (in my opinion). With that said, there is plenty of alpine rock to keep you psyched and plenty of shorter, more accessible rock to supplement.

Frank summed the conditions up pretty well. Don't forget that Squamish, B.C. is a few hours from Seattle as well.

I grew up there and now live in lovely Georgia. The rains are completely different. The “rain” we have here is the storm that comes and makes it presence known and moves on. You’re in it for a minute and soaked.

The “rain” there is more of your grocery store produce mist. You can be in it for an hour and barely get wet. Granted they have their share of storms in the winter, but the long summer nights (930p sunset) and beautiful weather (no humidity) makes it worth it. And the view. Nothing beats a clear day in Seattle.

Also, one thing that people don’t realize about Washington State is that the middle of the state is a desert. The reputation of rain comes just from the coastal area. After the water been dropped at the cascades, you don’t get as much rain.

I wasn't a climber when I was there, but another thing to consider is that Smith Rock is a weekend trip away.