Historic Northern Hotel on Priest Lake: Papoose

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. The delightful Papoose Room is a favorite of the many guests who have made a stay at the Inn a tradition. An attractive feature of the room is the small alcove situated to catch the morning sun. With a freshly brewed cup of coffee placed in the living room for early risers, it is an enchanting spot to begin the day. After you return to the Inn following a day of recreation on the lake or in the mountains, you may want to join your fellow guests at the stone fire pit located on the deck just outside the Inn's front door. Here, before a summer evening fire, lively conversation is the order of the day, along with establishing new friendships.