National Park Service Week Starts Saturday, April 18 ~ Come Down for The Weekend!

John Muir-Library of Congress

Next week marks the 177th anniversary of the birth of John Muir, the famed naturalist and preservationist who is often referred to as the father of the national parks. If that name sounds familiar it's because he is also the founder of the Sierra Club. He climbed Mount Rainier in 1888 and was instrumental in the creation of Mount Rainier National Park in 1899. An ardent conservationist and early advocate for the preservation of wilderness, he famously walked a 1000 miles with no particular route in mind except to take the "wildest, leafiest, and least trodden way I could find." 

Maybe the Department of the Interior had John Muir in mind with its announcement of National Park Week. The weeklong celebration starts Saturday, April 18th.

Thanks to Nick Visser of the Huffington Post:

Now that spring has officially sprung, it's high time to go on an adventure. 

The Department of the Interior's rapidly growing Instagram account has been featuring stellar shots of sunrises and sunsets that showcase America's natural beauty. The National Park Service, a division of the DOI, oversees more than 400 sites and the DOI manages 500 million acres of public lands. 

The National Park Service is celebrating National Park Week starting Saturday, April 18.

All national parks ~ including heavyweights like Yosemite, Glacier, Acadia (and my personal favourite, our own Mount Rainier)~ are waiving entrance fees for the weekend to encourage everyone to get out there and find their park. 

FREE! has a real nice ring to it.

But, wait! You're going to need a place to stay!

I recommend the Muir Cabin at Mount Rainier. This cabin is an homage to John Muir and is reminiscent of the quiet, privacy, and serenity of the forest preserved in Muir Woods. To quote the National Park Service website: "When John Muir learned that William and Elizabeth Kent were naming a redwood forest near San Francisco in his honor, he declared, 'This is the best tree-lovers monument that could possibly be found in all the forests of the world.' " 

This Muir Cabin is located in a setting so lush and verdant you feel like you are in the national park; a tree-lovers paradise!


Muir Cabin is the most secluded of all the cabins at Copper Creek. With over 750 feet of waterfront along Copper Creek, you can wander and relax in comfort and total privacy. 

There are no other buildings in sight; no road sounds, just the hypnotic sounds of the waters of Copper Creek.



After a walk around the acreage, enjoy the hot tub. Sit on the deck, put your feet up, and relax. End the evening with a shower for two. Snuggle under comforters filled with down. Rejuvenate!

In the morning, enjoy freshly made, freshly ground coffee ~ a Copper Creek Inn Special Blend. Enjoy!

So, come to Mount Rainier this weekend. And, if the "wildest, leafiest, least trodden way" appeals to you, you will find it during your stay at Muir Cabin. 

Reserve now!

Grateful every day for people working to protect the wild for generations to come!

Reserve Now! Muir Cabin at Mount Rainier

King 5 and Evening Magazine Best Cabins Two Years in a Row!

Mount Rainier National Park Website

Department of the Interior Instagram Account

Huffington Post ~ Nick Visser article with images

National Park Service

Catharine Gallagher's portrait of John Muir

See more of Catharine Gallagher's Studio and Artwork

Spring has Sprung! Heading to Stevens Pass ~ Summer is on the Way

OK, OK, it's true. We live in paradise!

And, this morning? Another gorgeous, gorgeous day. If you just can't think of what to do next weekend, bring your bike or your hiking boots and head to Stevens Pass via the Skagit Tulip Festival. Nothing says, "Hello, Spring! Summer is just around the corner" like fields and fields of tulips in a riot of colour. And, this year is no exception. The tulips are doing their very best in the competition between the clear blue sky and the snow-capped peaks in every direction. My goddaughter sent me these images.

I love the tulip festival. Nothing says winter is over with more enthusiasm. It gives us a glimpse of the promise of summer when May, June, July, and August hold out their generous, welcoming arms, and say, "Let's go!"

This weekend, it was Stevens Pass and the utterly darling A-frame chalet with the completely perfect name ~ A River Runs Through It!

This is one of the most secluded cabins at Stevens Pass. And, yes! A river does run through it!

