A mile west of the park entrance, Alexander’s Country Inn (37515 Hwy. 706 E., 360/569-2300 or 800/654-7615, www.alexanderscountryinn.com [1], $125–179) is the mainstay of elegant Rainier lodging. Constructed in 1912, the inn was visited by presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft. Guests will enjoy antique furnishings, fireplaces, stained-glass windows, and the modern addition of a hot tub. A full breakfast is served at the gourmet restaurant on-site — roundly lauded as Ashford’s [2] best.
Those who would prefer to get in touch with their chi would likely better appreciate
Wellspring (54922 Kernahan Rd. E., 360/569-2514, $115–195 s or d). This attractive forested property hidden from the main road welcomes guests to cozy up inside its various log cabins. The property is host to a hot tub amidst a beautifully maintained zen garden with a running stream and two spa treatment rooms with their own wood-fired saunas, all of which are available on an hourly basis along with massage therapy. The cabins all come loaded with fridges, microwaves, and wood-burning stoves. Some also have kitchens. More adventurous guests can also choose to stay in the well-appointed platform tents open during the summer months.
Choose from a dozen different classic chalets with private hot tubs at Jasmer’s B&B and Cabins (30005 Hwy. 706 E, 360/569-2682, www.jasmers.com [3], $150–195). These retreats also come with kitchens, patios, barbecues, fire pits, and picnic tables. Some are pet friendly and include laundry facilities. Jasmer’s also offers fireplace rooms in the main guesthouse that include continental breakfast and a shared hot tub.
A classic old 1910 home, Mountain Meadows Inn B&B (28912 Hwy. 706 E, 360/569-2788, www.mountainmeadowsinn.com [4], $149–169) opens the doors to six spacious guest rooms with private baths in a lovely country setting. Breakfast is a scrumptious sit-down affair perfect for exchanging stories about the great outdoors. Be sure to ask the innkeepers for their own stories—they’ve traveled all over the world. They’ll also be happy to show you their extensive collection of John Muir memorabilia. The inn also has a sauna, fishing pond, and nature trails.
Links:
[1] http://www.alexanderscountryinn.com
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/south-cascades/ashford
[3] http://www.jasmers.com
[4] http://www.mountainmeadowsinn.com