Mossyrock Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and experience in Mossyrock, Washington with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Mossyrock

Mossyrock is a small town located in the southwestern part of Washington state, in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It’s known for its beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities, as well as its rich history and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape into nature or an adventure-filled vacation, Mossyrock has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Mossyrock

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history and culture, here are some museums and historical sites to visit in Mossyrock:

  • Mossyrock Park: A historic park that was established in the early 1900s and offers a glimpse into the town’s history.
  • Lewis County Historical Museum: A museum that showcases the history of Lewis County, including Mossyrock.
  • Mayfield Dam: One of the largest dams in Washington state that offers a fascinating look at hydroelectric power.

Natural Attractions of Mossyrock: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those looking for outdoor activities and scenic views, Mossyrock offers the following attractions:

  • Mossyrock Dam and Lake: This recreational area is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and camping.
  • Ike Kinswa State Park: This state park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and a beautiful lake perfect for swimming and fishing.
  • Riffe Lake: With over 23 miles of shoreline, this lake is a great spot for boating and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mossyrock

Mossyrock is ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some popular trails to explore:

  • Iron Creek Falls Trail: This scenic trail takes hikers through a dense forest to a beautiful waterfall.
  • Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park: This park offers hiking trails that lead through a forest of petrified Ginkgo trees, some of which are over 200 million years old.
  • Mossyrock Park Trail: This easy trail is perfect for a leisurely hike and offers beautiful views of Mossyrock Dam and Lake.

Best Things to Do in Mossyrock: Activities and Tours

Mossyrock has plenty of activities and tours to offer, here are a few worth trying:

  • White water rafting: Take a white water rafting tour of the nearby Toutle River for an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
  • Horseback riding: Enjoy a peaceful horseback ride through Mossyrock’s countryside.
  • Fishing: Mossyrock’s lakes and streams offer some of the best fishing in the state.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mossyrock

Here’s a seven-day itinerary for discovering the best of Mossyrock:

Day Activity
1 Explore Mossyrock Park and its historic features
2 Hike the Iron Creek Falls Trail
3 Take a white water rafting tour of the Toutle River
4 Visit Mayfield Dam and tour its hydroelectric power plant
5 Rent a kayak and explore Mossyrock Lake
6 Go horseback riding in Mossyrock’s countryside
7 Fish for trout and bass in Riffe Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Mossyrock

Must-Try Dishes

Mossyrock doesn’t have a particularly flashy food scene, but it offers delicious classic American cuisine:

  • Burgers: Visit the Wilderhaus for some delicious, locally sourced burgers.
  • Pizza: Grab a slice from the Pizza Mill and Sub Factory, which is known for its tasty pies.
  • Coffee: Enjoy a cup of coffee from Mossyrock Cafe that overlooks the stunning views of Mossyrock Lake.

Local Beverages

Mossyrock is a small town, but it has a few places where you can enjoy local beers and wines:

  • Mayfield Cellars: A local winery that produces some of the best Washington wines.
  • Iron Goat Brewing: This local brewery produces delicious craft beers that are worth trying.

Where to Stay in Mossyrock: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mossyrock has a handful of accommodation options to choose from for your stay in town:

  • Lake Mayfield Resort and Marina: A hotel with lake-view rooms, a swimming pool, and boat rentals.
  • Timberland Inn & Suites: A hotel that offers comfortable rooms and great amenities, including continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • Mossyrock Cabins: A great option for those seeking an authentic cabin experience.

What to Buy in Mossyrock: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some things you can buy as souvenirs or gifts to take back home:

  • Hiking gear: Mossyrock’s nearby stores carry everything from hiking boots to water bottles.
  • Local wine: Pick up a bottle of wine from Mayfield Cellars to take home.
  • Handmade ceramics: Visit Little Crane Cafe and Pottery to find ceramic bowls, cups, and other handcrafted items.

Local Culture and Customs of Mossyrock

Mossyrock is a small town that prides itself on its unique culture and customs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • People in Mossyrock are friendly: Be prepared for a warm welcome and don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the locals.
  • Respect the natural beauty: Mossyrock’s residents are proud of their beautiful surroundings and strive to keep it clean and undisturbed.
  • Slow-paced lifestyle: Life in Mossyrock moves at a more leisurely pace than some other cities, so embrace the relaxed atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Mossyrock

The best time to visit Mossyrock depends on what you want to do:

  • Spring: If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit Mossyrock is during the spring when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom.
  • Summer: The peak tourist season is during the summer months when the weather is warmest and the lakes are perfect for swimming and boating.
  • Fall: For those who prefer cooler weather, fall can be a great time to visit when the autumn colors start to emerge and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mossyrock

Do:

  • Do explore the natural beauty of Mossyrock.
  • Do try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Do take part in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Don’t assume that everything is open all year round.
  • Don’t forget to bring warm clothing for cooler weather.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mossyrock

Mossyrock is a safe town, but visitors should be aware of potential natural hazards such as sudden changes in weather and the risk of wildlife encounters. Always be prepared and check weather reports before embarking on outdoor activities.

Health in Mossyrock

Mossyrock has a handful of medical clinics to attend to minor health needs. For more serious medical emergencies, patients need to travel to Centralia or Olympia.

Getting to Mossyrock: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mossyrock

The nearest airport to Mossyrock is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is about 90 miles north of the town. Visitors can take a rental car or bus tour from the airport to reach Mossyrock.

Bus Stations Near Mossyrock

Greyhound Bus Line serves the town, with stops at the Texaco Station and the Mossyrock Grocery Store.

Other Options

Driving is the most common way to reach Mossyrock from nearby cities, with Interstate 5 being the major roadway.

How to Get Around in Mossyrock

The best way to get around Mossyrock is by car, either by renting a car or bringing your own. Ride-hail apps like Lyft and Uber are not available in this small town.

Where to Go Next from Mossyrock: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can take from Mossyrock:

  • Olympic National Park: A protected wilderness area with diverse animal and plant life.
  • Mount Rainier National Park: Home to Washington’s highest peak, Mount Rainier, a popular climbing destination.
  • Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument: This area has preserved the devastation and scenery surrounding the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption.

Conclusion

Mossyrock may be a small town, but it offers beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Mossyrock is a great place to explore.