There’s a tiny mountain town with craft beer, top-notch burgers, kind locals, and a resident herd of elk on the outskirts of Mt. Rainier National Park with adventure around every corner.

Packwood is the perfect basecamp for a weekend in the outdoors–with Mt. Rainier 15 minutes north, skiing and snowboarding 25 minutes east, and the Goat Rocks Wilderness to the south, there are so many waterfalls, rivers, lakes, runs, and untouched nature to experience!

And after a long day in the trees, snag a craft brew around a fire with some kind locals at the historic Packwood Brewing, pick up a messy and delicious burger from Cliff Droppers, and pass out in a cozy bed at one of the adorable Airbnbs or hotels in Packwood.

Packwood Brewing Company — Sipping beers at Packwood Brewing

Table of Contents

Packwood’s been my home away from home for a few years now thanks to some lovely family friends who let me stay in their cabin on the reg, so this blog post has a very special place in my heart! I’m not a local by any means, but I do feel a sense of home every time I drive into town, and I’m super excited to share some of my all-time favorite restaurants, shops, accommodations, and nearby adventures with you so you can experience some of Packwood’s magic too!

Native land: Upper Cowlitz or Taidnapam

How did Packwood get its name?

Oregon Trail pioneers James Longmire and William Packwood traveled up the Nisqually River on a mission to find a better pass through the Cascades and discovered the thriving Cowlitz tribe and a valley full of natural resources.

He visited multiple times over the years to explore and prospect, but never lived in the area. He eventually “discovered” Cowlitz Pass (now White Pass) and successfully connected the east and west sides of the Cascades, but settlers didn’t start arriving for another 30 years.

Packwood eventually got the name “Lewis” after the president of the Valley Development Company, but mail would constantly get mixed up between Lewis County, Fort Lewis, and this new town of Lewis, so in 1930, the town changed its name to Packwood to honor the first pioneer trailblazer of the valley.

Hiking around Layser Cave outside of Packwood

How to Get to Packwood

From the west side, make your way to Highway 12. From Seattle (in the winter) you’ll likely take Highway 7 down through La Grande and Elbe. Once in Elbe (definitely stop by Elbe Junction for some local snacks, brews, ice cream, and souvenirs!), take a right to continue on Highway 7. Once in Morton, take a left to hop on 12 and drive about 34 miles to reach Packwood.

In the summer, you can drive through Mt. Rainier National Park, taking Highway 410 for a much more scenic (and sometimes even faster) route. Squeeze in a hike if you have time! Check the road status before going. The road between Packwood and Cayuse Pass is closed longer than most other Mt. Rainier roads.

Another summer option is to drive through Ashford and take a right onto NF 52. It’s a beautiful, paved and winding forest road that pops you out right in Packwood!

From the east side, Find your way to Naches, hop on Highway 12 and continue for about 60 miles to Packwood.

Airbnbs and Hotels in Packwood

Packwood is now a hot spot for adorable cabin stays and the coziest mountainy hotels around. Literally half of my favorite Washington cabins can be found right here in this tiny town. Here are my all-time favorite Airbnbs and hotels in Packwood.

Chic Forest Cabin

This 3-bedroom PNW mountain modern escape sleeps 8, is just a 5-minute drive from town, has a hot tub, a fire pit, a massive deck, and even some lawn games (like corn hole). I mean, what more could ya want? There’s even a tiny little stream that runs through the property in the wetter months. It’s cozy, vibey, and honestly an Instagrammer’s and photographer’s dream.

Packwood Mountain House

The Packwood Mountain House’s exterior is cute, natural, and traditional in the best way. The inside? Recently remodeled, and by a duo from the restaurant industry, so it’s outfitted with some of the best kitchen appliances you won’t find at most other rentals: a Vitamix blender, large dutch oven, and a cocktail mixing kit are a few of the notable faves. There’s also a Gozney Dome outdoor pizza oven and gas grill to accompany the covered outdoor dining area. Chef’s, this one’s for you. There’s a sweet cedar hot tub to spend your evenings too!

Treehouse Packwood

This Scandinavian-inspired A-frame cabin can fit you and all your friends and family with its 3 bedrooms and 6-bed set-up. It sleeps 10, has a hot tub, fire pit, a deck, a gear/mud room, and is simply gorgeous.

The Parsonage

Quintessentially Packwood, Jake and Gemma put so much thought into every little detail of this well decorated cabin! Admire all the original paintings, logging tools turned decor to pay homage to Packwood’s history, and when you’re done getting lost in its charm, head outside for a bonfire or an evening in the hot tub. The Parsonage’s location also couldn’t be better with every restaurant and shop is just a few steps away.

PBC Brewery Lofts

Beer lovers, what if I told you you can eat, drink, and sleep under the same roof? Packwood Brewing Company’s Brewer Lofts are gorgeous lodge-style spaces situated right above the brewery in the heart of town. Ideal. They book up, so plan in advance!

