Hello fellow travelers! Ann here. There’s something truly magical about planning a trip where the great outdoors is the main event. As a mom, I’m always on the lookout for destinations that don’t just offer a place to stay, but a place to play—a place where my family and I can disconnect from our screens and reconnect with each other and the wild beauty of nature. And let me tell you, there’s no playground quite like the Pacific Northwest.
The air just feels different there—crisp, clean, and filled with the scent of pine and saltwater. It’s a region that calls to the adventurer in all of us, with its towering forests, dramatic river gorges, and a coastline so rugged and beautiful it takes your breath away. It’s the perfect place to create those core memories, the ones you’ll talk about for years to come. So, I’m incredibly excited to share two of my absolute favorite home bases for exploring this incredible corner of the world. One is a majestic lodge nestled in a legendary river gorge, and the other is a serene coastal retreat where the forest meets the sea. Let’s get exploring!
Skamania Lodge: Adventure in the Heart of the Columbia River Gorge
Have you ever driven through the Columbia River Gorge? It feels like entering another world. The mighty Columbia River has carved a path through the Cascade Mountains, leaving behind sheer cliffs, dramatic basalt formations, and an absolutely staggering number of waterfalls. Tucked right into the Washington side of this national scenic area is Skamania Lodge, and the moment you arrive, you know you’re somewhere special.
The lodge itself is the epitome of grand, rustic elegance. Think massive timber beams, a towering four-story stone fireplace in the lobby, and enormous windows that frame jaw-dropping views of the gorge and the iconic Bridge of the Gods. It has this wonderful, welcoming feeling that makes you want to immediately curl up in one of the comfy chairs by the fire with a hot drink. It’s the kind of place that feels both luxurious and completely unpretentious—perfect for families and couples alike.
While the main lodge rooms are gorgeous and cozy, for a truly unforgettable memory, you have to check out their treehouses. Yes, actual treehouses! Perched among the tall Douglas firs, these are not your childhood backyard forts. They’re beautifully designed, private hideaways with modern comforts, a fireplace, and a private deck that makes you feel like you’re floating in the forest canopy. Waking up to the sound of birds and the sight of the sun filtering through the trees is an experience my family still talks about. It’s pure magic.
But the real reason you come to Skamania Lodge is for the adventure that awaits right outside your door. The property is a playground in itself. One afternoon, we decided to tackle the Skamania Lodge Zipline Tour. I’ll admit, I was a little nervous, but the guides were fantastic and made everyone feel safe and excited. Soaring through the forest canopy, with the wind in your hair and incredible views of the gorge all around you, is an absolute thrill. Hearing the kids laughing with pure joy as they flew from platform to platform was just priceless.
If you’re up for another challenge, the Aerial Park is a must-do. It’s an obstacle course set high up in the trees, with wobbly bridges, nets, and ropes to navigate. It’s a fantastic team-building activity for the whole family and a great way to push your limits in a super fun environment. And for something a little more grounded but just as fun, there’s axe throwing! It’s surprisingly satisfying to hear the thwack of the axe hitting the target.
After a day packed with adrenaline, there are plenty of ways to unwind. The lodge has miles of its own hiking trails that meander through the woods, perfect for a peaceful morning walk. Or, you can treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering at the Waterleaf Spa. I highly recommend it for parents who need a little quiet time! A relaxing massage followed by a soak in the outdoor hot tub, with its stunning view of the gorge, is the perfect way to recharge.
When it comes to dining, you’re in for a treat. For a special evening, the Cascade Dining Room offers incredible meals with an even more incredible view. We loved watching the sunset paint the sky over the gorge while enjoying delicious, locally sourced Pacific Northwest cuisine. For a more casual vibe, River Rock is perfect for grabbing wood-fired pizzas and craft beers in a laid-back setting.
Of course, the lodge is also the perfect launchpad for exploring the wider region.
- Explore the Waterfalls: Just a short drive across the river to the Oregon side will land you on the Historic Columbia River Highway, home to the famous “Waterfall Corridor.”2 You absolutely must see Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. It’s truly awe-inspiring. Pro-tip: Check online beforehand, as timed-use permits are often required during peak season. Don’t miss the nearby Latourell Falls and Wahkeena Falls, either!
