Boundary County: Wildlife, Waterfalls and Trails

Forested mountain landscapes define Boundary County, which covers more than 800,000 acres. At the edge of the Selkirk Mountains lies the 2,774-acre Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, with its diverse habitats. Wildlife viewing, trails, waterfalls and local history offer different ways to shape a trip. When choosing a vacation rental, it helps to first consider whether you mainly want to spend time outdoors, explore a scenic route or also include cultural history in your plans.

Wildlife Habitats at the Edge of the Selkirk Mountains

More than 300 wildlife species have been observed at the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, including more than 223 bird species. The refuge may update its species counts over time. Its location at the edge of the Selkirk Mountains and its size give this natural area a character of its own.

Trails for Different Seasons

Section 16 is suitable year-round for walking, trail running, hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. This means the list includes options for winter as well as activities for warmer months. The trails completed so far cover 6.1 miles; they are gently rolling and non-technical, and the trail network may still grow. Section 16 has parking, a restroom and an information kiosk. Since facility availability, grooming and trail conditions can change, check them before a winter visit.

The Myrtle Falls Trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the 100-foot-high Myrtle Creek Falls. The first 0.15 miles of the trail are paved and accessible. This describes only the beginning of the trail: conditions and accessibility can change seasonally. Check current conditions before planning to use the trail.

Two Waterfalls, Different Experiences

The lower Snow Creek Falls can be reached via an approximately 1.7-mile hike through a dense cedar forest. Trail length and conditions may vary depending on maintenance and the season. At Moyie Falls, by contrast, the flow of the water shapes the experience: when no water is being diverted, the Moyie River thunders through a small, tiered canyon. A seasonal water diversion changes the visible volume of water. Those including waterfalls in their trip plans can therefore consider both a forest hike and a landscape shaped by water conditions.

Insights into History and Local Traditions

The Boundary County Historical Society & Museum features original artifacts, historic rooms, and exhibits and displays about the history of northern Idaho and the Indigenous Kootenai people. The exhibits offer a cultural and historical counterpoint to the trails and natural areas. Those who want to include regional history as well as scenery in their trip will find a distinct theme here to shape a day’s plans.

The Bonners Ferry Farmers Market also brings together local tradition and a special event: each year, it hosts an event featuring live music and garlic contests among the vendors. Check the dates and details for the relevant season if you plan to visit.

A Scenic Driving Route Through Bonners Ferry

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. The route continues north on Idaho 1 to the international border at Porthill. For a trip where the drive itself is part of the plan, this route provides a clearly defined road itinerary with named places and a specific endpoint.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Trip

When choosing your vacation rental, it’s best to first decide what you want to define your stay: wildlife and birds, trail activities, waterfalls, cultural history or a drive along the Scenic Byway. That way, nature experiences, outdoor activities and culture don’t have to be combined into a single itinerary.

Discover more destinations: Bonners Ferry, Naples, Caribou County, Valley, Boise, Cassia County, Bannock County, Shoshone County.

For the main travel overview: Idaho.