Packwood Resort

Recently renovated with new owners, the Packwood Resort (once the Tatoosh Motel), will have adorable hotel rooms, 3-bedroom homes, and a hostel-style bunkhouse where you can rent a bed if you’re a solo traveler and meet other outdoors lovers! A few rooms are currently available for rent with more coming soon. Stay tuned.

The Cowlitz River Cottage

Sometimes simplicity is the way to go, and the Cowlitz River Cottage is a tiny home worth experiencing. It’s right on the river surrounded by nature, has a chic-modern vibe, and prioritizes natural light. Enjoy a campfire in the riverside pit, or maybe go for a cold plunge and enjoy morning coffee with the resident elk herd. There’s even A/C: luxury!!

The Shady Frame

Vibey. I know I’ve said it a lot, but man, Packwood is pulling through when it comes to cute cabins and cozy getaways. Friends, this home is a Scandinavian-inspired dream! Wood with black accents, a fully equipped kitchen, HEATED floors, a loft net (!!), lights on dimmers, and a 6-person hot tub. Where do I sign?

Packwood Restaurants + Bakeries

Cliff Droppers

Seattle magazine once named this place one of the best burgers in Washington. I was skeptical, until I tried it. I don’t know if I’d say it’s the BEST but it’s def top notch. The Tatoosh Burger is the way to go. You can also try an elk burger here too! And get the tots. And the fry sauce. That’s all, okay, bye.

Blue Spruce Bar and Grill

This local watering hole is the only place in Packwood open late, and I’ve found myself meandering in here for a burger and some mini corn dogs here and there. They’re delicious. It’s your small town dive bar with pool and a Big Buck Hunter, beers on tap, and a bunch of pub food. Their fried chicken is phenomenal.

Cruisers Pizza

The town’s pizza joint! Can never go wrong with some comfort food, am I right?

Packwood Brewing

If you’re coming to Packwood with me, we’re stopping at Packwood Brewing. It’s a non-negotiable, and my travel buddies know this. The massive fire pit, fur blankets, Pendleton pillows, natural wood accents, ski vibes, and outdoor fire pits mean you can find me there basically all day, year round.

Longmire Springs Brewing

The new brewery in town (2023), Longmire Springs Brewing is whipping up fresh hops and good times. Swing by for a brew!

The Mountain Goat

The town’s only bakery, the Mountain Goat will satisfy all your espresso needs, and has a few solid pastries too!

Zest Srithai Food Truck

I’ve heard amazing things about this food truck, but haven’t had the chance to try it yet. It’s only open on weekends, but I do love me some Thai food. Did you try it? Let me know how it is!

Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant

It’s nacho average Mexican restaurant (I’ll see myself out)! Swing by Nacho’s for some tasty Mexican eats!

Things to do in and Around Packwood

Hike Tongue Mountain

This short (3-mile RT) hike boasts a sweet reward. How does 360º views of Mt Rainier, Adams, and St. Helens sound?

Shred White Pass

Once the snow begins to fall, locals hit the mountains with just a 30-minute drive to shred chill runs and indulge in a bevvy at the mid-mountain yurt bar. Why do I love White Pass so much? It still has that local feel, kind vibes, and opportunity to ride fresh tracks through closing. Leave your worries in the parking lot–nobody’s got time for that on the mountain!

Visit the Packwood Mercantile

Shopping + beer. What more could a girl want? Not only does the Packwood Mercantile have adorable gifts and goodies from small US businesses, but you can also swing by the bar in a back to pick up a local brew to make shopping around that much more fun. You won’t leave this place without finding a little something for you and your favorite people. It’s a whole vibe.

Check out Handmade Pottery at Fat-Elk Trading

I purchased one of my all-time favorite mugs from here!! Swing by to watch the potters in action and pick up a handmade masterpiece or two!

Find Goodies at the Thrift and Gift

There are finds for dayssss at this massive thrift store. And the best news? Everything’s actually true thrift prices. $2 shirt? Yes, please. Steals.

Walk a short trail to an Impressive Waterfall

Camp Creek Falls is a sweet waterfall just 0.5 miles off the road. It’s an awesome stop for a quick dip (or shower).

Spend a day in Mt. Rainier National Park

The south entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park is just 20 minutes outside of Packwood. From Paradise and Tipsoo to Sunrise and everywhere in between, Packwood is the perfect basecamp for all your national park adventures.

Drive to Leech Lake for a Day by the Water

Don’t feel like hiking? Leech Lake is across the street from White Pass! It’s awesome for a quick dip and lake hang in the summer, or some snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the winter. What are you waiting for? Go for a swim!

Go Caving

Meander the 0.4 miles RT to check out Layser Cave!

Hike to Packwood Lake

High on my list of things to do: Packwood Lake. This 12-mile RT hike (9 miles if you stop when you first see the lake) takes you to one of Packwood’s most well-known and beautiful adventures just outside of town. Have you been? Let me know how it went!

Leave No Trace

Always remember to leave no trace on every adventure! Pack out what you pack in, leave what you find, prepare for every adventure, and respect the outdoors and each other every step of the way. Learn more about how to leave no trace here.

Happy adventuring!

Where to Eat, Stay, and Hike in Packwood, Washington.