Just 3 Hours
The perfect distance for a weekend escape. Leave after work Friday, be relaxing by the fire pit by dinner time.
Seattle Weekend Escape
3 Hours to a Different World
Leave the Seattle rain behind and discover the sunny side of the Cascades. Your cozy cabin escape awaits in Carson, WA - where the Columbia Gorge meets adventure.
3 Hr from SEA
Cozy Cabin
Nature & Adventure
Why Seattle Folks Love It Here
Far enough to truly escape, worth every mile of the scenic drive.
Escape the Gray
The Columbia Gorge sits in a rain shadow - often sunny when Seattle is socked in. Trade drizzle for blue skies.
Gorge Adventures
Waterfalls, hiking trails, wineries, and more. The Columbia River Gorge is your playground.
Hot Springs Nearby
Carson Hot Springs is just 15 minutes away. Soak your stress away in natural mineral waters.
Bring Your Dog
Your pup deserves an adventure too! We welcome dogs and are near great trails. Seattle dog owners love it here.
Peace & Quiet
Trade traffic and tech for birdsong and rustling trees. Actually disconnect for once.
[Image: Scenic Columbia River Gorge highway drive]
The Journey
Two Scenic Routes
The drive from Seattle to Carson offers beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery. Take I-5 south and choose your adventure: the scenic SR-14 route along the Columbia River, or the faster I-84 through Portland.
- 3 hours from downtown Seattle
- Scenic route: I-5 to SR-14 along the Columbia
- Faster route: I-5 to I-84 through Portland
- Stop in Longview or Vancouver WA for supplies
Your Perfect Gorge Weekend
Leave Seattle Friday evening, return Sunday refreshed and recharged.
Friday
Arrive & Unwind
Leave Seattle after work - beat the traffic by heading south on I-5. Grab dinner in Vancouver WA or pick up groceries at the Longview Costco. You'll arrive by 8-9pm, settle into the cabin, light the fire pit, and let the weekend begin.
Saturday AM
Morning Hike
Wake up to coffee on the porch, then tackle Dog Mountain (challenging) or Catherine Creek (easier). The Gorge offers trails for every fitness level. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy those waterfall views.
Saturday PM
Soak & Relax
Head to Carson Hot Springs (15 min away) for a rejuvenating mineral soak. Book a massage if you want to treat yourself. Return to the cabin for fire pit time and stargazing - you won't believe how many stars you can see away from Seattle's lights.
Sunday
Leisurely Departure
Sleep in, enjoy a slow breakfast, and soak up the last of that cabin peace. Take the scenic SR-14 route home along the Columbia River, or stop at a Gorge winery. You'll be home by early evening, refreshed and ready for the week.
Adventures from Your Doorstep
Carson puts you at the center of Columbia River Gorge attractions.
Carson Hot Springs
Historic mineral springs resort with soaking tubs and massage
Dog Mountain
Famous hiking trail with stunning views and spring wildflowers
Bridge of the Gods
Iconic bridge crossing the Columbia, featured in "Wild"
Multnomah Falls
Oregon's tallest waterfall and most-visited natural site
Hood River
Charming town with breweries, wineries, and great dining
Beacon Rock
Climb the volcanic plug for panoramic Gorge views
Gorge Wineries
Explore the wine trail with tastings and vineyard views
Seattle
Home is just a scenic drive away along the Columbia
What Seattle Guests Say
Reviews from Seattle visitors who found their perfect escape.
"This little home was the perfect place for me and my coworker to stay during a work trip to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Everything was clean, it's a quiet location, and we enjoyed having a TV in each of our rooms to relax at the end of the day."
"Stayed here for a couple nights while in town for an annual fishing trip. Place was clean and had all the amenities we needed. Easy access to Carson and its restaurants. Highly recommend."
"Cute little house to stay in for a short stay."
Ready to Escape Seattle?
Book River Time Retreat and discover your new favorite weekend getaway. Just 3 hours to cabin bliss in the Columbia Gorge.