When the heat of summer fades and cool mornings settle into the Inland Northwest, it’s prime time to make a weekend escape to beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho. Barely 90 minutes from Spokane, nestled on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille and framed by the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains, Sandpoint can seem like a world apart. 

September is warm and wonderful; October becomes crisp, and the cooling temperatures paint the landscape in golds with touches of scarlet. Autumn’s slower pace makes it easy to savor everything from mountain adventures to cozy cultural stops. Here are but a few ideas to mix-and-match for a perfect fall visit. 

Day 1: Arrival & Lakeside Wanders 

Plot your getaway for Friday after work—or heck, clock out early! Motoring north up Highway 95, farm fields give way to forested hills. As you reach the famed Long Bridge and cross Lake Pend Oreille into Sandpoint, you’ll be greeted by wonderful water and mountain views. 

After you claim your room at one of the many lodging choices, stretch your legs with a stroll along the Pend Oreille Bay Trail, a lakeside path that begins at City Beach and winds a gentle 1.5 miles along the shoreline. In September there are rocky nooks for a brisk jump in the lake; in October, the cottonwoods and birch trees create a fiery canopy. 

With your hunger properly primed, head downtown. Try one of Sandpoint’s locally-loved eateries. Connie’s Cafe offers classic American fare, or you can try the menu and craft brews at Matchwood Brewing. Both venues offer live music most weekends, as do many other establishments around town. 

Top off day one and catch a performance at the historic Panida Theater, a community gem that has been hosting films, concerts and stage productions since 1927. 

Day 2: Markets, Lake & Local Flavor 

Nothing beats waking up in Sandpoint for a languorous morning. Be sure to wander the Saturday Farmers’ Market in Farmin Park downtown, where vendors sell locally-grown produce, huckleberry jams, handmade crafts, and fresh flowers while local musicians entertain. It’s a vibrant community gathering spot that reflects Sandpoint’s creative spirit and agricultural roots. 

Next up, head for the water. Bring your kayak or paddleboard or rent in town, and explore the calm stretches of Sand Creek, which winds right through town, or venture out onto the lake from City Beach. Two more stellar paddling destinations are the Pack River Delta and the Clark Fork Driftyard, both just minutes down Highway 200 East. Paddling in fall is serene—no summer crowds, just the sound of birds and the splash of your paddle in still waters. Another excellent choice, no paddling required, is a scenic cruise with Lake Pend Oreille Cruises, offering an island and eagle watching tour on weekends through October. 

Back in town, explore the shops and galleries. Sandpoint has long been an artists’ haven, and you’ll find everything from fine art at local galleries to handcrafted jewelry, outdoor gear, and eclectic boutiques. 

As evening settles in, enjoy a fine dinner at 113 Main downtown or Sweet Lou’s, just two miles north on Highway 95. Both offer warm ambiance and menus that highlight Northwest ingredients. To cap off the day, don’t miss Sandpoint’s premier live music venue, The Hive, where both local and touring bands serve up high-energy, highly accomplished concerts. 

Day 3: Mountain Walks & Scenic Drives 

It’s departure day, but there’s ample time to experience another standout attraction, Schweitzer, a 20-minute drive from town. In autumn, Schweitzer is a prime hikers’ and mountain bikers’ destination, with an extensive trail system offering many sweeping lake and mountain views. Bring your bike or rent a bike locally. Lunch on the mountain is a splendid proposition; try the Crow’s Bench or Chimney Rock Grill. 

If you’d rather enjoy the scenery from behind the wheel, take a leisurely drive along the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway on Highway 200 east to Hope. Pullouts and picnic spots give plenty of opportunities to admire expansive lake views. Tiny Hope, 15 miles east, is perched above the lake and has some great spots for lunch to complement the views. 

Back in Sandpoint, you might linger downtown one last time for a savory bite, or browse the shops before heading home. Chances are you’ll be scheming your return visit before you even hit the highway. 

