Fall foliage in Twisp, Wash. is a kaleidoscope of autumn’s colors, custom made for hiking and outdoor exploration. Twisp, located in the Methow Valley between two of America’s largest wilderness areas — the Paysatan and Sawtooth, is home to Twisp River Suites, a resort with luxurious touches in each of its 16 suites from memory foam beds to a convenient pair of reading glasses.
Off the beaten path, this enclave offers river views and comforts galore. It took Joe Marver, a Minnesotan with a flair for hospitality and attention to detail, to bring this 16-suite “hotel” into the limelight, especially for those seeking to blend the great outdoors with art, culture, healthy dining and long walks on hiking trails that are framed by the colorful displays of fall foliage.
Fly fishing, hiking, biking and river rafting through class III-IV rapids aside, Twisp Suites is located behind the Twisp River Pub, which is amidst a populace dominated by artisans, musicians and craftspeople.
Suites enjoy a private deck overlooking the river, enhanced by deep soaker bathtubs and nature-inspired bath amenities.
September and October mean fall foliage — a canvas busting with autumn’s lush palate of orange and bronze. And in the midst of it all, there’s host Marver — a one-man tourist office.
His guests can confirm that, too. Trip Advisor boasts 300 “excellent ratings,” with laudatory comments such as “home away from home in Northern Cascades” to “loved it” and “paradise in Twisp.”
Marver reported, “We are open year-round with activities nonstop.” On Friday evenings, he sings, accompanied by a classical guitarist. On Oct. 8, he has an Oktoberfest party planned.
During the devastating fires that swept through the Twisp, Wintrop and Methow Valley area in August of 2015, Marver accommodated firefighters and residents who were in danger.
Marver directs his guests to the weekly farmers market on Saturday, which is limited to farmers who reside in Okanogan County. The market is known for its selection of strawberries, blueberries, cherries, Wanatchee Valley apples, local cheeses and an array of local produce.
And it’s a haven for those traveling with their pets as well, with three spacious suites designed for those with their pets in tow, with comfortable beds to enclosed spaces for their safety. The Twisp’s three pet suites offer a private fence and courtyard.
“I realized how important pets are when I received seven inquiries within a week from potential guests who said they would not make a reservation unless their dogs were welcome. I took that seriously,” Marver shared. “There is now one suite for small or medium breed pets, another accommodating two adults and two pets, and the largest — ideal for three adults and two pets. There is a charge for one’s pet, per night.”
Having breakfast here is another reason to spend a few days. The menu features homemade, gluten-free casseroles, showcasing an array of local ingredients. “Today we served fruit parfaits, homemade bread pudding, vegetable quiche and local Blue Star coffee,” Marver said.
This postage-stamp paradise is a three-hour drive from Spokane International Airport. The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has flights to Wenatchee, Wash. and the drive to Twisp from there is 90 minutes.
Rates during the fall foliage begin at $139 per night. Suites include a full kitchen, washer and dryer, an “art wall” featuring local artwork, flat screen Direct TV and complimentary high-speed wireless Internet.
For more information visit twispriverhotelsuites.com or call 855.784.8328.
Follow Pam Price at forbes.com/sites/pamprice.
