Post Summary: How To Spend a Weekend At Alderbrook Resort
Looking for an easy weekend trip from Seattle and don’t want to drive too far from the city?
The Alderbrook Resort is the perfect spot for you! Located in Union, Washington, it’s only a 2-hour drive from Seattle, but it will feel like you’ve been transported much farther away!
Perched next to the Hood Canal and a quick drive to the rainforest, Alderbrook Resort has the perfect balance of rest and adventure.
Keep scrolling to discover what to expect, nearby things to do, and how to make the most of your weekend at Alderbrook Resort! (Keep scrolling for an itinerary!)
How To Spend a Weekend At Alderbrook Resort in Union, WA
Where is Alderbrook Resort?
Located in the Hood Canal on the Puget Sound, Alderbrook Resort sits elegantly on the shore.
On a clear day, there are views of the Olympic Mountain Range in the distance and the property is tucked between towering cedar trees and large ferns.
Alderbrook Resort was established in 1913 and originally was ‘canoe-in only.’ The modern accommodations we see today built off the escapism and proximity to nature that was originally provided.
Their lodge perfectly blends with the lush greenery and textures of the scenic landscapes, while also standing out with high windows, tall timber beams, and luxurious landscaping brimming with native plants.
How To Get To Alderbrook Resort
Alderbrook Resort is located in Union, Washington which is on the south side of the Hood Canal. Expect the trip from Seattle to Alderbrook Resort to be about a 2-hour drive, depending on traffic conditions.
You’ll drive on Interstate 5 for a while, cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, and follow the canal for quite a while until reaching the resort on the water. It’s a straightforward drive, but make sure to download an offline map or start your navigation directions right away.
There is little cell service as you approach the resort so make sure to have directions pre-loaded!
Our Favorite Features At Alderbook Resort
The Alderbrook Resort is a luxury spa resort, and arguably one of the best resorts in the Pacific Northwest!
From the restaurant on-site, covered pool with canal views, endless boating opportunities, and beautiful grounds, you can help but feel relaxed the second you step foot at Alderbrook.
Keep scrolling for some of our favorite features at the Alderbrook Resort, and some highlights to look forward to on your own future trip.
Note: These images were taken during winter season in Washington. Expect a lot more greenery and sunshine if you plan your visit in the spring and summer seasons!
Waterfront King Rooms
Nearly all of the rooms have some kind of view of the natural beauty outside, but the Waterfront King rooms have some of the best!
Berty and I loved waking up in the mornings to sip coffee next to our seat by the window and enjoy views of the Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains.
We could see people walking up and down the dock, watch the sunset, and listen to the breeze as we read books inside on a winter day.
The Waterfront King Rooms have a window seat, access to a deck, and a spacious bedroom and bathroom.
Landscaping
When wandering the grounds of Alderbrook Resort, you can expect to see the beauty of the Pacific Northwest on full display.
They use native plants in their landscaping, abundant with rhododendrons, ferns, salal, serviceberry, and vine maples!
One of our favorite plants in the enormous and beautiful wisteria hanging from the arbors. You can find them near the pool, gym, and spa entrance.
Giant Dock
True to its roots, the Alderbrook Resort has an incredibly long dock, filled with lots of opportunities to enjoy the water.
You can rent canoes and kayaks on a clear day – you can find all their rental prices here.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can plan ahead to book a charter cruise or a pontoon boat to enjoy on the Hood Canal for the day.
Have your own boat? You can dock it here for a moorage fee – it comes complimentary with complimentary Wifi, water hookups, pump out facilities, and more!
Hiking Trails Near Alderbrook Resort
Looking do take some hiking trails during your weekend escape? Here are our favorite hikes near Alderbrook Resort:
Guillemot Cove Natural Reserve: This small but beautiful state park in Kitsap County has something for everyone! Explore the shore, walk the short (.25 mile) trail to te famous Stump House.
Staircase Area (Olympic National Park): The Southeast corner of Olympic National Park is a short drive away from the Alderbrook Resort. Come for the day to hike, and spend the afternoon at Lake Cushman.
Lena Lake: This moderately challenging route is 7.0 miles out and back, with 1,600 elevation gain. It’s a very popular trail for backpacking, hiking, and camping. Therefore, expect company on the way!
Alderbrook’s very own Nature Trails: Just steps away from the resort are 6 beautiful hiking trails, ranging from 0.5 miles to 3.3 miles. Come check out the Viewpoint Loop, Licorice Fern Trail, or even the Big Tree Loop!
Seeking some solitude and meditation opportunities? All of these hiking trails area great for practicing the art of Forest Bathing!
Weekend at Alderbrook Resort Itinerary
So, how can you put together a fun weekend at Alderbrook Resort? Here is what we suggest you do with your weekend!
Friday
- Check in to the resort, spend time wanding around the grounds.
- Take an evening hike at the Big Tree Loop, just steps away from your hotel room!
- Eat dinner at The Restaurant
Saturday
- Wake up for a morning paddle around the Canal
- Hike to Lena Lake (Pack a lunch!)
- Optional shorter trail: The Staircase Area of Olympic National Park
- Sit around the outdoor fire pits and roast smores as the sun sets
Sunday
- Book a massage at The Spa at Alderbrook Resort
- Drive home to Seattle (or wheverer home is!)
Have you spent a Weekend at Alderbrook Resort yet? What was your experience like? Tell us in the comments below!
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