A Stevenson Home in the Columbia River Gorge with a Private Trail Through the Old-Growth Forest

Set on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge in Stevenson (Home Valley), this 3,500-square-foot home offers something few properties can: a private trail through a lush, fern-covered canyon leading to a 350-400-year-old Douglas fir, known as the Meditation Tree. Whether you're seeking adventure, quiet reflection, or the practice of Forest Bathing, this is a place to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Skamania Lodge, Beacon Rock State Park, Hamilton Mountain, Falls Creek Falls, the Bridge of the Gods, and Hood River, Oregon, are all a short drive away. Inside are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, sleeping up to 11 guests across six beds; outside, a wraparound deck, Gorge views, landscaped grounds, and forest surroundings.

The Setting

Located on the east end of Stevenson in Home Valley, the home sits on nearly three wooded acres surrounded by forest and native vegetation. A waterfall is built into the landscaping, and a private trail runs through the canyon beneath towering Douglas firs, vine maples, Pacific dogwoods, and native ferns.

The trail leads to the Meditation Tree, an old-growth Douglas fir estimated to be 350-400 years old. It is a place that naturally invites stillness.

Forest Bathing

Originating in Japan, Forest Bathing (shinrin-yoku) is the practice of immersing yourself in nature through all five senses. Rather than hiking with a destination in mind, it is about slowing down, walking mindfully, or simply sitting quietly among the trees.

Listen to birdsong, breathe in the scent of the forest, feel the texture of ancient bark, and watch sunlight filter through the canopy.

Research suggests that spending time this way in nature may help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, support immune function, improve mood, and promote an overall sense of well-being. Whether you spend ten minutes beneath the Meditation Tree or an afternoon in the forest, we invite you to experience nature at its own pace.

The Home

The 3,500-square-foot layout includes a dedicated workspace, full kitchen, large dining table, family room with games including foosball, and a comfortable living area with TV. Central air conditioning, an in-unit washer and dryer, and Wi-Fi throughout make the home well suited for both weekend escapes and longer stays.

Sleeping Arrangements

- Bedroom 1 (main floor): 1 king bed
- Bedroom 2 (lower level): 1 king bed, plus a twin sofa bed
- Bedroom 3 (main floor): 1 queen bed
- Family room (lower level): two queen sleeper sofas

Two full bathrooms serve the home, which comfortably sleeps up to 11 guests across six beds.

Outside

The wraparound deck is a natural gathering place, with panoramic Columbia River Gorge views, landscaped grounds, peaceful forest surroundings, and a BBQ area for outdoor meals.

Below the home, the private canyon trail and walk to the Meditation Tree are what truly set this property apart, offering on-site access to nature that is difficult to find this close to town. The back garden provides additional space to relax and spread out.

The Location

- River access: short drive
- Skamania Lodge: short drive
- Bridge of the Gods / Cascade Locks, OR: short drive across the river
- Beacon Rock State Park: short drive
- Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum: short drive
- Carson Hot Springs Resort & Golf Course: 2 miles, home to a bathhouse over 100 years old with natural hot mineral water
- Backwoods Brewing in Carson: short drive
- White Salmon and Hood River, OR: short drive east
- Downtown Stevenson (Walking Man Brewing, river waterfront): short drive
- Hiking Trails (Hamilton Mountain, Falls Creek Falls, Dog Mountain, Wind Mountain): short drive

A Few Things to Know

- The primary guest must be 25 or older. Check-in is after 4:00 PM, checkout is before 10:00 AM
- The maximum occupancy is eleven guests across six beds
- A rail line runs near the property, and passing trains may be audible at night, which is worth keeping in mind if you're a light sleeper
- The main living areas are located upstairs, and stairs are required
- Pets are welcome
- Carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are installed

Who This Is For

This home is ideal for couples, friends, or families of up to eleven looking to experience the Columbia River Gorge beyond the usual tourist stops. If you value the views, peaceful mornings, a private forest trail, landscaped grounds, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature, whether from the wraparound deck or beneath the ancient Meditation Tree, you'll feel right at home here.

Past guests often describe the property as especially appealing to adults. Families with young children are certainly welcome but should keep in mind the stairs, landscaped rock retaining walls, and canyon trail terrain before booking.