Hayden Lake

Posted on February 28, 2014February 23, 2014 Posted in 4-Seasons, Coeur d'Alene, Fall, Family, Friends, Ironman CDA, It's Free, Kids, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Pets, Spring, Summer, Towns, Visitors, WinterTagged Hayden lake fishing, things to do in Hayden idahoLeave a comment

An expert from Sixth Lit Times

Love of Idaho and Vacation Rental Authority are proud to present another story from the 6th grade literature class at Charter Academy.

The Amazing Life in Hayden Lake

By: Sydney

Where can you find fresh water fish and aquatic plants? One place is in the waters of Hayden Lake, Idaho. Many people find these things daily when they’re out fishing in this lake.

If you want to know what fish you’ll find when you’re out fishing on Hayden Lake, here are a few examples of people’s favorites. You could catch a rainbow trout, pumpkinseed, cutthroat trout, or a bullhead catfish. Other favorites that you can find in Hayden Lake include smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, northern pike, or yellow perch. As you can see, you’ll most likely catch a fish that you will be proud of and find delicious.

Not only are there fish in this lake, but plants, too! Some of the most commonly found plants are the Robbins’ pondweed, elodea, large-leaved pondweed, Eurasian water milfoil, and flat-stemmed pondweed. Other, less commonly known plants include coontail, musk grass, northern water milfoil, slender naiad, nitella, and yellow pond lily. More aquatic plants that live in Hayden Lake include leafy pondweed, variable leaf ponweed, floating leaf pondweed, whitestem ponweed, clasped leaf pondweed, white water buttercup, and wild celery.

Next time you go out on Hayden Lake look for these fish and plants. Though not everyone likes the taste of fish or these water plants we still need to look for the environment and our community.

Silverwood’s #7 Train |An exerpt from Sixth Lit Times

Posted on February 26, 2014March 29, 2014 Posted in 4-Seasons, Coeur d'Alene, Family, Friends, Indoors, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Photography, Post Falls, Sandpoint, Spirit Lake, Towns, VisitorsLeave a comment

Silverwood’s #7 Train

By Isaac

Silverwood theme park has been opened since June 20, 1988. But back when Silverwood had only one attraction, the steam engine number 7.

Before Silverwood started, it was an air ship museum. Gary Norton, the owner, was at a air ship auction were they were selling a locomotive #7. As a kid he had a fascination with Disney Land and the train reminded him of it and he knew he had to have it. Surprisingly he won it from Disney.

He got the train and basically built the tracks around the museum. After two years he had lost two million $. So he decided to build a main street just like Disney Land. He even put a carnival section in that area.

Today we can go on the train. Millions of people go to Silverwood each year. Sometimes they get to go on the very first attraction that started the park.

This is a picture of the #7 train at Silverwood.

North Idaho Wildlife

Posted on February 23, 2014February 25, 2014 Posted in 4-Seasons, Coeur d'Alene, Fall, It's Free, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Photography, Spring, Summer, Towns, Visitors, WinterLeave a comment

An excerpt from Sixth Lit Times

Love Of Idaho is proud to present a series of stories written by the 6th grade class of Charter Academy. Watch for all our postings from “Sixth Lit Times”

Wildlife of Northern Idaho: The moose and the Grizzly Bear

By: Ben

There are many are amazing animals that live in Northern Idaho. Two of the most famous of all them are the noose and the grizzly bear. These two North Idaho favorites have unique qualities.

The bull-moose has antlers that can grow up the six feet in

diameter. They can live up to fifteen to twenty year old. Moose are naturally extremely good swimmers. They can swim continously for several miles. Moose can hold their breath under water for thirty seconds or more. A moose can measure roughly six and a half feet tall, measured at the shoulder. Moose can run at 35 mph, and trot at 20 mph. Also they can weigh up to 1800 pounds, being the largest wilder herbivore in Idaho.

