Surround yourself with rustic Pacific Northwest comfort, embrace outdoor adventure, and enjoy expansive views of the Columbia River Gorge with a stay at Skamania Lodge in southern Washington.
The Columbia River Gorge is a powerful symbol of the region’s natural beauty. This summer, many of us watched in shock as fires burned parts of the Gorge during the Eagle Creek incident. Like many, I felt gratitude when the rains came and relief as the immediate danger lessened.
Just a week after officials downgraded the Eagle Creek fires, I visited Skamania Lodge.
Perched on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge in Stevenson, Skamania looks directly toward the affected area. I arrived in a downpour, a mix of gratitude for the rain and concern about the view that awaited me.
Standing in my suite at Skamania Lodge, looking across the river, I began to breathe easier.
The mountains, the river, and the hillsides were all visible, and there were far more green trees than I had expected. Skamania Lodge felt like a restful, rustic oasis from which to take in the Gorge’s beauty.
Skamania Lodge
Since opening in 1993, Skamania Lodge has combined upscale comforts with the region’s rustic character. The property features century-old timber columns, natural stone, wooden finishes, and locally inspired artwork throughout public spaces and guest rooms.
I stayed in a Superior River Room with a king bed (rates start around $180/night). The room types vary, including several suites and upgraded options.
The room was comfortable, quiet, and clean. Most importantly, the view of the Columbia River is exceptional—the photo a few images above was taken from my room.
Small details reinforce the Pacific Northwest aesthetic, from Pendleton blankets to pinecone “Do Not Disturb” signs. The atmosphere feels warm and regionally authentic.
Aerial park
Skamania Lodge offers a range of options for guests: relax on the property or dive into active outdoor pursuits. The resort features ziplining and, more recently, a new Aerial Park built among the trees across from the lodge.
The Aerial Park opened in late August and is a lot of fun. The course includes 22 obstacles that you navigate at your own pace through a forested area.
Age and safety rules apply: participants must be at least 6 years old accompanied by a guardian, or at least 8 years old and able to reach up to 6 feet to go without a guardian. Maximum participant weight is 275 pounds.
Before starting, guests are fitted with harnesses and given a safety briefing by a guide. Monitors remain on the ground throughout the course to observe and assist as needed.
The obstacles are varied and engaging: canoe crossings, suspended bridges, ladders, tree-stump traverses, oversized picture frames, and tightrope-style balance elements keep you challenged and entertained.
This course is physically demanding—expect a solid workout that tests core strength, grip, and balance.
The course’s highest point is the Eagle’s Nest, reached by a ladder while remaining safely clipped in. The Eagle’s Nest fits two people at a time and rewards climbers with sweeping Gorge views.
The outlook from the Eagle’s Nest is stunning—plan to linger and take it in.
Skamania Lodge Tree Houses
Beyond the main lodge, Skamania added Tree Houses that sit near the property yet offer a private, secluded feel. Each tree house includes outdoor living space and a private fire pit, extending the usable living area outdoors.
The interiors are thoughtfully designed. Each tree house features a king bed, a large en suite bathroom, and indoor/outdoor fireplace. Rates start around $399 per night, making these an appealing option for a romantic getaway or special occasion weekend.
I appreciated the careful design and privacy the tree houses provide; they felt like a true escape while still close to lodge amenities.
Dining
Skamania Lodge offers two main restaurants plus room service. I dined in both restaurants and enjoyed a catered lunch during a conference held in one of the lodge’s meeting spaces.
For my first night, I chose the casual River Rock restaurant and paired the meal with a local red wine. Popular menu items include Loaded Nachos ($16) and the Bison Burger ($18), though the day’s special—Steelhead salmon served over white beans—was my choice.
I also enjoyed a cup of Salmon Chowder ($8) served with crisp crackers.
The next morning I had a classic breakfast—eggs, bacon, toast, and coffee—in the larger Cascade Dining Room. Guests can order from the menu or choose the breakfast buffet.
Visit
Skamania Lodge is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway with friends, a couples’ escape, or for conferences and retreats. The property welcomes children; dining options include kids’ menus and family-friendly activities such as ziplining and the Aerial Park for those meeting age and height requirements.
The setting is beautiful, and there’s plenty to do both on-site and nearby: hiking, fishing, visiting local breweries and wineries, boating on the Columbia River, or simply relaxing by an outdoor fire and admiring the view.
For reservations and current details, consult the Skamania Lodge website.
More Northwest Outdoor Travel Ideas
- Visiting Mount Saint Helens
- Roadtrip: Portland to Yakima
- Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
My stay and Aerial Park experience were compliments of Skamania Lodge. All opinions and photos are my own.