With unending miles of scenic vistas, North Idaho's natural beauty lures outdoor enthusiasts, and the peaceful, laid-back lifestyle is the envy of many. Here are just a few of many reasons that North Idaho is a well-loved place to live.

The Outdoors!

Idaho is second only to Alaska in the total square miles of wilderness territory to live and play in! Sandpoint has been called one of the best “under the radar” ski towns in the west, thanks to nearby Schweitzer Mountain Resort. In warm weather months, many ski trails provide scenic challenges for mountain bikers of all skill levels. Sandpoint itself is situated on Lake Pend Oreille, which home to a wide variety of water sports, including boating, swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Bike trails and footpaths skirt the lake and climb the nearby Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges. There’s plenty of hiking trails for the leisurely and the experienced hiker, as well as trails for ATVs, off-road vehicles, horseback riding, and more. Not to mention the hundreds of places to camp and explore!

Fisherman’s Paradise

For those who prefer their outdoor activities with a flick of the wrist, Idaho is well known for its trout fishing. Favorites include the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River and the Clearwater River in northern Idaho. For those who want instruction or a little help, a wide range of fly fishing guides and organized trips are available.

Destination Spots in Your Backyard

Wallace, Idaho is an easy one-hour drive from Coeur d’Alene and is near the Route of the Hiawatha, a beautiful downhill biking trail. This 15-mile rail-trail follows a former railroad route, traveling through tunnels and across sky-high trestles. Riders begin at Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area on the Idaho-Montana border and a shuttle is available for the ride back to the top once you finish this ride. Silverwood Theme Park, the Northwest’s largest theme park, is a popular attraction in Northern Idaho. Spanning over 200 acres and offering 70-plus rides, slides, shows, and attractions, Silverwood Theme Park is located just 15 minutes north of Coeur d’Alene on Highway 95. During warmer months, cool off at Boulder Beach, Silverwood’s water park experience. What else will you find here? Eight state parks, six scenic byways, three signature biking trails, and three amazing ski areas- Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area and Silver Mountain Ski, Golf & Water Park Resort. All three offer year-round activities.

Hot Springs and Waterfalls

Whether you’re looking to bask in untouched natural surroundings or indulge in some modern luxury, you’re in for some first-rate relaxation time when you visit Idaho’s famed hot springs. Tucked away on mountain paths or nestled beside rivers, you’ll find Idaho’s beloved hot springs waiting to wash away your stress. For an alternative soaking experience, visit any of the more developed hot springs spots for a soak with modern amenities.

Northern Idaho is also rich with beautiful waterfalls. The Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars has a short trail from the lower grove that will lead you to the base of Lower Granite Falls. Here, Granite Creek cascades down a narrow, sheer rock wall with a thunderous roar. A one-mile loop trail from the lower cedar grove takes you to vista points above the Lower falls where both Lower and Upper Granite Falls may be viewed.

Proud Small-Town Culture

North Idaho is a collection of proud small towns centered around the city of Coeur d’Alene. Each of these towns has its own charm and history. Those looking for a slower pace of life and easier drive around town find North Idaho greatly appealing, and more often than not, a trip to the store or to a restaurant involves seeing people you know. If you don’t know anyone, chances are by the time you return home you will - people in North Idaho are friendly! Business owners know their customers names and families look after each other.

The Ideal Four Seasons

North Idaho has four perfect seasons of weather. The summers are not too hot, the springs are not too wet, the falls are extremely colorful, and the winters are not too cold or snowy. Plus, each season brings with it a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy!

Are any of the reasons on this list your favorite thing about living in Northern Idaho? Or did we miss a reason that you love about this area that you think we should have included? Let us know in the comments! We’re thrilled to have a branch of AJ Development here in North Idaho, and can’t wait to experience even more of what North Idaho has to offer!