Grizzly bears are the largest bears in North Idaho, as well as the largest predator. The easiest and most obvious way to tell grizzly bears from other bears is not their size but the distinct hump on their back. That hump is made of pure muscle connected to their frontal paws, giving them enormous strength for digging and clawing. Also, unlike other bears they have long claws, up to four inches long. A grizzly bear’s color can be blond, black, or brown. Adults can grow up to three to four feet tall on all fours, but when standing on their back paws they can be six to seven feet tall. A grizzly bear’s average weight is 300 to 600 pounds and some can weigh as much as 1000 ponds. Grizzly bears can live up to 30 years. They are very agile animals. Can climb trees, are good swimmers, and can run at 35 mph. Originally the grizzlies were hunted to near extinction. The United States added grizzly bears to the endangered species list, illegalizing hunting the grizzly bears. But today in the Northwestern United States they are no longer endangered, but in some places, like Idaho, they are still illegal to hunt.

Like most traits, there are advantages and disadvantages. For example, a moose uses its large antlers in a wide space to rut (fight) with other moose or to fight off predators. A disadvantage to these antlers would be in confined spaces a moose’s large antlers could get it stuck. An advantage a grizzle bear has is that it can fun very fast, up to 35 mph, but only for short bursts. A disadvantage would be, if a grizzly does use that burst of speed for too long than they become extremely tired and fatigued.

Northern Idaho is fortunate to be home to such massive animals. The moose live in the forests and the wetlands while the grizzlies live in the forest and in mountainous terrain. And it’s because of Idaho’s low population that the grizzly bears and the moose have such a large habitat. Both of these animals are amazing, and both of them are native to Northern Idaho.

Sources: Natgeo.com, Be Bear Aware. Org pamphlet, and Idaho Fish and Game.com

Idaho black bear

Looking for a North Idaho Adventure, Visit Vacation Rental Authority to find great FAMILY VACATION IDEAS.

How to Spend a Tasteful Day in Spokane

Posted on January 5, 2014January 5, 2014 Posted in 4-Seasons, Business, Fall, Friends, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Spokane, Spring, Summer, WinterTagged arts & culture, cda vacation homes, culinary tour, culinary tourism, family vacation ideas, food tour, fun with friends, Savor Spokane, Spokane tour, tour of Spokane, vacation ideas, what to do in cda, what to do in Spokane1 Comment

Admittedly, I’m an Idahoan at heart and am passionate about all Coeur d’Alene has to offer visitors. Our neighboring city of Spokane, however, has a remarkable allure and worthy attraction all its own. The afternoon spent there yesterday, on my first “culinary tour,” was definitely worth repeating!

foodie tour of Spokane, near Coeur d'Alene Not knowing what to expect, I figured a culinary tour would entail huge meals, over indulgence and leaving with the regret of an overly full stomach. This couldn’t have been further from our experience with Savor Spokane, as the food stops were more like fun breaks, well-timed refreshment along our walking tour of the town.

A small group of us were lead on a sight seeing, story telling, history learning, river viewing, culinary tasting, friend making delight of an afternoon. The time passed quickly, as we walked a lovely path along the river, through town and from local restaurant to local restaurant.

Along the way we learned the significance of various art, buildings, people, events and geological structures. Far from stuffy, it was a light-hearted, friendly environment, purposely crafted and energized at each step, by our knowledgeable guide Lesley.

Personally, I will join this tour many times more in the future, bringing local friends and sharing the experience with guests who visit from across the country. Is there anything better? Don’t know, I hear there’s also a wine tour….

Idaho Fishing Guides

Posted on December 29, 2013December 29, 2013 Posted in Coeur d'Alene, Fall, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Spirit Lake, Spring, SummerTagged coeur d'alene fishing guides, coeur d'Alene fishing trips, fishing in idaho, idaho fishing guidesLeave a comment

Fishing Guides in Coeur d’Alene

You can find fishing guides and book fishing trips, boat rentals and so much more with Vacation Rental Authority, Find fishing guides for Coeur d’Alene, Hayden Lake and our local rivers.

