Baring is a small unincorporated community located in King County, Washington, United States. Located in the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, Baring is surrounded by lush forests, majestic peaks, and the rushing waters of the Skykomish River. The community is located approximately 50 miles northeast of Seattle, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and natural beauty. Despite its small size, Baring has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century when it served as a stop along the Great Northern Railway. Today, Baring retains its rustic charm and serves as a gateway to the stunning wilderness of the Cascade Mountains.
Geography and Climate
Baring’s location in the Cascade Mountains influences its geography and climate, resulting in diverse landscapes and weather patterns. The community is located in a valley surrounded by towering peaks, dense forests, and pristine rivers, offering residents and visitors alike an unparalleled opportunity to explore the great outdoors.
Climate and Weather Overview
Average Climate Data
The following table presents average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Baring, Washington:
| Month | Average Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 39 | 17.5 | 5 |
| February | 42 | 15.3 | 6 |
| March | 47 | 14.2 | 9 |
| April | 54 | 10.2 | 11 |
| May | 61 | 6.6 | 14 |
| June | 67 | 4.6 | 15 |
| July | 73 | 2.4 | 17 |
| August | 72 | 3.0 | 15 |
| September | 66 | 5.6 | 12 |
| October | 55 | 10.3 | 8 |
| November | 45 | 15.0 | 6 |
| December | 39 | 17.1 | 5 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Baring is characterized by cold temperatures and heavy precipitation. The average temperature hovers around 39°F, while precipitation levels soar to 17.5 inches, primarily falling as snow in the higher elevations. Snowstorms are common during this month, blanketing the landscape in a thick layer of snow and creating ideal conditions for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Indoor activities such as cozying up by the fireplace, enjoying hot cocoa, and playing board games with family and friends are popular choices during the snowy winter months.
February
February sees similar weather patterns to January, with cold temperatures and significant precipitation. The average temperature rises slightly to 42°F, while precipitation levels remain high at 15.3 inches. Snow continues to fall in the mountains, providing ample opportunities for winter recreation and outdoor adventure. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as snowmobiling, sledding, and ice fishing in the surrounding wilderness. February also offers opportunities for attending winter festivals, visiting local art galleries, and enjoying hearty meals at cozy restaurants.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Baring, with temperatures starting to warm up. The average temperature is around 47°F, and precipitation levels decrease slightly to 14.2 inches. While snow may still be present in the higher elevations, lower elevations begin to see a mix of rain and snow as temperatures rise. Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography become more popular as the snow begins to melt and the landscape awakens with signs of spring. March also offers opportunities for visiting waterfalls, exploring scenic drives, and enjoying the first blooms of wildflowers in the mountains.
April
April brings milder temperatures to Baring, with the average temperature reaching 54°F. Precipitation levels continue to decrease to 10.2 inches, with rain becoming more common than snow in the lower elevations. The arrival of spring brings new life to the mountains, with blooming flowers, budding trees, and rushing streams creating a vibrant tapestry of colors and sounds. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the rivers and lakes. April also offers opportunities for wildlife watching, visiting local farms, and participating in Earth Day events celebrating the natural beauty of the area.
May
May heralds the arrival of warmer weather in Baring, with temperatures averaging 61°F. Precipitation levels decrease further to 6.6 inches, and sunny days become more abundant. The mountains come alive with the sounds of birdsong and rushing water, inviting residents and visitors to explore the great outdoors. Activities such as hiking, camping, and picnicking are popular choices for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature. May also offers opportunities for wildflower walks, birdwatching tours, and scenic drives through the Cascade Mountains.
June
June brings peak summer conditions to Baring, with temperatures averaging 67°F. Precipitation levels continue to decrease to 4.6 inches, and sunny days prevail. The community buzzes with activity as residents and visitors take advantage of the warm weather to enjoy outdoor pursuits such as camping, fishing, and rafting on the Skykomish River. June also offers opportunities for exploring local trails, attending outdoor concerts, and participating in community events celebrating the summer solstice.
July
July sees the height of summer in Baring, with temperatures reaching an average of 73°F. Precipitation levels decrease significantly to 2.4 inches, and sunny days continue to dominate the forecast. Residents and visitors alike flock to local parks, lakes, and recreational areas to cool off in the water or relax in the sun. Water sports such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the Skykomish River are popular choices, while evenings are perfect for stargazing and camping under the clear night sky.
August
August maintains the warmth of summer in Baring, with temperatures averaging 72°F. Precipitation levels remain relatively low at 3.0 inches, and sunny days continue to prevail. Outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing are popular choices for residents and visitors seeking adventure in the mountains. August also offers opportunities for attending outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and community picnics celebrating the bounty of summer harvests.
September
September brings the first hints of fall to Baring, although temperatures remain mild. The average temperature is around 66°F, with precipitation levels increasing to 5.6 inches. While summer activities may start to wind down, residents and visitors can still enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in the surrounding wilderness. September also offers opportunities for attending fall festivals, exploring local vineyards and orchards, and taking scenic drives to admire the changing colors of the autumn leaves.
October
October heralds the arrival of autumn in Baring, with temperatures cooling to an average of 55°F. Precipitation levels increase to 10.3 inches, with rain becoming more frequent than in previous months. The mountains are ablaze with fall foliage, providing scenic backdrops for outdoor activities such as leaf peeping and hiking in the nearby national forests. October also offers opportunities for visiting pumpkin patches, attending harvest festivals, and enjoying hayrides and corn mazes with family and friends.
November
November brings cooler temperatures and increased precipitation to Baring, with the average temperature dropping to 45°F. Precipitation levels peak at 15.0 inches, primarily falling as rain in the lower elevations and snow in the mountains. Outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing may be limited due to the inclement weather, but residents and visitors can still enjoy cozy indoor pursuits such as reading, crafting, and cooking. November also offers opportunities for visiting local breweries and wineries, attending holiday craft fairs, and preparing for the upcoming winter season.
December
December marks the onset of winter in Baring, with temperatures averaging 39°F. Precipitation levels remain high at 17.1 inches, with snowfall becoming more frequent as the month progresses. The community is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes and festive decorations creating a magical atmosphere. Outdoor activities such as sledding, snowshoeing, and building snowmen are popular choices for residents and visitors alike. December also offers opportunities for attending holiday concerts, visiting Christmas markets, and cozying up by the fire with loved ones.