Explore Packwood
Begin your Journey…
Nestled in the foothills of Mount Rainier, Packwood is a serene mountain town with an up-and-coming spirit that makes every visit memorable.
Small-town charm blends seamlessly with wild landscapes, offering everything from a quiet cup of locally roasted coffee to a trek along alpine ridge lines. Featured in The Wall Street Journal in 2022 as one of the mountain towns to visit, it’s no wonder Packwood continues to draw travelers seeking peace, adventure, and authenticity.
In 2025, our very own Historic Hotel Packwood was featured second on USA Today’s list of “10 Historic Hotels Worth Planning a National Park Trip Around.” It’s a wonderful reminder of what makes this place so special — our one-of-a-kind history, warm atmosphere, and unbeatable location beside some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest.
Start Your Day…
There’s no better way to wake up in Packwood than with the aroma of fresh-baked pastries and coffee at The Mountain Goat Coffee Co. and Bakery- just steps away from Historic Hotel Packwood. If you’re craving something heartier, Santo Milagro Breakfast and Sweets is a Mexican Cafe offering a sit-down restaurant experience, making it a favorite stop for fueling up before a day of exploration. The Base Camp Coffee stand offers a drive through and opens at 6am for early risers.
Trails, Peaks & Wild Places
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Covering more than 1.3 million acres of mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and old-growth forest, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest is the vast wilderness that surrounds Packwood. From our hotel, guests can easily set out on day trips to explore glacier-fed rivers, hidden waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and panoramic ridgelines.
This forest is also home to some of the region’s most iconic destinations — including Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and the Tatoosh and Goat Rocks Wildernesses — all within reach from Historic Hotel Packwood. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, the Gifford Pinchot offers endless ways to experience Washington’s beauty.
Mount Rainier National Park
Just 15 minutes from Historic Hotel Packwood to the Stevens Canyon entrance and 45 minutes to the White River entrance, Mount Rainier National Park towers over our little town. This active 14,410-foot volcano is the tallest and most glaciated peak in the contiguous US, feeding five major rivers and shaping a landscape of ancient forests, vibrant wildflower meadows, and waterfalls. Established in 1899 as the nation’s fourth national park, Rainier offers year-round recreation — from hiking and camping to scenic drives through iconic areas like Paradise and Sunrise.
Skate Creek Park
Just a 4-minute drive — or a leisurely 30-minute walk — from our hotel, Skate Creek Park is one of Packwood’s true hidden gems. This riverside trail system offers shaded picnic areas, walking paths beneath towering evergreens, and easy access to the gentle flow of Skate Creek. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet morning coffee outdoors, take a brisk nature walk, or simply relax to the sound of rushing water. Beloved by locals for its simplicity and serenity, Skate Creek Park is an easy way to step into nature without leaving town.
Packwood Lake
A short 14-minute drive from the hotel, the Packwood Lake Trailhead leads to one of the area’s most cherished alpine escapes. The trail winds gently through old-growth forest before opening onto a vast, glassy lake framed by rugged peaks. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day hike, a picnic along the shoreline, or simply a chance to soak in the views of Johnson Peak reflected on the water, Packwood Lake is a serene retreat that captures the quiet beauty of the Cascades.
Blue Hole
Roughly a 12-minute drive from the hotel, the short Blue Hole Trail (#167) leads to a crystal-clear swimming hole tucked into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Surrounded by mossy rocks and shaded by old-growth trees, the Blue Hole is a refreshing stop on a summer day and a favorite spot for those seeking a quick dip.
White Pass Ski Area
Only a 25-minute drive from our hotel, White Pass Ski Area is a premier winter destination in the Cascades. With downhill runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, the alpine slopes not only deliver thrilling descents but also breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. A dedicated Nordic Center offers miles of groomed trails for cross-country enthusiasts, while guided snowshoe tours and peaceful loops around Leech Lake provide a quieter way to experience the winter landscape.
Silver Falls
Just a 14-minute drive from the hotel, Silver Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. The Ohanapecosh River tumbles through a narrow basalt canyon, creating a series of cascades that capture the senses. A short, easy loop trail leads to overlooks where you can feel the mist on your face and hear the roar of the falls — a peaceful and unforgettable stop within Mount Rainier National Park.
