Lakeside Lodge and Resort in Island Park

My husband and two children are planning to stay in a cabin in Lakeside Lodge. I have so many doubts and questions. There are no reviews for this Lodge. Are there things to do inside the resort and how big are the cabins?

Gloria

Lakeside Lodge and Resort in Island Park

My husband and two children are planning to stay in a cabin in Lakeside Lodge. I have so many doubts and questions. There are no reviews for this Lodge. Are there things to do inside the resort and how big are the cabins?

Gloria

Lakeside Lodge and Resort

My husband and two kids 9 and 11 are staying in a cabin at Lakeside Lodge and Resort for ten days. We are planning many things but are unsure of the lodge because we do not know of anyone that has stayed there. Do you have any information?

GloriaChicago

General Information Please

We are coming to Twin Falls from July 27-August 2 for the Babe Ruth Pacific Northwest Region Baseball Tournament. I am travelling with 13 %26amp; 14 yr old boys, staying at the Red Lion Canyon Springs. Tueday is a day off for us, can you recommend any place(s) to go for a daytrip? Also, any recommendations for restruants would be appreciated. Boys like Sushi, so is there a good Sushi spot and/or Asian Stir-fry that you would recommend?

Thanks, we%26#39;re looking forward to seeing Twin Falls and area.

DeeDee

General Information Please

Some possibilities (distances are one way):

Shoshone Falls (5 miles)

Balanced Rock (20 miles)

Shoshone Ice Caves (25 miles)

Sun Valley/Ketchum (80 miles)

My favorite restaurant (especially if you like big breakfasts) would be The Buffalo downtown. Everything is homemade including the jam.

General Information Please

Wow! My son is playing in the 13u state championship right now in Lewiston, ID! I didn%26#39;t even know the regionals were going to be held in Twin Falls. :-)

We have several restaurants offering sushi, but I%26#39;m not familiar with them. There is one about a half a mile from your hotel, on the same side of Blue Lakes Blvd. called Tokyo something. They have good tempura and salmon teriyaki and the sushi looks pretty good? It%26#39;s in a little mall called Centre Pointe.

We really like the Thai food at Prasai%26#39;s. It%26#39;s at 428 Second Ave. East downtown. (There are two Second Streets, each going one direction, separated by several blocks. It%26#39;s confusing.) I%26#39;m looking at their take-out menu and it says they have a website at www.prasais.com.

Next door to Prasai%26#39;s is a sushi restaurant, but again, I%26#39;m not familiar with it.

I have tried the Chinese restaurants in town over the years and I have just never had any luck with them. The food seems bland and I recall from years ago that they all batter-dipped their egg rolls.

The previous poster gave you the most scenic things to see. I don%26#39;t know if the boys would like to walk around in the Magic Valley Mall. It%26#39;s not big city shopping, but they might enjoy it. There%26#39;s a movie theater in the mall and there is another movie complex on the other side of town. Your hotel can draw a map for you.

We%26#39;re heading to Vancouver July 30th. Can%26#39;t wait!

Thanks so much for all the great ideas. We had the Buffalo on our list of must try as well as Prasai%26#39;s. The mall is always a must do for Mom as well as the boys! :) I think we will look into going to the ice caves and Shoshone Falls. Good luck to you son. It%26#39;s the 14-yr old regionals being held in Twin Falls, the 13 yr old is coming for the vacation!

Thanks again,

DeeDee

I must say that the best thing about our mall is the view from the parking lot! Being right on the edge of the canyon is pretty spectacular.

I almost forgot one of my very favorite places... Nat Soo Pah is a natural hot springs which flows into a great swimming pool out in the desert. It%26#39;s 20 miles south near Hollister. They also have picnic grounds there.

visitidaho.org/thingstodo/hot-springs/nat-so…

The above posters have given good advice and saved me a lot of typing!

I was going to suggest the Shoshone Ice Cave also. It was one of my kids%26#39; favorite places to go when they were that age. On the way is Mammoth Cave, which is also worth a look -- another lava tube cave. That trip, along with a visit to Shoshone Falls, will fill up your day.

The sushi place on Blue Lakes is called Tokyo Sushi, and I like it better than the one by Prasai%26#39;s but that%26#39;s just me. (The one by Prasai%26#39;s just changed names, I can%26#39;t recall the new one!)

If your boys like Mexican, I recommend La Fiesta, which is near your hotel. For Italian I like Tomato%26#39;s, also near your hotel.

Have a great trip and good luck with the tournament!

Pug

Wow, it looks like we%26#39;re going to have a great time exploring Twin Falls! One last question. Where would the closest laundrymat be? The boys have WHITE baseball pants, so I know I%26#39;m going to need to wash them a few times while we%26#39;re there!

Thanks,

DeeDee

There are two laundromats just off Blue Lakes, one to the left of your hotel and one to the right by maybe half a mile to a mile? I don%26#39;t know their names, unfortunately.

One is in the strip mall with the Target store between your hotel and the Perrine Bridge. It%26#39;s actually in a smaller building there that has businesses on three sides, with the laundromat facing the Petsmart at the end of the mall. Your hotel people can be more specific.

The other laundromat is in the opposition direction, on the right hand side, in the same strip mall as the Basking and Robbins ice cream store. I%26#39;ve used both for oversized quilts/sleeping bags, but I can%26#39;t recommend or pan either one.

We lost in the championship game so we won%26#39;t be travelling anymore. Good luck and watch out if Meridian shows up. Tough team at 13u and 14u level!

I like the laundromat in the Target shopping center. It%26#39;s clean and well maintained. The one in Centennial Square (Bubbles) was a little ratty around the edges last time I was there. I%26#39;m with Jannell, I take the sleeping bags and comforters there to use the big washers!

Pug

Thanks! We can hit the Target while the loads are washing!

DeeDee

acne

Restaurant / Ice Cream Dilemma

My GF flies into Boise for Labor Day weekend, I%26#39;ll have my daughter with me (she%26#39;s 10)... and about all we%26#39;ll have time for travel-wise is probably a day trip using Idaho 21 and 75.

GF can have eclectic tastes, yet is usually practical. That about sums me up, frankly.

My daughter would rather go back to Crowley%26#39;s in Twin Falls. Since they%26#39;re not open Sunday, my inclination is to hit Idaho City (and their ice cream parlor, if it%26#39;s still there) first, then Ketchum for dinner.

Should I go the other way? Is there somewhere (or a couple places) I can balance GF and daughter issues in Ketchum?

Restaurant / Ice Cream Dilemma

HI

that is a long drive I would say 8 hrs driving

not includeing any stops. and on labor day the traffic will be heavy.

I did that same drive with my son yrs ago to go camping. we left mourning could not find a camp site anywhere and all hotels where booked ended up back in Boise late a night tired and grumpy

Maybe go up 55 to banks cut across to 21 then back to Idaho City with many stops to watch kayakers and hike then spend more time walking around Idaho City.

good luck

Restaurant / Ice Cream Dilemma

i think the drive from boise to ketchum is a wonderful one. love watching the kayakers and going to stanley. in stanley there is a new coffee shop with great coffee drinks, right on the river. trillium and a awesome young owner, jamie...sandwiches at the stanley bakery, lunch at alturus and dinner in ketchum. that would be a great day for me!!1 enjoy

Passing Through on August 1

Hello -

My family and I are departing on a road trip from Portland to Montana this Friday and will be passing through Coeur d%26#39;Alene both ways to stay the night. We are traveling with a 2.5 year old. On the way there this Friday we are staying the night at the Ameritel and on the way back a week later we have a reservation booked at the Flamingo Motel based on reviews here. That will be the night of August 1, and I understand there is a large street fair that starts that day? My question then is - how will the noise level likely be at the Flamingo that night? Is this a low key-type festival or does it go into the night? I%26#39;m just realizing that we will be at the end of a long trip (nine days) with a young child and will likely be looking for more peace and quiet and good night%26#39;s sleep than anything. I%26#39;ve been excited to stay at the Flamingo but am now hoping it wasn%26#39;t the wrong choice... (Unfortunately it wasn%26#39;t available for this Friday eve on our way to Montana.) Thanks!

Oh, and I think I have a good idea of restaurant recs based on some research (Tomato, Moon Time, Hudsons, Dockside) - but I%26#39;d also be welcome to hearing if there is a must not miss (again, with a young one).

Passing Through on August 1

I have never been to Art on the Green Festival (which is Aug. 1-3), but the Flamingo is a little south of the main area of Sherman Ave near the resort, so you should be OK, but it is definitely in a prime location. This is also (from what I understand) a much more subdued festival than the last few (Car d%26#39;Alene, 4th of July and Ironman) so the crowd shouldn%26#39;t be too too rowdy or noisy and it certainly shouldn%26#39;t be crowded past 10:00 at the latest.

I have never stayed at the Flamingo, but the reviews are good on this site. Hopefully you won%26#39;t be disappointed. It doesn%26#39;t look like much, but you never know.

Your restaurants sound like good choices. There are also lots of choices in walking distance to your hotel, though not sure how ';kid friendly'; they are.

Hopefully squareboy or nidahodave, or some other posters will have some more first-hand knowledge of this particular festival.

You should have a great time. The atmosphere in the downtown area is fantastic in the summer season. Not sure if your little one is too young, but you%26#39;ll be within walking distance of the city beach, city park and the boarding area for the lake cruises.

Have a great time.

Passing Through on August 1

Concur with KirkandMimi on festival. Art on the Green, Taste of Coeur d%26#39; Alene, and Downtown Street Fair occur all at the same time in the general downtown area but are family oriented and end in the early evening so noisy and ';rowdy'; crowds shouldn%26#39;t be a problem. Additional restaurant suggestion is Michael D%26#39;s at the east end of Sherman in particular for breakfast(they only do breakfast and lunch).

I%26#39;m going to parrott the other opinions and say that all of these events are family oriented, and thus won%26#39;t continue beyond dark, so you should find everything to be super.

