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News • Idaho • United States • 2014-05-14

Getting Back to Nature is Easy at these Six Idaho Nature Centers

Idaho is known for its crystal lakes, shimmering streams, rugged mountains and desert landscapes. With over 4.5 million acres of wilderness in the state, getting back to nature can be as simple as taking a hike on a nearby trail or strolling along a lakeside beach. Nature centers are another opportunity to experience the great outdoors and learn along the way. No need for a cooler or tent – just grab the kids and celebrate 75 years of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at these these six beautiful nature centers.

Water Life Discovery Center Stream Viewing Windows

Viewing windows at Water Life DC.

1. Water Life Discovery Center: Located near Sandpoint, the Discovery Center is a habitat education and interpretive area on the shores of the Pend Oreille River. It is a self-guided educational center that combines a fish hatchery, nature trails, overlook bridges, wildlife watching areas, interpretive signs, and underwater viewing opportunities along a stream and a pond. It is home to white-tailed deer, moose, muskrat, mink, and river otters. Birds are found in abundance. Bald eagles, osprey and waterfowl grace the river while woodpeckers and songbirds prefer the wetland forest.

2. Lewiston Wildlife Habitat Area: Located in Lewiston, this urban, wildlife-friendly oasis is registered with the National Wildlife Federation as a “Backyard Wildlife Habitat Area.” Its five-acres let guests observe wild birds, mammals and aquatic creatures. A paved path snakes through meadows and a small forest planted with a variety of trees and shrubs. Deer, coyote, raccoon, rabbit, skunks, amphibians, reptiles and over 115 bird species have been observed here. Other features include a rock fountain and meandering stream that spills into a small pond and an underwater viewing window that provides a glimpse of crayfish, snails and tiny fish. Benches along the trail are set amid flowering plants that attract butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and other insects. An observation gazebo is outfitted with one-way glass and surrounded by bird feeders, providing up-close wildlife viewing.

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