Mihai G.
Yelp
My review is a little unusual because my experience began before I even set foot in Pinedale. I was put in touch with owners Sofia and Forest by a common friend, and over the course of many emails they proved themselves to be extremely welcoming and gracious. They provided me with useful information not just about their establishment, but also about the town and even about the nearby mountains, which served as the reason why I found myself in Pinedale in July.
Following a successful ascent of Gannett Peak, which is the primary objective for climbers who pass through here, my team and I were in a quandary about where we would spend our first night after 5 long days on the trails. We didn't have a reservation anywhere because we weren't sure what day we would come out (if weather is a factor). With all hotels full, I made a decision to just show up at the Log Cabin Motel and hope for the best.
It was a pleasure to meet Sofia and Forest in person; not only that, we lucked out and got the last cabin available! They hosted us in a rustic cabin that was a little tight for 4 guys, but the availability of space didn't matter much as all we wanted was to clean up and get a good night's rest in a real bed. The bed I was in was comfortable (but anything with a soft cushion would have been comfortable after sleeping in a tent for 4 nights, to be honest), all linen and sheets were clean and arranged professionally.
I happened to be the first one taking the shower, which unfortunately turned out to have a problem with the switch from faucet to showerhead, so the much anticipated blast of hot water from above was only a trickle. When this issue was reported to Forest, he immediately inspected the situation and arranged for repairs the following day (the earliest possible time). This didn't help us much as we were scheduled to take off early next morning, but the prompt response was appreciated.
Sofia and Forest showed their hospitality by inviting some of the guys to shower in a different bathroom, they pampered us with cookies and a round of adult beverages to celebrate our successful climb, and they passed along locals-only knowledge for our next destination (in the Yellowstone area). I found it really cool to stay in the historical establishment that the Log Cabin Motel is - the info on the walls of our rooms about who passed through there was fascinating.
The business is 1 block north of Highway 191 which is biggest street in town, so it gets more quiet and privacy than other lodging options on the main drag. Prices are reasonable, especially if you happen to just show up like we did. The wi-fi was a little slow, but it worked.
After this novel of a review, you'd think I was done, but no. When I got home from my trip, I discovered I was missing a bandana. Though I wasn't sure where I had lost it, I got in touch with Sofia and Forest again and found out they had come across it, but they didn't know whose it was. They then mailed it to me free of charge!
The Log Cabin Motel is a perfect example of a local business that we need more of across this country. More than anything I appreciated the warm interaction with the people behind the business, because more often than not it's how the people treat you that you remember most. Thank you Sofia and Forest!