I love this little cabin! It's just the perfect size for one or two couples. I love it as a single, too. When I want to get away and completely relax, write in my journal, walk in the forest, and soak in a hot tub under a sky flung with stars, this is the place! It really is perfect in any season.

This weekend, I drove to Leavenworth for its Taste Leavenworth ~ a "culinary crawl" through town. Oh, yes! A Foodie Heaven! The Spring Sensation festival lasts all month. Enjoy wine tastings, artisan brews, cooking classes, and Leavenworth's salute to organic pears, a regional treasure! Orchards around Leavenworth are some of the largest producers of this sublime fruit in the entire country. Who knew?

Back to my cabin with a bag full of deliciousness! Gourmet treats, a nice crisp white wine for dinner, and flaky pastries for breakfast in the morning.

The day ends with a soak in the hot tub. Up to my neck in warm, bubbling water. Stars above. Index Creek below tumbling on rocks to the sea. Off to bed under down comforters. Soothing! Ah, rest!

In the morning, the sounds of the forest come to life. Birds, Index Creek. The wind through the trees. This calls for freshly ground coffee sipped on the back deck along with my pastries from Leavenworth. Oh, yum!

Hiking. Biking. Whitewater rafting. Rock climbing. Skiing. Fishing. Sledding. Snowshoeing. Photography. Perfect year 'round.

And, as if all those outdoor activities were not enough, Catharine has filled the cabin with many delightful, artful details. Check out the bronze door pulls! Oh, yes! And, look at the amazing bronze pedestal sink set into river rock. Imagine sitting in the sky bridge overlooking the forest. And, the floor! Sheesh, how does this girl do it? Amazing!

 

Every cabin is distinctive. Not a cookie cutter in sight. This cabin has many more artful surprises. I let you discover your favourite detail. And, when you go to the River Runs Through It at GreatGetaways.com, you will find lots of information to make your stay even more enjoyable. Weather, snow fall, recommended hikes, etc. I'm included a hot link to that page for your information.

I love this secluded retreat. I think you will as well.

Grateful every day for the promise of spring in this lovely corner of the world!

King 5 and Evening Magazine ~ Voted Best Cabins 2 years in a row!

Reserve Now! A River Runs Through It ~ Cabin at Stevens Pass

Explore the Area ~ trails, road conditions, weather, etc.

Thank you to my goddaughter, Linsi Ferguson for the Tulip Festival images.

Hello, Spring! Mount Rainier is calling . . .

Yes, it is true. It's been a mild winter. And, spring means ~ wild flowers! From now until the first frost, there are meadows and meadows of wild flowers on Mount Rainier. Check out the Forest Service Wild Flower Report hotlink below to see what is blooming and plan your trip.

Copper Creek Inn is in the news!

Last week, I was having breakfast with a friend. Great pancakes and a really long line. As I walked up to put my name on the list, I saw the Seattle Times Sunday edition. The first page headlined, "Rainier Retreat ~ Rustic rentals offer respite on a mountain getaway." I grabbed the paper and started through the sections. The NW Traveler section headline "Get Cozy at Mount Rainier Cabins" jumped out at me. Holy cow! Copper Creek Inn was featured with other "rustic vacation rentals along the road to Paradise."

Take a tip from the author, Brian J. Cantwell ~ "Go soon and beat the summer crowds."

Great tip! What are you waiting for? Mount Rainier is a year 'round treasure. Hiking, biking, camping, snow shoeing, photography, picnicking. Heaven! And, the best part? You don't have to wait for the perfect time to visit the mountain. It's always perfect. It's just waiting for you.

Copper Creek Inn and its rustic cabins are the perfect way to end a day on the mountain. Yes, there are motels in larger neighboring cities, but where's the fun in that? Cookie cutter motel rooms with polyester bedspreads? Or, how about river rock fireplaces, personal hot tubs, thick, plush towels, down comforters, rocking chairs by the creek, starry nights? Cabins. Pine walls. Real log cabins. Built by hand and designed with an inspired touch. To quote the old song . . . go together like a horse and carriage.

One of my favourites is the Dream Weaver. I remember when it was being restored. And, look at it now! I love the approach. How cool is that handrail as it curves its way to the front porch!




 

If Dream Weaver is booked, don't worry! There are other wonderful cabins from which to choose:

Grateful every day to see the promise of spring realized. Enjoy!

