Packwood

About the City

Tucked beneath the towering peaks of Mount Rainier National Park and surrounded by the breathtaking Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Packwood, WA is the hidden gem you’ve been searching for. Whether you’re chasing wildflower-filled trails in the summer or carving fresh powder at White Pass Ski Area in the winter, this cozy mountain town is your ultimate year-round basecamp for outdoor adventure, charming cabin stays, and authentic small-town vibes.

Outdoor Adventures

Packwood is paradise for mountain lovers. Located just 15 minutes from the Ohanapecosh entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, it’s the perfect launch point for iconic hikes like Box Canyon, Silver Falls, and the awe-inspiring Grove of the Patriarchs. For jaw-dropping alpine views, the Paradise and Sunrise areas are just an hour away in the summer and early fall.

Prefer a more peaceful path? Packwood Lake and Skate Creek Park’s four miles of forested trails offer serene, crowd-free beauty. Up for a little more exploration? The nearby Goat Rocks Wilderness, Tatoosh Range, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams are all within a short scenic drive.

Come winter, Packwood transforms into a snowy wonderland. With downhill skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic trails at White Pass Ski Area, this is your spot for epic powder days—and après-ski nights.

Where to Eat and Sip

After a day in the mountains, the town of Packwood welcomes you with rustic charm and a hint of hip. Recently featured in The Wall Street Journal, Packwood is getting national buzz as a rising adventure destination.

• Fuel up at the beloved Mountain Goat Coffee Company—their fresh-baked scones are practically legendary.
• Unwind with a craft beer at Packwood Brewing Co., where mountain vibes meet good music and even better brews.
• Treasure hunt at the Packwood Mercantile, a shop brimming with locally inspired souvenirs like PNW pennants, mountain-themed candles, and Rainier postcards.
• Cool off in summer at the Ice Cream Airstream, serving up sweet scoops of Olympia Mountain Ice Cream.
• Grab a bite at local favorites like Nachos Mexican Restaurant or Longmire Springs Brewery.

Don’t skip a visit to the White Pass Country Historical Museum to discover Packwood’s rich history—from the early days of logging to today’s thriving outdoor tourism.

Where to Stay

Packwood is the cabin capital of the Cascades—but there’s more than just rustic charm here.
Top lodging options include:

• The Mountain House – A rustic-chic A-frame that channels classic PNW style.
• The Packwood Motel – A cozy and convenient stay right in town, perfect for road-trippers, hikers, and anyone who wants to stay close to the action without sacrificing comfort.
• Little Owl Cabin – So iconic, it was featured in the book Cabin Porn.

No matter your style or group size, Packwood has a stay with your name on it—from Instagrammable A-frames to friendly, no-fuss motels that feel like a home base for your next adventure.