The name Enumclaw comes from a Salish Native American word that means “place of evil spirits.” It was likely used to describe Enumclaw Mountain, which is located about 6 miles from the city. One of the first settlers in the area was Allen L. Porter, who claimed 320 acres in 1853. After troubled relations with the natives that culminated in his cabin being burned to the ground in 1855, Porter left the area, never to return.
The area was once again homesteaded in 1879, this time by Frank and Mary Stevenson. By 1885, the Northern Pacific Railroad routed through the area. The Stevensons built a hotel and gifted lots for use as a general store and saloon, hoping to encourage growth. The town was originally named Stevensonville after the founders, but the homesteaders refused the honor and the name Enumclaw was suggested. The city was incorporated in 1913.
Today, Enumclaw's downtown is filled with small local shops, services, and restaurants thanks to the city's refusal to welcome big box stores. Five major employers are based in Enumclaw, and the city's tourism is largely focused on its proximity to Mount Rainier National Park and Crystal Mountain ski area.
Whatever your reason for visiting Enumclaw, it's important to find the right accommodation that lets you explore everything this beautiful location has to offer.
When would be the best time to visit Enumclaw, Washington?
Washington State is notorious for its rainfall, which occurs primarily from October through early July. Those hoping to avoid getting drenched may want to visit in late summer, but keep in mind that it can rain all year. Packing an umbrella and rain gear is always a smart option when visiting Enumclaw.
High temperatures in July and August average 77 degrees, which is perfect for exploring the outdoors. These are also the city's driest months. Although summer brings ideal weather, you may want to book your hotel reservation weeks in advance, as rooms are more in demand during peak tourist season. You'll also pay more for a room in the summer as opposed to the spring and fall shoulder seasons.
Thanks to nearby skiing and snow recreation, winter is also a popular time to visit Enumclaw. Given the city's location near Crystal Mountain, Washington State's premier ski area, you'll still pay a premium for lodgings from November through early March. Snowfall in Washington can be heavy, and the mountains often experience rains even in the winter, so pack accordingly and book refundable flights and hotels in case inclement weather cancels your travel plans.
If you don't mind the rain, spring and fall offer the lowest hotel rates throughout the state. You may not want to explore the outdoors much, given the notorious rainfall, but the area offers plenty of indoor attractions, shops, and restaurants to make your visit worthwhile.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Enumclaw, WA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Enumclaw, WA. Analyze these illustrations to determine the least expensive time to book a room in Enumclaw throughout the year.
What luxury hotels are in Enumclaw, WA?
4 Star Average Prices: $192.20
If you're looking for more upscale amenities near Enumclaw, you'll need to consider accommodations in surrounding areas.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Auburn is a solid choice offering a 24-hour fitness facility, 24-hour indoor pool, spa tub, business center, convenience store, newsstand, lobby fireplace, and complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, minifridges, microwaves, pillowtop beds, work desks, hairdryers, and toiletries. Suites offer more space as well as full kitchens.
Best Western Plus Mountain View Auburn Inn is an eco-friendly nonsmoking hotel with spacious rooms and ample amenities. Enjoy an indoor pool, a spa tub, concierge services, a gift shop, and a complimentary shuttle service that takes you to the nearby shopping center or casino. You'll also love the complimentary buffet breakfast, express checkout, 24-hour business center, and ample self-parking. Guest rooms include flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, toiletries, hairdryers, desks, and phones with free local calls.
Located about 10 miles from Enumclaw, Holiday Inn Express Suites Sumner is a highly rated hotel close to Mike N Terry's Outdoor Fun Park. The property features fitness facilities, an indoor pool, a spa tub, a business center, free Wi-Fi access, an event space, ample parking, and a newsstand. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning. Suites include flat-screen TVs, DVD players, minifridges, microwaves, work desks, and extra chairs. Some also offer sofas in separate sitting areas.
Where are Enumclaw, Washington budget-friendly hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $133.74
Travelers who need a budget-friendly hotel in Enumclaw should consider Rodeway Inn. This simple but highly rated lodging offers an outdoor pool, a 24-hour front desk, guest laundry facilities, oversized-vehicle parking, a picnic area, and pet-friendly accommodations. Guests can also enjoy discounted use of a nearby fitness center. Each hotel room features a private patio or balcony, complimentary wireless internet access, a hairdryer, and free toiletries.
There are limited accommodations in Enumclaw, so finding an affordable option might require you to look at hotels in nearby communities. Located less than 8 miles from Enumclaw, Econo Lodge Buckley offers a seasonal outdoor pool, free breakfast, laundry facilities, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Guest rooms feature microwaves, minifridges, hairdryers, work desks, coffee makers, and phones with free local calls.
Days Inn by Wyndham Auburn is located just under 10 miles from Enumclaw, but it offers affordable rates that are worth the drive. Enjoy a free breakfast, an outdoor pool, a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, ample self-parking, and free Wi-Fi. Guest rooms come standard with flat-screen TVs, microwaves, desks, and safes, plus you can request a complimentary crib when needed.
