High up on a hill in the forests of the Columbia River Gorge is Skamania Lodge, a destination resort unlike anything I’ve experienced. I have traversed the Oregon side of the Gorge countless times, but exploring the Washington side?
Little did I know what treasures awaited me.
Turns out there is so much to do and explore on the Washington side of the Gorge. Because most travelers drive I-84 on the Oregon side, they have no idea the bounty of things to do on the Washington side. I am ashamed to admit I was one of those people! But no more.
An Oasis in the Heart of the Gorge
I arrived at Skamania Lodge with dark clouds overhead and rain threatening. But the sprawling property looked very cozy and inviting. Past the reception area is a large seating area with floor to ceiling windows, a piano in the corner and an unbelievable view of the Gorge.
Skamania Lodge is a full-service resort just outside the charming town of Stevenson, WA, less than an hour’s drive from Portland. With hiking trails, an event pavilion, an 18-hole championship golf course, a spa, two restaurants and even a zipline/aerial park, you really don’t need to leave here during your entire stay! The lodge also has a conference center.
Lunch at the River Rock restaurant in the resort was a delicious Northwest Cobb Salad and I don’t know what they used for dressing, but it was scrumptious. One of my lunch companions had the salmon BLT and it looked mouth-watering.
After settling into my room, I caught a sun break, so I decided to get out and walk one of the trails on the far side of the lodge. There are two trails that intersect with each other, and snake around the golf course and a large pond. I found myself on an invigorating hike, though not too strenuous, traversing both open and wooded areas. And then the rains came! A good downpour that left me drenched and I high-tailed it back to the lodge. Such is the Pacific Northwest.
The New Pavillion
Last year, Skamania broke ground on a spanking new outdoor entertainment pavilion, which opened in May 2019. Here you can host any sort of event – weddings, family reunions, company events, you name it. Skamania Lodge is also a destination resort for weddings, and with a spectacular view of the Gorge, is the perfect place to host a wedding reception.
The Renovated Rooms
I was given a newly renovated room, updated to include modern amenities and tastefully decorated in earthy tones. My king size bed was incredibly comfortable and I slept soooo well. The view of the Gorge from my third-floor window was amazing.
The updated bathroom was standard size but very modern with granite countertops, shampoo, conditioner, great-smelling lotion, and a fantastic rain head shower. It felt like I was standing under a waterfall. Sounded just like it. It was heaven after my rain-soaked hike in the woods.
It was Friday night, and I was advised upon check-in to make a reservation for dinner if I wanted to eat in the Cascade Dining Room, since it was Prime Rib night. I opted instead for room service and was not disappointed. My order arrived sooner than expected by a very nice gentleman, and I dined on a delicious grilled pub steak (cooked to order), sautéed mushrooms and asparagus spears.
Skamania stays true to its resort status by offering several activities throughout the day and evening. They have a video board in the lobby listing everything on offer. I had the option of attending movie night but did not indulge. Instead, I grabbed a glass of wine from the bar and hung out in the lobby to enjoy the view.
I popped my nose into the Waterleaf spa at the lower level and was told by a very nice lady who worked there that I could make an appointment for any number of different services, or just relax in the hot tub with a glass of wine. While that sounded very tempting, I just didn’t have time (and didn’t bring my swimsuit) so I will definitely be coming back for that experience!
The next morning, I awoke to lingering clouds hugging the cliffs of the Gorge over the water. It was beautiful. And it wasn’t raining, so I went out to take more pictures and hike the fitness trail around the property. I must have strayed off course, because I found myself walking along the golf trail, and a groundskeeper zipped around the bend in a golf cart, saw me and had to stomp on his brakes. Apparently, the path along the golf course is closed in the early mornings and I was directed back to the path. Whoops! Hope I didn’t scare the poor guy too much!
As I was packing up to leave, I decided to take a bag to my car before checkout – and left my room without taking the key. I haven’t locked myself out of a hotel room in years (maybe I didn’t want to leave?) The front desk staff were very understanding, and didn’t hesitate to give me an extra key.
Tree Houses!
Skamania has four incredible “tree houses” – private luxury rooms (with full bathrooms!) that are a stone’s through away from the main lodge, in their own little secluded section of the resort. While they are not true treehouses in the sense that they aren’t actually attached to a tree, they are way above ground on stilts for the full experience. And they are huge! Another reason for me to come back. These are perfect for groups, and oh yes, a honeymoon!
Other Things to Do at Skamania Lodge
A unique feature of Skamania Lodge is its Zip Line and Aerial Tour experience. Discover your adventurous side by taking a zip line and/or aerial tour. An experienced guide will take you through the zip line. The self-guided aerial park is kind of like an obstacle course high in the trees near the resort. You can even try your hand at axe throwing!
Down the hill from the lodge is the town of Stevenson. This small town packs in the charm, with a very inviting main street/downtown area. Here you can load up on any groceries you might want during your stay, at very reasonable prices. I had breakfast at Big River Grill – a delicious salmon scramble that kept me satisfied through most of the day.
To book your stay or plan that perfect event in the Columbia River Gorge, go to Skamania Lodge.
Disclosure: I was hosted at Skamania Lodge, however, all opinions expressed here are my own.
