North Idaho Itinerary: 7 Days of Lakes, Mountains & Adventure

Ever since I visited the Sawtooths for a week in 2020, Idaho has been one of my favorite states to explore. It feels so wild and is ripe for exploration. And that’s precisely what I did on my most recent North Idaho road trip.

Having the opportunity to return to the state and explore a new area, meet friendly people, and experience the beauty of nature is truly unbeatable.

This North Idaho itinerary has everything you’ll need for a great trip. Mountains, lakes, great food, golf, and so much more to satisfy all types of travelers. I had a wonderful time in the Idaho Panhandle and hope this trip inspires you to take a drive and experience this wild and beautiful scenery as well.

How to Spend an Epic 7 Days in North Idaho

I had heard one of the top things to do in the area was hitting the links, and it did not disappoint.

For those who need a little warm-up, an indoor golf simulator is available. This was massively helpful for me, who had been sitting for hours.

The course? Magnificent.

The front nine is groomed and pristine, while the back nine has a more natural feel (and a higher chance of losing a ball in the rough). This contrast keeps you on your toes and makes it a bit more interesting.

My playing partner was Drew, the course’s Golf Director. He provided a fantastic rundown of the course, what it’s like to live in Post Falls, and, more importantly, gave me great tips throughout the round.

Although I didn’t keep score, I played surprisingly “well,” considering I hadn’t played a round in eight months. Better yet, I had a great time and remembered how much I like golfing.

That evening, I enjoyed dinner at The Republic Kitchen and Taphouse and then headed down to the Spokane River to take in a gorgeous sunset.

• Where to Stay: The Suites at Prairie Falls
• Where to Eat: Republic Kitchen and Taphouse
• What I did: Golf, Dinner, and enjoyed the sunset at Q’emiln Park

(I’ll blame being stiff from the day prior.)

This course’s claim to fame is that it is the longest course in the United States at almost 8,300 yards. For comparison, the Augusta National Club, where The Masters is played, is 7,500 yards. Its ninth hole is almost 750 yards, and from the blacks, it’s 888 yards.

After a quick lunch, I met up with a local who knows the area and had some gear to allow me to go rock climbing. The Community Forest features over 100 climbing routes and numerous trails. You could spend multiple summers here and not do everything!

It had been years since I last went rock climbing, so the first route we did on the Outback Wall ate me up. I honestly couldn’t lift my arms and failed to complete it. We moved a couple of routes to the left, dropping the difficulty. This change was huge. On the new route, I was able to cruise my way up (and lift my self-esteem at the same time).

Three hours later, with the sun baking us from above and 90+ degree temperatures draining our energy, we slowly walked back to the car, taking in the views of the Spokane River rushing through the Post Falls South Dam.

For hikers, the area is gorgeous, with plenty of loops available in the 3 to 6-mile range.

Post Hike/Climb Brews at Post Falls Brewing

I always enjoy trying local breweries and couldn’t pass up Post Falls Brewing. As I normally do, I got a flight with a couple of IPAs, a stout, and a wheat beer, and relaxed after a hectic, multi-sport day!

• Where to Stay: Find other hotel options near Post Falls.
• Where to Eat: Breakfast at Anchored Coffee & Bakery, Lunch at La Pinata, Beers at Post Falls Brewing, Dinner at India House
• What to do: Golf, Hike and Climb, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, or Boating on the Spokane River

On the way to Priest Lake is the town of Spirit Lake. It’s a great place to stop, stretch your legs, and see the physical Spirit Lake. If you’re up for a hike, check out the Empire Trails. For those who want to get on the water, grab a kayak and enjoy the views!

Sixty minutes from Spirit Lake is the gorgeous Priest Lake. Everyone in Post Falls raved about it, so expectations were high. Thankfully, they were accurate.

I quickly checked into The Inn at Priest Lake and took a moment to decompress after the drive. After a quick bite, I headed out to explore the eastern side of the lake.

Hunt Creek Falls

First up was finding Hunt Falls. The route on Google Maps is not accurate. This is where you’ll want to park. (You’ll want high clearance, fyi.) In late May, the falls were roaring. Thankfully, the mist helped cool me off, as it was toasty. From where I parked to the falls was nearly flat and not more than a quarter-mile.

This is much more of a photography spot as there’s not much to do other than see it.

