Named Idaho’s most friendly town, Bonners Ferry is just 20 or so miles from the Canadian border and surrounded by forest. The quaint town features peaks perfect for hiking and climbing and within it, you will also find waterfalls and biking trails. The Kootenai River meanders right through town which means lots of water activities. As a lover of backcountry adventures, Bonners Ferry makes the perfect base of operations for exploring Northern Idaho. I spent a few days hiking, wildlife spotting and exploring Bonners Ferry. Here are four of the best things to do in this tranquil Northern Idaho town.
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4 Best Things To Do in Bonners Ferry
1. Spend a Day Exploring the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge
The Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is just a few miles from downtown and nestled next to the Selkirk Mountains. This wildlife refuge has wetlands, forests, rivers and grasslands making up a diverse ecosystem that is open for exploration and photography. It is an amazing place to spot eagles, osprey and waterfowl and you can also often see moose, deer and other wildlife.
Looking for moose? Try a walk along the 2.2-mile Deep Creek Trail which follows the Kootenai River. If you want to see a waterfall head up the trail to Myrtle Falls. Located across from the interpretive center, this waterfall trail goes over the river and through the woods. There is some incline but the trail is well marked and doable for children and adults alike. If you are looking to spot birds and want a more leisurely activity, you can walk out through the grassland to the photography bluff. This small curtained building sits right at the edge of the wetlands and gives camera users a hidden prominence to observe waterfowl.
Your last way to explore the refuge is by driving the autoroute. This 4.5-mile loop takes you around several ponds and marshes. Drive slowly and leave your windows down so you can hear all the birds and waterfowl in their natural habitat, just don’t forget your binoculars or your long lens.
2. Spend a few days driving the International Selkirk Loop
Bonners Ferry is part of the International Selkirk Loop, one of just 50 national scenic byways in America and the only one that’s international. The loop is 280 miles and circles the Selkirk Mountains through Northern Idaho, Washington and British Columbia, Canada. The route takes 4-5 days but you can easily spend a week or more if you really want to enjoy the crystal clear rivers, lakes and snow-capped peaks. It is full of charming towns like Bonners Ferry and artisan workshops where you can see craftsmen at work in their studios. For a real adventure, you can even do this loop by bike. Learn More Here
3. Take a lazy afternoon to shop and enjoy downtown Bonners Ferry
For a town with just over 2000 people, Bonners Ferry has some great shops and things to do in the downtown area. My favorite store was Under the Sun which was the old hardware store and now has an eclectic mix of gifts, home goods, and a coffee shop and roaster, where you can even enjoy a latte in a giant bird cage.
Behind Under The Sun you will find The Nest. This upcycled decor and furniture store is owned by three sisters who refurbish and make many of the items you find inside. I really loved the original home goods, little birds’ nests and beautifully crafted furniture. For lady’s wear, you won’t want to miss a stop by the Dressing Room which has women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories. Another favorite of mine was the local bookstore called Bonner Books. This shop features books new and old, with many locally and regionally written features as well. Bookstores are always pillars of the community and people come from many nearby towns to visit this one too.
Downtown also has the Bonner Museum, where you can learn about the town’s history of logging and mining.
4. Hike to Copper Creek Falls
There are 63 named waterfalls in Idaho and I can name at least three just in Boundary County. Copper Creek Falls is located just one mile south of the Canadian border and about 30 miles north of Bonners Ferry and was my favorite waterfall during my trip. The trail is just 1.4 miles and takes you to both the lower and upper falls. I visited the falls after several weeks of rain and the waterfall was spectacular with beautiful fog filling the forest around the viewing platform.
This area also has hiking, camping and river activities within the National Forest.
Remember to be Bear Aware in Northern Idaho. Always leave no trace, store food properly and carry bear spray when exploring the outdoors.
Where to Stay in Bonners Ferry
Northside School Bed and Breakfast
The historic Northside School actually served as the towns schoolhouse for decades and was converted into a Bed and Breakfast several years after the last students left.
It is family owned and operated, serving a hot home cooked breakfast every morning. From the deck you can take in the views of the mountains, enjoy a swim in the pool or a soak in the hot tub. Nine well appointed and beautifully decorated rooms are available for guests, each with its own theme. I stayed in the geography room, just perfect for a world traveler.
Pricing starts at $140 per night
Where to Eat in Bonners Ferry
Two Tones Cafe
Visitors to Bonners Ferry must add dinner on the patio at Two Tones Cafe to their itinerary! Discover daily specials and a worldly menu made with local ingredients. I had the salmon succotash when I was there which was wildly delicious and completely unique. You won’t want to leave without dessert.
Kootenai Brewing
With a motto of “spectacular beer, spectacular service, and spectacular people”, you know you are in for a good meal. Kootenai Brewing proudly serves handcrafted and locally sourced beer with an inspired menu to pair with. Guests will enjoy their meal with beautiful views of the Kootenai River and the Selkirk Mountains.
The Gathering Place
The Gathering Place is a must-visit for sandwiches, homemade bread, and a fresh cup of coffee. Consisting of three shops (The Bakery, The Coffee Shop, and Sharon’s Store) guests can indulge in fresh-baked bread while shopping for unique groceries, bulk foods, and so much more.
Mugsy’s Tavern and Grill
This family-run tavern is a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring. Mugsy’s Tavern features infamous burgers as well as daily chef’s specials, and a rotating tap of beer from local breweries which you can enjoy on a beautiful patio.
Bonners Ferry is a great base for exploring this region of Northern Idaho. With so many mountains, rivers, lakes and miles of roadway there is something to discover for everyone. How will you be exploring Bonners Ferry and the Northern Idaho panhandle on your visit?
