Where to Stay When You Come to Play
Mt. Rainier National Park draws people from all over the world to its gates, spreading a respect for nature and the beauty it holds. It only fits that the surrounding area is just as unique and beautiful. The year-round Nisqually Entrance is located in Ashford, WA. The town is a mere 6 miles from the park entrance, and home to lodgings that turn a National Park trip into a vacation you’ve dreamed about- unless your dream vacation is at a chain hotel, then you’re out of luck. The charm of a small mountain town is magnified in its lodging owners. The hotels, cabins, spas, and inns are locally owned, and their managers a wealth of local information. As I said before, you won’t find a Best Western or an Applebee’s in Ashford, but you will find that each lodging is unique and full of character. While there is a long list of places to stay (visit our lodging page here), let us introduce a couple to you.
Bowman’s West Wind Woods rents two charming cabins. If you’re looking to escape from a city, these cabins may be perfect for you. Decorated with comfortable country décor, you’ll forget all about rush hour traffic and loud neighbors. Both cabins have 2 queen beds, with extra cots available, perfect for families or trips with friends. The larger of the cabins comes with a TV and DVD player, and a full kitchen, including the pots and pans you’d need, you only have to bring the food! The smaller of the cabins has a galley kitchen, with a ½ fridge and a microwave, perfect for visitors who plan on eating at the local restaurants during their stay. The cabins aren’t all that Bowman’s has to offer, there is also a covered picnic area with a barbeque available- there’s nothing better than a summer barbeque! And while you’re there, make sure to keep an eye on the meadow, where majestic herds of elk can often be spotted!
Stormking Spa and Cabins (check out our Spa Blog) is another unique choice for your stay. Choosing between the five cabins may be difficult, but you can’t make a wrong choice! In each cabin you’ll enjoy a private hot tub, gas fireplace, Stormking’s special blend of fresh-roasted coffee, herbal teas, and hot chocolate, and a complimentary breakfast plate. The cabins’ décor reflects the beauty of the Nisqually Valley while maintaining a luxurious feeling highlighted by the handcrafted aromatherapy soaps and beds so comfortable you might just forget about that hike you had in mind. Each cabin also has a microwave, refrigerator, coffee pot, and assorted dishes. Stormking has been featured in both ‘Northwest Best Places’ and ‘Best Places to Kiss in the Northwest’, it’s not hard to imagine why!
There are so many great lodgings in the Nisqually River Valley, it’s easy to find one that’s right for you- check out the full list of lodgings here. We understand how important where you stay can be on a vacation, if you have any questions call the Visitor Center at 360-569-0910, or e-mail info@mt-rainier.com, let us help you find your perfect fit!