Our daughter recently accepted a job in Washington state and is living in the hip city of Portland, Oregon. As my husband and I are graduates of the University of Oregon, we are more than happy to explore our daughter’s new recreational playground. With that in mind, we put together a Pacific Northwest roadtrip beginning in central Oregon and ending in Washington’s Columbia Gorge. Our home base for Washington was Skamania Lodge.
What we liked about Skamania Lodge; this 22 year old playpen – offering 254 rooms for outdoor lovers – caters to both young and old. Golfers walked by me as I exercised my dog, while a group of excited teenagers shrieked and did their best Tarzan calls from zipline platforms strung between towering trees above.
I met a coffee roaster from Seattle while I was soaking in the outdoor hot tub. Hyped up on caffeine, he was singing the praises of Skamania and the hiking trails around the area. Splashing in the pool were two millennials from Gresham, Oregon by way of Romania. They had learned that this was the place to stay when you visit Multnomah Falls.
And then there were the friendly employees – the gift shop lady who steered me to a cup of gourmet instant oatmeal for my early morning departure, my server in the Cascade Dining Room who wanted to make sure that I enjoyed my diver scallops and the Waterleaf Spa Manager who took the time to explain to me why organic skin care products really are better for your body – and the earth.
Pet-friendly resort
Like many of our readers, we travel with our pet. This can be a problem at upscale resorts. Fortunately for us, Skamania Lodge is pet-friendly. $75 one time charge for pets, check the website for current rates. Room #194 welcomed dogs and had a back door that opened to plenty of dog walking trails. The golf course pro shop even had a water bowl waiting outside their front door!
Sit back and relax
After a full day of outward bounding, pull up a rocking chair in the great room and admire the beauty that surrounds this place. There’s plenty of room to roam or sit back and relax and drink in the view of the spectacular Columbia Gorge – with a glass or two of local wine.
Insider Tip
As I live in California, I am very aware of our water shortage. I am always shocked when hotels don’t provide hotel guests the choice to opt out of daily linen and towel changes. Skamania Lodge goes one step further with their Green Choice Program. Hang a bamboo card on your door to opt out of housekeeping services. In return the lodge will deliver a $5 voucher for use on the property for each following day.
The lodge charges a reasonable $19 one time resort fee. My room rented for $179. Check the website for current rates and package deals. Skamania Lodge is a member of Destination Hotels & Resorts. For additional insider tips follow Luxury Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown on Twitter @Nancydbrown and follow @SkamaniaLodge on Twitter.
Check-In Time: 4:00pm
Check-Out Time: 12:00pm
If You Go:
Skamania Lodge (800) 221-7117
1131 SW Skamania Lodge Way,
Stevenson, Washington 98648
Article written by, video and photos courtesy of Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip, Travels from Northern California. I was a guest of Destination Hotels & Resorts. All opinions are my own.
Skamania Lodge looks great! It’s clear you have enjoyed your time there.
@Laura Skamania Lodge is a place that I would return to visit again.
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