If you live in the Northwest, chances are you’ve heard of Twin Peaks. And if you’ve seen the show, chances are you’ve seen one of the regular settings for the odd universe, The Roadhouse Inn. If you’ve seen the Roadhouse, chances are you’ve wanted to visit it. Well, did you know you can? You just need to head to Snoqualmie.
The small town, of course, is famous for its skiing, but any good outdoorsperson knows the best part of outdoorsing is coming inside and sitting with a comforting glass of something to warm your bones. Snoqualmie, robust with snow and mountains, is equally rich with finely crafted brews and places to hang out and enjoy them.
One hundred years ago, construction workers built the Roadhouse Inn along a winding logging road in Fall City some 45 minutes east of Seattle. The Inn supplies six charmingly creaky upstairs rooms and a downstairs tavern for tourists and sports fans alike. It is also equipped with a full bar and restaurant with some of the finest Washington beers on tap. The tap list in the dark wood bar includes three choices from Snoqualmie Brewery–the Haystack Hef, the Harvest Moon Oktoberfest, and the delicious Copper Head nitro pale ale—as well as the bright, citrusy Hop Session IPA from nearby Dru Bru on Snoqualmie Pass.
Just a 10-minute drive away is Snoqualmie Brewery, tucked away off Railroad Avenue and boasting 13 taps and one extra for its homemade root beer. The brewery produces mild, non-invasive IPAs and likes to experiment with browns and reds, which is somewhat rare for craft breweries. The taproom is unassuming and serves a delicious pretzel and queso and a plethora of pizzas. At the time of my visit, I tried the fresh-hop IPA, which is bright and sweet and impossible to put down. Another standout is the mango Hef, a perfect entry-level item for those not used to wheat beers.
Some 45 minutes away, on Snoqualmie Pass, you can find the new-ish Dru Bru facility. The spot, which serves many of the local powder hounds, proves to be expert with lighter beer options. Dru Bru is responsible for an exquisite session IPA, and its Alt German-style Copper Ale twists and dances on the palate. The taproom is cozy and lodge-themed, and its owners are always looking to educate when it comes to their passion: beer.
After this short brewery tour, head back to your room at the Roadhouse to debrief or decompress amid a piece of local history, and make time to dine on some bacon fondue fries or one of the five house mac-and-cheeses while washing it down with a glass of Snoqualmie’s finest.
beerhunting@seattleweekly.com