Seattle Times ~ NW Traveler Mount Rainier cabins article

Reserve Now! Dream Weaver, click here.

Mount Rainier Wild Flower Report

King5 TV and Evening Magazine ~ Voted best cabins 2 years in a row!

Catharine Gallagher | Your Host ~ In Her Own Words

Catharine is an artist. Everything she touches has artistic flourishes. Some small. Some large. Some subtle. Some bold. Often whimsical; even surprising. Always beautiful. 

Several years ago, I stayed for the weekend in her art studio before it was a "cabin". The first morning, I woke to that lovely weekend feeling of "I have no place I have to be." "I have nothing I have to do." 

I lay there contemplating the room. An art studio is a highly personal space. Whenever I have the opportunity to visit one, I am reminded art is the mind made manifest. 

Catharine's "Art by the Yard" studio was no different. From my bed, snuggled in its pleasantly disarrayed down comforter, I began my visual exploration. Her easel stood near a window. A canvas work in process, interrupted. The palette on a nearby stool. The room flooded with morning light. Tubes of paint filling a box. Paint brushes upturned in a jar, drying. A handmade bowl filled with pebbles. The feather of a bird tucked in a book marking the end of a read. A high-tech embroidery machine with large spools of thread in many colours. A stack of hoodies ready to be embroidered for the gift shop. A completed one folded and tagged. Sketches of preliminary designs for note cards. Several works in progress; a creative mind at work.

There is finished art on the walls; handmade tile on the floor under the Franklin stove; a small kitchen with a jar of whole bean coffee. The room is interesting and filled with personal elements. Wonderful!

Now, you can stay in the Art Studio. It's still as beautiful and interesting as it was when it was a working studio. Catharine’s art is on the walls. Her easel is standing in the corner waiting for you. 

As Catharine says: This charming one room cedar cabin is still full of creative energy; a place of much joy and happiness. Try your hand at the easel. Or, for your own art-filled stay, bring a project of your own to work on. Take your sketchbook outside to sit by the creek. Write in your journal. Work on your needlecraft. Relax. Refresh. Breathe in the fresh mountain air. Listen to the sound of Copper Creek as it tumbles over the rocks on its way to the sea. I hope the spirit of this creative little cabin inspires you as it has inspired me!

Grateful every day to have creative, artful people in my life.

King 5 and Evening Magazine ~ Voted Best Cabins 2 Years in a Row!

Reserve Now! Art Studio cabin at Mount Rainier

More about Catharine and her art

The US Open Golf Tournament is Coming in June! Book Now!

For the first time in US Open history, its prestigious golf tournament is coming to the Pacific Northwest.

On June 15, Chambers Bay will open its doors to golfers and guests from around the world. To quote the Chambers Bay site: "With massive, rolling fairways, towering dunes, undulating greens and unpredictable coastal winds, the traditional linksland course will provide the world’s best with a test unlike anything played at a U.S. Open.”

Yikes! Can you say "challenging?" 

Challenging also describes your search for a room. Yes, any lodging worth having near Chambers Bay has been booked for months. You can't sleep in your car or the nearby rest stop. You're going to need a place to stay! 

Chambers Bay is centrally located between Mount Rainier and Shelton. Book Now!

If this is your first trip to the Pacific Northwest and the Puget Sound region, you've landed with both feet in Paradise. In fact, that's the name of the historic 1916 lodge at Mount Rainier ~ and who would argue with the US Forest Service?

I'm going to recommend you look at the cabins at Copper Creek Inn as well as their two cabins at Pirates Cove on Puget Sound. Both venues allow you to be close enough to participate in all the events the Open has to offer. 

Sure you could stay in Seattle and drive down I-5 joining the tens of thousands of other drivers in our notoriously terrible traffic. Or, you could wake relaxed at the base of Mount Rainier, have a leisurely breakfast at the Copper Creek Inn and drive through towering pines and cedars to join the gallery at Chambers Bay each day of the tournament.

Somehow roads lined with ferns and native rhododendrons sounds like a better way to start the day. I'm just sayin' . . .