Contact Robert or Cheryl at 800-679-3661 or email info@vacationrentalauthority.com

Ski Resorts

Posted on November 27, 2013January 15, 2014 Posted in Love Idaho, Outdoors, WinterTagged Idaho skiing, ski resorts, ski vacationsLeave a comment

Top 2 Ski Resorts

Do you need more!

The top 2 ski resorts in Northern Idaho can be found within a 1 hour drive of Coeur d’Alene. There are more great mountains within that same short drive but how many mountains can you really ski this winter? If you need more than 2 mountains, visit Vacation Rental Authority and ask about “Get Your Quad On.” You can ski 4 great mountains in just 1 week. They even pay for your lift tickets. That’s right, FREE lift tickets with your vacation rental reservation.

Getting back to our top 2 ski resorts near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, let’s introduce Silver Mountain Ski Resort and Schweitzer Ski Resort. These mountains offer distinctly different skiing options with some great accessibility features that make getting to the slopes very easy. They also offer some great skiing, lifts and onsite amenities that make the day fun for the whole family. Let’s take a look at these ski resorts in a little more detail.

Silver Mountain Ski Resort

This ski resort is accessible by the worlds longest gondola making your trip to the mountain easy. You just take the freeway to Kellogg, grab your gear and relax on the gondola while you are whisked up to the slopes.

There are plenty of lifts to carry skiers to the top so if there are any lines they are short. The terrain is varied and offers challenges for all levels. The tubing hill is fun for children and food is available at the lodge.

73 trails
5 chair lifts / 1 High speed quad
1600 acres
longest trail 2.5 miles
2,200 vertical feet
Terrain park, Tubing Hill and magic carpet
On mountain cafeteria style dining
$52 adult lift tickets

Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort

This ski resort offers a huge variety of dining and some shopping at the Alpine Village, enough to keep family and non skiers happy while you get your last run in, again and again. Find cafeteria style dining or find a table at one of the many restaurants. The Village is entertaining and fun for the whole family even before you get to the actual skiing.

To get to the top of the mountain you can drive up the well maintained winding mountain road to several large parking areas at the top. Don’t worry if the upper lot is closed, you can ski from the lower lot and ride the lift back to get your lift ticket. At least once. Another great option is to ride the bus up to the ski resort. Buses run every 30 minutes from the lower lot to the top of the mountain. Cost? it’s only $2.

94 Trails and incredible open glade skiing
9 Chair lifts / 6 pack chair / 2 quads
2900 acres
92 trails
2400 vertical feet
Terrain Park
Several on mountain dining choices
$71 adult lift tickets

Vacation Rental Authority offers discount lift ticket packages to 4 great ski resorts in Idaho. VRA also has resort quality lodging in Coeur d’Alene so you can get to all the great ski locations in Northern Idaho. Ask for your free booking service to get exactly what you want from your winter vacation.

Top 5 Winter Vacation Ideas

Posted on November 27, 2013November 27, 2013 Posted in Love Idaho, Outdoors, WinterTagged cda, Coeur d'Alene, Lake Coeur d'Alene, north Idaho, vacation ideas, visit idaho, visit santa, winter vacation1 Comment

Our Best Winter Vacation Ideas

Summer vacations are easy! Pack a swimsuit and off you go to…well, pretty much anywhere. It’s always been more challenging to come up with winter vacation ideas, though.

Well, it was challenging until I moved to Coeur d’Alene several years ago. Turns out this is the secret capitol of winter vacation ideas, so I’ve compiled my Top 5. Hint: They all start here in CDA!

#5. Extreme Snow Vacation

Best for: Adventurers

The Idaho wild is here for you to explore during your winter vacation. Pick 3 of the following for every 5 days of vacation; then add in some hot cocoa, a little warm fire and some loved-ones for the perfect winter vacation.

Snow Shoe (you’ll love this if you’re a hiker!)
Cross Country Ski
Sledding/Tubing
Ice Skating
Build a Snowman
Snowball Fight
Downhill Ski

#4. Eat Your Heart Out – A 2 State Tour

Best for: Girls’ Getaway or Couples

One of the best winter vacation ideas ever is to secure a great vacation rental in Coeur d’Alene with your girlfriends (or family). When you book through Vacation Rental Authority, use the concierge service to set up a gourmet cooking class right there in your “home.” Turn on the fire, pop open some wine, learn to cook a yummy meal and then sit down and devour.

