7 Adventure Packed Experiences in North Idaho You Can’t Miss

Ready for an epic Idaho adventure surrounded by gorgeous mountains, blue lakes, and adrenaline-infusing hiking trails?

North Idaho is calling you, and it is ready to serve you with pure adventure. So are you ready to trade in your couch for a kayak and your typical park run for a sloppy mountain path? Here in Northern Idaho, the dense forests make you question whether Bigfoot actually exists (don't worry, he's nice here), the rocky peaks, put your gym workout to the test, and turquoise lakes possess you with their beauty, magical enough, right? The North Idaho attractions offer a new adventure and everything in between that will leave you yearning for more, whether it's whitewater thrills or serene lakeside sunsets. So apply your sunscreen, put on your hiking boots, get your inner adventurer out, and get ready to redefine what "outdoor fun" means.

The Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars is a magnificent grove of tall majestic cedar trees, some of which are known to be 3,000 years old, and resides in the north of Nordman in Idaho. These giants grow up to 150 feet tall and 12 feet wide, providing a window into the natural world that existed once. It is technically located in Washington but is reachable from Idaho. The grove offers many walking routes, including a simple, kid-friendly path that leads to gorgeous views of Granite Falls waterfall. This grove is a tranquil haven in the majesty of nature and is ideal for anybody wishing to appreciate the beauty of an old forest holding secrets of nature.

Wolf Lodge Campground is located just outside Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and offers its visitors a comfortable and convenient camping experience. This campground offers essential amenities, including RV hookups, a dump station, and a recently updated and clean bathroom facility. The campground staff is exceptionally welcoming and helpful, providing valuable recommendations for local activities. Families will find plenty of things to enjoy, with a well-equipped playground, a dog park, a spacious playfield, and a marina on a nearby stream, perfect to unwind and relax. The campground’s thoughtful amenities and clean environment make it an excellent choice for travelers looking for relaxing yet adventurous places to visit in Northern Idaho.

Get ready for an adventure at Priest Lake State Park, where you can unleash your inner kid at the thrilling 100-foot granite waterslide, which plunges into a small lake below. To reach the slide, park at a designated pull-out area and enjoy a 1.5-mile walk along a rough, gravel road that is best navigated by high-clearance vehicles.

Once you reach the slide, it’s important to use the right side of the slide, as the left side has exposed tree roots that have caused injuries in the past. The rope at the end of the slide may not always be reliable, so it’s a good idea to have someone waiting at the bottom to help catch you, especially if you’re with young children.

For a smoother ride, consider bringing a foam pad to sit on, and don't forget to bring a garbage bag to keep the area clean. Always observe safety precautions and respect the environment to ensure a fun and safe experience for everyone.

Located in the scenic farmlands of Sandpoint, Idaho, Western Pleasure Guest Ranch is one of the top guest ranches in the country. This picturesque destination offers a variety things to do in northern Idaho for every season, making it a perfect spot for both winter retreats and summer vacations. Whether you're looking for an extended all-inclusive stay or just a day trip, the ranch provides a range of fun experiences, from horseback riding and photography workshops to Nordic skiing.

For those visiting in winter, one of the highlights is the two-mile horse-drawn sleigh ride, which is followed by a cozy break with hot cocoa, making for an unforgettable seasonal experience. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Western Pleasure Guest Ranch offers something special for everyone.

If you have kids, get ready to spend several hours at McEuen Park, Coeur d’Alene’s largest playground/park. Located next to Tubbs Hill, McEuen Park offers a splash pad and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation, ideal for family picnics. A unique highlight of the park is the three tall poles holding Osprey nests; these poles once served as baseball field lights. When the city updated the playground, they chose to keep the poles in place, allowing the Ospreys to return and nest each year. For those interested, you can even watch these majestic birds on a live webcam. To conclude, McEuen Park is a perfect mix of fun for kids and natural beauty for all to enjoy.

When traveling to North Idaho, thrill-seekers should make a reservation at Timberline Adventures in Coeur d'Alene for a memorable and adrenaline-infusing experience. This heart-pounding park promises an exciting trip in the sky through the trees with its seven zip lines, two sky bridges, and startling heights of up to 400 feet. Adventure and a dash of whimsy are combined in Timberline Adventures' four different trips, which include a S'mores tour and a special treehouse lunch experience.

Copper Falls and Myrtle Falls are two beautiful wonders of nature located close to Bonners Ferry. A 1.4-mile circular walk leads to Copper Falls, which is a 225-foot waterfall in Kootenai National Forest. A short 0.9-mile out-and-back walk takes you to Myrtle Falls, which has a lovely observation point with breathtaking views of the falls. Visitors can also take advantage of more trails in the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge or they can explore the quaint town of Bonners Ferry while it's up to them. Both walks are perfect for families and anybody looking for kid-friendly outdoor activities in North Idaho.