Why Sandpoint in Fall? 

Fall is fleeting in the Inland Northwest, but you’ll find the season’s beauty distilled in beautiful Sandpoint. The outdoor adventures are plentiful yet accessible—epic lake and mountain scenery without the crowds. The town itself offers the charm of historic streets, abundant live music and events, an artsy vibe and a food scene that punches above its weight. The proximity to Spokane makes for an easy weekend road trip… though frankly, it may take a few repeat visits to fit it all in. Get lodging, dining, activity info and more at VisitSandpoint.com. 

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Only a short distance from Bellingham, Wash., a glaciated volcano called Mt. Baker rises from the Earth. Known as Koma Kulshan by the Lummi people, a.k.a. “Great White Watcher,” the mountain and its snow-capped peak can be spotted from various points in the city and surrounding Whatcom County, but there’s nothing quite like a trip to Mt. Baker to understand why its beauty has captured the imaginations of people since time immemorial.  

Regardless of the season, Mt. Baker offers astounding views, world-class recreation, and an escape from the daily hustle and bustle. The mountain makes for a great road trip destination in part because of its proximity to Bellingham, a lively college town offering incredible dining, entertainment, and its own selection of world-class recreation. Begin in Bellingham and make your way east toward the mountain on Mount Baker Highway—one of Washington’s designated scenic byways—a stunning adventure in and of itself. 

If you’re planning a visit during the colder months, the Mount Baker Ski Area gets some of the most snowfall in the world and consistently ranks among the most affordable resorts in the country. Rugged mountains, incredible 360-degree views, and challenging terrain make it a snowsports paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike.  

For a gentler winter vacation, the area is also great for sledding, snowshoeing, or just building a snowman with the family. When you’re ready to feel cozy and sip a cup of cocoa, book a cabin or mountain chalet with Luxury Getaways. Many of their rentals come with hot tubs and fireplaces, perfect for warming up on a chilly winter evening. If you visit on a clear night, you’ll also likely catch an incredible view of the night sky.  

You can also find other lodging options near the mountain, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, and RV sites. Mt. Baker RV Park & Campground is a great option for those travelling with a camper. They offer RV sites as well as tent camping, hot showers, laundry, and wi-fi at every site. They’re open for year-round adventures and even offer monthly stays, a great option for dedicated skiers planning to spend a solid slice of winter on the mountain.  

In the summer, the mountain sheds its lower-elevation snow and becomes a haven for hikers of all skill levels. At the end of Mount Baker Highway, you’ll find Artist Point, a stunning area that serves as a nexus of alpine trailheads as well as an ideal place for families to snap photos, eat lunch, and stretch their legs. Choose from multi-night backcountry trips, steep and rugged treks into the alpine, or flat, mellow trails perfect for all ability levels. Don’t forget to visit Picture Lake, one of the most photographed scenes in the world.  

In warmer months, the highway also attracts road cyclists in search of a thigh-busting ride and unforgettable views. Each year, the Mount Baker Hill Climb takes place in September and challenges participants to scale 4,000 feet of elevation as they race toward Artist Point.  

When it comes to amenities, the closest town to the mountain is Glacier, located right on the highway and offering a modest selection of restaurants, services, and lodging options. For breakfast or lunch, try Wake ‘n’ Bakery in Deming. They offer certified organic and fair-trade coffee as well as handmade baked goods and meal items to help sustain your energy during adventures. 

Be sure to visit the Glacier Public Service Center for essential trail information, maps, permits, Northwest Forest Passes (needed for parking at Forest Service trailheads), and a bathroom break before you enter the wilderness.  

Before you get to Glacier, on the way out from Bellingham, you’ll pass North Fork Brewery & Pizzeria in Deming, a great place to refuel after a long day of fun on the mountain. Enjoy barrel-aged Belgian style sours and lagers, a selection of steaming hot pizzas, or a bowl of stout French onion soup.  

