I feel my shoulders relaxing, my breaths deepening, and the irresistible calm of the old-growth forest. Pulling into Trout Creek Wilderness Lodge, I'm drawn in by the lush dreamscape of ferns, strong towering trees, and the rush of an exuberant creek. My host greets me with a warm smile, and a short introduction to the primary rainforest. I can tell this is a well-loved and rich escape. My daughter dances along the path in front of me, excited by the cabin we have just moved into. The porch directly overlooks Trout Creek – you couldn't be any closer!
We wake up to the joyful birdsong and make our way to the lodge. I make a delicious cappuccino with the amazing coffee bar amenities, and my little one climbs the library ladder and playfully taps the piano keys. Everyone who sets foot inside to make their meal or coffee is kind and welcoming.
We go explore the forest, taking the Three Bears Trail up the mountain. We are the only ones there, and I feel at peace surrounded by such beauty. Once we make it back down, we find our way to the "beach", where we swim and play in the water. Next to the sundeck, there is a place to jump off a short cliff into the river. We make our way to the bathhouse and enjoy the cedar sauna and outdoor shower, and my relaxation is perfectly complete.
Later, as we snuggle up in our cabin, looking out to the creek with a hot tea in hand, we know we won't want to pack up and leave tomorrow.
The Three Bears Trail leads along the river and up the mountain. Make your way higher and higher, until the trail splits and you can choose the more adventurous trail that leads you all the way back down to the river or the trail that leads away from the water and farther up the mountain. It's quiet, private and stunningly beautiful.
Just across the road, you'll find a massive sundeck perfect for yoga or watching the river pass by. From the deck, you can jump off the cliff into the river – the hosts will show you exactly where. The water was cold, but not too cold, and I found myself wanting to jump back in as soon as I was out.
An outdoor shower, cedar sauna and claw-foot tub fed with water directly from the creek make up this indulgent experience just a short walk down the road from the lodge and cabins.
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Riparide Stories are authentic experiences shared by real travelers (who are handy with a camera). It's like reading your best friend's travel journal - packed with photos, honest reviews and visual itineraries.
