Towering above the Mt. Rainier slopes, this solid gray edifice, built in 1917, rises from the forests like a castle in the midst of the Alps. Inside, carved Alaskan cedar logs, burnished parquet floors, stone fireplaces, and Indian rugs are part of the rugged, mountain-style decor, which also highlights furnishings by German carpenter Hans Fraehnke. Glorious mountain views are all around, including from the full-service dining room ($-$$$) and snack bar. The inn is 19 mi inside the park's southwest entrance. Pros: Beautiful building, convenient locale, lots of history. Cons: Few modern amenities, can feel damp and drafty.
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