Washington's Snoqualmie Falls and the Salish Lodge & Spa

By Nicholas Sveslosky, Editor FIDO Friendly magazine

Wow.

There are few locations that make me say that, and the Salish Lodge & Spa at Snoqualmie Falls in western Washington is one of those hotels. I love locations that don’t miss a step for hopeless romantics like myself. From perfect Northwest décor, to a luxurious spa on site, to being surrounded by natural beauty, this inn-like feeling lodge beckons lovers of all age groups. Let’s not forget the roaring of the fireplace; or was that the roaring of the falls out the back patio?

The Salish Lodge started as a wayside inn for automobile travelers in 1916. It wasn’t until 1988 that the Salish became the Salish Lodge & Spa offering accommodations to those not wanting to drive home after having one of the best meals and dining service experiences of their life. The Salish became Fido-friendly in March of 2009 and has been averaging 22 dogs per month. Plenty of outdoor excursions abound in the surrounding forest-covered hills.

Fido will love this natural setting, as there are endless hiking trails within reach from a short walk to a quick ride away. Rattle Snake Ledge is not to be missed as well as Tiger Mountain, Mt. Si, and Twin Falls. Grab some water, a couple of energy bars and Fido’s water bowl and you’re all set to see some of the most panoramic views of what the best of nature has to offer. All are Fido-friendly if your dog is kept on a leash. The front desk and Adventure Center will be able to provide you with information on local hikes as well as detailed directions and suggestions based on your own hiking level. Also available through the hotel are bike rentals, and if your dog is a sprinter, this may be a great way to exercise the paws.

After a long day out on the trails, feel confident in heading back to the Salish for the spa staff to undo any hiking soreness. The spa on site at the Salish offers a full menu of body treatments. Indulge in a couple’s massage, or simply enjoy the sauna and heated pools to relax the joints. Don’t forget about Fido, and bring him back a spa robe from the Spa. Then the whole family can relax and feel pampered.

As you head into the evening hour, the formal and exquisite dinning, where everything on the menu is the special of the day with fresh seafood and perfect pairings, is complete only with a sunset view from your table. The restaurant at the Salish was recognized by Wine Spectator with the Award of Excellence this year. Views of the Snoqualmie Falls, lush vegetation and an unbeatable view of the sun setting over tree covered hills makes dinning at the Salish Lodge & Spa an experience to be compared against. Every combination brings you in to the moment. Not to miss a beat, the staff even offers a doggy bag for Fido waiting patiently for you in your room. If that doesn’t satisfy a hungry dog, something from the Canine In-Room Dining Menu might.

After dinner be sure to stretch your legs and that full belly as you take Fido on a walk around the grounds. The mist from the falls offers a refreshing wet nap, and the smells are enough for Fido to relieve any pre-bedtime angst.

Finally, unwinding with a dip in your private Jacuzzi tub with a fire roaring in the background will help the digestion and open the pores to take in complete relaxation. One of the conveniences all us dog lovers enjoy is the ease of taking Fido out to relieve himself. All first floor rooms have patio access to rock and asphalt paved trails tailored by grass and natural landscape. Just before bed, simply open the sliding door to let Fido make his final mark before bedtime. All other floors have the same access to the first floor, though not as convenient.

The Salish Lodge & Spa tips on the side of luxury, and reminds us that while romance comes from within, the setting is all too important.