Another evening during your winter vacation, you’ll get picked up and taken on a delicious culinary tour of Spokane. If you’ve never been on one, this is like a wine tasting tour but with food! (And you can still have wine J)

Breakfasts can be just as exciting, visiting a local restaurant, or whipping up some customary huckleberry pancakes in your pjs. Again your concierge at Vacation Rental Authority can supply the fixings on request. SO good.

#3. Summertime in the Snow

Best for: Families

There’s a little secret I know of, which can turn your winter woes into summertime delight during a winter vacation. Right nearby Coeur d’Alene is an indoor waterpark! Bring your swimsuit, bring your trashy beach novel, and enjoy some relaxing time pool side. Or, wave-pool side I should say.

Back to your vacation rental to enjoy frozen margaritas, summer flicks and a soak in the hot tub. Aaahhhh.

#2. Get Your Quad On

Best for: Boys Week, or Anyone Up for a Challenge

Now I’ve never conquered this personally, but I’ve heard tale…If you stay in Coeur d’Alene, there are at least 4 ski hills within 90 minutes. Those up for a real challenge ski a different hill each day, 4 days in a row. Whoa. If you think you can do it, I suggest documenting the evidence. So far, it’s only legend, and you are sure to need proof!

#1. Visit the North Pole

Best for: Families

Okay, this is not really the North Pole, but we will not tell your kids. Here in Coeur d’Alene, there’s a ferry boat that takes you on a lovely tour of Lake Coeur d’Alene, passing by Santa and the North Pole! It’s magical, and something kids remember forever.

The Christmas light show, downtown shopping magic, festival of trees, Christmas parade, pageant and much more are going on in our magical town. I never knew, but it is definitely the best winter vacation idea of them all!

Ho, Ho, Ho!! If we can help you plan one of these winter vacation ideas, let me know!

We are going to extend this great offer through December.

Posted on November 20, 2013November 27, 2013 Posted in It's Free, Love Idaho, Outdoors, WinterTagged coeur d'alene vacation rentals, Idaho Ski Packages, idaho ski vacations, ski idahoLeave a comment

Get Your Quad On! Ski 4 mountains in 4 days with Vacation Rental Authority.

Click the photo to see details.

Coeur d’Alene Destination Weddings

Posted on October 26, 2013November 27, 2013 Posted in 4-Seasons, Fall, Family, Friends, Indoors, It's Free, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Spring, Summer, WinterTagged coeur d'alene weddings, Destination weddings, vacation rental weddings, wedding in coeur d'aleneLeave a comment

Are you planning a wedding in Coeur d’Alene?

Coeur d’Alene has become a destination city. Our resort town is well known and in high demand for those precious summer days. What a pleasant thing to note, Coeur d’Alene is your destination wedding opportunity. If you are looking for a location to have an incredible, unforgettable event, Coeur d’Alene is the place for you.

All four seasons offer the unparalleled beauty of stunning outdoor scenery unlike anything you can find elsewhere. Planning your event in Coeur d’Alene has become easier as local small businesses reach out to brides to be. Red Letter Event Planning and Vacation Rental Authority offer a combined service that can provide everything brides and yes, grooms need to tie the knot.

Many venues are available throughout the year but proper planning is critical to finding the best location at the best price. Summer is going to require booking early, a year ahead of time is a good idea. Fall, Spring and Winter weddings can be stunning and unique for those who want wonderful prices and something fun and different.

Vacation Rental Authority offers extraordinary homes for your wedding. Relax in luxury while your wedding party prepares for the big day. Enjoy jetted tubs, spas, master suites and fireplaces. Your caterer can use the gourmet kitchens and formal dining rooms to prepare for the event and rehearsal dinners. Family and friends can gather for dinner or relax in the theater room to get away from it all. Sleep in beds with fine quality linens and be rested and ready for your special day.

