If you’re wondering how to make the most of spring in North Idaho, you’re in the right place. From mushroom hunting to shed collecting, the season offers incredible opportunities to get outdoors, reconnect with nature, and live like a true local. Whether you’re visiting or thinking about relocating, here are the 5 best springtime activities in North Idaho every outdoor lover should try.

1. Morel Mushroom Foraging: A Local Treasure Hunt

Spring is prime time for morel mushroom hunting—and it’s not just a fun hike. These wild, honeycomb-like mushrooms are a culinary delicacy with a meat-like texture and nutty flavor. Locals know that Mother’s Day weekend is peak season, but the real challenge? Finding the right spot. Shaded, moist areas between 2,500 and 3,000 feet elevation are ideal early in the season, and you’ll want to follow the snowline up as temperatures rise.

Pro tip: Foraging is serious business here—so don’t expect anyone to give up their favorite patch. But the hunt is half the fun.

2. Fly Fishing: Cast a Line in Crystal-Clear Rivers

North Idaho’s rivers are a fly fisher’s dream in the spring. The Coeur d’Alene, St. Joe, and Pack River offer clear, cold water perfect for trout. Just after the spring runoff is ideal—the water levels are high but manageable, and the fish are active. Visit one of the many local fly shops to get tips from seasoned anglers or even tie your own flies to prep for your trip.

Remember, the community here is tight-knit and welcoming. Ask for help, and you’ll walk away with local knowledge—and maybe a great fishing story.

3. Bird + Wildlife Watching: Nature in Full Bloom

Spring in North Idaho means more than blooming flowers—it’s when the wildlife wakes up. Deer, turkeys, woodpeckers, and hundreds of bird species come out in force. Head to Cougar Bay for marshland bird watching or take an easy hike around Tubbs Hill in Coeur d’Alene to see local deer and spring wildflowers like arrowleaf balsamroot.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just need a dose of peace, this is the perfect way to decompress and reconnect with nature.

4. Gardening + Local Plant Sales: Get Your Hands Dirty

Don’t underestimate how much North Idahoans love their gardens. Local nurseries like New Leaf Nursery on Lancaster explode with life in the spring—complete with bounce houses for kids and full inventory of fruit trees, shrubs, and flowers. Thanks to the fertile soil and intense (though short) growing season, even novice gardeners can grow strawberries, raspberries, and apple trees with ease.

Getting your hands in the dirt isn’t just good for your garden—it’s good for your soul. And it’s a huge part of the North Idaho lifestyle.

5. Shed Hunting: The Antler Adventure

Spring is also the best time to go shed hunting. Elk, moose, and deer shed their antlers in late winter, and as the snow melts, these treasures become easier to spot. Look for south-facing slopes where animals like to bed in the sun. Bring a side-by-side and head deep into the woods for the best chance at finding them.

Whether you’re collecting for fun or decorating your home with authentic Idaho flair, this is a rewarding way to explore untouched nature. Just don’t forget to clean up after yourself—locals are fiercely protective of the land.

Final Thoughts

Spring might not get as much love as summer or fall, but it’s a sleeper season full of hidden gems—especially in North Idaho. From morel mushroom foraging to garden planting and antler hunting, there’s something magical about shaking off the winter and jumping into adventure. If you’re looking to live the good life and are considering a move, our team of former first responders and veterans is here to help you do it the right way.