If you’re staying the night in Bellingham—or beginning or ending your mountain adventure with a couple of nights in town—be sure to check out the area’s cultural attractions. Prioritize visiting the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention, featuring one of the largest Tesla coils in the world and one of three remaining incandescent lamps created by Thomas Edison. The Whatcom Museum is another must-visit cultural destination featuring contemporary and Coast Salish art, history, and more.  

For accommodations, Bellingham and Whatcom County are home to a variety of lodging options, from waterside resorts to historic B&Bs to budget-friendly hotels. There are even hotels within walking distance of the Bellingham International Airport or the Amtrak station, allowing for a seamless mountain vacation no matter where you’re coming from.  

Learn more about Bellingham and Whatcom County at Bellingham.org.   

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A short drive north from the Spokane area, Colville is a captivating small town that blends natural beauty, rich history and vibrant community spirit. Tucked in the heart of the Colville Valley, it’s surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and rugged mountains—an ideal setting for all types of outdoor pursuits. Hiking, mountain and road biking, fishing, camping, hunting and birdwatching are just a few of the fall adventures that draw visitors to this corner of the Inland Northwest. 

One of the biggest highlights is the nearby Colville National Forest. Spanning more than 1.1 million acres, the forest offers incredible scenery, diverse wildlife and the kind of solitude that’s hard to come by in busier destinations. Trails wind through mountains and forests for hikers and bikers, while quiet lakes invite fishing, paddling or a peaceful picnic. Scenic day trips include three waterfalls within a short drive of town and the Selkirk Loop, a world-class international driving route. 

Colville also offers a strong sense of history and culture. The Stevens County Historical Society Museum highlights the area’s Native heritage and pioneer past, while annual events bring the community together in celebration. Visitors can join the fun at the Northeast Washington Fair, enjoy live music and art at the Yep Kanum Celebration, or take in the sounds of the FarmJam music festival. 

A fall road trip through the Colville area is the perfect escape for anyone craving outdoor adventure, relaxation and authentic small-town charm. With its uncrowded lakes and trails, stunning landscapes, and welcoming community, Colville stands out as an off-the-beaten-path gem in the Inland Northwest. Learn more at ColvilleChamberofCommerce.com. 

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Many have lost their heart to the peacefulness and beauty of autumn in Montana. Dark greens and rustic browns transform into a rich palette of gold, orange, and red. The air becomes crisper, and sounds become richer. Experience fall in Whitefish, Mont., and be swept off your feet.  

Glacier National Park 

During fall, Glacier National Park offers visitors the opportunity to drive, hike, or bike amid majestic peaks, pristine waters, and magnificent wildlife without the hurried flow of summer tourists. Additionally, while you still need a park pass to enter, vehicle reservations are no longer required after Sept. 28, 2025.  

The Whitefish Trail 

Over 47 miles of natural-surface trail and 15 trailheads offer a variety of easy-to-locate and easy-to-navigate recreation opportunities on public and private lands. The trail is perfect for surrounding yourself in color while you bike, hike, or explore by horseback.  

Fish Trails 

Hop on a cruiser bike and explore Whitefish on two wheels. Paved bike and pedestrian trails meander throughout town. A segment of the trail runs along the river between various parks and to City Beach, making it an ideal route to enjoy the fall foliage. 

Paddle 

There’s no better way to take in the brilliant fall colors than from the water. Glide across the calm surface of Whitefish Lake in a canoe, where golden aspens reflect in the glassy surface, or paddleboard with the gentle flow of the Whitefish River surrounded by vibrant foliage. 

Fishing  

Autumn fly fishing yields some of the best action of the year. Sparse fishing pressure, cooler temps, and a slew of fall hatches make for happy fish and happier anglers! Guides are available on Whitefish Lake as well as surrounding lakes and rivers.  

Sky Tours 

Take to the skies with Backcountry Flying Experience. An autumn floatplane tour over Northwest Montana offers once-in-a-lifetime views! Tours run through mid-October and depart from the docks at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.  

Downtown Whitefish 

Fall’s cooler temps mean fewer crowds—the perfect time to enjoy Whitefish’s mountain town scene. Downtown offers boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, bars, and more.  

Fall Events 

Fall events enhance the season with fun and festivities. Check out the Whitefish Songwriter Festival, Sept. 19-21, two weekends of the Great Northwest Oktoberfest, Oct. 2-4 and Oct. 9-11, or Halloween and the return of the Whitefish costume contest, Oct. 31.  

There’s no shortage of ways to savor autumn’s beauty—whether from the trails, the water, or the sky. After a day of exploration, retreat to the comfort of the Whitefish Riverfront Hotel, where cozy riverside accommodations place you amid the colors and charm of fall. Here, relaxation meets Montana’s natural beauty, making it the perfect place to fall in love with the season all over again. 

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Cover photo courtesy of S. Michal Bennett

A fall trip to Ferry County, if you time it right, begins with a stunning display of golden western larch trees blazing across the mountains as you climb up and over Sherman Pass on Highway 20. Larches typically turn on their brilliant foliage firework display in the first two weeks of October. There are several historic sites, scenic overlooks and trailheads along this stretch of often empty highway where you can stop to soak up the views and stretch your legs on a winding singletrack trail. 

When you arrive in Republic, find your way to the Stonerose Interpretive Center & Eocene Fossil Site located right downtown. Spend some time at the interpretive center checking out the fossils on display and learning about the fossil site before paying for your admission. You’ll need to rent or bring your own rock splitting tools, then walk the short distance to the Boot Hill Fossil Site. Spend the afternoon digging and splitting your way through shale in search of 49 million year old fossils. Common fossil finds include leaves and twigs, with more rare discovery of insects and ancient rose fossils possible. Stonerose is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Oct. 31. Spend the evening exploring Republic on foot, enjoying a pint at Republic Brewing Company, and hunting down a tasty meal before hitting the pillow at your hotel or campground of choice. 

Bring your bikes for the following day and take advantage of the cooler fall weather for a ride on the Ferry County Rail Trail west of Republic. The mostly gravel-surface trail stretches for 28 miles through upland forest and along wetlands, Curlew Lake, and the Kettle River. There are several trailheads where you can start your out-and-back ride of whatever distance you want, but be sure to include riding the 770foot trestle over Curlew Lake. After your ride, enjoy the scenic drive home up and over Sherman Pass. The Stonerose website (Stonerosefossil.org) has a visitor page with lodging, dining and other visitor info for planning your Republic road trip. 

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Cover photo by Kari Medig and courtesy of Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism

The mountains are calling, and I must go. But with a family? You bet. Whether you’ve got tots or teens, the Nelson and Kootenay Lake region has a hiking trail for you.  

Located naturally off the beaten path between the Rockies and the Coast, the hiking is just as impressive as in Banff or Whistler, but without the crowds. Most visitors use Nelson as their base to explore the region. Multiple lodging options suit every budget and taste, ranging from waterfront resorts to family-friendly campgrounds.  

Stroll along historic Baker Street and go beyond window shopping for your recreation needs. Local shops offer a curated selection of top brands and the latest gear. If your hiking objectives are toddler-sized, grabbing a few treats can help keep the kids motivated on the trail. For the grown-ups, stock up on local produce, organic goodies and in-house meals at the Kootenay Co-Op, the largest independent cooperative grocery store in Canada.  

For those with wee ones, micro adventures can be the way to go. Hiking close to town has the advantage of being “out there” while still being able to easily pull the chute if things go sideways. The network of trails immediately above Nelson feature fun little bridges and water features with just enough elevation gain for a kiddo-sized challenge.  

Sproule Creek is a popular family-friendly hike just 10 minutes from Nelson. Offering one of the few genuinely flat trails in the area, it follows a gentle stream under a lush canopy. It’s an ideal hike for hot days, shoulder seasons and during the autumn when the leaves perform their colorful ritual. The out and back is up to 9k (5.5 miles) with 200m of elevation gain.  

Mention hiking in Nelson, and you’re sure to hear about Pulpit Rock and Lions Bluff, the most popular trails in town. Located a short drive over the iconic Big Orange Bridge, it’s common to find children (and parents) huffing up these steep trails. A sense of accomplishment and great views are guaranteed, and it’s a quick trip back to town to celebrate. Both trails are about 3.5k (2 miles) round trip with over 300m of climbing.  

The Kaslo River Trail is another great family option, weaving through the shady forest with hidden sculpture surprises to keep kids curious. The twin crimson covered bridges add to the appeal, creating a 3.5k (2 mile) fairy-tale-like kids’ loop with the trailhead only a block from downtown. Or, connect with the scenic waterfront trail, passing the skate park and playground to add another kilometer and link with the main street. The trail is snow free for most of the year, but is particularly scenic in October, when the charming town of Kaslo becomes radiantly beautiful.  

If you’re looking for a day trip that isn’t all about hiking, head across Kootenay Lake on the free ferry to discover the Pilot Bay Provincial Park trails. Watch for osprey and admire the fjord-like views between Balfour and Kootenay Bay on the boat. Choose from the super-short hike to the lighthouse or explore the easy low-elevation trails from early spring to late fall. And don’t miss a stop in Crawford Bay, a small community with a variety of unique artisans (the kids will feel like they’ve stepped into a Harry Potter set at North Woven Brooms).   

From the lakeshore to the alpine, Kokanee Glacier/Creek Provincial Parks have trails for everyone. Nearly 10k (6.2 miles) of mellow pathways meander through the peninsula at the region’s most popular family campground. Feel the intensity of the spring runoff from the Canyon Trail, head to the beach via the Grassland Trail, or count the spawning salmon from the main trails near the visitor center in the fall.  

Drive up the forestry road for some of the best hikes around, including Kokanee Old Growth Cedars. The trail may be short (1.5k and 100m of elevation) but the trees are enormous. See if your family can bear hug one of these ancient giants (probably not!).  

Continue to the end of the road for 15 minutes to the main trailhead toward the alpine. Gibson Lake Loop Trail is an easy 1.5k circuit, or, lace up your hiking boots and head towards Kokanee Lake and beyond. Patience and snacks are your best friends; the trail climbs 400m over 5k (one way), passing through dense forest before offering sweeping views of the mountainous terrain as you approach the lake. From there, it’s a cruisy 3.5k (2 miles) to Kaslo Lake campground, or the Kokanee Glacier Cabin. Maintained by the Alpine Club of Canada, it’s regarded as the most luxurious (and affordable!) public hut in the country, complete with showers, flush toilets and power. It’s the perfect base for exploring alpine trails or just relaxing in the comfort of the hut with kids. 

Renowned for its deep powder in the winter, Whitewater Mountain Resort continues to open its terrain to summer activities. Ascend the summit face for panoramic views towards Valhalla Provincial Park, or head up the Silver King side below the iconic Ymir Peak. Families with older kids can continue on, following the ridgeline and connecting to White Queen, then looping back to the start for a full-day adventure. Fuel up at Hummingbird Lodge, serving some of Whitewater’s famous pow chow from Thursday through Monday through the end of the summer season.  

For the more dedicated adventurers, Monica Meadows offers a true wilderness experience. The long forestry road near Meadow Creek takes you way up to the trailhead at 1,800m (6,000 feet), letting you spend more time hiking in the glorious alpine plateau. Lakes, wildflowers, waterfalls and glaciers provide plenty for the kids to see. Head there in the early fall for golden larches and a chance to witness the first dusting of snow. The 10k (6 mile) out-and-back hike climbs over 650m and is a two-hour drive from Nelson. 

From towering cedars to quiet creeks, serious summits to backcountry huts, the hiking trails in the Nelson and Kootenay Lake region offer a memorable outdoor experience for any family. 