The outdoor venues are spotless and manicured to provide room for your guests. A full range of services and rentals are available and managed so you do not have to worry about those details. Just set your expectations and let VRA and Red Letter Events see that it gets done.

Vacation Rental Authority private rentals are excellent, professionally cleaned and staged. Every service you may choose is available with worry free management from Robyn at Red Letter Event Planning. Rest comfortable in luxury in preparation for your wedding with Vacation Rental Authority and Red Letter Event Planning.

Coeur d’Alene Diamond Cup | Hydroplane Racing

Posted on August 11, 2013August 11, 2013 Posted in Coeur d'Alene, Fall, Love Idaho, Outdoors, VisitorsLeave a comment

Coeur d’Alene Diamond Cup

The hydroplane races are coming to Coeur d’Alene this Labor Day weekend and this is going to be one of the most exciting events to hit North Idaho in Years. In a fun filled town like Coeur d’Alene that is saying a lot.

The Diamond Cup going to make the Labor Day weekend a real celebration to kick off the Fall vacation season. The summer may be winding down but that does not mean the fun is over. Beginning with H1 racing hitting speeds of over 200 miles per hour, we will be racing into Fall fun.

Vacation Rental Authority has vacation rental homes, condos and rental boats available for this huge event. Book now for best selection and be sure to take advantage of the lower prices that last minute bookings allow for.

Vacation rentals are a great way to share expenses with your friends and family and book an amazing home with features you will be amazed with. Just think about a 5 bedroom home with a great room, gourmet kitchen, a hot tub or a waterfront home with a dock so you can boat to and from the race.

Visit vacationrentalauthority.com to see what is available and get ready for Coeur d’Alene Diamond Cup.

Join me on Pinterest!

Posted on June 9, 2013June 9, 2013 Posted in 4-Seasons, Outdoors, Photography, Post Falls, SummerTagged wood strip canoe, wood strip kayakLeave a comment

Check out my pins on Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/invited/?username=heirloomkayak

Mineral Ridge – a popular hiking destination for locals

Posted on April 8, 2013April 8, 2013 Posted in Coeur d'Alene, Fall, Family, Friends, It's Free, Kids, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Spring, SummerTagged Easter activities, hikes, hiking Idaho, Lake Coeur d'Alene, Mineral Ridge, north Idaho, north idaho viewsLeave a comment

View toward Silver Valley

View of Lake CDA from Mineral Ridge

Cross Country Skiing at Mt. Spokane

Posted on March 4, 2013 Posted in Friends, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Spokane, WinterTagged cross country, Mt Spokane, nordic, skiing, winter activitiesLeave a comment

A group of dear friends and I decided to give cross country skiing a try. About 90 minutes from Coeur d’Alene, Mt. Spokane was an ideal location. Nordic trails were labelled for every level of difficulty, well-organized with a map and lodge, plus it was not crowded. Wahoo!

As an alpine skier in years past, I was surprised to find how much different this was. The skis are narrower, bowed upward, and more difficult to balance on. On the positive side, the shoes were very comfortable…especially compared to alpine ski boots!

Although we all enjoyed our lesson, and the experience, the consensus was a preference for snow shoeing. We’ll have to try it a couple more times to know for sure. It’s worth doing, though, there’s no doubt about that!

Stay tuned for pics!!

Liberty Lake Hike

Posted on February 9, 2013February 15, 2013 Posted in 4-Seasons, Friends, It's Free, Kids, Outdoors, WinterTagged dog friendly, hikes, hiking trails, Liberty Lake, outdoor activitiesLeave a comment

Snow Shoe Adventure Along Pack River

Posted on January 30, 2013January 30, 2013 Posted in Love Idaho, Outdoors, Sandpoint, WinterTagged north Idaho, pack river, Sandpoint, snow shoes, snowshoeing, winter activitiesLeave a comment

