Discovery Beauty in Our Own Backyard July 18, 2024
If you know me even casually, you know I love to travel, experiencing new cultures, sights, sounds, and tastes. Our trip to Europe last year was a dream come true!
Travel to foreign lands, however, is expensive, time consuming, and isn’t my wonderful husband’s favorite! This summer we decided to take at least a once-monthly day trip to experience some of the amazing beauty in our own backyard.
People from all over the world choose North Idaho as a vacation destination, and it offers many opportunities for discovery. Our first day trip took us to Bonners Ferry, Idaho, located less than 30 miles from the Canadian Border. It is the largest city (population around 2,500) and county seat of Boundary County.
Situated in the rich Kootenai Valley, known as the “Nile of the North,” Bonners Ferry was once home to one of the largest lumber mills in the world. Today, the logging industry has waned, but the natural beauty of the area remains. Residents have worked hard to revitalize Bonners Ferry’s downtown, complete with quaint shops and great places to eat.
Following, are photos with brief comments about our day excursion.
We left Coeur d’Alene at 7:30 a.m. on a beautiful June Monday, with travel mugs filled with coffee. Our first stop was an essential “potty break” at picturesque Sandpoint’s City Park, located on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille.
Less than an hour from Sandpoint, we arrived at Bonners Ferry. Ready for caffeine refueling, our first stop was a charming coffee and gift shop located downtown. The organic coffee and fresh homemade blueberry scone we split were amazing. I like unique, privately owned shops, and this one didn’t disappoint.
Next, we drove through lush farmland and meadows, destined for Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge and a recommended short hike to Myrtle Falls. The cerulean sky, filled with sheets of cirrus and puffy cumulus clouds, and wildflowers were breathtaking.
The hike was lovely and coming upon the tiered waterfall was a special reward.
Afterward, I rested and contemplated on a comfy redwood bench, and Ron explored, set up the tripod, and took additional scenic photos.
Blessings on your race,
