If there were ever a perfect adjective to describe North Idaho, ‘enchanting’ would be it. This mesmerizing landscape of towering conifers, lush green vegetation, rugged nature, and blissful waterfront is positively idyllic. But even Idaho’s breathtaking Panhandle still has its secrets.
If you know your Disney movies and/or English history, you no doubt know the legend of Robin Hood and his merry band of thieves. You also know that the magnificent, ancient Sherwood Forest played home to this infamously-attired band of tights-wearing vigilantes. But did you know that Idaho has a Sherwood Forest of its own, an entire ocean away from the fantastic English setting of the same name? This lush, whimsical treasure is definitely worth visiting! Check it out!
Officially owned and protected by the Kaniksu Land Trust in North Idaho, this stretch of land near Sandpoint sits snugly in the Kaniksu National Forest.
This 143-acre preserve and trail system is much more than just a hill with a trailhead. It starts on Pine Street and leads visitors through through tall brush and directly into Sherwood Forest, which is an area of land that was privately donated for recreation.
However, this beautiful trail system and reserve was actually developed (and is now maintained) by a local bike club and private land owners.
The Kaniksu National Forest is slightly different than many of Idaho's other dense, woodsy locations. A variety of diverse tree types - both coniferous and deciduous - and harder soil makes this the perfect place for a bike ride or all-seasons stroll. You won't have to worry about any of Robin Hood's crew popping out of the trees though!
You'll even find several artifacts on your way through Sherwood Forest – although not of English or Robin Hood-esque origin. But these old pieces among the trees and shrubbery are just part of the landscape now, with trees and shrubbery growing in, around, and through their various metal parts.
Sherwood Forest is a rich treasure trove of flora and fauna - it's also a protected white-tail deer habitat, and many of the small creeks that run through the forest are tributaries of the Pend Oreille River nearby.
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With a setting as lovely as the idyllic and lovely as this, how can you not fall in love?
It’s not often you get to set foot in a real-life fairy tale or legendary setting… at least in name, that is! This may not be the original home to Robin Hood, but it’s a legendary place to explore all the same.
Have you ever visited Sherwood Forest for yourself?
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