Imagine enjoying your morning coffee while overlooking a 268-foot-tall waterfall, with no immediate responsibilities save for a massage treatment or two. If you’re overdue for a mountain escape, a visit to the Salish Lodge and Spa might be in order—and, given the proximity to Bellingham, this getaway can be easily accomplished in a weekend.
Photo by Cocoa Laney
The Salish Lodge is perched on the edge of the iconic Snoqualmie Falls, and its dramatic location will be familiar to fans of the ‘90s TV show “Twin Peaks.” Even the lodge’s interior complements the nature that surrounds it, featuring accents of blues, earth tones, and rich wood.
But the property has more to offer than scenery alone. The Salish Lodge is consistently ranked as one of the PNW’s top resort spas by outlets like Condè Nast, Travel + Leisure, and U.S. News and World Report—and if you stay there for a weekend, you’ll quickly understand why.
Photo by Cocoa Laney
There’s plenty to write home about when it comes to the lodge, but we’ll start with perhaps the most obvious talking point: the on-site spa. Guests can choose from a variety of massages and treatments using PNW-centric ingredients, or wash away their worries in a soaking pool or hot tub.
Photo by Cocoa Laney
A long day of pampering works up an appetite, so luckily the Salish Lodge features two dining options. There’s wood-fired pizzas and craft cocktails at The Attic, or for something a bit more upscale, award-winning gourmet meals at The Dining Room. (Fun fact: The lodge even generates its own honey thanks to an on-site apiary.)
Other activities within the lodge include wine tastings and, with the booking of certain rooms, access to the exclusive lobby-level Club 268 lounge. Each room also contains a real fireplace and either a soaking tub or spa-style shower. Unsurprisingly, the Salish Lodge has ample event space and plays host to a variety of weddings and meetings throughout the year.
Photo by Cocoa Laney
It’s undeniable that the Salish Lodge is an upscale destination—but “upscale” doesn’t always mean “exclusive.” During our stay, I spoke with couples and families from all walks of life. This included newlyweds as well as out-of-state visitors who had spent years planning a big anniversary getaway in the PNW.
While the lodge’s cozy, rustic-chic ambiance lends itself to romantic retreats, I opted to have a girls’ weekend with my best friend. Together, we shared a weekend filled with adventure, relaxation, food, and generous glasses of Washington wine. It was clear that each guest—ourselves included—had a deep appreciation for both the lodge and the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Photo by Cocoa Laney
After all was said and done, I returned to Bellingham feeling not just rejuvenated but grateful. Opportunities to truly unplug and recharge are rare—and the chance to do so while surrounded by such natural beauty is rarer still. 6501 Railroad Ave., Snoqualmie, 425.888.2556, salishlodge.com
