The Classic Lodges . . . and Then Some
CLASSIC CHOICE
Jenny Lake Lodge. The lodge's 37 historic cabins sit at the base of the Tetons and capture the region's colorful wrangler past. Bright handmade quilts, airy wooden interiors and easy access to hiking trails and lakes add to the cozy nature feel. From $459.
PLAN B:
Jackson Lake Lodge. More resort than small-scale lodge, due to its 380-plus rooms, Native American and Western art collection, 60-foot picture windows with lake and mountain views, and varied eating spots, including a pool snack bar and a cocktail lounge with live music. From $167.
OTHER OPTIONS:Six other options, including the dorm-style cabins at the American Alpine Club Climber's Ranch ($10, plus $20 reservation fee), geared toward climbers. Dudes flock to Triangle X Ranch, a horse farm (cabins from $1,200 per week). Otherwise, there's Signal Mountain Lodge (motel units to apartments; from $98), Colter Bay Village, a log/tent cabin community (from $36), and others of its ilk.
BOOKING:
Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake lodges: 800-628-9988, www.gtlc .com.
For others, see info under "Park" in first column.
PARK
Mount Rainier
Washington
360-569-2211,
www.nps.gov/mora
CLASSIC CHOICE:
Paradise Inn. The 1917 property, sitting at 5,400 feet, was built by a German carpenter whose handiwork, including a 14-foot grandfather clock, jockeys for attention with the wildflowers, mountain peaks and Nisqually Glacier. The 117 rooms go for $89 to $205.
PLAN B:
For something a little more intimate, and less elevated (2,700 feet), try the National Park Inn. The 25-room property operates as a B&B from October to April. Grab a seat on the north porch and watch the sun dip on Mount Rainier. From $95 to $177.
OTHER OPTIONS:
The only other accommodations require tent poles, sleeping bags and an adventurous spirit. Fees at six campgrounds: free to $15.
BOOKING:
360-569-2275 , www.guestser vices.com/rainier
© 2004 The Washington Post Company
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