If you aren%26#39;t too tired from all that driving feel free to take a stroll through the park and enjoy the art, they have some really cool stuff and it%26#39;s a lot of fun.

Also with a 2.5 year old tomato street is a good option because they will let the little ones color on the tables, and have a good kids menu as well. Hudsens is definitely great as well.

Thank you all for your feedback. You have alleviated my concerns. Thanks as well for the restaurant recommendations.

One other thing - we might be looking for a good sandwich shop/deli to get some sandwiches for the road on our way out of town this Saturday morning. I%26#39;d welcome any recommendations on that as well if you have any. (It would have to open fairly early as we%26#39;d probably be departing town by 9/9:30ish.)

Thanks again!

I did a check and so far all of the local restaurants close to Sherman aren%26#39;t open that early. A few like Michael D%26#39;s are open, but don%26#39;t start making sandwiches until 11:00.

I know Dockside at the resort will be serving lunch all day, but their prices are high for sandwiches.

There is a Denny%26#39;s and an Ihop on 4th that serve all day, but not sure if that%26#39;s what you%26#39;re looking for.

Hopefully another poster will be able to offer someplace that will be serving lunch that early.

I know most Subways open early in the AM now, because they serve breakfast now, so I think they can make sandwiches too. I know it%26#39;s not local fare but I%26#39;m not sure anybody else makes sanwiches that early in the AM.

Camping near Boise, Caldwell or Nampa..

Hi! Will be taking a short overnight breather in this area on our way to Oregon. Can you recommend a place for camping? We have a small tent trailer.

Thanks!

Camping near Boise, Caldwell or Nampa..

Hey Ikeymakes3,

I too will be traveling through Idaho (boise) in route to oregon and am looking for camping around Boise. did you find anything?

Please reply to steve.colantino@illinois.gov if you have any info.

Thanks

Fly into Hailey or Boise at Thanksgiving?

We are going to Sun Valley over Thanksgiving. I had planned on flying into Hailey but my mother-in-law is afraid that we could be diverted back to Boise if there is bad weather. We are traveling with our two year old so would rather not rent a car in Boise and drive. What are your thoughts? Is it a good bet to try to fly right into Hailey at the end of November?

I am inclined to risk it but would love to hear your opinion.

Thank you for your advice!

Fly into Hailey or Boise at Thanksgiving?

Kelly, if past years are any indication, you%26#39;ll be fine. The weather is still pretty nice around Thanksgiving. I%26#39;d say to go ahead and take the risk.

And have a great trip!!

Pug

Fly into Hailey or Boise at Thanksgiving?

All i can say after 30+ years here is take the chance. I went on a long trip, left on Nov 15 and got busses, early snow. Then on the return, the ONLY other snow day , we came in and had to be bussed. They bus from Twin Falls, usually, big busses, and fairly easy. It is just a let down, if you get bussed. I would most definitely take the risk. ONe of the only risks in life would i take!!!enjoy

Thank you for the advice! I will book us into Hailey.

blanchard, etc.

I am traveling from NC to Missoula for a Retreat for Cancer Survivors from Sept. 4-8. I would like to see some of the area. I have an opportunity to stay at Stoneridge resort for an efficiency unit at a cheap price. I am considering going to Missoula for the retreat and then traveling to Blanchard/Stoneridge. I would like to see something like Glacier Park. What%26#39;s the best route? What other sites do you recommend? (no theme parks, just beautiful sites and, of course, some shopping. I could go to stoneridge on Monday Sept. 8, have until Friday, Sept. 12 when I need to be back in Missoula to fly home. I%26#39;d appreciate any suggestions.

Where in ID for nature, river swimming, being lazy

Recommendations please for a trip to Idaho. We have a flight on hold to Idaho Falls but could change it to either Boise or Lewiston (by this evening). I want to sit by a river reading a book-preferably near my lodging (like out the back door), do some river swimming, maybe rafting, and a little hiking. I especially want to get into a river!

Which airport would be best to fly into and then drive no more than a couple of hours for some rest and relaxation in beautiful Idaho? Have only been in the north part of the state and have read on forums of The Sawtooths. Also, recommend any place to stay for my husband and I. We like to camp but want a bit of luxury on this trip plus too much work! Cabin or tent cabin may be ok.

Hope this is not sounding too high maintenance! Leaving the kids behind and my only possibility of a real relaxing vacation in a while.

thank you for any help and advice,

Susan

Where in ID for nature, river swimming, being lazy

Dear Susan, I LOVE the Sawtooths and the Stanley area. Here is the Stanley Chamber of Commerce website with area lodging:

stanleycc.org/pages_service_dir/lodging.html

You can land in Boise, drive up Highway 21 for about 120 miles, and be in Stanley. Beautiful drive!

You might also look at Island Park. It%26#39;s closer to Yellowstone, not as beautiful as the Sawtooths but you have a view of the Tetons and it%26#39;s not far from Idaho Falls.

Have a great trip!!

Pug

Where in ID for nature, river swimming, being lazy

I would second the Sawtooths. If you stay in Stanley you%26#39;ll have a great view of the mountains, and there are places right on the river as well.

Thanks both of you. My husband booked the flight into Idaho Falls before I could do enough research and now wishing we could have flown in Boise. The Stanley area and Sawtooths look outstanding and every river I research to find some nice swimming seems to be more near McCall or at least closer to that part of Utah.

I do not want to do a lot of driving but if it pretty could manage up to 4 hours. Do you think it is feasible to head over that way or should we stick to another area? I see that Ketchum area is not as far or even perhaps W. Yellowstone?

I just want to find a meandering river/creek to sit next to, do a little reading, sunning, and listen to the water go by.

We are going tomorrow for 5 nights.

thanks again,

Susan

Susie, you%26#39;re looking at somewhat of a drive, but if you%26#39;re adventurous and have a car with good air conditioning, you could take Highway 20 through Craters of the Moon, then turn north on Highway 75 to Ketchum. The Sun Valley area is pretty built up, but the Sawtooths are not too far from there. It would probably take you 5 hours or so to get to Stanley from Idaho Falls. You can go on the freeway but it%26#39;s not as scenic.

On the other hand, if you turn east from Idaho Falls you%26#39;ll come to the Yellowstone region in a lot less time. I can%26#39;t recall any rivers running through West Yellowstone, but Island Park is famous for them -- think A River Runs Through It!

One more suggestion, though I have not been there myself, is to drive northwest from Idaho Falls to Salmon. Check out the website http://salmonidaho.com/ I have heard that the 100 Acre Wood bed and breakfast is wonderful!

Have a great trip, whatever you decide!

Pug

Thanks again Pug,

That 100 Acre Wood does look nice. I think we will not attempt the long driving and either head up towards Salmon or possibly to that Island Park area. I see some nice pictures of a river on that 100 Acre web site so even if they are booked, perhaps I will ask them where that is.

Getting excited to see this part of the country. I am sure it will be different than little %26#39;ol San Luis Obispo. Going to try for some hot springs too.

Pretty last minute trip so will try to wing it and enjoy what comes even though I am a girl scout at heart.

ciao,

Susan

Island Park is a beautiful place this time of the year. I would recommend that you visit Mesa Falls, just an hour north of IF on hwy 20, also visit Harriman State Park and take a trail ride. They have a 2-hour ride that is just perfect.

An hour drive east of IF on hwy 26 will take you to Swan Valley. From there you have a couple of choices, you can head north on hwy 31 and enjoy a scenic drive to Victor or continue through Palisades Reservoir and go to Jackson, WY.

There are many cabins for rent on either location and both would be very relaxing.

to late now, but the Orofino area is the place you want to be. We have the best of every thing you wanted. Bobcats Bed and Breakfast is right on the Clearwater River. not to take away from the Sawtooths, they are it for what they are, but not what you described you wanted. Try it next time.

Forgot to include a phone number for Bobcats Bed %26amp; Breakfast,. It is brand new log cabins right on the river. Jon is very colorful. Jon Stewart 208-476-3719.

If I could draw this out a bit...

...yes, I can think of the lodging options near Stanley where having the river run by it is possible. How cold%26#39;s the water up there?

I know a couple ';swimming holes'; not near any lodging, though one between Boise and Idaho City barely has room to manuever... except maybe this year, if the rivers are still running high.

I know one along the Payette River, north of Horseshoe Bend. I forget the name of the beach, and there%26#39;s usually more than a handful of people there. There%26#39;s pools along the side for the kids, some rocks to jump from, etc. You know the drill.

I want to piggyback on this because I want to know of other good swimming holes around the state. You never know when my daughter needs to cool off, be thrown in (j/k), etc.

acne

Any deals on Silverwood Tickets?

My family goes to Silverwood every year. We are looking for a discount on the tickets...Any out there?

Any deals on Silverwood Tickets?

Depending on where you stay here in North Idaho your lodging may have discount tickets, the other possibility is Costco which use to have discounted tickets, not sure if they would be available at a Costco in your area but there is a Costco in Coeur d%26#39; Alene just off US95 by the freeway.

Any deals on Silverwood Tickets?

Got a deal several years ago staying at the Shilo in Coeur d%26#39;Alene. I%26#39;m not sure they still offer that deal, but it%26#39;s worth looking into. I suspect many of the other hotels have similar deals.

Just noticed at our local Subway Sandwich shops here in Coeur d%26#39; Alene that they have coupons for 4 bucks off a ticket.

Eastern WA University in Cheney has discount Silverwood tickets for $27.99 - that is a whole $8 off a single ticket price. For our family, that%26#39;s almost a free ticket when you buy 4 ! (Regular price is $36).

This deal is NOT just for EWU students, either. They sell them to anyone. Just go to the PUB (student union) building M-F 7:30-4:30 on Elm Street, Cheney.

Good luck! Have fun.

We are headed to Silverwoods this Thursday. KHQ6 news mentioned Burger King has discount tickets - just wondering what you have found out for this year?

