The Cedar Creek Grist Mill – Woodland, Washington

Nestled in the forested hills east of Woodland, The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a beautifully preserved piece of Pacific Northwest history. Built in the late 1800s, this working museum gives visitors a rare look inside a fully functional, water-powered grist mill — one of the only ones of its kind still operating in Washington today.

Visitors are welcomed by friendly volunteers who provide a “Working Tour” of the mill in action. Inside, you’ll see huge pulleys and belts whirring above and below as water power turns the grinding stones that produce flour, cornmeal, and even fresh apple cider. Guests often receive free samples to take home — a true taste of history.

No gas or electricity is used — the mill runs entirely on the natural flow of Cedar Creek. Every volunteer here is passionate about keeping the mill’s story alive and sharing how this 19th-century technology still works today.

Set against a steep, rocky slope at the bottom of Cedar Creek Gorge, the mill is also a breathtaking scenic landmark. It remains the only grist mill in Washington that has maintained its original structural integrity, still mills with stones, and is powered solely by water. Beside it stands a covered bridge, built in 1994, which adds to the site’s charm and continues to draw visitors from across the country.

Seasonal and Annual Events

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, celebrating heritage, community, and the joy of handmade food. Each event features live milling demonstrations and free samples prepared on-site by volunteers. Popular events include:

• Bread Day – Freshly baked breads made from flour milled on-site.
• Strawberry Shortcake Day – Enjoy homemade shortcake topped with sweet local strawberries.
• Blueberry Pancake Day – Watch flour being milled and enjoy delicious pancakes made right at the mill.
• Treat Day – A fun day filled with baked goodies and sweet surprises.
• Cornbread Day – See cornmeal ground by waterpower and sample warm, fresh cornbread.
• Apple Cider Pressing Day – The most popular event of the year! Visitors can help press apples into fresh, crisp cider using the mill’s traditional machinery.

Each celebration showcases the mill’s living history and brings the community together in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

A Living Piece of History

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is more than just a historic landmark — it’s a living museum, lovingly maintained by dedicated volunteers. Every spin of the wheel and every grain of flour tells a story of craftsmanship, ingenuity, and preservation. Whether you visit for the history, the beauty of the gorge, or one of the mill’s famous events, the Cedar Creek Grist Mill offers an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Yearly Events

Plan a Visit

C’mon by to experience the tropical-inspired oasis along the Columbia River. 

Welcome to the latest McMenamins property, Kalama Harbor Lodge, nestled between Kalama’s landmark totem poles and the marina at the Port of Kalama. Inspired by the Hawaiian heritage of John Kalama, the property is reminiscent of the Pioneer Inn in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii. Whether in the Cloud Bar atop the building, with a birds-eye view and the signature Three Rocks Rum Daiquiri, or enjoying free live music in the Lounge before wandering out to a firepit alongside the river, you’re sure to feel the relaxation of an island vibe while taking in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Stay the night in one of the 40 guestrooms with private bathrooms and individual lanais, most of which have a river view and welcome pets. Take a moment to read the posted historical accounts of each room, such as the Doty Fish Co. story in Room 208, or The Cowlitz Tribe in Room 206.

The Pub and Harbor Lounge – which houses the glassed-in Holoholo Room -- also allows for expansive fair-weather dining with a wrap-around outdoor patio. Enjoy free live music in the Harbor Lounge on select weeknights as you dine on Cedar Plank Salmon or the Expedition Elk Burger. Watch our brewers through the large front window as they craft the Pau Hana Gold Ale and more in the seven-barrel brewery, just inside the main door. Step inside Harbor Lodge Market to find McMenamins gear and handcrafted beverages, including growler fills, espresso, and bottles to-go.

Follow the path paralleling the river to discover Ahles Point Cabin, and warm up next to a fireplace inside or out, enjoying a handcrafted ale while watching boats come and go.

Historical significance and artifacts abound throughout, such as the serpent carving from a Chinook artist, and watch for masks peering at you, along with other artifacts from the Northwest and many tropical islands. Look even further for two secret rooms….
Consider Kalama for your next meeting and event, or upcoming wedding. Our Old 97 Private Events room(s) are for up to 120 people (standing). For more information and to inquire about booking private events, please visit our events website.

Similar architecture can be found today in Kalama in an 1870s structure that was the Northern Pacific Railway's hospital. John Kalama -- originally of Kula, Maui -- lived in the area as an employee of the Hudson's Bay Company. The Kalama River and the city both bear his name. Descendants of John Kalama are members of the Nisqually and Warm Springs Tribes.