Activities In and Around Moscow

In addition to on campus facilities, the University of Idaho also offers plenty of opportunities for exciting exploration. Outings on campus could include a tour of the University of Idaho’s century-old, 63-acre Shattuck Arboretum and Botanical Garden, golf on the University golf course, and a visit to the University’s dairy, student-run organic farm, and the Sustainability Center’s native planting project.

Washington State University is located seven miles west of the University of Idaho hosting a number of attractions, including the Bear Research, Conservation, and Education Center housing grizzly bears that can be viewed by the public. WSU’s creamery produces outstanding ice creams and cheeses, including one-of-a-kind Cougar Gold cheese, with tours available to the public.

Potential field trips in and around Moscow and Pullman include a visit to the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute (a community organization that promotes the health and social welfare of the Palouse-Clearwater region), gentle hiking excursions at Idler’s Rest Park, biking along the Latah trail, or hiking and mountain biking on the many trails of Moscow Mountain. Hiking trails and terrific views can be had on Kamiak Butte, and spring in the Palouse offers opportunities for birding and wild flower viewing and photography. This area also supports local artisan breweries such as Moscow Brewing Company, Paradise Creek Brewery, The Alehouse of Coeur d’Alene, MJ Barleyhopper’s, Riverport Brewing Company, and Whisky Barrel Cider Company. There are also several wineries, such as Camas Prairie Winery, Wawawai Canyon Winery, Merry Cellars, Colter’s Creek Vineyards and Winery, Lindsay Creek Vineyards, and Clearwater Canyon Cellars.

Field trips slightly farther afield in Idaho include rafting and kayaking on the Salmon River near Riggins, biking excursions on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, a visit to the Nez Perce tribal lands and the Nez Perce Historical Park, a fossil dig in Clarkia, or a visit to the Wolf Discovery Center near Winchester. Spring runoff creates spectacular waterfalls, including Elk River Falls and Palouse Falls, with 185 feet falls. To the north is the Silverwood Amusement Park featuring rides and an outdoor water park, and the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Casino. Idaho offers outstanding fishing opportunities, including blue-ribbon fly fishing on the Lochsa River, kokanee fishing on Dworshak Reservoir, and sturgeon fishing on the Snake River.

Backpacking and hiking opportunities abound in regional wilderness areas and national forests, including the Seven Devils peaks in the Hells Canyon Recreation Area and the Frank Church River-of-No-Return Wilderness, the second largest protected wilderness in the United States after Death Valley.