Some 120 miles north of Spokane, Chewelah, Washington is a gateway to the area's most spectacular scenery. The small town is adjacent to the Pend Orielle National Wildlife Refuge, Colville National Forest and 49 North Ski Resort, which draw sightseers, skiers and travelers seeking rest and recreation. A former mining village dotted with Victorian houses, Chewelah retains its Wild West charm while catering to modern tourism with a local hospital, diverse restaurants and nearby shopping.
Set in a quaint farmhouse with mountain views, the 49er Motel boasts unique rooms decorated with antiques and family memorabilia. Larger units -- like the Moose Room with queen bed and kitchenette -- interconnect with others to create a suite. Other rooms include king-sized beds and tubs, with all guests enjoying in-room coffee, cable TV, free local calls, refrigerators and air conditioning. In the evening, expansive grounds beckon guests to take in the sunset from the front yard or porch. The location also includes a 27-site RV park with full hookups and bathroom facilities and access to nearby ski slopes and state park entrances.
The Chewelah Creek Inn offers large, basic rooms with color TV, telephone, air conditioning, and mini-fridges. Located beside a babbling creek, the two-story blue clapboard motel lures economy-minded travelers with its clean decor and convenience. The inn welcomes skiers on a budget during winter, autumn hunters and hikers exploring national parks in warmer months. Rates include a continental breakfast, and lodgers may walk to some of the town's mom-and-pop restaurants, including German, Chinese and pub fare -- as well as fast food outposts.
Travelers find warm, comfortable accommodations at Chewelah's Nordlig Motel. Remodeled rooms include coffee, cable TV, phone and continental breakfast with homemade muffins -- while pets may be welcomed with advance notice. This inn offers "ski and stay" packages, and long-time local owners give directions and recommendations for hiking, bike routes, scenic drives and other recreation. In the summer, the Nordlig draws audiences headed for the nearby Chautauqua Arts Festival. The homey atmosphere features its innkeepers' personal touches, including quilts and unique decor in each unit.
Some 50 miles south of Chewelah, cabins cluster beach-side at the Deer Lake Resort. Accommodations include lodges with multiple rooms, individual cabins, condos, tent sites and even stand-alone units decked out like covered wagons. Large groups may also book the event center for gatherings and lakeside weddings of up to 250 people. Families enjoy fishing, kayak and paddle boat rentals, volleyball, horseshoes, miniature golf and hiking. An on-site country store sells groceries, bait and crafts from local artisans. Guests may prepare meals on the resort's picnic patio or drive to nearby Loon Lake for pizza, hamburger and pub options.
