North Central Idaho

Miles of Smiles and not another sled in sight

North Central Idaho features over 1,200 miles of groomed trails and thousands of acres of untouched off-trail playground.

The trails and open spaces include heavily timbered areas, open meadows, windswept ridges and snow-filled bowls. Many of the trails lead to scenic vistas while others meander along crystal clear mountain streams. You also can ride along a portion of the route that Lewis & Clark traveled 200 years ago!

The region receives an abundance of snow thanks to the many Pacific storm systems that aim at the Northwest during the winter months. With riding elevations ranging from 3,000 feet to over 7,000 feet, the area receives 120 to 200 inches of snow, much of which is that dry, fluffy powder you only dream of riding in. Snow usually begins to fall in November and good riding can be experienced through late April.

The region is accessed from the west at Lewiston, ID via US Highway 12 and from the east at Missoula, MT via US Highway 12; from the north at Moscow, ID via US Highway 95 and from the south at Grangeville, ID via US Highway 95. All major routes and state highways throughout the region are well maintained during the winter months. Check highway conditions at 1-888-IDA-ROAD or at www.state.id.us/itd.

In addition to having over 1,200 miles of snowmobile trails, North Central Idaho offers numerous year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. For more information on all of the recreation offered, visit the North Central Idaho Travel Association’s web site at www.northcentralidaho.info. You can also sign up for an e-newsletter and check region snow reports on the site.

North Central Idaho is home to six distinct riding areas, each with its own grooming program, unique characteristics, local hospitality and amenities that will make your snowmobiling experience unparalleled. Comfortable and affordable lodging facilities are abundant throughout the region, along with a variety of restaurants and pubs to help make your stay more enjoyable. Equipment rental and repair is offered by area dealers, and guided back-country excursions are offered by several licensed outfitters. Adventure packages which feature lodging, snowmobile rentals and guide services are readily available. The trail systems can be accessed easily from the doorstep of many of the region’s resorts and lodging establishments.

Each of the six areas is highlighted below, along with its specific contact information, phone number and web site.

Moscow, Bovill, Elk River area
300 miles groomed
13 motels/lodges/B&Bs
Contact: Moscow Chamber of Commerce
1-800-380-1801 www.moscowchamber.com

Pierce, Weippe area
200 miles groomed
7 motels/lodges/B&Bs
Contact: Pierce/Weippe Chamber of Commerce
1-208-435-4406
Trail & snow conditions 1-800-538-1754
www.pierceidaho.com

Powell/Lolo Pass area
75 miles groomed
2 lodges/resorts
Contact: Powell Ranger Station
208-942-3113
www.fs.fed.us/r1/clearwater/...

Elk City, Dixie, Clearwater area
350 groomed
14 motels/lodges/cabins/B&Bs
Contact: Elk City Area Alliance
208-842-2213
Red River Ranger District
208-842-2245
www.elkcityidaho.com

Grangeville, White Bird Summit area
150 miles groomed
6 motels/lodges/B&Bs
Contact: Grangeville Chamber of Commerce
208-983-0460
www.grangevilleidaho.com

Winchester, Soldiers Meadows area
250 miles groomed
4 motels/B&Bs
Contact: Chamber of Commerce
208-924-0050
www.craigmontareachamber.com