- Hike Beacon Rock: For a great view from the Washington side, head to Beacon Rock State Park. The trail is a series of switchbacks and catwalks bolted to the side of a massive volcanic plug, and the panoramic view from the top is well worth the climb.
- Go Whitewater Rafting: For the truly adventurous, the nearby White Salmon River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. Several local outfitters run guided trips that are perfect for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Staying at Skamania Lodge isn’t just a vacation; it’s an immersive experience in one of the most beautiful landscapes in America.
Salishan Coastal Lodge SCP Hotels: Where the Forest Meets the Sea
There’s a different kind of magic waiting for you on the Oregon Coast. It’s wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful. After the dramatic heights of the gorge, heading west to the coast feels like a completely new adventure. And nestled in a 200-acre coastal forest, overlooking the serene Siletz Bay in Gleneden Beach, is Salishan Coastal Lodge By SCP Hotels.
From the moment you turn off Highway 101 and wind your way through the towering trees, you can feel the peaceful energy of this place. The architecture is classic Pacific Northwest modern, with warm wood, natural stone, and huge windows that beautifully blur the line between indoors and out. Every room has its own private balcony and a fireplace, which is just perfect for those cozy, misty coastal mornings. I loved starting my day with a hot cup of tea on the balcony, listening to the gentle sounds of the bay and breathing in that incredible, fresh, salt-tinged air.
The “SCP” in the name stands for Soul, Community, and Planet, and you can really feel that thoughtful ethos throughout the property. It’s a place designed to help you relax, rejuvenate, and connect with the stunning natural surroundings.
One of our first priorities was, of course, the beach! A short walk or shuttle ride takes you to a beautiful, secluded stretch of sand. We spent hours there, flying kites, searching for agates, and exploring the fascinating tide pools when the ocean receded. There’s nothing quite like seeing your kids’ faces light up when they discover a sea star or a tiny crab in its own little world.
Just like Skamania, Salishan Coastal Lodge By SCP Hotels has its own on-site aerial adventure park, which is fantastic. It’s another great opportunity for some high-flying family fun. But the real draw here is the wealth of coastal activities at your fingertips.
- Go Kayaking on the Bay: The calm waters of Siletz Bay are perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. The lodge can help you get set up, and I highly recommend a guided eco-tour. We learned so much about the local harbor seals, seabirds, and the delicate ecosystem of the bay. It was both fun and educational!
- Explore Coastal Hiking Trails: The central Oregon coast is a hiker’s paradise. A short drive away is the iconic God’s Thumb trail near Lincoln City, which offers an absolutely epic view of the coastline from a dramatic grassy headland. For something a little different, the Drift Creek Falls trail leads you through a lush forest to a 240-foot-long suspension bridge hanging high above the falls—it’s an incredible photo op!
- Try Whale Watching: The nearby town of Depoe Bay is known as the “Whale Watching Capital of Oregon.” A resident pod of gray whales often feeds close to shore during the summer and fall. For an even better chance of spotting them, visit during the winter or spring migration periods when thousands of whales pass by. You can watch from the sea wall in town or book a charter for an up-close experience.
- Discover Charming Coastal Towns: Part of the fun of the Oregon Coast is exploring the unique little towns along the way. Lincoln City is famous for its Finders Keepers event, where local artisans hide handcrafted glass floats along the beach for visitors to find and keep. It’s a real-life treasure hunt!
After a day of coastal exploration, returning to the lodge feels like coming home. For the golfers in the family, the 18-hole course, which weaves its way from the forest to the coast, is a dream. And for ultimate relaxation, The Spa at Salishan is a must. The treatments are inspired by the coastal landscape, but the absolute highlight for me was the outdoor infinity hot tub that overlooks the bay. Soaking in the warm water while watching the mist roll in over the water is a moment of pure bliss I’ll never forget.
For dinner, The Attic is the perfect spot for a casual and delicious meal. It has a cozy, rustic feel and a great menu of elevated pub fare. Enjoying fresh, local seafood after a day spent by the ocean just feels right.
From the river to the sea, the Pacific Northwest offers an endless array of adventures. These two lodges aren’t just places to sleep—they are destinations in themselves, thoughtfully designed to help you and your loved ones fully immerse yourselves in the wonder of this incredible region. They are the gateways to your next great family story.