We are headed to Silverwood on the 24th and I am also interested in discount tickets, also does anyone know if you can add the 2nd day after you are at the park? I can get discount tiks. at Costco but they are only for one day admission and we were planning on going for 2 days..

We just came back from spending the day at Silverwoods. We picked up tickets at Burger King in Hayden (north of Coeur d%26#39;Alene) $4.00 off/8yrs-Adult admission and $2.00 off 3-7 years. The tickets are available on the counter and looks like at any Burger King south of Coeur d%26#39;Alene and Spokane. I have an extra ticket leftover and it says ';Not valid with any other discount or coupon offers. The coupon is also only valid May 31-July 31/08. Hope this helps and enjoy your time there.

Did you think one day was enough? We were thinking maybe 2 days?

we are going to silverwood for the august long weekend (1st to 4th) and wondering what anyone has found or used for coupons? Are there any at costco, burger king, on pepsi products?

Depends on several things:

How far you travel

Age of your kids

1st time there?

Do you want 1 long day or 2 shorter days (hrs are from 11-9pm (8pm for the beach)

The first time we were there in 2006 we spent 2 days there however with a 7 hr drive we camped in the camp ground and did one day at the rides and the next at boulder beach. Our kids were younger and so were we. We also went on every ride quite a few times, attended all the shows which all takes time. There is a magic show, skating performance and a few other ones but can%26#39;t remember.

I asked the kids what they thought -15 yr old said 1 day (2 days if it is your 1st time), 12 year old said 2 days, 7 year old said 2 days.

My husband and I both agree one day was sufficent for us this trip. First time was more exciting didn%26#39;t know what to expect. We planned a bit better this time and went mid week (less people), got there right when it opened and stayed late. Everyone got to ride all the rides they wanted as well as do everything at the beach park. Unfortunately the one ride (avalanche was closed for the day-repairs)

Hope you enjoy

Just returned from Silverwood some questions answered...

My family just returned from two fabulous days at Silverwood. We are from Montana so amusement parks are few and far between. I was thoroughly impressed with everything about Silverwood. I bought the tickets in Missoula, Montana at Costco at a discount and without tax. I bought enough for two days, knowing if I didn%26#39;t use the two days I could take one days tickets back for a refund. But we needed the two days to enjoy everything! Really, I%26#39;d suggest two days. We went to the waterpark from 11:00 to about 3 or 4:00, then hit the amusement park. We went to the magic show and the ice show which were both very entertaining, short and to the point. Don%26#39;t miss them! The rides were wonderful! My five year old was over 42 inches but under 48 so she could go on most everything as long as the parents went too. I%26#39;d recommend going on a weekday if you can, but we were there Friday and Saturday and even though Sat. was busy, the lines were definately bearable. I%26#39;ve been to Disneyland during Spring Break and had our whole experience ruined by long lines and mounds of people but this was nothing like that. In fact friday, we barely had to wait in line for most things. I see how everyone says the food, etc is so expensive but I didn%26#39;t think so. We ate at the chinese place, wok in the park, at the waterpark and it was awesome, and we fed my entire family of 5 for under $20. I can barely do that at McDonalds. We had pizza the next day which was okay, not as good, but still it only cost us $23. Souvenirs weren%26#39;t that spendy, my husband and got coffee mugs for only $6 a piece. He won my kids giant stuffed animals from the games. For $5 at the game, they got a giant sesame street character and a giant superhereo. We stayed in our rv at Farragut State Park which is only about 5 miles away. I highly recommend staying there if you want to camp. Electric hook up only cost $20, and we%26#39;d have spent that on gas driving back and forth to Couer d%26#39;lane or Spokane. All and all it was a great mini-vacation. I%26#39;d be happy to answer any of your questions if I can!! Have Fun!!

Just returned from Silverwood some questions answered...

Thanks for sharing your experience with us, it is a big help for others planning a vacation in the area. I%26#39;m glad to hear that you enjoyed your holiday. We went to Silverwood for the first time last summer and stayed in our RV at Farragut and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves as well. I really enjoyed Farragut SP, we were very impressed with the park.

Just returned from Silverwood some questions answered...

We just returned from our trip to Idaho, we stayed in Couerd%26#39;alene at the Guesthouse Inn for 3 nights, we drove to Silverwood on Fri.(25th), there was some traffic but it was only about a 20 minute drive from our hotel, I also got our tickets at Costco, 30.99 here in Tacoma. I agree about the food prices, I thought they were great, much better then those here at our amusement park, Wild Waves. We spent most of our time on the amusement park side but did enjoy the water park too, we all thought that the new coaster Aftershock was great! We did see the illusionist show and enjoyed it but didn%26#39;t go to any of the others.

4th of July Celebration, Bliss, Idaho

Does anyone know what is going on in Bliss, Idaho over the 4th of July?? Who would we contact to find out?

4th of July Celebration, Bliss, Idaho

No one enjoyed this hike more than our former dog Targhee. He first did the hike at 9 months old back in %26#39;96, chasing sticks and bounding up and down hills with ease. He cleared it for the final time in September of %26#39;06, plodding steadily behind us.

--------------------------

Stellathomas

%26lt;a href=';http://www.treatmentcenters.org/idaho';REL=';DoFollow';%26gt;Idaho Treatment Centers%26lt;/a%26gt;

Shopping ?

Hi as I posted in an earlier post we are coming for vacation that way in a week and I love to shop.....would I be better off shopping in Spokane or is there any good malls, outlet malls/stores in Iowa?

Shopping ?

Hi,

I%26#39;m pretty sure you mean Idaho, not Iowa. Common mistake....

Coeur d%26#39;Alene has one real ';mall';, the Silverlake Mall on Hwy 95. There are quite a few smaller ';centers'; with Target stores, Best Buy, Ross, etc. and most of these are on the main Hwy 95.

Post Falls, which is right next to Coeur d%26#39;Alene has the Post Falls Outlet mall, but I believe quite a few of the stores are vacant and not sure it would be worth a trip. I could be wrong.

The downtown area on Sherman Ave. in Coeur d%26#39;Alene has some really cute little shops depending on what type of shopping you want to do, but if you%26#39;re set on malls, you might have to travel to Spokane.

The Spokane Valley mall off of Sullivan Ave. is a good-sized mall and is about 15 minutes from Post Falls and the Idaho border. If you want a BIG mall, the Northtown Mall in North Spokane is huge, but a 45 minute drive.

Unless you%26#39;re dying to visit a big mall, I think your time would be better spent visiting the downtown CdA area and maybe Silverlake Mall and IF you have extra time, maybe the Valley Mall. The drive to the big Spokane Northtown Mall is ugly and long and not in a particularly ';holiday friendly'; area.

Shopping ?

KirkandMimi covered it all except I would add that there is a Cabela%26#39;s store at the Idaho/Washington stateline area. Cabela%26#39;s is a very large outdoor sports store, it opened in the last year.

Thanks so much both of you and yes I did mean Idaho haha We are coming from Alberta and staying in Spokane a day or 2 before going to Coeur d%26#39;Alene and can%26#39;t wait to go to the casinos and shop woo hooo!

I think the Silverlake mall is depressing! I would gladly drive to the Valley Mall in Spokane or to the downtown River Park Square. It might help us give suggestions if you were to say what you would be shopping for....

I mostly agree with inHayden about the mall in Coeur d%26#39;Alene, the malls in Spokane are bigger and nicer.

I also agree with KirkandMimi about the stores on Sherman, tons of cool stuff. I%26#39;m a big kid at heart so my favorite store down there is FigPickles toy store.

acne

Boise and Stanley

Whoever suggested the Modern Hotel in Boise Thank You. It was great! The rooms are nice, with rain shower and nice linens. Ate at Goldys and the Red Feather.

Spent a week in Stanley at the Diamond D ranch which was perfect. You can%26#39;t go wrong!

Boise and Stanley

I%26#39;m so glad the Diamond D Ranch worked out for you and that you had a great vacation! Cathy

Boise and Stanley

i am glad that you lliked my FAVORITE the red feather...

A River Runs through it Island Park, Idaho

Has anyone stayed at this location? We have two teenagers and a nine-year-old and need a nice place to stay once we exit West Yellowstone. We are looking for unique accommodations (other than chain type motels).

A River Runs through it Island Park, Idaho

I have never heard of it but I can tell you to not stay at Macks Inn it may be cheaper but you get what you pay for and it is a dump. Had I seen the reviews before I went I wouldnt have stayed there.

There are better places to stay in Island Park.

Try www.islandparkchamber.org or www.westyellowstonechamber.com for places that are cleaner and better maintained.

A River Runs through it Island Park, Idaho

We stayed at A River Runs Through It last summer for 2 nights. It was perfectly lovely. The hosts were extremely gracious and the accomodations very nice. We stayed in their new cabin, which was delightful.

Hailey Airport

Okay, this could be a real silly question to you ... I wish to visit a friend a Sun Valley, when I checked the air ticket price on United Airlines, the nearest airport I could find was ';Idaho Falls';. Can anyone please tell me what is the airport code for ';Hailey'; which is obviously much closer to Sun Valley?

PS: I will be traveling from Chicago, MI.

Hailey Airport

SUN that is it and right now, we have lots of it...enjoy

Hailey Airport

Thank you, Charley48. I just searched four web sites: United Airlines, NorthWest, Expedia, Travelocity ... and guess what? None of them have the flight that matches my search -- flying from Chicago to SUN by end of this month.

My guess is, either it is a busy time (therefore no seats available) or it is a quiet time (hence the airlines cancelled the flights). I am putting on hold my ticket flying to Idaho Falls Airport though. It takes about 3.5 hours drive from Idaho Falls to Sun valley, correct?

Correction ... I meant to say ..... I will hold on to my ticket reservation to Idaho Falls. Please advise if it is about 3.5 hours drive to Sun Valley, and is it an easy drive? I am not very good in driving on highway with a lot of cars. It is best if you can let me know if there%26#39;s any public transportation between Idaho Falls and Sun Valley.

i went to expedia and kayak.com and found lots of flights!!!