Priest Lake: Indian Creek

Just up the road from the falls is Priest Lake Indian Creek. I wanted to see the lake and dip my toes in. To access the lake, there’s a small day fee you can pay at the visitor center.

Once I reached the beach, I couldn’t believe how clear the lake was. It was magnificent. I remember telling myself, “Now I see why this place gets great reviews.” I didn’t fully jump in but waded out enough to cool off.

I highly recommend this spot for camping or general day use.

Other nearby hikes:

• Woodrat Trail
• Lakeshore Trail
• Lakeview Mountain
• Viewpoint Trail
• Upper Priest Lake Trail

Dinner at Moose Knuckle BBQ

I cannot pass up BBQ, and Moose Knuckle was right across the street from my lodging, so it was a combination I couldn’t resist. Once there, I learned they do ribs on Friday, and lucky for me, it was a Friday! The portions were huge, and the taste was mouthwatering. So, as you’re planning your north Idaho road trip, try to be in Priest Lake on a Friday!

Sunset on Sundance Mountain… sort of

After dinner, I got ready for sunset. I had lofty goals to do it on the top of Sundance Mountain, which overlooks Priest Lake. Let me say, this road is no joke.

When they say four-wheel drive and high clearance, they mean it. And my golly, are there some steep sections. Sadly, the road was snowed in about a mile from the top. I ended up getting out and trying to hike the rest of the road, but mosquitoes and conditions kept me from reaching the top.

Still, I got my drone up, and the views were pristine! I can see why it’s one of the best spots for watching the sunset in the area.

• Where to Stay: The Inn at Priest Lake
• Where to Eat: Dinner at Moose Knuckle BBQ
• What to do: Enjoy Priest Lake, Hunt Creek Falls, and Sundance Mountain

I personally only spent one night in Priest Lake, but for most people, I think you’ll want two.

If you’re there in the summer, with hiking trails fully melted out, this is what I’d do! First, grab breakfast at Tyree Coffee + Goods. Then, head out on a harder hike into the Selkirk Mountains!

Great hiking suggestions for higher elevation areas, 4×4 likely needed:

• Lookout Mountain
• Upper Standard Lake
• Hunt Lake
• The Wigwams

Before heading out, I spent the morning at the Ledgewood Picnic Area (near Elkins Resort). As you head out there, you’ll pass through the Bismarck Meadows. While you can’t access it, keep an eye out for wildlife! I saw a few deer on the drive.

• Where to Stay: The Inn at Priest Lake
• What to do: Hike, boat, and enjoy the water

While I only had 24 hours in Bonners Ferry, I thoroughly enjoyed myself! (I would recommend two nights in Bonners Ferry or maybe a night in nearby Sand Point/Ponderay for easier access to the hiking in the Selkirk Mountains. See my list of hikes to do further down in the article.)

Chasing Waterfalls – Snow Creek Falls & Myrtle Falls

I spent the middle part of the day chasing waterfalls.

I hiked two miles to Upper and Lower Snow Creek Falls. It’s located on a dirt road that’s in excellent condition. Again, the water was rushing, and it was quite the sight. The trail was super easy, with slight elevation gain (350 total feet) on the way back, and doable for families.

I then headed towards the Kootenai Wildlife Refuge to explore Myrtle Falls. This one’s even shorter. I clocked it around 0.9 miles round trip. From the parking lot to the bridge is basically paved, with the last 0.2 miles being on dirt.

I loved this area so much that I drove through it twice! Starting at the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge Education Center, there is a 4.5-mile Auto Drive that allows you to see the wilderness area. It’s a pristine area and incredibly peaceful.

Right before sunset, I watched a storm roll in, creating a dramatic scene. Additionally, I saw numerous deer grazing, and the sounds of birds flying around were delightful. I ended the evening photographing a bald eagle from across the river.

• Where to Stay: North Haven Campground (Book via HipCamp or on Expedia)
• Where to Eat: Mugsy Tavern
• What to do: Snow Creek Falls, Myrtle Falls, Kootenai Wildlife Refuge

NOTICE: A restoration project is underway during summer 2025 and beyond, affecting the Autoroute and other areas. Learn more details here.