Frozen Lake Pend Oreille

Posted on January 27, 2013January 30, 2013 Posted in Outdoors, Sandpoint, WinterTagged frozen lake, Lake Pend Oreille, north Idaho winter, SandpointLeave a comment

Kids & Pups Play in Sandpoint

Posted on January 26, 2013January 30, 2013 Posted in Love Idaho, Outdoors, Sandpoint, WinterTagged dogs playing, kids playing, pugs in snow, winter dogs, winter kids winter playLeave a comment

Mystical, Magical Morning

Posted on January 6, 2013January 30, 2013 Posted in Outdoors, Post Falls, WinterTagged winter pics, winter scene, winter treesLeave a comment

Fall leaves are beautiful, sure. But winter trees? Magical!

Today I awoke to shimmery, crystal adorned wonder…

…just had to share.

New Year’s Day in CDA

Posted on January 1, 2013January 30, 2013 Posted in Coeur d'Alene, Love Idaho, Outdoors, WinterTagged 2013, bald eagles, Coeur d'Alene, eagles, Idaho, new year, polar bear swim, to do in Coeur d'Alene, winter activitiesLeave a comment

Polar Bear Swim 2013 — Headed toward Lake CDA for the Polar Bear Swim

Eagles in Coeur d'Alene — New Year’s Eagles – They were everywhere! (Lake CDA)

Eagle eating a fish — Breakfast of Fresh Fish

Eagle Pic Overlooking Lake Coeur d'Alene — Enjoying the Lake View

Flying Eagle in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho — Soaring Eagle

Breathtakingly Crisp

Posted on November 27, 2012November 27, 2012 Posted in Love Idaho, Outdoors, Photography, WinterTagged idaho winter, mountain pictures, north Idaho, winter, winter picturesLeave a comment

Breathtakingly Crisp

Kelly Smith Photography

Watch Idaho the Movie!

Posted on November 8, 2012November 27, 2012 Posted in 4-Seasons, Business, Coeur d'Alene, Fall, Family, Friends, It's Free, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Post Falls, Sandpoint, Spring, Summer, Towns, Videos, Visitors, WinterLeave a comment

North Idaho Eagle

I’m excited about a new documentary about the wonders of Idaho, by someone who loves Idaho as much as I do! Can’t wait to see the full movie.

A quote I love from the trailer is “If you’re tired of Idaho, you’re tired of life. There’s always something different, something surprising…” SO TRUE! View the Trailer here: http://vimeo.com/44546590

Snow Baby – We Got It!!

Posted on October 27, 2012 Posted in Family, Friends, Kids, Outdoors, Sandpoint, Videos, WinterTagged best snow, Idaho, north Idaho, Sandpoint, skiing, snow, winterLeave a comment

Hike to Chilco Peak

Posted on September 26, 2012September 24, 2012 Posted in Fall, Family, Friends, It's Free, Kids, OutdoorsTagged autumn, Chilco Mtn. north idaho views, fall activities, fall adventures, hiking, walking trailsLeave a comment

Chilco Mtn Hike is a Fall Adventure in North Idaho Hiking to Chilco peak in the fall is an extraordinary experience. The larch trees begin to change color, their leaves fall to the ground covering the trail with a golden layer of the tiny needles. Larch trees are pine trees that lose their needles after they turn yellow in the fall. The walk on the trail, flat, level and lightly dusted with the golden needles is a beautiful sight in the cold fall air.

Chilco Mountain is located in the Coeur d’Alene National Forest just east of Coeur d’Alene Idaho. The trailhead is accessible by about 10 miles of backcountry gravel roads, the access is fairly easy to find in good weather but inaccessible after deep snow falls. (insert forest service road number this point). Although this hike is challenging it does not require any special equipment other than quality hiking shoes and some cold weather gear. Be prepared for the cold wind maybe some rain and for a challenging hike up hill and the quick easy decent afterwards, so dress in layered clothing.