Try it again. also, Boise is 21/4 hours away, and a MUCH nicer drive. It is easy to get into sun valley. give me your dates and i will copy and paste from a site.

Charley48,

It will be so much nicer if I can fly into Sun Valley directly. Thank you for checking for me, I will try gain. My traveling date: depart Midland via Chicago to Sun Valley on August 29. Returning on September 1.

how long does it take to get to CDA from north Yellowstone

We will be leaving Gardiner, Mt, and travelling to Coeur D%26#39;Alene. I am most interested in travel time.

how long does it take to get to CDA from north Yellowstone

If you go Interstate 90 I would allow 8 to 9 hours for travel time (summer). There are alternative more scenic routes which would take longer. Also remember you will switch from the Mountain Time Zone in Montana to Pacific Time Zone when you cross into Idaho.

GREAT RV park in Caldwell, Idaho!

Pulling up to the Ambassador brought memories of parking lot type parks - rows and rows of rv%26#39;s, but, don%26#39;t pull away! We pulled in ';after hours'; but were greeted anyway, and escorted to a good spot. But what%26#39;s really good here is...EVERYTHING! This place is CLEAN, has some of the best showers I%26#39;ve ever seen in a park, but, the icing on the cake...a rec room with -get this - a bluegrass/country/folk jam on Saturday nights that local folk and travelers can join in on. Yup. I couldn%26#39;t wait to run back to my rv and grab a guitar a join in. The real treat is listening to ';Hutch'; play his Ovation guitar. But wait, there is more: a pool, exercise room, game room, free coffee and pastries in the morning. I can understand why people become residents here.

air makeup

Mountain Biking?

Can anyone tell me what the mountain biking trails on Sliver Mountain are like? I%26#39;m a beginning mountain biker and I don%26#39;t want anything too difficult. Thanks.

Payette Lake vs Cascade Resevoir to waterski??

We we are planning a family boating trip for the end of August. I have read that Cascade has murkey water the end of August, but may be warmer %26amp; less busy. I need help! We are looking for a place with nice beaches for a 1 year old, scenic, good water for waterskiing and where we may be able to stay in a place close to the water. We don%26#39;t want the water to be so cold we will be miserable in it. Any suggestions???? We are from Elko NV (6 hr drive to these lakes). We are flexible and can go to a different location, is better. Thanks for your help!

Payette Lake vs Cascade Resevoir to waterski??

Dworshak is clear, uncrowded, and the ultimate ski destination. The water is fairly warm, and there is ALWAYS somewhere close where you can find a glass surface. All this and it is one of the most scenic reservoirs you will ever see. It is almost 60 miles long and runs from gentle rolling forested hills on the lower end to high rugged mountains on the upper end. Expect to see deer, elk, turkeys, osprey and sometimes moose and a swimming bear! Don%26#39;t expect to see houses, resorts and roads on the shore line. There is camping on the reservoir, full service to primative. There is a nice bed and breakfast very close, The High Country Inn. Dworshak State Park has Cabins for rent at the Three Meadows Camp. Ping me if I can be any help or if you would like to see some photos. It does experience draw downs so expect it to be 50 ft. down. No big deal. World class small mouth bass fishing along with trout and kokanee.

Recommended Trails?

Can anyone recommend some nice hiking trails in the Sun Valley area? I will be there in July for a week and want to go on moderate to very strenuous hikes. I will have one car.

Thanks!

Recommended Trails?

If you go about 60 miles north into the Sawtooth Mountains, there are tons of incredible hiking trails. Some of the top trails are to Alice Lake (12 miles round trip - trailhead at Pettit Lake); Sawtooth Lake (11 miles round trip - trailhead near Stanley); and numerous hikes from Redfish Lake.

Recommended Trails?

i am a AVID hiker. PM me and i will give you some of the secret hikes..the Sawtooths have incredible hikes, maybe for a night or 2. This summer will be exceptional, as we have had lots of late spring rains...enjoy

Hey, I just wanted to thank you for your recommendations. Sun Valley was beautiful. Pioneer cabin was my favorite hike! We also did Sawtooth Lake, Saddlebank Lakes (by Redfish), Silver Lake, and Imperial Gulch.

THANKS!

Glad you enjoyed your trip to Idaho!

but didn%26#39;t you just LOVE silver lake...so different. I also, love Pioneer cabin. We just go up there sometimes for dinner!! and the view

fishing near ketchum and stanley

we are going to be in idaho in september. what are good rivers to fish in the ketchum or stanley area for the wading angler? reasonable places to stay also.

fishing near ketchum and stanley

use google and find out what you are looking for and then posters can pin down what you need. Just south of Ketchum, is the Silver Creek, is supposed to be the best fishing in the nation. stanely has great fishing as well. in stanley, danners cabins and tell syd that carla sent you. the cabins are wonderful, but go fast and reasonable.

fishing near ketchum and stanley

You may be able to catch the Trailing of the Sheep, or if you%26#39;re there on Labor Day, a huge non-motorized parade.

CathyB

recommended hot springs/swimming holes?

I will be traveling from Missoula to Salt Lake City through the Salmon/Stanley area and am looking for recommendations for any good rustic hot springs and/or swimming holes. Thanks!

recommended hot springs/swimming holes?

there are lots of them. you can google hot springs for the area that you are going to, and/or just ask the locals...enjoy

recommended hot springs/swimming holes?

200 miles south of Missoula is Challis, Idaho. There is a natural hot springs pool area south of town.

Challis Hot Springs consists of two pools = the HOT one that is not cooled and is indoors, and the outside larger pool that is cooled and has a natural river rock bottom (bring old walking shoes if you want to walk)...

There are ';community'; dressing rooms and the house is also a B %26amp; B if you want a place to stay.

The Soda Springs area is the obvious choice--you%26#39;ll go right through on your route south--lots of Oregon Trail stuff to see too.

CathyB

Snow skiing in Idaho

Hi Everyone!

Well we are starting our ski vacation planning! Heard about flying into Jackson Hole and all the skiing in the area. Please enlighten us about ski areas in Idaho? Don%26#39;t care if they are small resorts, actually prefer those. Also snow skiing at Yellowstone and Jackson Hole. We have skied all over but not this area, so any info is appreciated!

Snow skiing in Idaho

Hi!

Just around the corner from Jackson is Grand Targhee Ski Area on the west side of the tetons - you have to drive through Driggs, Idaho to get to it. From there is Kelly Canyon Ski Area by Ririe, Idaho. South from there is Pebble Creek Ski Area, by Inkom Idaho.

If you want to travel to the other side of Idaho, there are ski areas around Boise, and the usual Ski Area in central Idaho - Sun Valley (expensive).

If you do a loop to return to Jackson to fly home, then try the Grand Targee - Kelly Canyon - Pebble Creek route then drive south to Montpelier and then over to Wyoming and up through Star Valley and you%26#39;ll return to Jackson.

Snow skiing in Idaho

The Idaho Ski Area Assn (ISAA) has a website--they should have updated info for you, but Jackson and Targee are the ones nearest.

Pomerelle isn%26#39;t a resort, but the skiings supposed to be really good.

CathyB

Hey, Happy Kitty, you didn%26#39;t mention Tamarack and Brundage. And Bogus is less than an hour out of Boise--ski all day, hit the town that evening.

Sun Valley is spectacular, but be sure to check the snow conditions--sometimes the snow comes late.

CathyB (again)

wow, ftc, you are a poster now!!!

if there isn%26#39;t any snow in sv, good chance there isn%26#39;t any in boise either, and for that matter, brundage, (although they have more snow) and tamarack.

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Coeur d'Alene casino accomadations

Hi we have never been up that way and are planning a trip in a week and wondered about staying right at the casino......anyone know how the rooms are there? Thanks I am excited about this trip :-)

Coeur d'Alene casino accomadations

I%26#39;ve heard both good and less than good things about their rooms, but I think that they would be fine, especially if you want to be at the casino. Also if you are a golfer don%26#39;t forget your golf clubs, because Circling Raven is an awesome course

Coeur d'Alene casino accomadations

basic accomodations and I hope you don%26#39;t mind cigarette smoke.

The golf course is awesome!!!

I didn%26#39;t have problems with the room, but the smoke in the casino bothered me a bit.

the Casino is actually in Worley, on the res. IT%26#39;s isolated (no shopping outside the casino) but the land around it is beautiful.

Ditto on the golf--there are a whole bunch of world class courses in North Idaho. Check out the NITA website (North Idaho Travel Alliance) or Idaho Golf Trail for details. ( www.visitidaho.org/golf/ )

CathyB

Well we went and actually enjoyed it, the casino is huge. I was going to spa for a treatment but it was booked :-( The food was good and overall would say we would go back :-)

Avoid Clearwater Casino, Lewiston, Idaho

At this writing, the Nez Perce management has not learned that one does not make money in a casino by featuring slots that do not play or pay and food that is over-priced and low in quality.

The newly built casino is good-looking. The change from plastic to nice tableware is welcomed. The completion of the hotel is nice, but as I have not stayed in it, I cannot comment. The inclusion of a spacious no-smoking gaming room is wonderful for many people.

But the lack of excitement and fun in the casino is driving user numbers into the doldrums. Yesterday, I visited after not being there for several months. The parking lot was nearly empty! It was Friday at 4 pm.

Inside, I found an elderly lady sitting in the foyer. I asked if she had a good time. She looked at me and calmy said, ';This is the worst casino of all. I routinely fly to Laughlin or Vegas and I go to the Worley casino. This casino is so tight that you can put money in ten machines and never get even a ten cent win.';

When I went inside, I talked with four other people. They all sighed. Each had similar complaints. One gentleman said he wished the casino help was friendly. At the least, he said, they could ease the pain by smiling when we come in, saying ';good day'; or greeting us. Instead, they sit behind counters or walk by, ignoring their customers.

I plunked money into a few machines myself. It was dismal. I could deal with losing my money if I was having fun. The others were right. You push and nothing happens. Over and over. Machine after machine.

