Historic Northern Hotel on Priest Lake: Eight Mile

The Historic Northern Hotel is the oldest hostelry in northern Idaho. Located on Priest Lake in Coolin, Idaho, the two-story log hotel was built in 1900 by Walt Williams, an employee of the Great Northern Railroad. One of a number of lodges created to attract more passengers to the rail line, the Historic Northern Hotel is the only one that remains from the early days of Idaho statehood when mining, timber, and tourism businesses were beginning to develop around Priest Lake. This room features plush forest green carpet and, as with the other Old Northern Inn suites and rooms, rich cedar paneling. A handcrafted quilt wall hanging distinguishes this room. The antique floor lamps located at the head of the bed is of particular interest. These lighting fixtures, the other antique furnishings and the lace curtains reflect the early days of the 20th century. As the sun sets behind Outlet Mountain and the cool stillness of the evening envelops the Inn, you may want to spend a few moments outside on the deck gazing towards the heavens. You will likely become spellbound by the magnificence of the pure black night sky that is characteristic of the Priest Lake area. Stars, constellations and galaxies sparkle with a brilliance seldom seen elsewhere—and the aurora borealis occasionally performs its magical light show. It is a fitting end to a relaxing day in Mother Nature's wonderland. This room, as all rooms at the Historic Northern Hotel, feature a private bathroom. Priest Lake is a year-round recreational paradise where you can discover fantastic boating, fishing, hiking, camping, snowmobiling, hunting, cross-country skiing, etc. and of course rest and relaxation. We recommend downloading the FREE “Priest Lake Snowmobilie & Hiking Trails” App for your Smartphone or mobile device. Within walking distance of the hotel, you can eat at the Moose Knuckle or Tyee Coffee Co (open seasonally). A quick drive away is Ardy’s Café (serves breakfast all day, lunch/dinner and Thai food Fridays) and the Resort at Cavanaugh’s. If you want to venture around the scenic lake, check out Hill’s Resort, Millie’s, and Elkin’s Resort. The Moose Knuckle has a small convenience store while the nearest grocery store is the Tamrak in Priest Lake (15 min drive). More information on Priest Lake can be (Email hidden by Airbnb)