Explore Boundary County

Boundary County combines wildlife viewing, outdoor trails, and regional history. It also offers waterfalls, a scenic driving route, and an annual market event. When searching for a hotel, it helps to first consider what you want to focus on during your trip.

Nature and Wildlife

Boundary County covers more than 800,000 acres. The region is characterized by forested mountain landscapes. The Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge spans 2,774 acres at the edge of the Selkirk Mountains and provides diverse wildlife habitats. More than 300 wildlife species have been observed there, including more than 223 bird species. The refuge may update these species counts over time. Visitors interested in birds and other wildlife will find a tangible connection to nature here to help plan their trip.

Hiking Trails and Waterfalls

The Myrtle Falls Trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the 100-foot-tall Myrtle Creek Falls. The first 0.15 miles of the trail are paved and accessible. Trail conditions and accessibility can change seasonally; check both before your visit.

Section 16 is suitable year-round for walking, trail running, hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The 6.1 miles of gently rolling, non-technical trails reflect the amount completed to date; the network may be expanded. Section 16 also has parking, a restroom, and an information kiosk. The availability of these facilities can change. For winter visits, check current grooming and trail conditions.

The lower Snow Creek Falls can be reached by a hike of about 1.7 miles through dense cedar forest. Trail length and conditions may vary depending on maintenance and the season. At Moyie Falls, the Moyie River thunders through a small, stepped gorge when no water is being diverted. Seasonal water diversions affect the visible flow.

Route, History, and Regional Culture

The Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway follows U.S. 95 from Sandpoint through Bonners Ferry to the junction of U.S. 95 and Idaho 1. From there, the route heads north on Idaho 1 to the international border at Porthill.

The Boundary County Historical Society & Museum displays original artifacts, historic rooms, and exhibits and depictions of North Idaho history and the Indigenous Kootenai people. The river valley between two major mountain ranges was the ancestral homeland of the Kootenai Tribe.

An annual Bonners Ferry Farmers Market event pairs live music with garlic contests among vendors. Check event dates for the season of your visit, as details for future seasons should be verified again.

Whether your trip centers on wildlife viewing, trails, history, or the driving route, these themes offer different ways to plan your visit and search for a hotel in Boundary County.

Explore more destinations: Bonners Ferry, Naples, Bingham County, Blaine, Jefferson, Madison County, Gem County, Gooding County.

Go to the main travel overview: Idaho.