So, I left.

I won%26#39;t be back. And I caution you to avoid the place. Go to Worley or anywhere else.

Avoid Clearwater Casino, Lewiston, Idaho

Come on, what are you doing in that casino....

Avoid Clearwater Casino, Lewiston, Idaho

Thank you for noticing. I thought was the only one who was in the wrong place. I was trying to leave the casino April 5th and found hundreds of people blocking the doors and walkways and preventing me from leaving as they were lured there in hopes of winning a car. The casino does this on a regular basis and even films the chaos they create. Is this some perverted way of saying ';we make fun of you, you are stupid to grovel at our door to try to win something'; The employees I complained to saw nothing wrong with the fact that if a fire broke out there would be no way to exit the building. Sort of reminds you of those third world countries where people are trampled to death because of the greed and careless disregard for others held by stupid money grubbing self promoters.No Fire Marshall on Indian lands I assume.

On a recent trip to Lewiston, we stopped, stayed, ate and played at the Casino. Although the hotel is clean and spacious and the wood timber construction is awe inspriing ,the casno lacks in several areas.

1. We didn%26#39;t know at the time, but my mother and her sister whom stayed in a room down the hall from me had a next door neighbor with a dog that yapped all night long. A call to management did respond with a security guy who warned the people next door, but it did not prevent a sleepless nights rest. Pets in motels or hotels do not mix with people, so beware! (The only good thing was the rooms were spacious and well kept).

2. We ate lunch in their very nice restaurant, but the servcie left us annoyed. One gal started to seat us on the back side near some large windows which were unshaded. Finding the area extremely hot, we asked for other seating. The waitress was extremely rude and told us to take it or leave it. We opted to sit in the heat and have our lunch, but should have left.

Another waitress whom served us, was pleasant and did apologize for the other gals behaviour. The food was alright, but could have been better for the price.

A couple that came in behind us, asked to be seated elsewhere also. The very rude waitress, just picked up the menu%26#39;s and left the poor couple standing. They were still waiting to be seated, some ten minutes later when we left.

3. We did find some nice people working there. The two young ladies at the front desk were nice and conversated with us for some time. Their replacements the next morning were also very nice. Another gal working in the restaurant was also charming.

4. We found the Casino the same as the others. We dropped 50 bucks within 20 minutes. Even the penny machines didn%26#39;t pay out. The next morning before we left, I did happen to win 80 bucks on a quarter machine, but the rest of our group didn%26#39;t win a penny.

I heard more complaints the following morning about food, service and the Casino before we left. A few had heated arugments with Cashiers, resturant people and others.

All in all, we would not stay their again, and would not reccomend this hotel or casino to friends or family.

Itinerary for Coeur d' Alenes area including biking.

The first of September my husband and I are flying into Seattle for a 2 week trip to explore Washington, Idaho and Oregon. The first 2 days and nights will be spent in Seattle and that is all I have planned so far! After Seattle we will rent a car and head towards the Coeur d’Alene area. We want to rent bikes and ride the Hiawatha Trail and are open to day bike rides also on the Trail of the Coeur d’ Alenes etc. We are not mountain bikers, but rather leisurely bikers usually riding 30-40 miles a day, preferably on terrains that are not drastic inclines. I would love to find a B%26amp;B and/or Inn to set up as a base camp while we are in the area. Any suggestions on what would be a nice area and place to stay? What would be a good 4 day itinerary for this area that would include biking and other natural beauties?

Once we leave this area we plan to drive along and explore the Columbia River Gorge, as we head back towards Seattle for our flight back home. I am also looking for suggestions on this part of our trip.

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

Itinerary for Coeur d' Alenes area including biking.

This is noidahodave%26#39;s (the other ';destination expert';) expertise -- I know he loves biking the trails and knows more about North Idaho than anyone, so I%26#39;ll make sure he sees this and responds as soon as he can.

Sounds like a wonderful trip.

Itinerary for Coeur d' Alenes area including biking.

I would say if you like flat and leisure to try out centennial trail headed East around Lake Coeur d%26#39;Alene, it%26#39;s a beautiful trip.

There are a lot of really cool bed and breakfasts in Coeur d%26#39;Alene, they just had their semi-annual tour not too long ago and I was able to see most of them, and they are all pretty nice the website for the B%26amp;B Association is http://www.bb-northidaho.com/

I haven%26#39;t had a chance to make it to Columbia Gorge yet so hopefully someone else can come along and give you advice on that.

Can%26#39;t add much on the B%26amp;B%26#39;s in the Coeur d%26#39; Alene area but here are my thoughts on bike trips.

My preference in order is Hiawatha, Trail of Coeur d%26#39; Alenes, and the Centennial Trail. Hiawatha is hard to beat, a very unique experience with the tunnels, trestles and mountain scenery, its an abandoned railroad so its a moderate grade and if you use the shuttle bus its all downhill. Lookout Ski Area is the summer manager and has a good web site with info (www.skilookout.com). You buy tickets, shuttle bus passes and rent bikes at the ski area located at Lookout Pass on Interstate 90 at the Idaho/Montana border. The Hiawatha actually starts in Montana, you exit the freeway several miles into Montana and travel on a very good gravel road to the parking area and beginning of the trail. Couple of tips for riding the Hiawatha: 1. Lookout Pass rents fully equipped bikes including the lights needed to go through the tunnel 2) bring a long sleeve shirt or light jacket because the tunnels can be cool and wet 3) start as early as possible to avoid crowds at parking lot and shuttle bus, Lookout ski area opens at 8AM 4) allow a full day to do the ride. Lookout Ski Area and the Hiawatha are about a 45 minute to 1 hour drive from Coeur d%26#39; Alene, its a great ride, my 80 year old father has done three times and is ready to go back. Trail of the Coeur d%26#39; Alene%26#39;s offers more of a river / lake ride. Currently the section from Bull Run Lake to Harrison is under repair but may be finished by September. My favorite two sections are from Enaville to Bull Run Lake along the Coeur d%26#39; Alene River, and the section from Harrison to Plummer along the lake and up Plummer Creek Canyon. The trail is paved, mostly flat except the section up Plummer Creek Canyon which isn%26#39;t too bad due to being an old railroad. Plummer is about a 45 minute drive south of Coeur d%26#39; Alene, Enaville is about a 30 minute drive east of Coeur d%26#39; Alene. These two sections require at least a half day to do. Lastly the Centennial Trail has two nice sections one along Lake Coeur d%26#39; Alene from the city of Coeur d%26#39; Alene and another from the city of Post Falls towards Spokane along the Spokane River.

Thank you for the feedback. It is all very helpful.

If you need a place to stay during your return drive along the Columbia River, look into the Columbia Gorge Hotel. You would not expect to find a little gem like this in that area.

It can break up an otherwise long drive back to Seattle. There are some beautiful waterfalls in the area. And the ';World Famous Farm Breakfast'; alone is worth the stay!

It is a little costly, but will be memorable!

I hope that you will be exploring the historic Columbia Gorge highway as well! This is an incredibly scenic drive, and it took us the better part of a day to travel from The Dalles to Portland via this highway. We *really* took our time, but we just couldn%26#39;t get enough of the scenery! (In our own defence, we did spend about 2 hours touring the Bonneville Dam!)

Don%26#39;t know much about the biking, or the bed and breakfasts... but, I would definitely second the Columbia River Gorge hotel stop. Hood River would be a nice stop for lunch as well.

When you leave Seattle, the drive from Seattle to about Wenatchee/Moses Lake is gorgeous, then it turns rather deserty and ho-hum. It turns back into beautiful forested land after Spokane. When you head back towards Portland along the Columbia River Gorge, the best part is from about John Day to Portland. There is a loop of ';old highway'; you can take which is very scenic. I would make sure you can do that during daylight hours.

If you have any time available for the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach is definitely the best choice.

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Hampton Inn

I can only find one review online. Has anyone stayed there recently? It is supposed to be a new property. Thanks.

Hampton Inn

I have not stayed there, but have talked to someone who did and they had a positive experience. It is definitely a new property -- less than a year old, and the location is fantastic in the brand new Riverstone center with a small man-made lake, park, shopping and lots of restaurants. Some of the rooms overlook the Spokane River which runs right into lake Coeur d%26#39;Alene.

Hampton Inn

Yeah that is what I found out yesterday. I am thinking of giving it a try this weekend. Trying to decide between them and the Holiday Inn Express I90 which gets really nice reviews. Makes it hard when this hotel is not even on the forum.

I%26#39;ve heard good things about the Holiday Inn Express. It%26#39;s literally around the corner from the Hampton -- within a quarter mile, but if I had to choose, I%26#39;d have to suggest the Hampton.

Even though they%26#39;re REALLY close to each other, the Holiday Inn is on Seltice and you have to walk either across a dirt lot or along the main highway/road for a short time to get to the shopping/dining/lake area at Riverstone. Also, even though it%26#39;s just a short distance, Hampton Inn is slightly closer to the resort and downtown area, too.

Riverstone (where the Hampton is) also has a little trolley to downtown and if you don%26#39;t want to use that, it also has a Citylink stop there, which is a completely free bus that can take you to different areas.

Either hotel is fine, but assuming the price is fairly similar, I%26#39;d say you should go with the Hampton.

Hopefully some other posters will come along who%26#39;ve actually stayed there.

Great, thanks. I think I will go with the Hampton Inn. It actually is only a few Dollars less, but I think it%26#39;s newer, opening last December. Maybe it won%26#39;t be as busy since no one seems to know about it!!

FYI

For some reason the reviews of the Hampton Inn are being posted under B%26amp;B%26#39;s in Coeur d%26#39; Alene.

I will check there. Thanks.

My two-cents would be that the Holiday Inn Express is better decorated/curb appeal than the Hampton, but the chlorine smell from the pool and the blah breakfast are very Super 8 ish. The Hampton does not present as well as far as decor, but is in a better location for walking to restaurants/coffee etc. All in all pretty equal, so go for the one with the best price.

