Historic Northern Hotel on Priest Lake: Kalispell

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 Kalispell Suite is most conducive for a complete romantic getaway. In the morning, step out of the suite's private entrance onto the Inn's broad deck and immediately experience the compelling sight of Priest Lake. Take a moment to reflect on Mother Nature's grandeur and inhale the crisp mountain air of the Selkirks. The Inn borders on the Priest Lake State Forest. Listen closely and you may hear a rustling of the nearby bushes — a sign that a deer or other forest animal is about to pass you by on its morning trek. Before retiring for the evening, take time to enjoy the suite's cozy sitting room. As you make yourself comfortable on the couch, you will notice interesting antiques ranging from table lamps to the beautiful secretary desk. The suite is also decorated with handcrafted quilts which accent the warm glow of the original cedar paneling. Many couples are so taken by their first visit to the Kalispell Suite that they make an extended stay here an annual event.