Tatoosh Wilderness
Roughly 20 minutes from the hotel, the Tatoosh Wilderness is where serious hikers come for a true mountain challenge. Steep trails climb through rugged terrain, leading to exposed ridgelines, pristine alpine lakes, and sweeping summit views that take in Rainier, Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens all at once. Remote and untamed, the Tatoosh rewards those willing to push higher with some of the most dramatic scenery in the Cascades.
Goat Rocks Wilderness
Just about 11 miles from the hotel, the Goat Rocks Wilderness offers a rugged alpine escape that rewards those who seek solitude, sweeping vistas, and memorable backcountry adventures. It sits between Mount Rainier and Mount Adams and includes craggy peaks, glaciers, wildflower meadows, and high ridgelines.
Access & Trail Options:
● Snowgrass / Goat Ridge Loop — One of the more popular routes: start from the Snowgrass Trailhead, connect to Goat Ridge via the Pacific Crest Trail, loop through alpine terrain.
● Goat Lake via Berry Patch / Trail 95 — An iconic hike that begins from the Berry Patch parking lot and climbs through meadows, forest, and ridgelines to Goat Lake.
● Bear Creek Mountain — A shorter out-and-back option (~7 miles round-trip) with great wildflower meadows and a panoramic lookout over the Goat Rocks, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier.
● Round Mountain — A more moderate day hike (~5.2 miles round-trip) with solid views and easier terrain for sampling the wilderness without committing to a long, multi-day trek.
Because many trails climb above 6,000 feet, summer into early fall is the prime window for exploring Goat Rocks — snow lingers well into the season in many high-elevation areas.
Mount St. Helens
Approximately a 2-hour drive from the hotel in the summer and 3-hours in the winter, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument showcases one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Shaped by the powerful 1980 eruption, the area features pumice fields, lava flows, regenerating forests, and trails that lead to dramatic crater and Spirit Lake viewpoints. It’s an awe-inspiring destination for hikers, photographers, and anyone fascinated by nature’s raw force.
Our hotel makes an excellent jumping-off point for a multi-day adventure, allowing guests to combine a visit to Mount St. Helens with nearby wonders like Mount Rainier, Packwood Lake, and the Tatoosh Wilderness — all while returning each evening to comfort, history, and small-town serenity.
Mount Adams
About a 2.5-hour drive from the hotel, Mount Adams rises as the second-highest peak in Washington and one of the least-visited of the Cascade volcanoes. Its vast slopes and quiet trails offer everything from peaceful forest hikes to challenging alpine climbs, with panoramic views stretching across the entire range. Best visited in summer, Mount Adams becomes a haven for hikers and climbers once the snow recedes, as winter conditions limit access. Less crowded than Rainier and St. Helens, Mount Adams is a rewarding destination for those seeking adventure in a more remote setting.
Staying at our hotel gives travelers the perfect basecamp for exploration, making it easy to pair a journey to Mount Adams with nearby highlights like Mount Rainier National Park.
La Wis Wis Campground
About a 10-minute drive from the hotel, La Wis Wis Campground is a scenic riverside haven where the Ohanapecosh, Clear Fork, and Cowlitz Rivers meet. Towering evergreens shade the grounds, and short trails lead to peaceful riverbanks perfect for exploring or picnicking.
Step into a History
White Pass Country Museum
A mere three-minute walk from the hotel, the White Pass Country Museum sits in the former Packwood Elementary School, now lovingly preserved to showcase the rich story of the Upper Cowlitz Valley.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits and displays highlighting local heritage — from the logging era and railway beginnings to regional traditions and artifacts. The White Pass Country Historical Society also offers educational programs and interpretive discussions to bring the area’s past to life.
Open seasonally (Thursdays through Saturdays, 11 am–4 pm in summer and Friday Saturdays 12pm-4pm in winter), it’s a perfect, low-effort way to connect with the local culture during your stay.
Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
About a 50-minute drive from our hotel, the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad is a nonprofit heritage railroad that takes guests on a nostalgic ride through Washington’s forested foothills aboard a vintage steam locomotive. The 18-mile journey winds through mossy woodlands and trestle crossings before arriving at the Logging Museum in Mineral, home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of steam-logging locomotives. The train also offers a lineup of seasonal and themed excursions — from 🥃 Whiskey Train and Brunch Train outings to festive Christmas, Halloween, and Easter rides.
For something truly unique, try the new RailCycle Mt. Rainier Tour, where you can pedal a custom-built rail bike six miles through Mineral’s forests and countryside.
Though Elbe lies a bit farther from us, the Railroad offers an unforgettable outing that feels right at home with our vintage boutique spirit — a perfect day trip for guests seeking nostalgia, nature, and a connection to the region’s history.
Food & Drink to Remember
After a day exploring, Packwood’s food and drink scene is just steps from your door…
Packwood Brewing Co.
Right across the street- is the heart of the local scene, known for its small-batch brews and warm, welcoming atmosphere. In the summer, pair your pint with chorizo nachos or a sizzling steak quesadilla while taking in the Mount Rainier views from the beer garden. Or enjoy cozy soups, sandwiches, and hearty bread bowls in the fall and winter. Packwood Brewing also allows outside food, making it easy to grab a meal nearby and settle in with a drink.
Cruisers Pizza
Just two blocks from the hotel, Cruisers Pizza is a local staple where hand-tossed, generous pies make it a go-to for comfort food. It’s a long-standing establishment perfect for sharing a pizza after a long day of hiking or skiing. An added bonus, Cruisers offers a gluten free crust for guest. Many guests grab Cruisers to-go and bring it over to Packwood Brewing for the best of both worlds.
Nachos Mexican Restaurant
Only a block away, Nachos Mexican Restaurant serves beloved Mexican classics in generous portions. Whether it’s enchiladas, tacos, a plate of hearty fajitas, or just one of their large margaritas, Nachos is a favorite for both visitors and locals alike.
The Blue Spruce Saloon
For a lively nightcap, head to The Blue Spruce Saloon — also within a block of the hotel. Famous for its fabulous burgers and laid-back atmosphere, it’s where locals swap stories late into the night, and guests quickly feel like part of the Packwood family.
Longmire Springs Brewing Co.
Longmire Springs Brewing Company is a warehouse-style brewery with plenty of space, offering indoor seating, an outdoor area, and a rotating selection of house-brewed beers. Located about a 10-minute walk or a one-minute drive from the hotel, it’s an easy place to settle in with friends or bring a board game. They frequently host community events, including line dancing nights, and Zest SriThai is regularly parked onsite, with additional food trucks often joining during events.
Butter Butte Charcuterie
Butter Butte Charcuterie offers a curated selection of meats, artisan cheeses, crackers, and sweet treats. It’s the perfect place to pick up a custom charcuterie board for a scenic picnic or to enjoy a romantic night in at the hotel. Their thoughtfully chosen ingredients make every board feel special, whether you’re heading out on an adventure or enjoying a relaxing evening back at the hotel.
Zest SriThai
Zest SriThai is our favorite food in town — a fresh-to-order Thai food truck parked at Longmire Springs Brewing Company which is about a 10 minute walk or 1 minute drive from the hotel. The owner prepares every dish with care, and while there can be a wait, the flavorful curries, noodles, and stir-fries are absolutely worth it. It’s a delicious stop for anyone craving something warm and vibrant.
Cliff Droppers Burgers
Cliff Droppers Burgers serves hearty, made-to-order burgers crafted from fresh—not frozen—ingredients. Located just a 5-minute walk or a one-minute drive from the hotel, it’s a convenient stop for classic comfort fare after a day on the trails. With indoor and outdoor seating and favorites like their famous elk burger, it’s an easy, satisfying choice for a casual meal.
Mountain goat coffee co. & bakery
The Mountain Goat Coffee Co. & Bakery sits just across the street from the hotel, making it the go-to espresso and bakery destination for our guests. They roast their own beans, bake fresh pastries every day, and offer a menu filled with quality and care. With a friendly, warm atmosphere that feels instantly welcoming, it’s the perfect place to start your morning or grab a midday pick-me-up during your time in Packwood.
