Review: Paradise Inn

How did it strike you on arrival?
This historic lodge is a chateau-esque building wedged into the side of Mount Rainier, blending with the natural beauty of the surroundings. As a nature lodge, there is lots of exposed knotted woods, big picture windows overlooking the scenery, and a laissez-faire attitude. If a little funky, it's part of the charm. The inn is seasonal, open May through October.

Nice. What’s the crowd like?
As a basecamp for people visiting Mount Rainier, your fellow guests here will no doubt be nature enthusiasts, hikers, wildlife photographers, and families on summer road trips.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
Rooms are basic, and some are quite cramped, but the draw here is more about using this as a place to rest your head and meet other travelers between hikes and explorations.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?
The minimalist cabin-like rooms bring to mind Theroux--the inn does not offer WiFi, television, or phones. The best amenity? Request a room with a big picture window.

Room service and food: Worth it?
The communal dining room serves northwest cuisine during breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch and Tatoosh Cafe provides on-the-go items like early morning espresso. Order a packed lunch to-go the night before hitting the trails from the front desk and pick it up on your way out in the morning. When you return, order a cocktail by the fire to recoup.

Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?
The concierges excel at giving in-depth information about the park. Looking for the best waterfall to visit, or the best place to watch the sunset? They know the park inside and out.

Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
Although modern amenities here are limited, you can't beat access to having Mount Rainier at your doorstep. Little tributes to nature can be seen throughout the inn, like the 60 floral lamp shades suspended throughout the lobby.

Bottom line: worth it, and why?
One of the inn’s best selling points is its convenience to Mount Rainier at a very reasonable price.