About Us

We never intended to start a brewery. But sometimes, the best stories begin unexpectedly. Backwoods Brewing was born out of a deep-rooted love for craft beer, passed down from our dad, who started brewing at home after long days at the sawmill in Carson, Washington. Those evenings spent experimenting with small-batch recipes in the shadow of towering trees and the Columbia River Gorge laid the foundation for what would become our family's passion project.

After college, we returned home, drawn by the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest—the sharp peak of Mount Hood, the crisp waters of the Columbia, and the rugged wilderness. Carson's charm and challenges shaped us; it's a place where creativity and hard work thrive. We built our first tiny brewery by hand, using raw lumber and sheer determination, sharing our creations with friends and family. Little did we know, those gatherings would grow into something much larger.

Today, Backwoods Brewing has expanded from a hand-built, one-barrel system to a thriving family-owned business with three locations: our cozy hometown brewpub in Carson, our urban retreat in Portland, and our family-friendly space in Hillsboro. Each location reflects our commitment to pairing exceptional beer with unforgettable hospitality. From our famous smoked brisket in Carson to loaded tots in Portland and hearty burgers in Hillsboro, we ensure that every visit is as satisfying as the beer in your glass.

Speaking of beer, it's what started it all. We craft every pint with the same passion that inspired us in the beginning. Whether it's our signature Logyard IPA, seasonal favorites like S'mores Stout and Blueberry Wheat, or soon-to-be classics like Original Lumberjack IPA, each brew tells a story of the Pacific Northwest.

At Backwoods Brewing, we're more than just a brewery—we're a family. Our team is an extension of that, sharing our values of hard work, hospitality, and the sheer joy of crafting something from scratch. So, whether you're savoring a pint at one of our locations or enjoying our beer from afar, know that every sip carries the spirit of Backwoods: bold, welcoming, and hand-crafted with love.

Come visit us and taste the adventure. Cheers!

-Steve and Tom Waters