Accommodations

Hikers headed for a big day around north Gifford Pinchot Forest will appreciate the gourmet breakfasts served by the French chef owner of St. Helens Manor House B&B (7476 Hwy. 12, 360/498-5243 or 800/551-3290, www.sthelensmanorhousebab.com [1], $85–95 s or d). He’ll delight you with creations such as smoked salmon omelettes. The house itself has a little back story as well; this 1910 three-story abode is said to be haunted by two female ghosts that slam doors, appear in hallways, and toy with the security system. Kids are not allowed here.

For more basic accommodations, Stiltner Motel (250 Hwy. 7, 360/496-5103, $60 s or d) rents simple cabins with kitchenettes. The rooms at Susan’s Motel (161 N. 2nd St., 360/496-5000, $80 s, $90 d) don’t have kitchens, but guests do benefit from complimentary continental breakfast and Wi-Fi. The Seasons Motel (200 Westlake, 360/496-6835, $87 s or $98 d) is a good place, with a friendly staff and a warm breakfast served each morning.

The liveliest spot in Randle [2] is Tall Timber Motel (one mile east of Randle on Hwy. 12, 360/497-2991, www.talltimberrestaurantloungemotel.com [3], $75–113 s or d), which plays host to a homespun diner and a lounge that attracts local barflys, as well as a collection of comfortable motel rooms.

Woodland Motel (11890 Hwy. 12, 360/494-6766, $40 s or $50 d) offers a few more in-room amenities, including satellite TV, microwave, and fridge, and even full kitchens in some units.