Exploring the Sawtooths? Read about my awesome backpacking trip to Alice Lake

The next morning, I jumped on a flightseeing tour over the Selkirks with Northern Air. With the lack of hiking opportunities, I still wanted a chance to get into the mountains and see the sights. With plenty of snow still lining the alpine slopes, it was a picturesque view throughout.

My pilot, Nicole, did a phenomenal job pointing out landmarks and sharing the history and fun facts about the area.

After my morning flight, I headed back south. It was time to be on the water. Both of these locations are within 15 minutes. Hayden Lake is less busy, while Coeur d’Alene can be busier than you can imagine.

• Where to Stay: Lodging Near Hayden | Lodging in Coeur d’Alene
• Where to Eat: Crafted Tap House + Kitchen
• What to do: Boating on Hayden Lake or Lake Coeur d’Alene, bike on the North Idaho Centennial Trail, Hike around the Mineral Ridge Scenic Area

• Where to Stay: Explore Lodging in the area
• Where to Eat: Casa de Oro Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, The Grapple, Timber Lodge Café
• What to do: Check out Crystal Lake for hiking, a 9-hole golf course, biking, Hobo Cedar Grove, biking on the Route of the Hiwawatha or Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, Emerald Creek Garnet Area.

History buffs will appreciate guided mine tours like the Crystal Gold Mine and museums in historic Wallace, including the Bordello Museum and Railroad Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy ATV trails, fishing, and kayaking on the Coeur d’Alene River, and seasonal huckleberry picking.

• Where to Stay: Find Lodging in Wallace | Find Lodging in Kellogg
• Where to Eat: Radio Brewing Company (Kellogg), Cogs Gastropub (Wallace), The Fainting Goat (Wallace)
• What to do: Explore Silver Mountain, Bike the Route of the Hiawatha Trail (rentals available), Bike the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, Mine Tour, Fishing, Kayaking, ATV

Easy Booking: Expedia.com | Hotels.com | VRBO
Need Gear: Find it on REI.com
Find Awesome Tours: Viator.com or GetYourGuide.com
Follow on Instagram: @Alecoutside

What you need to know about a North Idaho Itinerary

Road Trip Gear to Consider on your North Idaho Itinerary

Need to outfit your car for the upcoming road trip? Consider some of these:

• Roof Rack
• First Aid Kit
• Snacks and extra water
• Gear box
• Bike Hitch
• Bug spray
• Rolling duffel bag

When is the best time to plan your North Idaho Itinerary?

As always, this depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to go hiking in the mountains, July through October is your gold mine. If you want bald eagles and other wildlife, the shoulder seasons might be more your jam.

And then, if you want fewer crowds and lower prices, another reason to center your North Idaho itinerary on the shoulder season and non-holiday weekends.

I was chatting with a woman at The Inn at Priest Lake, and I asked about it being quiet. She said things don’t pick up there until July 1.

That said, I am happy to share the hikes I had in mind. They’re gorgeous and will give you plenty to see!

• Harrison Lake – 4.5 miles
• Roman Nose Lake – 4 miles
• Beehive Lakes – 7 miles
• Chimney Rock – 10 miles
• Scotchman Peak – 8 miles
• Clifty Peak – 4 miles

Top Things to Do Around Coeur D’Alene

While I didn’t get to Coeur D’Alene this trip, I visited back in 2022. We stayed on Hayden Lake and got out and about to see the sights. Here’s a brief recap of some things to do while you’re there! It’s a must-see area on any North Idaho itinerary.

• Rent a boat and enjoy a day on Lake Coeur d’Alene
• Get Jetskis on Hayden Lake (also go swimming)
• Hiked around the Mineral Ridge Scenic Area
• Rented bikes and rode from downtown Coeur D’Alene to Higgen Point on the North Idaho Centennial Trail

While you can see a deer’s eye when the headlights shine at them, that doesn’t work for moose. This makes them stealthy at night, and you definitely don’t want to hit a moose while driving.

Final Thoughts on this North Idaho Itinerary

It had been almost three years since I last visited Idaho. And it sure felt good to get back to one of the most wild and natural states we have. Leaving the big city life behind and spending time in the mountains and smaller towns was fantastic.

I know that not many people visit Idaho, but once you start exploring, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t been here before. I hope this North Idaho itinerary helps plan an epic road trip. Because after seeing these sights, I know you’ll love it too!

Until next time, adventurers, stay safe.

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