Small Town Charm. Big Mountain Adventures.
If you’ve never been to Packwood, Washington, it’s easy to overlook this small town at the edge of Mount Rainier National Park. There are no neon signs or big-name attractions here—just towering evergreens, snow-capped peaks, and a whole lot of peace and quiet. It’s the kind of place people stumble across once… and come back to for years.
Filled with wide-open trails, rushing rivers, scenic drives, and cozy cabins that feel like home, this corner of the PNW invites you to soak in all the wonders of the great outdoors.
Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a weeklong adventure, you’ll quickly see why Packwood is more than a stop along the way. Take a look around our area guide to find the best things to do in and around Packwood. And when you’re ready to plan your getaway, explore our Packwood vacation rentals and book your stay directly for the best rates in the area.
About Packwood
Packwood is a quiet mountain town with unbeatable access to some of Washington’s most iconic landscapes. Situated between Mount Rainier National Park and Gifford Pinchot National Forest, it’s a popular home base for visitors who want a mix of peaceful exploration and adventure.
Downtown Packwood is small, friendly, and easy to navigate, with locally owned shops and essentials all within walking distance. Most vacationers arrive by car via Highway 12, which also happens to be one of the region’s most scenic drives.
What sets it apart from other PNW towns isn’t just its proximity to these natural wonders; it’s the ease of life and the close-knit vibe. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or an epic week in the great outdoors, you’ll find Packwood keeps you coming back for more.
Things to Do in Packwood
Packwood may be small, but it’s surrounded by some of the best year-round recreation in Washington. From hiking to skiing powdery slopes, this corner of the Cascades truly delivers.
- Mount Rainier National Park: Just 10 miles from town, the Stevens Canyon entrance is one of the easiest ways to experience Mount Rainier. We’ve even got you covered with a Rainier itinerary!
- Gifford Pinchot National Forest: Explore miles of multi-use trails, tranquil lakes, and lesser-known backcountry routes ideal for hiking, biking, or snowshoeing. The forest surrounds Packwood on nearly all sides, so adventure is never far away.
- White Pass Ski Area: Just a 30-minute drive, White Pass is a family-friendly ski resort with wide-open runs, terrain parks, and beautiful views. In summer, the area offers scenic chairlift rides and hiking access.
- Packwood Flea Market: Held each Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, this massive outdoor event draws vendors and treasure hunters from across the Northwest.
Dining, Coffee & Shops
You won’t find any national chains here, but that’s part of the charm. From tasty dinners to morning coffee before a hike, be sure to visit these local spots while you’re in town:
- Cliff Droppers – One of the best burgers in town
- Longmire Springs Brewing Co. – Pet-friendly with a great outdoor space and rotating taps
- The Mountain Goat Coffee Company – Cozy café vibes
- White Pass Sports Hut – Gear, rentals, and last-minute essentials for your hike or ski day
- Packwood Mercantile – A local favorite with vintage finds, home goods, and even dog toys (say hi to Deacon, the shop pup!)
Packwood Side Trips and Can’t-Miss Events
If you’re up for exploring beyond town, Packwood’s location along the White Pass Scenic Byway makes it an ideal jumping-off point for a day on the road. Seasonal routes like Chinook Pass and Paradise Valley Road offer unforgettable mountain views. Quiet backroads lead to nearby towns like Randle and Morton, and longer loops through Mount Rainier and Sunrise are perfect for a full-day adventure.
As for town events, Packwood keeps things low-key most of the year, but a few annual activities should be on the calendar: the massive flea markets on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, the White Pass Winter Carnival each February, and summer farmers markets really bring out the crowds.
Book Your Packwood Getaway Today
Whether you’re here to hike through ancient forests, spot elk from your cabin window, ski untouched slopes, or simply unplug for a while, Packwood is the place for you!
At TMC Vacation Rentals, we offer a wide range of cabins and homes that put you minutes from the best this area has to offer. Many of our properties are pet-friendly and surrounded by nature, so you can make yourself at home in the mountains.
As you plan your trip, don’t forget to check out our Packwood vacation properties and secure the best rate on your stay by booking directly with us!
