Raft, fish, relax at River Dance Resort

Here is an Idaho experience that is a bit of a contradiction. For the adventurous, it’s an overnight excursion that offers a stay in a brand new resort with upscale log cabins adorned with Tiffany lamps. For the really adventurous, it’s the chance to soak in three different primitive, wilderness hot springs. All this is within a three- to four-hour drive.

On the banks of the Clearwater River near the Lewis and Clark Trail, the River Dance Lodge offers eight log cabins, each with a private hot tub on the front deck. Recently built by Pioneer Log Homes of British Columbia, the cabins are practically works or art, with a high level of craftsmanship evident in every log.

The cabins and restaurant are open year-round, offering rustic elegance in the midst of the wilderness area that surrounds the resort. Two- and three-bedroom cabins are available, each with a living room with dining table and chairs, a gas fireplace and sitting area, according to the resort’s Web site. There is a small kitchen area and counter with a microwave, dishes and under-counter refrigerator. Depending on the season and the day (Friday and Saturday are the most expensive) the two bedroom rates range from $135-$165.

Founded by river guides Peter Grubb and Betsy Cohen, the resort is within striking distance of some of the best white water in the region. It’s also near natural hot springs which, except for rock damming to create outdoor tubs and soaks, are as the native Indians found and used them. Many are in primitive areas that are fairly inaccessible for most, but there are some that can be found with just a short walk off a paved highway.

Twenty-six years ago, Grubb and Bowen founded River Odysseys West, a rafting company based out of Coeur d’Alene. Over the years they offered raft trips on more and more rivers throughout the Northwest, including the Lochas, Selway and Clearwater. Their trips and reputation have given them a large, loyal following of clients. A resort seemed to be a logical next step for their successful company.

In 2002, with the vision of developing a destination resort, they bought a restaurant six miles from the confluence of the Selway and Locsha, renovated it, built the cabins and opened for business in 2005.

The resort is busy during the rafting season but winter is a fine time to visit, too. The rates are as low as they get, fishing is practically right outside the door and primitive hot springs can be found just a short distance from the Lochsa River and Highway 12.

Here are two easy hot springs to access:

Weir Creek Hot Springs: This is an easy half-mile walk off the highway. Go east on Highway 12 to milepost 142. Just east of the mile marker is a pullout on the left side of the road. Park and follow the trail. Beware of slippery places. The elevation at the springs is 2,900 feet. It is an undeveloped site. First come, first-served in the pool is the unwritten rule.

Jerry Johnson Hot Springs: This is an easy one mile each way to three pools that are quite lovely and popular. Around milepost 152 you’ll see a parking area for the Warm Springs Pack Bridge. Walk across the pack bridge and take Trail 49 about one mile to the springs.

River Dance Lodge is owned by a Kootenai County couple who is venturing into resort management. Their experience as outfitters and excitement for this new resort is evident. They have learned what people want and have put that knowledge to practical use. The comfortable, upscale cabins, restaurant and recreational opportunities provide an excellent overnight experience.