



Story by Mary
A Quiet Escape
Adventure in Longview, Southwest Washington, WA, US
This little retreat is tucked alongside a creek on a big, meadow-filled property surrounded by trees. The front porch, with its comfortable rocking chairs, is perfectly designed for doing absolutely nothing but soaking in the serene surroundings. Just a couple miles from the Columbia River, this little hideaway is one I would've never found were it not for Riparide.
We made the most of the opportunity to head up towards Mount Saint Helens, which I've been wanting to do for ages. My parents remember when it erupted in the 1980s, and it's just crazy to me that there's an active stratovolcano only two hours from my home.
This place was so beautifully decorated and perfect for a couple or a parent and child. The room has a little kitchenette area and shared hallway and bathroom. Directly behind the suite, you'll find a fire pit and chairs for more cozy outside time, as well as an outdoor shower! The bed was lush, and the morning light streaming in from the meadow made us eager to grab our coffee, sit outside, and listen to the creek and the birds.
We also went and checked out Lake Sacajawea Park and the Japanese Gardens, which was the perfect way to end our getaway. We left feeling rested and recharged.
We made the most of the opportunity to head up towards Mount Saint Helens, which I've been wanting to do for ages. My parents remember when it erupted in the 1980s, and it's just crazy to me that there's an active stratovolcano only two hours from my home.
This place was so beautifully decorated and perfect for a couple or a parent and child. The room has a little kitchenette area and shared hallway and bathroom. Directly behind the suite, you'll find a fire pit and chairs for more cozy outside time, as well as an outdoor shower! The bed was lush, and the morning light streaming in from the meadow made us eager to grab our coffee, sit outside, and listen to the creek and the birds.
We also went and checked out Lake Sacajawea Park and the Japanese Gardens, which was the perfect way to end our getaway. We left feeling rested and recharged.
Things We Did
- Walk
- Scenic Drive
- Café
A stunning and authentic Japanese Garden set alongside Lake Sacajawea in Longview, WA. The park has three-and-a-half miles of walking and biking trails that wind around the lake. The garden is actually an island in the middle of the lake and accessed by a bridge.
We originally stopped at the Visitor Center for information about the drive up to see the volcano. Unfortunately, the end of the road (The Johnston Ridge Observatory, milepost 52) showed just clouds – it was too overcast to get to see it. But we enjoyed the center and surrounding Silver Lake, which had a cool wetland area and half-mile walk. The Forest Learning Center was further along the road (milepost 37) and a super-cool stop for kids and grown-ups.
Would definitely recommend talking to the rangers here before heading up to the mountain.
Would definitely recommend talking to the rangers here before heading up to the mountain.
The cafe was actually undergoing painting and moving of furniture when we happened upon it, but I can tell that it's going to be amazing! Welcoming owners, delicious coffee.
Our Adventure Map
Where we stayed
Things we did
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