Back in 1980, Ryan Lake and its adjacent campgrounds and wilderness area was supposed to lie outside the predicted blast zone for the impending eruption of Mount St. Helens. The lake lies a bit more than twelve miles from the mountain, and geologists had designated only 10-mile radius as a "red zone" around the volcano.

But volcanoes don't consult with geologists before cracking open their domes. So, on May 18th of that year, when St. Helens finally erupted, the effects of the blast were felt well beyond their predicted radius. And Ryan Lake was not spared.

Sadly, three campers backpacking through the local complex of trails did not make it out in time.

Today, the area around Ryan Lake remains much as it was immediately after the blast. Toppled trees are everywhere. There is thick ash underfoot, and wherever you walk on the short six-tenths of a mile trail around the lake, you will see evidence of that day.

The grounds have been turned into a self-guided interpretative center. There are signs along the way to inform visitors of the extent of the devastation (one sign sits by a a tree stump, which, turned over on its side, is twelve feet high).

But the signs also outline the forest's ongoing recovery, and the efforts to aid that recovery by the Forest Service, volunteers, and even the timber industry itself.

Nowhere, though, will you see mentioned the three individuals who lost their lives here some thirty-five years ago. But when you visit, you'll be walking in their footsteps.

It is a magnificent place, full of wild beauty and the evidence of nature's ferocious power. And for those three people, who must have loved the wilderness as much as any of us who walk there, I can think of no more fitting memorial.

Find Kettle Falls motels from $82

Bundle & Save
Get more, spend less whenever you see Bundle & Save deals
OneKeyCash
Earn OneKeyCash on all your eligible bookings
Upfront pricing
We are not like the others - we include taxes and fees

Check prices for these dates

Next weekend

In two weeks

In one month

In two months

Our top choices for Kettle Falls motels

Columbia Point Resort

Kettle Falls

Christopher

$75 nightly

Jan 29 - Jan 30

Total with taxes and fees

Benny's Colville Inn

Colville

Peggy

$131 nightly

Jan 19 - Jan 20

Total with taxes and fees

Selkirk Motel

Colville

Edward

$118 nightly

Jan 7 - Jan 8

Total with taxes and fees

View all properties

Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Top Kettle Falls Hotel Reviews

Benny's Colville Inn

10/10 Excellent

"Super pool area. The water was warm! The office is spectacular! A great place to stay!"

Quiet, Comfy Columbia River Viewspot: Full Kitchen, Grill, Yard; Dogs OK

10/10 Excellent

"We had a quick stay for a memorial service on the east side of the state. This house was so welcoming and fit our needs. I LOVE all the touches of Christmas cheer as they took the time to decorate including a tree.This house is close to town and everything you will need. Would love to stay again when we have more time to enjoy the area."

Charming Waterfront Pine Cabin on Curlew Lake

10/10 Excellent

"This was an absolute pleasure to stay at. What a lovely home. The view was stunning. The wildlife on the lake was fun to watch. We got to see baby otters play on the dock. The location is great. Host was extraordinarily friendly and helpful. Seamless check in and out. Beds were comfortable with plenty of extra blankets and pillows. Towels were plentiful and this place was white glove clean. Well exceeding my expectations. We definitely hope to return."

Find out more about Kettle Falls

Kettle Falls Motels information

Number of reviews	1,163
Accommodation	3 Motels
Lowest Price	$82
Highest Price	$144

Frequently asked questions

What are the best Kettle Falls motels, based on reviews?

Columbia Point Resort stands out as an excellent choice for travelers seeking a memorable stay in Kettle Falls, boasting a stellar rating of 9.0. Nestled amidst breathtaking mountain views, this resort offers a serene escape with well-cared-for rooms that make you feel right at home. Guests rave about the attentive service and the friendly setting, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience.

What is the nightly rate for a motel in Kettle Falls?

You can find a great deal from $82 on Kettle Falls motels with Expedia. Typically, prices are higher during popular times – like weekends and holidays – while staying midweek is often cheaper. To find the best nightly rates on Kettle Falls motels, try to be flexible with travel dates, and sort search results by price from low to high.

Is it better to stay in a Kettle Falls motel or hotel?

Motels and Hotels have different perks. When you stay at a motel, you're likely to find free parking and an outdoor pool. Staying overnight at a motel, can be handy when requiring easy road access. You'll often have access to your room from outside, and directly from the parking lot. Hotels generally have room access from inside the building. Motels are also often less expensive than hotels. The word "motel" was coined in 1925 by the owner of the Milestone Mo-Tel in San Luis Obispo, California.

Find Kettle Falls motels from $82

Bundle & Save

OneKeyCash

Upfront pricing

Check prices for these dates

Our top choices for Kettle Falls motels

Columbia Point Resort

Benny's Colville Inn

Selkirk Motel

Top Kettle Falls Hotel Reviews

Benny's Colville Inn

Columbia Point Resort

Quiet, Comfy Columbia River Viewspot: Full Kitchen, Grill, Yard; Dogs OK

Comfort Inn Colville

Selkirk Motel

Modern. Private. Spacious. Fully stocked. Family friendly. Cozy. RV hookup.

Centrally located for all your activities!

Charming Waterfront Pine Cabin on Curlew Lake

Northern Comfort - private, quiet, lake view, mountains

Find out more about Kettle Falls

Kettle Falls Motels information

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia