Nestled In Idaho’s Panhandle Is A Valley Equal Parts Homey Getaway And Unexpected Adventure
By Patrick Harris ～ July 2, 2025 2:45 PM MT
Northern Idaho is where you're sure to discover both natural beauty and small-town charm. As you wind through the pine-tipped Bitterroot Mountains and snake along the Coeur d’Alene River, you will find yourself in Idaho’s Silver Valley.
Stretching from Lookout Pass to about 40 miles southeast of Coeur d’Alene, this scenic portion of Idaho’s Panhandle offers more than just breathtaking views. Towns like Wallace and Kellogg, once known for being a part of America’s richest silver mining district, are now home to local restaurants, breweries, and outdoor activities for every season.
You won’t find many Marriotts or Hiltons in the town of Wallace –– which is the center of the universe (not kidding) — but there are plenty of local options for lodging. Wallace Inn is on the edge of town and comes equipped with amenities like a glass-enclosed indoor pool, hot tub, wet and dry saunas, and an on-site café. For a more central stay, the Ryan Hotel is a historic gem that is within walking distance to all the dining, bars, shopping, and museums that Wallace has to offer.
Finding brews within the views
One thing Wallace has always been rich in, besides silver mines, is breweries. Spanning all the way back to the 19th century, the town has seen many brewhouses come and go. Today, the valley has more options than ever, including Wallace Brewery. Located just off Sixth Street, this microbrewery encapsulates the essence of everything you’d expect from a mountain town brew company. Occupying the historic Coeur d’Alene Hardware building in downtown Wallace, it takes on a fresh feel with old-time charm — and it showcases a great selection of original brews to sample in its Orehouse tasting room.
A quick 10-minute drive up I-90 and you will find the quaint town of Kellogg, home to the Silver Mountain Ski Resort and a wide variety of mom-and-pop eateries. Sunshine Kitchen is a local favorite serving up American comfort food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its classic neon road sign, brand-new building, and versatile menu make it a standout no-brainer.
Making the most of the surrounding beauty
It’s not all food and brews in Silver Valley though — the outdoor adventures are in a league of their own. For thrill-seekers, the Silver Streak Zipline Tours is a must. With ten ziplines on 250 acres, you’ll be able to take in the mountain views in all their glory.
For the same views at a lower heart rate, the “crown jewel” of the Silver Valley is the Hiawatha Trail. The trail boasts the most spectacular views of any rail-to-trail in the nation. This 15-mile railroad line turned-biking trail passes through 10 tunnels and 7 trestles, with some soaring 230 feet above the valley. Bikes are available to rent for adults and children, as well as canvas bike trailers and tagalongs for the little ones. While only open during the summer, the temperature remains cool enough to be a perfectly relaxing bike ride for everyone.
There is plenty to do year-round at Silver Mountain Resort, but the winter is when it shines. Activities like snowboarding, skiing, backcountry snowmobiling, scenic gondola rides up the mountain are just the beginning. For the folks who run cold, the massive indoor waterpark is more than capable of keeping your chilly bones active while escaping the snow. Add shopping and dining at Gondola Village, and the only problem is trying to squeeze it all in before you leave.
Don’t miss what’s happening soon
Also consider planning your trip around one of the valley’s many events. Coming up on August 9 is Silver Mountain Resort’s Brewfest, which includes over 20 breweries offering their delicious pours. The following weekend is Wallace’s annual Huckleberry Festival, complete with the huckleberry bake-off, a 5K fun run, craft vendors, live music, and everything in between. For more info on all the events in Silver Valley, check out the events page.