I think I will stick with the Hampton Inn this time. Thanks everyone for the help.

That%26#39;s a great choice, especially if you have kids along since there is a park and a pond with swans just across the way. If you have older kids, they can wander over to Starbucks or a pizza shop.

Between the two choices, because they are both equally nice I would choose the Holiday Inn Express, because the owners of the Hampton don%26#39;t wish to be a part of the community, they don%26#39;t join the chamber or participate in community events.

One Last Insane Pointless Road Trip

I got a job in Portland, the place of my birth and probably where I%26#39;ll die (and Rose City %26#39;Til I Die, at that). I%26#39;ll be moving, more than likely, the weekend of October 11, give or take a day or two.

I was just tossing around a few ';hadn%26#39;t done that yets'; and wondering which ones I should target before leaving. Mind you, I have daughter visitations, so some things WILL get covered over the next few years, but there%26#39;s a few things that won%26#39;t have her interest. I need help winnowing these down to something doable in the next month.

How late in the season is Redfish Lake Lodge open?

Is Bear Lake worth it?

Do I risk my Honda Civic on the road to Jarbidge? How about Silver City?

Is Yellow Pine a good trip?

From which direction should I approach City of Rocks?

Anyone ever been to Aberdeen? Rockland? Ola? Arbon? Fernwood?

Your help would be greatly appreciated.

One Last Insane Pointless Road Trip

Wow, a lot of questions. I%26#39;ll answer one of them. I went to Bear Lake this summer and was not very impressed. Big lake, nice blue color, but too cold to swim, not enough shade to enjoy the shores. Look at a picture and you will have seen everything there is to do there.

One Last Insane Pointless Road Trip

I can give you a couple of answers!

The best way to approach City of Rocks is through Almo. Get off the freeway at the exit for Declo/Pomerelle Ski Resort. The road is paved for most of the way (though last year they were doing construction and it slowed the trip down a bit.)

Redfish Lake Lodge is open through September 27th. More beautiful than usual up there in the fall!

I haven%26#39;t been to Yellowpine or Jarbidge or Silver City (yet.) There is a big fire burning in the Jarbidge area right now, and there%26#39;s been talk of evacuating the town. May not be a good trip right now.

My brother lives between Boring and Sandy. He%26#39;d agree with you about Rose City!

Pug

Hi

have you been to

Bruneau sand dunes short drive form Boise thru Mountain Home good day trip for children.

can play all day hikeing to the top of the dunes and there is a lake or two for fishing.

they also have an observatory there not sure when it is open. with the weather getting back cooler now is a good time to go before the snows come.

Things to do for couples?

My husband and I have some extended family in the Post Falls and Spokane area and we are thinking about heading out there in May for a week and running the BLoomsday race. We%26#39;d like to take a couple days to ourselves and stay somewhere in Coeur D%26#39;Alene since I remember it being beautiful, although it%26#39;s been nearly 15 years and I was just in my teens then...

We%26#39;re athletic and like hiking/running, as well as dining and shopping. Not big gamblers though so I don%26#39;t really see us hitting the casino. What is there to do in the area for kind of a romantic, semi-outdoorsy weekend?

Thanks!

Things to do for couples?

If you like hiking, dining and shopping, I%26#39;d suggest heading to the downtown area, across from the Resort. You can have breakfast at the resort overlooking the lake then walk to the downtown shopping area and do some looking around. After that, you might want to walk over to Tubbs Hill (very short walk) and do some hiking or take one of the lake cruises which take off at the resort. They have a sunset dinner cruise which is nice, too.

Lots to do in that area and the scenery is beautiful.

Things to do for couples?

I agree with Tubbs Hill you might even want to hike up their with your lunch and a blanket for a romantic outdoor picnic n a flatter area, over looking the lake, weather permitting of course. You can also have dinner at The Cedars a very nice floating restaurant in Coeir d%26#39;Alene, that has been around for nearly forever.

There are some nice hikes on the Idaho/Montana border (a little over an hour%26#39;s drive from Coeur d%26#39;Alene). I found this website which might be helpful www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=13179.

I just realized that the link above takes you to the home page of the trails site instead of directly to the map I was looking at. So after clicking on the link, click on the US map and then Idaho. Type in ';mullan'; for the city and click zoom in. It zooms way in so you%26#39;ll need to zoom out a bit, but at least you%26#39;ll be in the right area. You should see Coeur d%26#39;Alene on the map East of Mullan on I-90. Hope this helps!

We love taking a boat ride over to Eddy%26#39;s for a meal if the weather is nice. There is a great view from the outdoor patio. Or, you can get a great sandwich at Hutton%26#39;s and sit on their outdoor patio behind the store. Both great relaxing places with a great view.

air makeup

Bonners Ferry Log Inn, Bonners Ferry, Idaho

This Inn is a wonderful treasure. Clean, spacious, well appointed rooms that give you an immediate relaxing feeling. Quiet, one floor, very nice room layout. Bathroom is also spacious with double sinks. No swimming pool, but huge spa. Lovely grounds filled with gardens and a pond. Continental breakfast of homemade poppy seed bread, coffee, juice, and tea.

Owners quite accomodating.

Bonners Ferry Log Inn, Bonners Ferry, Idaho

I agree with Elphaba. It is a wonderful place. The rooms are clean, quiet, and the furniture is wonderfully unique. I will definitely stay there again.

Bonners Ferry Log Inn, Bonners Ferry, Idaho

This feedback is great to hear. I hope you have also taken the time to post a positive review in the hotel reviews section, where it will be easily accessible to future travellers. The actual posts here in the travel forum eventually get shuffled so far down the list that they are difficult for travellers to stumble across.

restaurant

Not sure if Eagle will be on my route or not, any good places to eat?

restaurant

Hope this isn%26#39;t too late. Eagle has some nice places. Expensive - ';616'; that is the name. Moderate - Mai Thai,Bardenay%26#39;s, Cool Hand Lukes, RiverRock Alehouse, Smokey mountain Pizzeria and Pasta. Inexpensive - Buster%26#39;s and Smokey Mountain depending on what you order.

Coeur d Laine-Vancouver-Seattle

Just wondering what you all think is the most cost effective way to travel between Coeur d%26#39;Alaine Seattle Vancouver and return to Arizona? We must be in Coeur d Alaine for a Sunday wedding in August.

Thank you!!

Coeur d Laine-Vancouver-Seattle

Vancouver, British Columbia or Vancouver, Washington?

Best connections between Seattle and Coeur d%26#39; Alene are either airline flights into Spokane airport (about 35 miles via Interstate 90 from Coeur d%26#39; Alene) or rent a car in Seattle and drive (about a 5 hour drive, 300 miles). You could also depart from Spokane back to Arizona, fairly good selection of airlines out of Spokane (Southwest, Delta, United, Alaska). Overall cheapest (and because of the time spent at airports maybe the the fastest) may be to fly directly into Seattle and rent car to drive to Vancouver and Spokane.

Trip Report

I just returned from 5 days in Idaho. It was my first trip to Idaho and had no idea what to expect. The landscape was much more diverse than I had imagined and I had a wonderful time! I stayed in Boise with relatives. First off, I have to say that the people in Boise are some of the nicest people I have ever met (and living in the Midwest, I thought we had the friendliest people!)! On Day 1, we drove from Boise to Ketchum. We had lunch at a great place called the Rustic Moose (which was featured on Rachel Ray!). After walking around Ketchum and the Sun Valley Lodge area, we returned to Boise and had dinner at another great place - El Gallo Giro in Kuna. The food was wonderful and I expecially loved the fresh guacamole made right at your table. On Day 2, we drove to McCall. The drive was absolutely gorgeous, as we followed the Payette River. In McCall, we had brunch at The Pancake House (another delicious meal!) and shopped in the Christmas shop that%26#39;s attached. We then drove to Ponderosa Pines State Park to enjoy the view. That evening, back in Boise, we ate at Epi%26#39;s Basque restaurant. This was a dining experience! The food was wonderful (and more than plenty!) and the people working there were so friendly, it really did feel like having dinner in someone%26#39;s home. Day 3 was spent driving west to Hell%26#39;s Canyon on the Oregon border. The drive through the canyon was also beautiful, and we were excited to spot two bighorn sheep sunning themselves on a cliff. On Day 4, we walked around downtown Boise. We walked to the Capitol building, then to The Grove where we bought some souvenirs at Taters (my co-workers raved about the chocolate-covered potato chips I brought back) and found a great place for lunch - the Brick Oven Bistro. The employees were so friendly and when they found out we were tourists, they got us a map and gave us tips on what to see. After lunch, we visited the Basque area (unfortunately the Basque museum was closed that day) and Boise State University. We stopped at the Boise mall before heading back to my relatives%26#39; house for a leisurely evening. I flew home on Tuesday morning, and the Boise airport gets points from me for being so easy to get around. Again, the security people were so nice and friendly (one security officer even jokingly said ';please take out any liquids or video cameras from your bag....and if you have any chocolate chip cookies, I%26#39;m going to need to take those!';). My entire experience in Idaho was great. I have told everyone at home in Indiana that Idaho is so much more than just potatoes! I look forward to returning!

Trip Report

Glad you enjoyed your trip, come back and see us again! Sounds like the weather was kind to you. You went to some of my favorite places.

Pug

Trip Report

The weather was beautiful. In fact, when I left Boise the forecast was for a high of 69; when I landed in Indianapolis, it was 41 degrees!

Idaho is a really pleasant surprise, isn%26#39;t it? I think many of the regular locals here on TA have heard me say time and again that Idaho is one of my favorite spots in the US, and it tends to get overlooked by many when making vacation choices.

Thanks for posting this trip report.

- CG

air makeup

Lodging Recommendations

Is there an advantage to staying closer to Warm Springs or River Run Day lodges? Are there any truly ski in ski out? Many of the condos say that the lifts are within walking distance. Is this really true? I have checked out several condos online. There are so many it is hard to decide.

