Experience the old-world atmosphere of this historic town set within the valley of the Kootenai River and bound by mountain wilderness.
The pretty townscape of Bonners Ferry is strung across the banks of the Kootenai River, which carves its way through a forested valley. Set against a captivatingly beautiful backdrop of mountain peaks, Bonners Ferry has a scenic downtown area where you’ll find busy boutiques and charming diners. Explore the town’s pristine surrounding wilderness and discover some of the Idaho Panhandle’s renowned reserves, rivers and lakes.
Take a stroll through town and get a sense of its history. Bonners Ferry had its beginnings in the 1860s when a ferry service was established to bring gold prospectors across the river and onward to the East Kootenays of British Columbia. Check out the Boundary County Museum to learn about Far North Idaho’s intriguing heritage and the indigenous Kootenai people.
See a local drama production or attend a community event at the Pearl Theater, housed within a charming converted church. At the Kootenai River Brewery, sample delicious seasonal brews and traditional ales made from locally grown hops. Try your luck or enjoy an indulgent retreat at the Kootenai River Inn Casino and Spa.
Magnificent wilderness abounds outside of the town, with plenty of exciting activities for any season. Take in the mountain views while you practice your swing at Mirror Lake Municipal Golf Course and explore some of the surrounding nature reserves on foot. Popular hikes include the Katka Peak Trail, West Fork Lake and Mountain, Myrtle Peak and the pretty forests of Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. Go ice-skating or snowmobiling during the snowy wintertime.
Bonners Ferry is located on the northern tip of Idaho. Eckhart International Airport is 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) to the north of the town. Several scenic routes pass nearby Bonners Ferry, making the town a perfect road-trip stopover. Explore the Wild Horse Scenic Byway, the Pend Orielle Scenic Byway and the International Selkirk Loop. Make the most of the region’s warm, dry summers and explore the Selkirk Loop on a bicycle tour.
Shouldering Northwest Montana, Washington and Canada, the town is a pretty gateway to Idaho.