North Idaho Fall Hike of Mt. Chilco The hike is a challenging two miles uphill the entire way. Once you reach the top, the trail breaks out into an open rocky windswept slope. A chill breeze usually sweeps across the exposed broken rock making the final traverse of the slope cold but exciting. The views are tremendous, looking across the valley of Coeur d’Alene and the Post Falls area. Stop for a break in a small island shelter of trees and have a snack maybe some coffee before moving on. It’s an exciting moment to feel like your sitting on top of the world.

Although you may be reluctant to leave the beautiful views and scenery you’ll be happy to get out of the cold wind and head back down into the trees. the hike down as much faster of course as it is all downhill. 45 minutes steady walking will bring you back to the trailhead. But you don’t have to rush there is plenty of Wildlife to see so take it slow keep your eyes open.

Remembering Rough Waters on Lake CDA

Posted on September 24, 2012 Posted in Coeur d'Alene, Friends, Outdoors, SpringTagged April, cedar strip kayak, cold lake, cold water, fun with friends, Heirloom Kayak, Idaho, kayaking, kids activities north Idaho, Lake CDA, Lake Coeur d'Alene, north Idaho fun, rough lake, SpringLeave a comment

A strong wind came up one day in early April, the sun was up and spring was here. The water temperature was still very cold but it was just what I was waiting for. I couldn’t wait to try out my new kayak in the rough waves. At least as rough as it gets here in Idaho.

I loaded up the two boats and we headed out to the lake. In no time at all we were in our boats in paddling out in the waves. We stayed close to shore we knew we weren’t experienced enough to be out there in those conditions. We had a great time splashing around trying not to tip over in the waves that crossed over the bows of our boats. Constant use of our paddles was required to keep the kayak upright and heading in the right direction.

We aimed at the high waves, driving through the one to crash down into the next. The kayaks rode the water well; the long boats would slash in the waves rising over each as the water washed over the bow. As we traversed along the beach, sideways to the waves, the boats would rise and fall with the waves supported by their secondary stability. The rounded bottom allowed the boats to remain in an upright position as we creased wave after wave.

We were soon tired from constantly having to keep ourselves stable using our paddles as quickly as we could to recover from each wave. The water was too cold on this early spring day to take any chances so we stayed close to shore and paddled to and from shore enjoying the splashing and exciting waves. Now anybody that has been in a sea kayak knows that they are very stable once you are in but they can be difficult to get in and out of while staying dry.

We paddled over to the beach having decided that we needed pictures of this great albeit tame adventure. In a moment of genius I decided to try and hand Cheryl my truck keys while still in our boats. I felt things were going well as I was able to fish my keys out of my back pocket and hold them out to Cheryl. Now remember, constant use of our paddles was needed to maintain position and keep the boats heading into the waves.

I took a moment to grab my paddle and position my boat carefully alongside Cheryl who apparently felt she was already on shore enjoying a nice ice tea or lemonade in the summer sun. Forgetting her kayak was not an Adirondack chair she upended the kayak exposing the fine artwork along the keel.

Cheryl came up shocked from the cold water and out of breath. We were only a few feet from shore and in shallow enough water to walk out of. The fun of playing in the water quickly became a lesson in safety. We had been careful to stay close to shore and with the air temperatures well above 70 we were able to continue the fun.

I continued to hit the waves and try to surf my 18 ft sea kayak while Cheryl snapped the pictures we needed to remember that wonderful day.

Interview with a 10 Year Old

Posted on September 11, 2012September 17, 2012 Posted in Kids, Love Idaho, Outdoors, Post Falls, SummerTagged Idaho kids, kids activities north Idaho, outdoor activities, Post FallsLeave a comment

Maggie is in the 5th grade, loves art, dogs, running cross country and is interested in learning gymnastics. Since she lives in N. Idaho, we thought we’d get the inside scoop from a 10 year old.

