When planning a trip to Packwood, one of the most common questions is: Where should we buy groceries? Since Packwood is a small mountain town, you’ll only find one full-service grocery store in town. While it’s convenient, prices can be higher and the selection smaller than what you’ll find in larger towns along the way. That leaves most visitors weighing their options: stock up before you arrive, or plan to shop locally once you’re settled in?
To help you make the best choice, we’ve gathered local insight on grocery stores in Packwood and nearby. We’ve also put together a list of the best hiking snacks so you’ll know exactly what to grab, whether you’re fueling up for a day on the trails in Mount Rainier National Park or packing food bags for a long hike.
Most Convenient Grocery Stores for Hiking Snacks Near Packwood
Blanton’s Market – Packwood
Address: 13040 US-12, Packwood, WA 98361
Blanton’s Market is Packwood’s main grocery store. Opened in 1977, it carries everything you need—produce, pantry goods, meat, snacks—but you’ll pay more than you would at a large chain store simply because it’s the only grocer in town. Most locals and repeat visitors recommend using Blanton’s as a “top-off” store: grab the things you forgot, fresh produce, frozen items, or a few basics while you’re here, but plan to stock up earlier if you want to save.
Morton – Morton Country Market
Address: 461 2nd St, Morton, WA 98356
If you’re coming from Portland, you’ll pass through Morton along the way. Located about 30 minutes west, it’s the last chance for a stop before you get to Packwood. The Morton Country Market, while not a big-box chain, still has a great selection and is the town’s only locally owned and operated independent grocer. They have a decent-sized fresh fruit section, many fresh veggies, and even some prepared foods and bakery items, perfect for quick meals and breakfast on the go.
Puyallup & Graham – Multiple Chains
For those who like to shop in bulk or on a budget, Puyallup and Graham are excellent places to stop before climbing into the Cascades. Options include:
- WinCo Foods (Puyallup) – Known for its bulk bins with nuts, dried fruit, trail mix ingredients, and gluten-free staples.
- Walmart & Fred Meyer (Puyallup) – Standard grocery options with reliable pricing.
- Costco (Puyallup) – Perfect if you’re buying in large quantities for a group trip.
- Safeway (Graham) – Another standard grocery store where you can grab shelf-stable pantry items that can handle the hour-and-a-half drive to Packwood. Just a bit closer to Packwood, it’s a good option if you don’t want to stop in busier Puyallup.
Local Tip: Many visitors do a big shop at one of the larger chain stores before arriving, then use Blanton’s Market in Packwood for top-ups, refrigerated items, or last-minute needs.
The Best Hiking Snacks for Energy & Recovery
Hiking in Packwood or through the trails of Mount Rainier National Park takes energy, and what you pack matters. A good hiking snack should balance quick carbs for fast fuel, protein to keep you full, and healthy fats for sustained energy. Here’s what we recommend:
Snacks for Long-Lasting Energy
- Nut Butters – Peanut butter or almond butter packets are portable and pair well with apples, bananas, or crackers.
- Nuts & Seeds – Almonds, cashews, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are nutrient and energy-dense. They’re great for a quick bite along the trail to keep you feeling strong.
Snacks for Quick Fuel
- Dried Fruit – Mango, apricots, or raisins give you a natural sugar boost mid-hike.
- Fruit-Based Granola Bars – Light and portable, with a mix of carbs and sugar for quick energy.
- Dark Chocolate – A couple of squares provide just enough sugar to give you a boost without worrying about a sugar crash.
Snacks for Recovery
- Protein Bars – Protein helps replenish energy after a big workout, and aids in muscle recovery, making a protein bar a great post-hike snack.
- Jerky – Beef, turkey, and even some plant-based jerkies offer added protein for muscle repair.
- Electrolyte Chews or Drinks – Help replenish sodium and potassium lost through sweat.
- Salty Snacks – Pretzels or salted nuts help balance electrolytes while giving you an energy boost.
Snacks for Balance
- Trail Mix – The ultimate hiking snack, with nuts, dried fruit, and a little chocolate for balance.
- Gluten-Free Options – Rice cakes, gluten-free granola bars, and fresh fruit are easy alternatives.
Quick DIY Trail Mix Recipe
Trail mix is a classic for a reason—it’s customizable, calorie-dense, and easy to carry in a food bag. Here’s a simple recipe to make before your hike:
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 cup cashews
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- Optional: coconut flakes or pumpkin seeds for variety
Mix together, portion into resealable bags, and you’ve got trail-ready fuel that’s cheaper than store-bought blends.
Stay with TMC Vacation Rentals
Featured Property: Powder to the People – 2 Bed/1 Bath with a Hot Tub
When you’re not on the trail, you’ll want a comfortable home base where you can relax, refuel, and prepare for the next day’s adventure. TMC Vacation Rentals offers cozy cabins and vacation homes in Packwood, all equipped with full kitchens so you can prep your favorite hiking snacks with ease. Whether you want to whip up trail mix, pack a food bag for your hike, or cook a hearty dinner after a long trek, our rentals make it simple.
Skip the extra fees of third-party booking sites and get the benefit of local expertise when you book directly with TMC.