If you're traveling with a group of friends or family, the Great Getaways cabins are perfect for you. Every cabin is unique and complete with everything you need for your stay. You can literally walk in the door with a bag of groceries, a couple of bottles of our famous Washington reds or locally produced artisan microbrews and find a fully stocked kitchen complete with a canister of the specially roasted whole bean coffee served at Copper Creek Inn. 

In the morning, you'll want a fresh cup of joe as you relax and breathe in the crisp, clean air. The evening may find you up to your neck in warm water as you gaze up at the stars in your own private hot tub. Each cabin includes a flat screen TV, a BBQ grill with propane, outside seating, and, if you have an electric car, there is a complimentary electric vehicle charging station. 

You wouldn't go to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower or to Florence without visiting David, would you? If you come to the Pacific Northwest, you have to see Mount Rainier. Even for those of us who live here, no matter how many times we see it, it's just as amazing as the first time. 

Welcome! Give us a call. And, enjoy your stay. 

Great Getaways Cabins at Mount Rainier | on Puget Sound

KING5 and Evening Magazine ~ Voted Best Cabins 2 years in a row! 

Catharine's original art throughout Great Getaways lodging.

US Open Websites you might find helpful:

Chambers Bay Golf and US Open

Chambers Bay Golf ~ US Open Blog

Pierce County Golf
USGA ~ US Open website
Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier ~ Built in 1916 and Designated as "One of the Great Lodges of the West"

Reserve Now! Great Getaways and Copper Creek Inn Cabins

Looking for a Cabin at Stevens Pass? Stay at The Grey Fox

Even though my friend, Kim, has only been here for a few years, she could be mistaken for a Seattle native. She has embraced all things quintessentially Northwest ~ hiking, biking, camping, skiing. She's got REI on speed dial and they greet her by name as she comes in the door. When Kim goes skiing, she goes to Stevens Pass. And, when she makes a long weekend of it, she reserves Grey Fox.

Whether hiking or biking in the summer, white water rafting the Skykomish in the fall or skiing at Stevens Pass in the winter, Grey Fox is the ultimate getaway cabin. Secluded on 3 1/2 acres of dense forest along 350 feet of the Skykomish River, Grey Fox is a nice walk from the historic town of Index and a short drive from skiing at Stevens Pass or enjoying a beer and braut in Leavenworth.

It is perfect for a romantic getaway or a centralized locale for a friends or family day trip. The cabin has two queen bedrooms fitted with down comforters and handmade quilts. 

Kim loves the queen-sized log bed in the living room with its freestanding fireplace on the beautifully designed, hand-built river rock hearth and surrounding wall. At night in the winter, she lights a fire; then, into bed under a down comforter and lovely quilt. There is nothing like lying in bed, hearing the Skykomish rush to the sea while looking out the large window into a starry night. And, in the morning: the forest, a few deer nibbling their breakfast and a view of the best rock climbing wall in the state of Washington.

As usual with all the Great Getaway cabins, there are many artful amenities. I could wax poetic about the super comfortable mattresses and the darling wooden rocking chairs used in the cabins. Everything you need for your stay is here. You can literally walk in the door with a bag of groceries and find a fully stocked kitchen complete with a canister of the specially roasted whole bean coffee served at Copper Creek Inn. You'll want a fresh cup of joe when you sit on the wrap-around deck. So, relax and breathe in the crisp, clean air. 

There is a large flat screen TV/DVD/VCR in the living room. While there is a handful of DVD's in the cabin, you will want to bring your own DVD's if you want to watch movies. TV reception is not good in the mountains. 

The inviting hot tub, under a gazebo, is just steps from the river.

So, whether you are skiing alone or planning an outing with friends, you'll find what you need at Grey Fox where up to six can stay comfortably. Includes a BBQ grill with propane, a picnic table on the deck and, if you have an electric car, there is a complimentary electric vehicle charging station. 

Enjoy all your outdoor activities: 

fishing, rafting, skiing, biking, hiking, rock climbing. 

Grey Fox. It's private and beautiful in all seasons. 

Reserve Now! Grey Fox Cabin at Stevens Pass

Grateful every day for my friend, Kim.

KING5 Evening Magazine ~ Voted Best Cabins 2 years in a row

Catharine's original art throughout Great Getaways lodging.