Q. What would you say are the best 5 things to do while visiting North Idaho?

A. Swimming, boating, hiking….taking beautiful drives….looking at scenery.

Q. Hmm. That’s interesting – what are you doing right now?

A. Driving down the road in the back seat.

Q. Do you think kids would like to take beautiful drives and look at scenery?

A. No – probably not.

Q. So besides swimming, boating and hiking, what should kids do when they visit Idaho in the Summer?

A. Go to the movies, and miniature golfing at TriplePlay!

Q. That sounds fun…what else? How about something kids can’t do when they’re in their home towns.

A. Definitely Silverwood. [local amusement park] And, drink hot chocolate overlooking the lake. [first floor of the CDA Resort/Marina].

Now maybe we’re getting somewhere!!

Father Son Bonding this Fall

Posted on September 6, 2012September 6, 2012 Posted in Fall, Love Idaho, OutdoorsTagged bear hunting, black bear, deer hunting, father-son, fishing trip, fishing trips, guided hunt, hunting, hunting trip, north Idaho, steelhead, whitetail huntingLeave a comment

Summer is a great time to spend with the whole family, but Fall is the time to make Father-Son memories to last a lifetime. It’s still great weather in North Idaho, and the fishing is sublime.

If fishing doesn’t take the bonding quite far enough, consider a guided hunting trip. October and November is the ideal time for guided mule deer, elk, whitetail and bear hunts…tell me this isn’t a trip you will remember forever! Black Bear hunting or fishing

Our service is FREE to the adventurer, and we know where the most amazing local experiences can be found. Just consider us your best friends, hooking you up with the insider’s version of Idaho hunting and Idaho fishing…that’s the whole idea.

Let us know what you’re up for, and we’ll take care of everything – accommodations, food, guides, maps, etc!

Happy Fall Bonding.

Idaho Photography

Posted on August 25, 2012September 6, 2012 Posted in Love Idaho, Outdoors, PhotographyLeave a comment

Everyone needs help with their bow once in a while...

Idaho.gov, a group on Flickr.

Huckleberry Picking

Posted on August 24, 2012August 24, 2012 Posted in Coeur d'Alene, Outdoors, Sandpoint, SummerTagged berry picking, Coeur d'Alene, huckleberries, huckleberry picking, north Idaho, Sandpoint1 Comment

Tasty, plentiful (& free), huckleberry picking is an annual must in North Idaho. When you spot the unique plants, simply turn over each leaf to reveal all the berries hiding underneath!

Ask for a map – we’re happy to share exact directions to the best picking locations in North Idaho.

North Idaho huckleberry picking

Coeur d’Alene Wooden Boat Show

Posted on August 18, 2012August 24, 2012 Posted in Coeur d'Alene, It's Free, Outdoors, SummerTagged cedar strip kayak, Coeur d'Alene, wooden boat, wooden boat showLeave a comment

Fun & open to the public, the CDA wooden boat show is one of the biggest annual events in North Idaho. If you enjoy boating, art, restoration or wood working you will absolutely want to put this event on your calendar.

Breath-taking…every time

Posted on August 2, 2012September 6, 2012 Posted in Love Idaho, Outdoors, PhotographyLeave a comment

ID05 0790 Grand Mogul, Sawtooth Mountains, Redfish Lake, Custer County, Idaho

Idaho, a group on Flickr.

Although photos can never capture the true awe-inspiring beauty that abounds, these do well to remind me of incredible sights I’ve personally experienced. In Northern Idaho, you are sure to have your fair share of “wow” moments, spring, summer, winter & fall.

Silverwood Theme Park

Posted on July 17, 2012August 24, 2012 Posted in Outdoors, SummerTagged Athol, free fall, Idaho amusement park, Idaho kids, Idaho theme park, kids activities north Idaho, north Idaho fun, north Idaho rides, northwest theme park, rollercoaster, Silverwood, water parkLeave a comment

30 minutes from either Coeur d’Alene or Sandpoint, Silverwood is located in Athol, Idaho. In the northwest you cannot beat this complete amusement experience…just ask the kids!

There are a number of exciting rollercoasters, water rides (love the classic log ride!), a free fall from hell, and a complete waterpark. Not to mention the greasy, sugary, fried foods we all look forward to, shows and a ton of rides for the smaller kids.

Just heed my warning about the free fall – grown men have been known to scream!