Gaston Oregon Winter Weather

Learn about gaston oregon winter weather

Curious about gaston oregon winter weather? Here’s the simple version: winters are cool, wet, and mostly snow-free in town, with occasional icy mornings and rare snow events. This guide explains typical temperatures, rain and wind, what roads are like, and practical tips for visiting or living here from November through March.

Quick Answer

Expect cool, rainy winters. Typical highs run 44–50°F, lows 33–38°F. December–February bring frequent rain (6–8 inches per month) and many gray days. Snow is uncommon in town but possible once or twice a winter; hills around Hagg Lake and Bald Peak see more. Watch for slick rural roads and occasional power outages in windstorms.

What gaston oregon winter weather Means

Gaston sits in the northern Willamette Valley near the Coast Range, about 9–10 miles from Forest Grove and 30 miles from Portland. The climate is maritime:

  • Cool temperatures, lots of rain, and long stretches of overcast.
  • Snow is rare at low elevations (downtown Gaston), but nearby hills can get a dusting.
  • Rural roads can be slick from rain, mud, leaves, and early-morning frost.

Why People Search for This in Gaston, Oregon

  • Planning a move and wondering about heating, driving, and outdoor life.
  • Visiting wineries in Yamhill-Carlton and Chehalem Mountains during the off-season.
  • Heading to Henry Hagg Lake (Scoggins Valley Park) for winter walks, fishing, or scenic drives.
  • Commuting to Hillsboro or Forest Grove and wanting realistic road expectations.

What to Expect

  • Temperatures:
    • Highs: usually mid-40s to around 50°F.
    • Lows: mid-30s; freezing nights happen, especially on clear breaks after storms.
  • Rain:
    • Frequent light-to-moderate rain, with occasional heavy downpours.
    • December is typically the wettest month. Expect 18–22 days with measurable rain each winter month.
  • Snow and ice:
    • In-town snow: rare, often 0–2 brief events per winter.
    • Higher spots (Bald Peak, vineyard hills, above 800–1,200 feet): more likely to see sticking snow.
    • Black ice and freezing fog are the bigger hazards on rural mornings.
  • Wind:
    • Pacific storms can bring gusts 20–35 mph, sometimes higher on exposed ridges.
    • Sporadic power outages can happen during strong wind or heavy, wet snow in the hills.
  • Roads:
    • Local farm roads and OR-47 can be slick; watch for standing water and leaf piles.
    • Heading west toward the Coast Range (e.g., OR-6 to Tillamook) often means colder temps and possible snow or chain advisories at higher elevations.
  • Outdoors:
    • Trails near Hagg Lake turn muddy; boots help.
    • Clear days are gorgeous—low crowds, green hills, and vineyard views.

Local distances:

  • Gaston to Forest Grove: about 9–10 miles (15–20 minutes).
  • Gaston to Hillsboro: about 16–18 miles (25–35 minutes).
  • Gaston to downtown Portland: roughly 30 miles (45–60 minutes, traffic-dependent).
  • Gaston to Henry Hagg Lake: about 4–6 miles (10–15 minutes) via Scoggins Valley Rd.

Tips for Visitors / Residents

  • Clothing:
    • Wear waterproof shoes, a rain jacket with a hood, and warm layers.
    • Pack a dry set of socks in the car for muddy days.
  • Driving:
    • Check tire tread and wipers; keep washer fluid topped up.
    • Use headlights in rain and low visibility.
    • Avoid flooded roads; rural ditches fill fast in downpours.
    • Carry chains only if heading into the Coast Range or higher-elevation backroads.
  • Home prep:
    • Keep flashlights, a small power bank, and blankets handy for occasional outages.
    • Clear gutters and drains; leaves can cause backups and pooling water.
  • Outdoor plans:
    • Trails around Hagg Lake are open year-round but muddy—choose sturdy footwear.
    • Wineries are quieter and cozy in winter; consider reservations on weekends.
  • Health and comfort:
    • A daylight lamp can help with gray-day blues.
    • Ventilate homes to reduce indoor dampness.

Frequently Asked Questions About gaston oregon winter weather

  • Does it snow much in Gaston?

    • Not usually in town. Expect a dusting once or twice some winters, with quick melt. Hills and ridges nearby see more frequent light snow.

  • How far is Gaston from Portland?

    • About 30 miles. Plan 45–60 minutes depending on traffic and weather.

  • Are chains required in winter?

    • Rarely in town or on main valley routes. Chains may be advised if you drive west into the Coast Range (e.g., toward Tillamook) during storms.

  • Is Hagg Lake open in winter?

    • Yes, generally year-round with reduced services. After major storms, some areas may temporarily close. Check park updates before you go.

  • Is winter a good time for wine tasting?

    • Yes—fewer crowds, intimate tastings, and cozy indoor spaces. Roads are calmer, but drive carefully on wet, curvy vineyard routes.

Best Local Resources

  • National Weather Service (Portland office): weather.gov/pqr
  • ODOT TripCheck (road cams, chain advisories): tripcheck.com
  • Washington County Road Closures/Delays: wc-roads.com
  • Washington County Parks (Hagg Lake status): washcoparks.org
  • Portland General Electric Outage Map: portlandgeneral.com/outages

Summary

Winters in Gaston are cool, rainy, and mostly snow-free at low elevations. Expect highs in the 40s, frequent showers, occasional icy mornings, and rare snow. Hills around Hagg Lake can see more winter weather. Drive carefully, layer up, and enjoy quiet wineries and green countryside.

  • Hagg Lake in Winter: Trails, Access, and What to Know
  • Best Rainy-Day Wineries Near Gaston
  • Moving to Gaston: Weather, Commute, and Everyday Essentials