Skamania Lodge

This lodge is celebrated for its stunning natural setting and breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge, offering a memorable retreat for guests seeking to unwind and connect with nature. Its unique treehouse accommodations provide an immersive experience, making it an ideal destination for families and couples looking for a distinctive getaway. The property also serves as a popular venue for work retreats and weddings, with many guests praising the extensive outdoor activities and the serene atmosphere. To make the most of your stay, consider requesting a room with a river view for unparalleled vistas, and be sure to inquire about the availability of all amenities, as some may be undergoing renovations. Exploring the numerous on-site trails and taking advantage of the fire pits are highly recommended for a truly relaxing experience.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently highlight the wide array of facilities and amenities available, catering to diverse interests. The spa receives high praise for its relaxing treatments, including facials, and features indoor and outdoor hot tubs and a sauna. The pool is generally well-regarded as nice, attractive, and clean, though some guests noted the water could be cold, and there were frequent mentions of pool and hot tub closures for renovation, causing disappointment. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the extensive hiking trails, golf course, disc golf, and zip lining adventures. The lodge also offers axe throwing, a game room, and fire pits where guests can enjoy s'mores kits. For business needs, the conference facilities are described as excellent and well-equipped, ensuring smooth events. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests found it to be spotty or slow.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness of the rooms is generally well-received, with many guests describing them as immaculate and exceptionally clean. However, some isolated reports mentioned issues such as dirt or hair in showers, uncleaned areas, or a chemical smell. Bed comfort garners mixed reviews; many guests found the beds to be comfortable with soft linens, ensuring a restful sleep, while others described them as hard, thin, or causing overheating due to memory foam. Room views, particularly of the river or gorge, are highly praised and enhance the overall experience. Standard in-room amenities include robes, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker, with microwaves available upon request. Noise levels are a significant concern for some, with reports of thin walls allowing sound from neighboring rooms, children in hallways, and notably, loud and constant train noise impacting sleep, especially in the treehouses and cabins.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on dining and food quality is varied. Many guests enjoyed the food, describing it as delicious and excellent, with specific mentions of burgers, prime rib, and scallops. However, a notable number of reviews indicate that the food is overpriced for its quality, with some finding it mediocre or disappointing. The breakfast options, including a buffet and a la carte, received mixed comments; while some found it delicious, others criticized the high price, cold food, disorganization, and limited variety, with some even reporting issues like sour juice or burnt items. The lodge features two restaurants, the River Rock Lounge and the Cascade Dining Room. The River Rock is generally preferred for its more casual atmosphere, while the Cascade Dining Room, though more expensive, is noted for its slower service and requiring reservations. Room service is available but often delivered in takeout containers with plastic utensils, which many guests felt was not commensurate with the high price. Bar drinks are also frequently mentioned as expensive.

Location & Accessibility
The lodge's location is consistently lauded as a major highlight, described as beautiful, stunning, and excellent. Nestled by the Columbia River, it offers a serene and peaceful environment, serving as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and engaging in various outdoor adventures. The Columbia River Gorge views are repeatedly emphasized as spectacular and breathtaking, contributing significantly to the guest experience. The property is conveniently located within an easy driving distance from Portland, making it readily accessible for a quick getaway. While parking is available on-site, some guests noted that it comes with an additional charge, which can add to the overall cost of the stay. The extensive hiking trails directly on the property further enhance its appeal for nature lovers.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the lodge generally receive overwhelmingly positive feedback. Guests consistently describe the team as friendly staff, helpful staff, attentive service, and accommodating staff, going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and eagerness of the front desk, event staff, and spa personnel. The check-in process, while sometimes experiencing long waits during busy periods, is often praised for its efficiency. However, a recurring point of concern is poor communication from the hotel regarding important information, such as amenity closures (especially the pool), unexpected resort fees, or dining options, leading to guest disappointment upon arrival. While staff are often sympathetic, the problem resolution for these issues can be inconsistent, with some guests feeling their concerns were not adequately addressed or followed up on.

Additional Information
A significant point of contention for many guests is the mandatory resort fee, which is often perceived as high, especially when key amenities like the pool or hot tubs are closed for renovation without prior clear communication. The pet policy is noted, with the hotel being pet-friendly, though some guests reported cleanliness issues in pet-designated rooms or unexpected fees. The unique treehouses and cabins are highly sought after for their distinctive experience, but guests frequently mention their very expensive price point and the pervasive train noise that can disrupt sleep. The availability of s'mores kits for purchase is a popular and charming amenity. During the holiday season, the Christmas decorations and light walk are highlighted as stunning and magical additions to the property. The lodge is also a popular conference venue and wedding venue, though some events have faced challenges with heating outdoor spaces during colder months. Guests often express that the hotel is overpriced given some of the service inconsistencies or amenity limitations.