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The hiking and backpacking possibilities in the mountains surrounding Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort would take years to fully explore, but here are a few favorites trails to get you started. For more options and detailed hike descriptions and maps, pick up a copy of the “West Kootenay Hiking” guidebook by Abby Wilson. 

Toad Mountain (Nelson area) 

5 miles roundtrip with 1,821 feet of elevation gain 

Hike a ridgeline with panoramic views over Nelson, Kootenay Lake and surrounding peaks.  

Kokanee Glacier Trail to Kaslo Lake & Glory Basin (Nelson area) 

13 miles roundtrip with 2,830 feet of elevation gain 

This Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park hike leads from the Gibson Lake Trailhead to Kaslo Lake, passing Kokanee and Garland lakes along the way.  

Jumbo Pass (Kaslo area) 

6.2 miles roundtrip with 2,625 feet of elevation gain 

Panoramic views of the Purcell Mountains and the Horseshoe Glacier reward hikers who take on this moderately challenging hike. The two-hour, dirt-road drive to the trailhead from Kaslo can make this a less-crowded option.  

Kaslo River Trail (Kaslo area) 

1.9 miles roundtrip with minimal elevation gain 

A scenic trail that winds along the Kaslo River right on the edge of town with interpretive signs, connections to other trails and river crossings on red-painted foot bridges.  

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Cover photo courtesy of Kari Medig

There’s nothing quite like sliding into naturally heated mineral waters after a day out on the trail. At Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort north of Nelson, B.C., there are so many hiking options nearby that it makes an ideal destination for pairing of hikes and hot springs. 

Perched on the shores of Kootenay Lake, Ainsworth has been drawing visitors to its therapeutic waters for over a century, but it’s the surrounding mountains that transform a simple soak into an adventure paradise. The resort sits at the convergence of some of the Kootenays’ most spectacular hiking terrain, making it the ideal base camp for those who believe the best hot springs sessions are earned through sweat equity. 

Spend your days exploring alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers or navigating rocky ridgelines with views of the Purcells and Selkirks, then returning to the resort’s hot springs pools where the mineral water will work its magic on trail-weary limbs. Summer brings the region’s hiking season into full swing, with endless trails nearby. Whether you’re seeking gentle river strolls or challenging backcountry ascents, the diversity of terrain means you’ll find your ideal trail.  

For those who prefer to extend the experience beyond a day trip, the resort’s comfortable and modern on-site accommodations also come with extended guest-only soaking hours. The resort’s restaurant, the Ktunaxa Grill, serves locally-inspired meals all day with panoramic lake views. This is adventure travel at its best—where the journey rewards you not just with summit views and wildflower meadows, but with a restorative soak and chance to truly relax. Plan your trip at Ainsworthhotsprings.com. 

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Cover photo courtesy of Alana Livingston

 Just a couple hours north of Spokane, tucked along the quiet shoreline of Lower Arrow Lake in British Columbia, Lakeside Castlegar Cabins offers the kind of escape that feels like stumbling into a happy accident. It’s not polished or fancy, and that’s exactly its charm.  

The off-grid cabins are painted in vibrant, unexpected colors, like a slice of the Mediterranean dropped into the Canadian wilderness. Surrounded by forest and perched at the edge of the glassy lake, the setting is simple and stunning. Mornings can start slow with Oso Negro coffee and soft light over the water while the world stays quiet. 

Days are meant for the lake. Guests can rent paddleboards or just float in the cold, clear water. Fire pits are available for cooking dinner or gathering under the stars with something local in hand. 

If you’re ready to explore, Syringa Provincial Park is nearby with mellow hikes and swimming coves. Climbing at Lion’s Head is just up the road. And Castlegar has it all: river trails, great food, breweries, and the largest bike skills park in the Kootenays. 

You don’t have to try too hard here. Just show up, settle in, and let the place do what it does best.

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