I would appreciate any feedback. There would be two adults and one teenager. 1 or 2 bedroom condo wanted.

Also with the economy the way it is, is Sun Valley offering any lift ticket discounts?

Lodging Recommendations

there really isn%26#39;t any advantage to stay near the mountain, unless that is what you want. the busses run all the time, and go everywhere.

which condos are you looking at and i will tell you all about them. i always say that pennays condos are great. alan pulls you through the short walk in the woods, quiet and clean.

let me know what you are looking at.

go to sunvalley.com and check the prices. lived here for 30 years and they hardly give anything at a lower price.

Lodging Recommendations

I am checking out Pennay Lodge.

Here are a few that I have checked out through VRBO.

Trail Creek West, Krystal Villa, Bridgepoint, and International Village. Do you know anything about these condos.\?

Thanks

well, all the locations are near the river run lifts, except, the international village, which is totally on the other side of the mountain. i love the warm spring area, IV, but you may be happier near town, easy to walk. the IV has busses that run all the time. It is a bit quieter on the river run side.But at night, the warms springs area is dead, ie not resturants except a bar like one Apples. i looked up all the condos on websites and know their approx. location. i do know about KV, and that is the oldest one in that area. The only problem is, all the places may be really nice on the inside, or the opposite. You must have pics and i would take any place except the KV%26lt; although, like i said, it may be wonderful inside. The area is good. It is up from the lifts, compared to Pennays. The walk is about 3-5 min and the bus runs from all the condos, right to the lifts. Actually, most of those are right in the upper parking lot area, but the farthest point.

Hi Nick,

As far as lift ticket deals go, there are some offered depending on the time of the year. February may not, but depending how old your teenager is, kids 15 and under ski and stay free in a local lodging property the entire month of March, if your dates are flexible. The details of this at www.visitsunvalley.com/webspecials

Another option may be a condo at the resort, and then you can take the shuttle to and from the mountain.

Free or Inexpensive Computer/Internet Access?

Will be in Boise for 1 1/2 weeks. Not traveling with my computer, but would still like to clear out some of the email while I%26#39;m away. Any suggestions? Library or local internet cafes with computers?

Free or Inexpensive Computer/Internet Access?

Starbucks always has WIFI, If you go down town there are several vendors that offer free WIFI. There used to be a handful of internet cafes, but they%26#39;ve disappeared.

if you are really adventurous, you can wardrive as most spots here aren%26#39;t locked down.

Free or Inexpensive Computer/Internet Access?

Starbucks always has WIFI, If you go down town there are several vendors that offer free WIFI. There used to be a handful of internet cafes, but they%26#39;ve disappeared.

if you are really adventurous, you can wardrive as most spots here aren%26#39;t locked down.

java on 8th, i believe and try the best coffee drink IN THE WORLD.....the bowl of soul.

Looking for budget minded, dogfriendly hotel/motel

Hi,

I will be staying in Boise for 3 nights in the week after Laborday. I%26#39;m on a road trip with my dog. I%26#39;m looking for a central, clean and dogfriendly place to stay. We are on a budget. Any suggestions?

Thank you

Looking for budget minded, dogfriendly hotel/motel

Hendrika, I%26#39;ll suggest one that you won%26#39;t find on Hotels.com ... the Bond Street Motel Apartments www.bondmotel.com It%26#39;s an apartment complex which is now run as a motel. The units are nice and the charge for a dog is only $5.00 a night. We stay there when we go to Boise and have always had a good experience.

Pug

Looking for budget minded, dogfriendly hotel/motel

Hello Pug, thank you for the tips, do they also have some good options in Twin Falls and Idaho Falls? I see the generic/chain motels out there but if know some more local, non chain places to stay and are cozy, fun, clean, dogfriendly place. We could also opt to stay closeby to one of the towns if that helps. trying to figure thinngs out....my dog is no help. :)

My Boxer girl very much appriciates it although she%26#39;s a bit bigger... any tip is very much appriciated. To give you an idea of our travel pathL Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park, love to make itr to Glacier Park up north, I would like some suggestions, thank you,

Hendrika, when my brother brings his dogs along, he stays at the Holiday Inn Express on Fillmore -- pet friendly (or at least it used to be) and close to the canyon, where you can either walk along the rim or down into the canyon. I don%26#39;t know of any indie motels around here, at least any I would recommend!!

Not sure about Idaho Falls -- I know they have a lot of motels/hotels right along the river, which would be nice for Ms. Boxer to walk along.

There are a lot of indie places in West Yellowstone but I haven%26#39;t stayed at any of them, so I can%26#39;t recommend any. Hope others will jump in!

Pug

I%26#39;ve been staying at the Extended Stay America in Boise (on Vista). My last trip had a family with dog in the next room. Don%26#39;t know charges for the pet, but I booked my room on Hotwire for about $35/night. Clean, decent, and has a kitchenette.

camping facilities

Are there any campgrounds on Lake Coeur d%26#39;Alene? Any cabins for rent? My family is planning a late-July or early-August family reunion in 2009. Some of the 30 people attending prefer camping over staying in a motel or hotel.

camping facilities

Here%26#39;s the link to the only major campground I know, and they have some cabin rentals too I think. They used to be our local KOA campground, but changed owners (I think) and are now the A-OK campground.

http://www.campcda.com/

Your family reunion in this area should be quite fun.

camping facilities

There are a couple of US Forest Service Campgrounds near or on the lake, one at Beauty Creek about 10 miles out of town just off a state highway and one south of town near Harrison, Idaho at Bell Bay. Here is the link to the local National Forest, www.fs.fed.us/ipnf Bell Bay is at least at 45 minute drive south of town on a winding slow state highway. Also about 45 minutes south of town is Heyburn State Park located at the very south end of Lake Coeur d%26#39; Alene. An alternative to Lake Coeur d%26#39; Alene would be Farragut State Park located on Lake Pend Oreille, about a 30 minute drive north of town. Farragut is a very large state park with multiple campgrounds and its located close to the Silverwood Theme Park. Both state parks have cabins for rent. Idaho State Park link is: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

air makeup

Boise, Idaho Falls, Sun Valley -- getting around

I am very confused now. I wish to visit a friend in Sun Valley.

The cheapest available flight from Saginaw, MI, to Sun Valley direct is $1,600 which is still expensive.

To save cost, I can fly to Boise or Idaho Falls which takes more than three times less the price flying into Sun driectly!

Problem is, I have to drive eitehr from Boise or Idaho Falls to Sun Valley.

Questions: (1) which way is a nicer drive, i.e. less challenging based on the road conditions; and (2) which is shorter?

Any other comments would be very much appreciated.

Boise, Idaho Falls, Sun Valley -- getting around

Hi

you forgot about flying into Twin Falls much closer than both I thought I would just add more to your confusion sorry

but Boise is bigger and better airport and only 3 hr or so drive to sun valley plus mostly interstate high way .'; unless you take route 20 at mountain home ';only worry about roads in winter time.

I think the first time you drive across southern Idaho it is a beautiful drive large vista%26#39;s and the desert is interesting it only gets boreing after driveing it many times.

I wouldn%26#39;t be afraid of driving from either city much easyer driving here than in midwest.much less traffic.

Boise, Idaho Falls, Sun Valley -- getting around

Dear Single Traveller, according to Mapquest, it%26#39;s 172 miles from Boise to Sun Valley and 159 from Idaho Falls to Sun Valley. The drives are pretty comparable, mostly 2 lane highway. The last poster is right in saying that the roads are good and there%26#39;s not much traffic. Depending on the time of year, you might meet a herd of sheep or some farm equipment on the road!

An interesting sight on the way from Idaho Falls to Sun Valley is Craters of the Moon, with fairly young lava flows.

I%26#39;d say whichever is the most convenient airport is the one to fly into. Also consider if you%26#39;ll be spending the night -- Boise is more cosmopolitan, Idaho Falls more of an agricultural town.

Have a great trip!

Pug

Thank you both - Sawadeeka and IdahoPug. I feel much more comfortable with the drive now. I think I will go for Idaho Falls because I am not going to stay the night on the road. And I would very much love to stop and wait for a herd of sheep or elks to cross the street (smile).

IdahoPug, your confirmation of the two lanes street helped a lot. I can be tense when there are more than two lanes (for me) to handle.

Visiting my friend is the main purpose of the trip, but I%26#39;d love to learn more about Idaho while I%26#39;m there. Driving between Idaho Falls and Sun Valley should be an added fond memory to the four-day trip.

Thanks again!!

try twin falls, and HANDS DOWN, the drive from Boise is MUCH better...MUCH better. It winds through the mountains, lots of flowers, different scenery. and from Idaho falls, you just see Lave most of the way, not to say that this is not pretty, but oh, the trip from Boise is much better.

Okay, I am between Boise and Idaho Falls now. Please help me to decide ...

(1) It is 3.5 hours drive between Boise and Sun Valley, right? There is clear road signs and I shouldn%26#39;t get loss and end up in no where, right?

(2) Except from the first 30 minutes, all are two-lane roads to Sun Valley?

(3) It%26#39;s easy to stop and rest, like you can do in Yellow Stone Park, correct?

Sorry for being extra cautious, I am a little nervous about driving in places that I am not familiar with. The more information you can feed me, the more I will feel comfortable with the drive. Thanks!!

Are you asking if there are plenty of stops along the way for snacks, gas, and the like? Or are you worried about what happens if you stop to sightsee?

If the latter, the two-lane roads are lightly traveled. No problems.

If the former... there are some stretches where there%26#39;s not much, especially between Mountain Home and Fairfield on US 20 (if taking the Boise route). I think Idaho Falls to Arco is also rather barren, and choices in towns like Arco, Carey, Picabo, and Fairfield are slim. Be prepared.

