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COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat

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Property grounds
Property grounds
Property grounds
Property grounds
Property grounds

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Cougar, WA
  • Place, Lewis River
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Ape Caves
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Place, Ape Cave Lava Tubes
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat

In the heart of Cougar WA. Central to the best variety of year round recreation the PNW has to offer. From the comforts of this cozy retreat access all your favorite outdoor recreational activities within minutes. If you want to do it…. This is where to find it!
Walking distance to Bar & Grill, stores and Yale Lake / Cougar Park.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest, there are almost 1,500 miles of trails on the forest open to hiking, biking, ect.
Mount St. Helens Nation Volcanic Monument, open for climbing year round and offers some of the most popular snow-parks for snowmobiling/cc-skiing enthusiast. Be sure to visit Lava Canyon!
Ape Cave lava tubes (10 miles), which formed about 2,000 years ago and is open year round.
Marble Mountain Snopark (4.5 miles) The trip to June Lake is one of the most popular ski tours from the Marble Mountain Snopark. If the snow is good, the skiing is easy. Other skiing and snowshoeing options are available, and the snopark also serves as a base for hiking and climbing trips. Marble Mountain Snopark is the hub for snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers on the southern slopes of Mount St. Helens. Adequate snow cover for skiing can usually be found from December through March most years. The snow at the snopark is seldom very dry and often changeable, so it’s generally best to be riding on no-wax skis. Most days are skiable here if you’re prepared for the conditions.
The Falls (34 miles) Lower Lewis River Falls, the Middle Falls, and the Upper Lewis River Falls.

Local Fish
Variety of trout, Bull Trout, Dolly Varden, Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Silver Salmon, Kokanee, Northern pike minnow, Sculpin & Tiger Muskie, Coastal Cutthroat, Steelhead.

Boat Ramps & Recreation
YALE LAKE RESERVOIR
Cougar Camp (1 mile), restrooms and showers, parking for 180 vehicles, 15 picnic tables, and a one-lane boat ramp.
Beaver Bay (3.5 miles), restrooms and showers, parking for 40 vehicles, 6 picnic tables, and a one-lane boat ramp.
Yale Park (2 miles), restrooms, 30 picnic sites, parking for 130 cars and 80 trailers, a four-lane boat ramp and a beach swim area.
Saddle Dam (9 miles), restrooms, parking, picnic tables, swimming area and boat launch ramps.
LAKE MERWIN
Cresap Bay (8.5 miles), restrooms and shower, 20 picnic tables, a two-lane boat ramp and a beach swim area.
Speelyai Bay (8.5 miles), restrooms, 25 picnic tables, parking for 250 vehicles, a two-lane boat ramp and a beach swim area.
Merwin Park (20 miles), restrooms, 135 picnic tables, parking for 250 vehicles, and a beach swim area.
SWIFT DAM RESERVOIR
Power Canal (7 miles), parking to fish at canal and two developed recreation facilities at the east end of the reservoir. Swift Forest Camp has restrooms a two-lane boat ramp with parking spaces and a day use beach swim area. Eagle Cliff Park has restroom, parking and is a walk in park with picnic tables and is a cool place with secluded feeling.
MERRILL LAKE
Merrill Lake Camp (6.5 miles), restrooms, parking, boat launch, catch and release fly fishing.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 1 total
Must be approved by host
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Parking available for 2-3 vehicles. for Additional
If approved your pet must be house trained . Your

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Cougar

Located in Cougar, this holiday home is in the city centre and on a river. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and Cedar Creek Grist Mill are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Ape Caves and Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Johnston Ridge Observatory and Pomeroy Living History Farm are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Cougar, WA

What's nearby

  • Lewis River - 3 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Ape Caves - 13 min drive - 18.5 km
  • Ape Cave Lava Tubes - 16 min drive - 21.8 km
  • Marble Mountain Sno-Park - 17 min drive - 24.5 km
  • Mount St. Helens - 23 min drive - 33.3 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Cougar Bar And Grill - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪The Lone Fir Cafe - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Red's espresso - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Bigfoot’s Lodge - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Frosty's Broasted Chicken & Burgers - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 1 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat?

As of 24 March 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat on 25 March 2026 start from NZ$377, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is COUGAR House -Mt St Helens / Yale Lake Retreat located?

Located in the heart of Cougar, this holiday home is within 12 miles (20 km) of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Ape Caves and Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Ape Cave Lava Tubes is 11.9 mi (19.2 km) away.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kyle F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great access to lakes
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Travis A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome property, great house and amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome place, will be back

Awesome place, will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenifer W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paddle and fishing adventure

Great little cabin like get away.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mary Ann

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Very cool place
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very cozy and excellent host.

