6 Most Charming River Towns in Idaho
The gem state of Idaho is famed for the abundance of water bodies. The locals enjoy panoramic views with the bonus of flourishing businesses. Most of northern Idaho’s economy is supported by forestry. From the long rivers like Snake and Bear to shorter rivers like Bigwood and Blackfoot, all the Idaho rivers collectively contribute to the breathtaking landscape views.
This article reveals some interesting facts about six charming river towns in Idaho. Although there are many more splendid river towns to explore, consider visiting these six to discover how stunning nature can be!
Swan Valley
A small river town in Bonneville County, Swan Valley is located at the base of the Grand Tetons. To the south of the town lies the Caribou Mountains while to the north is the Big Hole Range. The Palisades Range lies to the east. Below Palisades Dam lies the scenic Swan Valley.
Like most other river towns in Idaho Swan Valley is known for its picturesque landscapes. It is part of the prestigious Yellowstone ecosystem that has long been known for its geysers and world-acclaimed bison herds. The town is also home to all types of animals from moose and elk to various bird species.
This river town is not just a popular tourist destination but a perfect place for off-roading, fly-fishing, rafting, kayaking, and enjoying nature. Trophy trout fishing is a big fascination here, plus there is always something to look forward to for the outdoor adventure seekers. In winter this river town is excellent for snowmobiling and snowshoeing. During the summer, trails like the Palisades Creek Trail are great outdoor hiking trails that go through wooded areas, waterfalls, and rivers.
Clark Fork
A small river town in Bonner County, Idaho, situated on the banks of the historic Clark Fork River on the eastern shores of Lake Pend Oreille.
It is believed that Meriwether Lewis and William Clark discovered the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness Area during an expedition in the 1800s. The town was eventually named after William Clark during the same “Lewis and Clark Expedition”. The Clark Fork River provides an invigorating lifeline for ranchers who cultivate hay and water livestock along the banks of the river town.
The Clark Fork town's attractions include Cabinet Gorge Dam and Kaniksu National Forest. The town has several restaurants, motels, and retail shops including a grocery store. In Northern Idaho, Clark Fork remains a major source of commerce and recreation.
Challis
The largest town in Custer County, it is referred to as a "base camp" for exploration because it is surrounded by some of Idaho’s best landscapes.
A short drive from the city area takes you to the North Fork of the Salmon River, the White Cloud Mountains, the Lost River Range, and Idaho's highest peak, Mt. Borah. In addition to the Salmon River, the fourth Biggest National Forest, the Salmon-Challis National Forest borders Challis.
Challis Hot Springs, a five-generation, family-owned property is a common tourist attraction for destressing and relaxing. Tourists also drive around Challis to admire and enjoy nature’s landscape, and the architecture of buildings. Other activities to enjoy are camping, fishing, rafting, nature trails, and other outdoor activities.
St. Maries
Located in Benewah County, St. Maries is a quiet town set in an incredibly serene, timbered valley. With an abundance of lakes and rivers in this town, its two major rivers are St Joe’s and St. Maries. The economy of this river town is heavily dependent on forestry.
St Maries is famed for the Trail of the Coeur d’Alene, the most popular bike trail in the western United States! Locals boast about “The Blue Ox” which is a big beer garden without a roof and so, famously labeled as “The Biggest Topless Bar in Idaho”.
The tourist attractions here include nature parks, outdoor activities, and day trips. An interesting activity that tourists and locals enjoy is exploring the stunning scenery and wildlife while cruising on the three-hour tug boat ride. Another popular thing to do is to visit the Hughes House Museum at St. Maries which displays nostalgic historical antiques and pictures of its past. The Cataldo Mission is the oldest building in Idaho and is an architectural marvel that tourists do not want to miss.
White Bird
Nested beneath the beautiful White Bird Hill, the White Bird river town is located in Idaho County. Being in close proximity to both the Salmon River and the Snake River, White Bird is an ideal spot for river adventures like rafting.
The "Floating Bridge" which connects the north and south Idaho, is one of the town's incredible features. Until this day, the bridge remains an iconic part of White Bird's local history and culture. Then there is the Historical Kirkwood Ranch which gives visitors an idea of what life was like in the 1930s.
The nearby countryside is home to owls, deer, elk, mountain lions, coyotes, and even bears. Among the interesting things to do, there are exciting opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats, and also explore outdoor recreational activities. The breathtaking scenery makes it a great place to camp, hike, fish, or hunt.
Kooskia
Known as “The Gateway to the Wilderness” this river town belongs to Idaho County. Clearwater River is the town’s main river. This river town started as a small farming community back in 1895. In the past, Kooskia’s resources were important to loggers, miners, and trappers.
The best part of this river town is that it is calm and quiet. The town has about 700 people and is lush green. While touring around the town in summer, it is a treat to see the green vegetation all around.
The serenity of the misty fall mornings is another charming characteristic of this river town. The bold fall colors, natural wildlife music, and the flowing Clearwater river add to its paradise-like value.
The outdoor enthusiasts in Kooskia enjoy fishing, whitewater rafting, and some impressive hiking trails that lead through well-preserved forests and scintillating rivers.
The beauty of these river towns lies in the fact that they are set against alluring landscapes. Due to the proximity to Idaho, these river towns are perfect for long weekend getaways for tourists from the neighboring states of Nevada, Utah, Montana, Wyoming, and the Canadian province of British Columbia. People from other places also plan advance visits to their favorite river towns in Idaho to get absorbed in nature’s beauty, find the perfect de-stressing holiday, and a restful escape from mundane daily routine.
