Traveling Green: Elkins Resort on Priest Lake

Turn your vacation into opportunities for positive change and enjoy peace of mind when booking your eco-friendly lodging on Priest Lake, Elkins Resort. Elkins Resort offers the eco-friendly traveler the chance to surround themselves in nature and truly get back to the basics of what Mother Nature can offer.

We here at Elkins also take pride in our various green initiatives such as keeping mostly natural landscaping on the resort, using lake water to water our grass, towels are provided for your full stay, rather than daily, and we use natural building materials wherever possible.

Check out the many ways to explore Priest Lake and its pristine natural beauty by discovering these activities that have little to no impact on the environment.

Hiking

Encounter peace and quiet amongst the many hiking trails that surround Priest Lake. A paradise for the outdoor enthusiast, you can truly escape from it all amongst the cedar forests, panoramic vistas of the Selkirk Mountains and Priest Lake. Even hike the many backcountry trails and discover the solitude that Mother Nature can bring.

Biking

Enjoy the open space, clean air, and friendly locals and hop on your bike and discover the beauty of Priest Lake and its surrounding mountains. From challenging trails to leisurely paths, there is a trail for all skill levels.

Fishing

What’s more relaxing than casting a line into the calming waters and rivers of Priest Lake? Fishing is a great way to connect with nature and the wildlife around you. There are plenty of good fishing spots to choose from along Priest Lake or even head out to the various alpine lakes nestled in the Selkirks, which are stocked with biting trout. Please note if fishing in Upper Priest Lake and Upper Priest River, this area is restricted to just catch-and-release, no bait and single, barbless hooks. These restrictions have been put in place to protect the nearly endangered bull trout and to aid in the recovery of the native westslope cutthroat population.

Wildlife Viewing

Connect with nature and view the various forms of wildlife in their natural environment. From the large grizzly bears to soaring bald eagle, there is a lot to keep your eye on. Remember for the safety of you and the animals do not approach or feed them. Try to be as invisible as possible as to avoid any impact on the wildlife you are viewing.

Rock Climbing

Take in a different perspective of Priest Lake and rock climb the top of Chimney Rock. This illusive climb has been a challenge for many over the years, but it is noted the views are worth the climb. There are more than 20 different routes to get to the top of this rock with rope and solo climbs available. As always when attempting these climbs, stay on the designated routes as to minimize your impact on the rock.

While enjoying these outdoor activities, ensure you leave no trace when exploring this beautiful part of Idaho, by following these tips:

• Always stay on the designated trail and not deviate from it. Don’t shortcut switchbacks.
• Know the regulations and concerns for the are you will be hiking, biking, or backpacking in.
• Properly store your food to protect from wildlife.
• Ensure you have a proper way of disposing of your trash while out on the trails (garbage bag or
• Leave what you find. Take pictures to remember what you came across during your adventure.
• And above all else, please remember if you “pack it in, pack it out.”

So, rest assured when you stay at Elkins Resort you are traveling green and can take the time to reconnect with nature while providing positive environmental impacts.