Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge
Fish and Wildlife Service, Idaho.
Nestled beside the Selkirk Mountains of northern Idaho, this 2,774 acre refuge provides diverse habitats for a large variety of wildlife including moose, elk, deer, bear, otter, bald eagles, and migratory waterfowl such as mallards, northern pintail, and teal. Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is located in Idaho's Panhandle approximately 20 miles south of the Canadian border and 5 miles west of Bonners Ferry, Idaho.
Established in 1964 as a migratory waterfowl refuge, Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat for more than 220 species of birds, 45 species of mammals, and 22 species of fish. Wetlands, meadows, riparian forests and cultivated agricultural fields (for producing valuable wildlife food crops) are interspersed in the valley bottom adjacent to the west banks of the Kootenai River.
Wetlands include open-water ponds, seasonal cattail-bulrush marshes, tree-lined ponds and rushing creeks. The western portion of the refuge ascends the foothills of the scenic Selkirk Mountains which consists of dense stands of coniferous trees and tranquil riparian forests.
Nearby Activities
- Auto Touring
- Biking
- Birding
- Cross Country Skiing
- Environmental Education
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Interpretive Programs
- Photography
- Snowshoeing
- Wildlife Viewing
Directions
The primary entrance to the Refuge can be accessed by Hwy 95 in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. From Hwy 95, head west on Riverside Rd. for about 6 miles, following the dike along the Kootenai River. After crossing over Deep Creek, you will see a welcome sign as you enter the Refuge property. You may continue on to headquarters by following Riverside Rd. another 2 miles, turn slightly right onto Westside Rd. and headquarters is 1/4 mile on the right.