This is a no brainer...as the last poster said, it is barren, like barren between Idaho Falls and SV. Going from Boise, you are on the freeway, 75 miles per hour, for about 50 minutes. You turn left at the Pilot station. by then, you have seen many signs for Sun Valley, Fairfield ect. YOU WON%26#39;T GET LOST. You can stop ANYWHERE, and enjoy all the different, wide open spaces. Depends if you want to see lava and sage, or open fields, grassy slopes, and lots of trees and streams.

The drive from Boise to SV is 2 1/4 hours. Very safe, stop enjoy and have a good old time. It is a 2 lane road, very easy to drive, unless you are rubbernecking to see all the beautiful spots...ha

To all who have replied to this post -- THANK YOU. Can%26#39;t thank you enough, you are the best!

I just found out that there%26#39;s a van/bus transfer service between Boise Airport and Wood River Valley. So I have another option, in addition to driving!

check the bus out .not sure if it runs in the summer. the drive is grand. if you have more time, check out going north to banks, then to loman, stanley and then sv. think that this takes 3 1/2 hours. you go by the payette river and lots of wonderful countryside...so nice.

If you%26#39;re in IF and you have a car, you really should take time to visit Mesa Falls. It%26#39;s a loop off the highway north of IF, but the scenery is SO worth the time.

If you change your mind and fly into Boise, be sure to take the road through Mtn Home and now Lowman--far less scenic, but much straighter and without the mountains!!!

CathyB

Coming for Special Olympics World Games in Feb 2009

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone could suggest a very nice Hotel, but not too expensive please. I am looking to stay close to or near Bogus Basin Mountain Resort.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

One thing I am hoping for, is one that has a Deluxe breakfast, where you can get cereals, bagels, or something hot. As I really would rather eat breakfast there, then head to the resort for the day.

The other is I will need two Queen beds, not doubles.

Thank you in advance for any help you can offer.

MsWenchie

Coming for Special Olympics World Games in Feb 2009

HI

Anywhere downtown is close to Bogus Basin.

Bogus Basin is only a 30 to 40 min drive up the hill from Boise.city center

the Hampton Inn and Suites downtown is a new hotel only 2 yrs old they have a nice breakfast bar.

not sure about beds.'; ask them';

it is the top rated hotel on trip advisor.

Downtown Boise is alive and vibrant and safe not like most big city%26#39;s

we look forward to seeing you at the games.

Coming for Special Olympics World Games in Feb 2009

Thank you.

I have a child competing, so I wanted as close as possible. I appreciate you getting back.

Looking forward to coming.

Mswenchie

Romantic Dinner in CDA?

I am looking for suggestions on a romantic dinner spot to celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary. We have been to Anthony%26#39;s and enjoyed it, but were hoping to try something new. Anyone have a good suggestion?

Romantic Dinner in CDA?

Hi,

Here are some restaurants that might fit the description.

Cedar%26#39;s Floating Restaurant -- it is exactly what it sounds like and the atmosphere is very nice.

http://www.cedarsfloatingrestaurant.com/

Beverly%26#39;s in the CdA Resort is on the top floor (or close) of the resort and is very nice, but expensive for dinner. Nice atmosphere there though

www.cdaresort.com/dining_nightlife/beverlys

The Beachhouse, which is very close to Anthony%26#39;s I%26#39;ve heard is very good.

www.cdaresort.com/dining_nightlife/beachhouse

There are also a few on Sherman in the downtown area that have a good atmosphere...

Cricket%26#39;s, Brix, and The Wine Cellar all have good food.

I%26#39;m sure others will post their favorites, but these are some ideas that might be nice for you.

Romantic Dinner in CDA?

I agree with KirkandMimi about Cedar%26#39;s definitely great food and great atmosphere for a wedding anniversary,

If you were looking for good Italian I would reccomend Angelo%26#39;s or The Wine Cellar

and if you want a rustic atmosphereand very good steak, I would say Wolf Lodge, thopugh you would need a reservation for that one and it%26#39; closed on Mondays

agree with most above, though nothing romantic about crickets.

DO NOT stay at the Lava hot springs...

My family and I have just experienced the worst rip off of our life in a hotel and I am trying to get the word out as much as I possibly can so others do not lose a couple hundred bucks like we did.

We went to a hotel called Lava hot springs Inn. The pictures on the net of the room (the Alladin Inn) look nothing like the real room. This place has got to be a fire disaster waiting to happen. The furnace is all black and the ceiling and the walls surrounding it are blackened. There was soot all over the carpet and walls. It looks like something has happened in terms of fire damage and never even cleaned up.

The carpets were all damp and dirty with hair all over the bedding and carpets. The whole place stunk to high heaven of mildew, mold and only God knows what else. There are cracks everywhere. Ceiling, walls, floors. This for $190.00 a night. The pools in the internet adds.............only half of them were filled and the ones that were looked like slime holes is the only way I can describe them. The grounds were so unkept, with weeds overgrown everywhere and debri all around. When we asked for a refund because we didn%26#39;t even feel safe being there it was so bad and with the temp outside being 56 degrees we didn%26#39;t even feel safe using the furnace, the guy running the hotel refused. He took us to another room that he said he would give us instead and lead us to this room where the whole front part of it was like an abandoned warehouse. We went up steps that seemed very unsafe and this place looked like a crackhouse. It looked like something out of the movie ';Deliverance';.

When we refused to take any of the rooms because the entire hotel stunk so badly of mold, he told us he would give us half back and this was only after we threatened to expose this hotel%26#39;s fraudelent description and pictures on the internet. However, our account was charged the full amount and no refund has appeared as of yet.

If run-down, smelly, old building with unkept grounds and unsafe to eat, walk, or sleep in is what you%26#39;re looking for, then go to the Lava Hot springs Inn.

DO NOT stay at the Lava hot springs...

did you dispute the charges with your credit card company?

DO NOT stay at the Lava hot springs...

I feel for you. My husband and I just went up there to look around for the day and we did see the place you%26#39;re talking about. It did look groos. We walked around and found a great place for an overnight. Right on the river, $50 a night. They shouwed us one of the rooms and it was great. Nothing fancy, but comfy, nice balcony and you can watch the tubers go by. Great picnic and b-b-q area too. It was called Tumbling Waters.

Can%26#39;t wait to go stay. Sorry about your trip, but hopefully no one else will fall into their trap.

You need to contact your credit card company and have them give you your money back. Legally, in the ';bargained for exchange'; in the law of contracts, you did not get what you bargained for---by paying, you fulfilled your end of the bargain, they did not fulfill theirs, so you need to get your money back. The credit card company will issue a conditional credit until they have time to investigate (about 15 days). After that, the credit will be permanent. You are entitled to getting your money back.

This was one hotel I considered. Thanks for the heads up! I%26#39;m sorry to hear your ';vacation'; was such a disaster. Good luck on your next vacation.

I have not only stayed at the Lava Hot Springs Inn, I am their web designer. I took every photo and did not change them. The owners of the Inn have strived to keep the old time feeling with the exception of modern jetted tubs. They are remodeling the lobby of one building but the rooms are beautiful and well kept.

The Inn is cozy and quaint and will appeal to those looking for a unique, old American experience.

Ann Yearsley

www.lavahotspringsinn.com

I think that this whole thread is TOTALLY uncalled for. I stay at the Inn a minimum of 9 times a year. I have met some friends at the Inn that I still spend time with even away from the Inn. I will admit that the Inn does not appeal to everyone. But unfortunately I have found that the only people who voice an opinion are those who were unhappy. I have found it nearly impossible to book a room last minute during the peak season at the Inn. That to me says that the nice people who run the Inn, must be doing something right. I primarily go during the winter, in my opinion the best time to stay, I find that I run into the same people everytime that I go.

I am really disappointed that someone would go out of their way to try to ruin an experience for everyone else. With out knowing the whole situation I don%26#39;t know how I could explain the person%26#39;s situation. Perhaps the Inn was nearly full that weekend or had turned someone like myself who would gladly have paid full price for a room away because they were holding that room for that person.

Any way all I can say is, fine if the Inn is not a place for you then do not try to ruin it for us who hold that place dear.

Obviously this was your first trip to Lava !Lava Hot Springs as well as the Inn is a unique, old fashioned, quaint and wonderful vacation experience. The hotels are not the Ritz, and the pools are natural hot springs, not chlorine filled pools and that is why people go there and love every minute of it !

We have stayed many times at the Inn, even in the (alladin) part of it. It does have a musty smell to it, hello, it is an old building ! Part of the flavor of staying there. We have soaked in the pools, and walked the grounds and loved every minute. Don%26#39;t try to just drop in or get a room at the last minute, they are always booked well in advance. That might tell you that other people enjoy this place too. We often see the same people there, and our extended family and friends stay there as well, and go back often. We will be spending another New Years staying in Lava, we love the shops, the bars and the people, as well as the smelly old hotels ! Maybe this was not the vacation spot for you, but that is no reason to ruin it for the rest of us.

scottanddeblovelava

I have not personally stayed at the Lava Hot Springs Inn, however, I have had friend and associates stay there before. The biggest concern about it is if you are not happy with your room once you get there you will be charged for it anyway. There are a lot nicer places to stay that cost only half the price. Everything in Lava fills up on weekends, but I would rather go to Pocatello or Soda Springs before I think I would risk the money of staying at the Lava Hot Springs Inn.

I have to agree with BobEvans. So this place wasn%26#39;t what they expected it to be, and some people obviously love this place, and if Lava is in fact as crowded and rooms are in such demand there should not have been a problem with a full or even partial refund without threats. The room would have rented for the full price immediatly anyhow. The problem here is customer service, or the lack there of. If someone is not happy with a product you try and fix it as the service provider. And that is a steap amount of money for a ';unique, old, quiant'; building. There should be some concideration on the guests behalf. This is, infact a vacation for us, it shouldn%26#39;t be an expensive, unenjoyable stressor.

Ok, i wonder why all of you ARE FIRST TIME POSTERS... if there is anything i have learned from TA, is not to really trust (sorry) first time posters with horrible things to say. they may be true, but why find this forum to post about a horrible stay, makes me wonder...hummmm and enjoy