We will definitely be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dann O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house in cougar

Great place to get away for everything and enjoy being away from the busy city.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house, enough room to spread out in. Love the 2 bathrooms. It's in a quiet area but the little stores around the corner do have whatever you need (within reason). Caretakers are right across the street in case you need anything.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

dorcas m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ape caves adventure

The place was perfect for our family of 6. The host was very responsive and considerate! We really enjoyed the outdoor hangout space. Thanks again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thaine E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cougar house

House was nice, perfect size. Hot tub is actually a jet tub but all in all a good time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary Ann B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy cabin in Cougar

Cozy little cabin close to everything we needed. Lovely private outdoor space which really added to the experience. Good communication with Troy. Internet a bit wonky at times, but we worked it out!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Bridget S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Needs some TLC outside

Great proximity to the Lake and Mt Saint Helens trails. Very close to a conscience store and bar/grill. The garden and outdoor space needed some spring cleaning and the outside patio chair cushions were ripped and dirty. Inside was cozy and we had everything we needed. We were disappointed there was only a jetted bath tub and not a hot tub like advertised. Owner was quick to respond when we got there and answered our questions. Our overall stay was good and it beat sleeping in a tent.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cougar/Mt.Saint Helens Stay 2025

We had one of the best times at this small little gem! Cozy tucked away with plenty of privacy. The way the house is set up outside was a hit for me. As I like to spend most of my time outside. Although it was small it was very functional.. The house keeper lives nearby and gave us some great info on what to see and how to get there! She and her husband are very nice people!!! Would definitely stay there again! Host was great answering questions right away with a quick phone call.The beauty of this area and the location of this house is exactly how I pictured it would be..!! Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a get away in the mountains!! 5 stars all the way!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Fred C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet spot right in Cougar.

It is a clean property with all the things you need including air conditioning.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anjali D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great snowy stay!

Had a great time at the cabin! Was very well situated and lots of room for 4 adults. One room has a large bed and a bunk bed and the other has a queen size bed with an ensuite. Cooking with the hot plates and the tabletop oven went well and it was nice to have a small dishwasher too. Would love to return in summer when we can enjoy the lake!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Kate F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Easy access to Lewis River

It was pretty much as described.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cool place!

Cute, eclectic place with enough amenities to make it comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elena J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lake escape

We spend 3 days in this beautiful cozy house on the lake and we just LOVED it! The house was perfect size, crispy clean and cute decorated. We made a delicious dinner on the fancy BBQ and enjoyed the fire. It was great that we could use all the kayaks, paddling boards and had fun on the water. Thank you and we will be back!!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hwaing H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A cozy place

It's neat and cozy with a beautiful front yard and patio.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Walda C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful place

This is a wonderful place to stay. We had a family reunion group and it exceeded our expectations. Comfortable, peaceful, wonderful memorabilia that is extremely entertaining. Plan on returning!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Patricia D.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location for a Mount St. Helens Adventure

Our family very much enjoyed our extended weekend at this cozy site. The fire pit was especially enjoyed by our younger members and the small enclosed yard was much appreciated by our dogs. A great location for exploring the southeast side of the mountain.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeanette E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to get a break from quaranteening.

My family was looking for a place to stay to take a break from quaranteening. Cougar House is just the right place. It's cozy and homey. It was very welcoming as soon as we stepped-in. The house is rustic in design and yet modern. There is no stove but the cook top is enough to cook eggs and pancakes. We were given the wrong codes to enter the house, without cell signal, we struggled to find a way to contact Troy. Wifi connection is 90% reliable so after we figure that out, we were able to contact him and was able to get in. We were being cautious due to COVID so we checked the cleanliness first. We found some leftover condiments in the fridge and was expecting the garbage to be empty. It wasn't full, but empty juice bottle and some paper towels. There are also some leftover shampoo and soap in the shower. Turned out, past renters have been doing that and Troy said that if it not expired, they just keep them to help out new renters. We bought or own groceries and also left what we ddn't use. The town itself is very small, has their own convenience store and a couple of restaurant. Because of covid most of places we want to visit are closed, but the kids had a blast spending time in the lake. All in all, we had fun. We will probably plan to go back after COVID.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great House for a Small Group

This house was the perfect fit for a group of 4 friends and I. It had everything we needed to cook and BBQ. It is also within about a 5 minute drive of two parks on Yale Lake.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jarod Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic

Great place, great host. Fantastic weekend!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mt. St Helens stay in Cougar, WA

Very pleasantly surprised with our stay! It was just perfect for us. Clean, lovely accommodations. The owners have made sure that you have about everything you need. The only thing that we noticed missing was a stove and they made sure you had a hot plate which worked great. If you wanted to heat up something like lasagna ( baked ) foods you likely could do it in the microwave. They also had a barbecue grill and heated pan available. There was also a super barbecue pit, kayaks, games. We didn't miss anything! We had all our meals right in Cougar House it was so nice. It is located near beautiful Yale lake. We spent our weekend and visited the Ape Caves and Windy Ridge.. The drive to windy ridge takes long as it is up hill but the drive back was half the time going. Just keep that in mind. Definitely recommend both. We hope to return and highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

About the host

Hosted by Troy S Zuercher

Host profile image
Brothers, Partners, Best friends

Why they chose this property

Great Location, Cozy Accommodations. Completely Remolded.

What makes this property unique

Year round PNW recreation, each season brings a variety of outdoor opportunities.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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