Base camp coffee
Base Camp Coffee is a drive-through stand that opens at 6 a.m., making it a great option for early risers heading out for a hike or a full day of exploring. Located just a 5-minute walk or one-minute drive from the hotel, it’s perfect for grabbing a quick espresso, latte, or breakfast drink on the go.
Santo milagro breakfast & sweets
Santo Milagro Breakfast and Sweets offers fresh-squeezed juices, a full sit-down breakfast, and some of the most delicious custom, made-to-order cakes in the area — including our personal favorite, their incredible tres leches cake. Located about a 6-minute drive east toward White Pass, it’s a perfect stop on your way to the ski area in winter or before a day of mountain adventures.
the ice cream airstream
The Ice Cream Airstream is open during the summer and located in the Packwood Brewing Co. beer garden, just steps from our front door, making it an easy treat to enjoy during your stay. They serve high-quality hard-scoop ice cream, milkshakes, and made-from-scratch waffle cones that you can smell before you even reach the window. A popular destination for both locals and visitors, it’s a sweet stop that always hits the spot.
Markets, Shops & Mountain Finds
Blanton’s Market Grocery
Whether you’re preparing for a trail picnic or looking for something in-line with your dietary restrictions, Blanton’s Market Grocery has everything you need—from fresh produce and Washington wines to those little essentials you might have left at home.
Packwood Farmers Market
On summer Saturdays, the Packwood Farmers Market sets up at the library’s park — just a stone’s throw from the hotel and visible right out the front door. Vendors offer fresh flowers, local produce, handmade goods, and unique crafts that showcase the charm and character of our mountain town. And when autumn arrives, you can also enjoy their fall market held at Longmire Springs Brewing Company, where local makers and seasonal goods come together in a warm, community-focused setting.
Packwood Mercantile
Steps from us, the Packwood Mercantile is another must-visit. Owned by someone with impeccable style, this shop is dedicated to supporting small USA-based businesses and artisans. Every item is thoughtfully chosen to highlight a Pacific Northwest aesthetic — making it the perfect place to find gifts or keepsakes that feel rooted in this corner of Washington.
Fat Elk Trading Co.
A block away, you’ll find Fat Elk Trading Co., a mother–daughter pottery studio crafting wheel-thrown, hand-carved, functional pieces in the foothills of Mt. Tahoma (Mount Rainier). Their work blends artistry with everyday use, making it a wonderful stop for a truly local keepsake.
Presbyterian Thrift and Gift
For treasure hunters, the Presbyterian Thrift and Gift is a must-stop. This surprisingly spacious store is filled with secondhand gems and locally inspired finds, making every visit a fun and unexpected adventure.
Packwood Flea Market
Established in the 1970s, the Packwood Flea Market has grown into the most popular flea market in the Northwest. Twice a year — every Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend — the town transforms for this massive four-day event. Stretching for more than a mile and drawing many thousands of visitors, it’s a treasure hunter’s paradise where collectors and wanderers alike can spend hours uncovering the unexpected.
Packwood visitor center
The Packwood Visitor Center is just a stone’s throw from the hotel, making it an easy first stop for exploring the area. The staff are a wonderful source of local knowledge — they can recommend hikes, share current travel or road updates, and point you toward hidden gems you might otherwise miss. They also offer souvenirs, maps, and regional information to help you make the most of your time in Packwood. If you need quick guidance, give them a call at (360) 492-7365.
White pass sports hut
White Pass Sports Hut, located just two blocks from the hotel, is open with limited hours in the winter and offers ski and snowboard rentals that can help you skip the long rental lines on busy weekends at White Pass Ski Area. They also carry a small selection of outdoor essentials, making it a convenient stop for grabbing last-minute gear before heading up the mountain.
Come experience the Rhythm of Packwood
Packwood isn’t a place you rush through…
It’s a place where elk cross Main Street at dusk, conversations linger over a pint, and the mountains themselves invite you to slow down. Here, life moves with the rhythm of the forest and the seasons, offering moments as rare as the landscape itself.
When you stay with us, you’re not just exploring the outdoors—you’re stepping into a community, a history, and a way of life that make Packwood a place worth returning to again and again.