town & Culture
Elk River started out as a humble logging town and is now one of the coolest and remote getaways in Idaho. Our vibrant and diverse community offers locals full of history and weekends full of fun. In Elk River and throughout the rest of area, you’ll find independent artists, small and unique bars such as the Log Inn and Tom’s Tavern, fun events through-out the year and many other things that are off the beaten path. If this is your first time in the area, we invite you to add The Elk River Lodge & General Store to your itinerary.
History
Elk River was first homesteaded in 1897 by Willard Trumbull. In 1909 his homestead was purchased by the Potlatch Lumber Company, and the first electric saw mill in the country was started in 1910. The name of fast growing town changed from Trumbull to Elk River at this time. The railroad was extended into Elk River from Bovill. By 1912 Elk River was prosperous with about 40 operating businesses, a new school, waterworks system, graded streets, electricity, board sidewalks and a hospital. In 1927 a newer bigger sawmill was built in Lewiston, Idaho and the town started to suffer. By April of 1932 the saw mill closed, and the following year the planner mill had closed.
Fishing & hUNTING
We are located in the in the prime location for Idaho Fishing and Hunting all year round and our Lodge offers a unique advantage for our visitors to be successful along with great food and accommodations. You can take advantage of the wide variety of hunting seasons with wildlife that runs the spectrum from plentiful upland game to highly coveted trophy species such as Elk, Deer, Moose, Cougar or even a Bear. You can also find a myriad of species of fish in our reservoir such as Catfish, Bass, Trout and Panfish. While trekking the area you will experience breathtaking wildlife in the heart of Idaho’s wilderness. You may come to visit for only a day but you will remember us for a lifetime…
Giant Cedar Grove Trailhead
Just 30 minutes north of the sweet little town of Elk River, Idaho, the Giant Cedar Grove Trailhead marks the start of the paved and accessible Giant Red Cedar National Recreation Trail (Trail 748). Hikers can see this Red Wood giant, more than 18′ in diameter along with many groves of old growth cedar trees. Affectionately named the “Champion Tree” or “King Tree,” there is a giant Cedar here that is over 3,000 years old. To put it into perspective, this tree was already 500 years old when the Egyptians were still building pyramids in Giza.
It’s also over 18 feet wide and 177 feet tall.
elk creek falls
Elk Creek Falls is a 2 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Elk River, Idaho that features three spectacular waterfalls, Upper, Middle and Lower! The trail is rated as moderate and primarily used for hiking, walking, trail running, and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Elk River Falls (both upper, middle and lower) are well worth a visit before the summer heat takes over, and the grove is also home to thousands of 500-year old giant cedars as well.
The Shattuck Brewery
(https://www.shattuckbrewery.com/) Set above a 10 million acre aquifer that provides some of the coldest and purest water in the entire state, Shattuck Brewery sits nestled among trees and mountains near the town of Elk River, Idaho. Owner and brewmaster Nate Schwartz brews on a custom 10 bbl system and creates ales in the true Northwest fashion. Locally sourced ingredients, bold flavors, clean water, and emphasis on an ever-evolving line of seasonal and rotational beers that keep the beer lover in all of us trying new flavors and wanting more. Shattuck Brewery is synonymous with incredible Idaho craft beer. Brewed with love, skill, and inspiration.
Local Fauna & Foraging
Elk River has been affectionately dubbed by many as “Huckleberry Heaven” and the name holds true. During the season you can find these coveted berries by the gallons! You can also gather mushrooms, mulberries, wildflowers, and adventures in the area a well. Don’t forget to stop around the reservoir to see if you can spot one of the many turtles that frequent the shores along with the many other forms of wildlife that roam these rich forest mountains.