1. Introduction to Salish Lodge & Spa
2. Overview of Snoqualmie Falls
3. The History and Transformation of Salish Lodge
4. Experience at Salish Lodge & Spa
5. Dining Experience at Salish Lodge
6. Conclusion: The Allure of Snoqualmie Falls
Salish Lodge & Spa in Washington is a Pacific Northwest gem.
The Pacific Northwest is known for its extraordinary scenery. From the Cascade mountain range to acres of vineyards and orchards to countless waterfalls, there’s a beautiful view no matter where you turn. One of the most quintessential vantage points in the state is Washington’s well-known waterfall: Snoqualmie Falls.
Snoqualmie Falls, located 30 minutes east of Seattle, is a popular destination for both locals and travelers. The falls of the Snoqualmie River rush, rumble, and tumble over a 268-foot drop. While it’s certainly possible to enjoy a day trip to take in the scenery at this easily accessible spot, a visit is made all the more magical by spending the night at Salish Lodge & Spa, located right on the edge of the falls and recognized as one of the best resorts in the Western United States in the 2022 World’s Best Awards.
The lodge, previously known as the Snoqualmie Falls Lodge, opened in 1916 as an eight-room inn. Although the property operated on a smaller scale over 100 years ago, it was a welcome stop for weary travelers journeying through the Snoqualmie mountain pass. In 1988, a remodel transformed the property into Salish Lodge & Spa, expanding it to 86 rooms. In 2019, the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe purchased the lodge, aiming to honor the sacred land and protect the area from future development, prioritizing historical integrity and celebrating the natural beauty of the falls.
Upon arriving during a recent trip, I was greeted by a friendly valet team. Parking can fill up quickly for visitors to Snoqualmie Falls, especially on weekends and during the summer. However, lodge guests can use complimentary valet to easily secure a spot. The lobby is small yet welcoming, featuring warm wood tones and a stone fireplace with cozy lounge chairs in front. This space immediately set the tone for the rest of my stay.
As I walked into my room, I was met with a modern-meets-rustic style, featuring a neutral color scheme with warm accents and pops of burnt orange, copper, and leather. You can find Pacific Northwest-inspired details such as a live-edge wood coffee table and a glowing gas fireplace.
Salish Lodge features an on-site spa, offering a range of rejuvenating services. However, the lodge also provides in-room treatments. The modern bathroom is wonderfully set up for these experiences, complete with sleek gray tiling and black detailing. Additionally, my oversized soaking tub featured a wooden tray with bath salts for a relaxing experience.
Before venturing out to explore the property, I decided to enjoy the sounds of the river and falls from the patio off my room. Room service provided an excellent ground tenderloin burger alongside grilled corn made with Salish honey and a glass of the lodge’s private label dry honey hard cider.
While visiting the upper viewpoint of Snoqualmie Falls is a magical experience by itself, those looking for a short hike and additional waterfall views can tackle a 1.4-mile round-trip trail leading to the bottom of the falls. This route, lined with lush, old-growth trees, culminates in a lower parking lot that offers access to both a wooden path and an observation deck. A separate path from the parking area grants river access for peaceful picnics or splashing in the water on hot days. I savored the stunning view from the platform deck just as golden hour began, before making my way back up the trail to catch the sunset over the falls.
On the way back to my room, I snagged a packet of house-made trail mix from a basket near the elevator, a welcome treat post-hike. Upon entering my room, I was greeted by the soothing warmth of the gas fireplace on my patio, creating the perfect ambience for the evening. Each patio offers cozy seating and a fireplace that is lit every night at 8 p.m. Before heading to bed, I indulged in the oversized bathtub, soaking in every moment of relaxation.
The next morning, I eagerly anticipated breakfast in the dining room. The property offers small plates and shareable dishes for later culinary delights in The Attic, an upstairs lounge with an incredible view. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the dining room downstairs, with several tables placed against large picture windows, providing stunning views of the falls, river, and carved gorge below.
Since I arrived just as the dining room was opening, I conveniently secured the best seat in the house, actually located in a private room that jutted out from the lodge for an unparalleled view of the falls. My server introduced me to the lodge’s signature Honey From Heaven experience, a long-standing tradition that has delighted guests for over a century. I just had to see what it was all about.
To kick off breakfast, my server brought me a fresh biscuit, along with a plate of honey butter and jam. I was instructed to slice my biscuit, add my favorite toppings, and leave it face up on my plate. From several feet above me, close to the ceiling, he then poured fresh honey from the on-site bees onto the biscuit, creating a sweet and memorable moment. As I savored my biscuit, accompanied by fresh French press coffee, I enjoyed peace while gazing out the window at the breathtaking view. I concluded my meal with a cup of coffee topped with whipped cream and chocolate curls and relished my Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and honey granola.
Salish Lodge welcomes travelers from all over but also houses on-site honeybees. These bees have called this lodge home since 2011, when beekeeper and apiary expert Daniel Sullivan partnered with the property to address the national bee crisis. The bees produce a significant amount of delicious honey, enhancing many of the lodge’s dishes.
The honey is jarred and sold in the gift shop, but it’s also incorporated into various food and beverage options at the lodge. Fresh honey features prominently in spiced honey French toast and omelets served with smoked honey aioli. It’s also used in a range of cocktails, lunch and dinner plates, desserts, and the lodge’s dry honey cider.
Feeling full after breakfast, I took another stroll around the grounds and made my way to the viewing deck of the falls. Waking up early to marvel at the view alone was truly special, allowing me to reflect on why the Snoqualmie tribe holds this land as sacred and peaceful. The historical integrity of the lodge enhances its rich heritage and provides a unique oasis for travelers in Washington. With comfortable accommodations, fresh meals made from local ingredients, and exceptional views, Salish Lodge is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the essence of the Pacific Northwest.
