Spring in the Inland Northwest is a time of renewal for everyone who lives here. Winters in this area are long, dark, and cold. When you begin to experience warmer temperatures, sunshine, the sounds of chirping birds, and the sight of budding landscapes, you yearn for the endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature that spring and summer offer.
At Precision Gutters and Roofing in Hayden, Idaho, we are pleased and proud to call this region our home. Our team is made up of longtime residents of North Idaho and Eastern Washington, and we are not just passionate about quality craftsmanship in the work we do; we also love our recreational time.
Our staff members share a general love of spending time outdoors, taking in everything this beautiful region has to offer. We promote a healthy work-life balance, encouraging our employees to explore the outdoors with their families while also remaining committed to providing the best service to our customers. We would not be as enthusiastic about our work if we did not take sufficient time to rejuvenate by engaging in quality downtime with family and friends.
If you’re new to the area or just looking for new ways to make the most of spring in the Inland Northwest, here are some of our staff’s favorite outdoor activities.
Hiking and Exploring Scenic Trails
One of the best ways to experience the Inland Northwest in spring is by hitting the trails. The region has an incredible network of hiking routes, from family-friendly paths to challenging mountain ascents. Some top picks include:
- Tubbs Hill (Idaho): This beautiful and accessible area adjacent to downtown along Lake Coeur d’Alene is a favorite of locals. It is perfect for leisurely hikes by hikers of any level or age and offers breathtaking water views.
- Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail (Idaho): This moderate 3.3-mile loop offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains from a different part of the shoreline.
- Mount Spokane State Park (Washington): Home to miles of trails with a mix of evergreen forests and open meadows, the park is ideal for springtime hikes.
Fishing and Floating on Local Lakes and Rivers
With countless pristine lakes and rivers, the Inland Northwest is a paradise for anglers and boaters. Spring marks the return of warmer waters and active fish populations, making it an excellent time to cast a line. Favorite spots include:
- Lake Coeur d’Alene: Known for its trophy-sized chinook salmon and kokanee
- Priest Lake: A quieter, more secluded spot with excellent trout fishing
- Spokane River: A great place for fly fishing, with plenty of rainbow trout and smallmouth bass
For those who prefer paddling over fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular in the region’s many lakes and waterways.
Biking the Centennial Trail
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: cycling is a fantastic way to enjoy this region’s natural beauty. One of our favorites is the Centennial Trail because it’s free, local, and easily accessible for long or short rides at almost any point along its route. It stretches from Spokane, Washington, to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, offering over 20 miles of paved paths suitable for recreational and serious cyclists. This scenic route passes through forested areas, along the Spokane River, by the gushing falls at Post Falls, and through downtown areas where you can take a break and get an ice cream or a cool beverage.
Camping and Outdoor Getaways
As the temperatures rise, so do opportunities for camping under the stars. Whether you prefer a lakeside retreat, deep forest camping, or an RV-friendly site, the region has no shortage of beautiful campgrounds. Some top spots include:
- Farragut State Park (Idaho): With a stunning location on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Farragut offers hiking, fishing, and picnic areas.
- Riverside State Park (Washington): Just outside Spokane, this park features riverfront camping and plenty of trails for exploring.
- Heyburn State Park (Idaho): The oldest state park in the Pacific Northwest offers picturesque views and quiet camping spots.
Community and Outdoor Events
Springtime here also means the return of outdoor festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events. The staff at Precision Gutters and Roofing love connecting with our community at these gatherings and supporting other local businesses. Keep an eye out for events like:
- The Coeur d’Alene Marathon: This fantastic May athletic event that brings the community together, whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines.
- Spokane Bloomsday Run: Another running event, this massive 12K race has become a springtime tradition for thousands. Winding through the streets of downtown Spokane, this race has both athletic and “fun-run” vibes.
- Local Farmers’ Markets: There are several farmer’s markets to choose from once spring gets going, including the Kootenai County Farmers Market (Hayden), the Kendall Yards Night Market (Spokane), the Spokane Farmers Market, and the 5th Street Market (Coeur d’Alene). These are all great places to find fresh local produce, artisan-produced foods, and handmade crafts from local vendors and to enjoy live music from local artists. You can practically go to a different market every night from May through September.
Precision Gutters and Roofing: An Active Part of Our Community
At Precision Gutters and Roofing, we take pride in our work and the community we serve. Many of our team members have deep roots in the Inland Northwest, and we believe in balancing hard work with time spent outdoors, enjoying all that this region has to offer. Our company is family-oriented, and we encourage our employees to enjoy free time with their loved ones and to stay active in the community.
If you ever see us out hiking, fishing, or supporting a local event, don’t hesitate to say hello! And, of course, if you need help with your gutters or roofing, we’re here for that, too. Reach out to Precision Gutters and Roofing for top-quality service from a team that genuinely understands and loves this region.