Gardening in North Idaho: Thriving in the Panhandle's Unique Growing ConditionsGardening in North Idaho is not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace its rhythms, the rewards are rich, fragrant, and often delicious. From Bonners Ferry to Sandpoint and stretching down to Coeur d’Alene, our short but vibrant growing season demands a mix of planning, resilience, and a bit of local know-how.Understanding the ClimateNorth Idaho's gardening season is defined by a late frost in spring and an early frost in fall, which means your average growing window runs from mid-May to late September—sometimes shorter in higher elevations or shaded valleys. The USDA Hardiness Zones here range mostly between 4b and 6a, depending on your specific location.What Grows Well in North Idaho?Despite the ... 05/05/2025

 If you ever watched the classic TV series Northern Exposure, you might remember the opening scene—a lone moose casually wandering through the fictional town of Cicely, Alaska, as if it owned the place. It was a charming reminder that, in certain parts of the world, wildlife doesn’t just stay in the woods—it strolls right into town.Here in Sandpoint, Idaho, we have our own version of that scene playing out in real life. Moose are a regular part of the landscape, often making their way through neighborhoods, stopping to rest in a backyard, or even taking a dip in an unsuspecting homeowner’s kiddie pool. They have no problem hopping fences to reach the next tasty treat and will "yard up" in residential areas , finding a quiet spot to rest or a tree to nibble.Today I recieved a Nixle alert... 03/09/2025

As spring ushers in a kaleidoscope of colors and scents, there's an air of excitement in Sandpoint, Idaho as the town gears up for a beloved tradition—the opening day of Farmers' Market. A celebration of community, sustainability, and locally-sourced goodness, the market's debut is a beacon of hope and renewal for both residents and visitors alike.Farmers' Market at Sandpoint begins on May 4, 2024 and runs through October 12, 2024. The Market is open on Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons in Farmin Park in downtown Sandpoint, Idaho Saturday markets are from 9am until 1pm; Wednesday markets from 3pm until 530pm.Welcoming the Season:For many in Sandpoint, the opening day of the Farmers' Market marks the unofficial start of the warmer months. It's a time when vendors dust off their ... 05/04/2024

Reel in the Excitement: Exploring the Sandpoint Fishing Derby in IdahoAttention anglers, there's no better way to experience the thrill of fishing than at the annual Sandpoint Fishing Derby. With its scenic setting, friendly competition, and abundance of fish, the derby has become a beloved tradition that draws fishermen and women from near and far. Let's dive into the excitement and explore what makes the Sandpoint Fishing Derby a must-attend event for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.Casting Off: The Basics of the Sandpoint Fishing DerbyThe Spring Fishing Derby from April 27th to May 5th.  Anglers of all ages and skill levels gather at designated fishing spots along the lake's shoreline or aboard boats to try their luck at catching the biggest fish and competing for prizes. You can p... 04/30/2024

I am writing this to celebrate the life of Lynnette Miller, a woman who embodied the true meaning of compassion, kindness, and care. She was a shining example of what it meant to lead with your heart, to love and care for others without hesitation or reservation.She had a spirit that was truly infectious, and those who had the privilege of knowing her were touched by her warmth, her generosity, and her unwavering love. She lived her life with an open heart, always willing to lend a helping hand, an ear to listen, or a shoulder to cry on.Her kindness knew no bounds, and she went out of her way to make everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. Whether it was through a smile, a kind word, or a simple gesture, she had a way of making people feel valued and important.Her care and concern for oth... 05/08/2023

Have you heard of the Little Free Pantry program? It's a community-based initiative located in downtown Sandpoint that aims to provide wholesome and nutritious food to those in need. The program operates on the principle of mutual aid, where community members donate wholesome food items that are then made available to those who need them. The "Eat Smart IDAHO" program accepts food donations, ensuring that those who rely on the pantry have access to healthy and sustainable options. What's even better is their focus on youth involvement in community nutrition programs. By educating young people on healthy eating and sustainable food practices, they're setting the foundation for a healthier and more sustainable future.But the program isn't just about providing food. It's also about creatin... 05/08/2023

  North Idaho is known for its pristine beauty and natural landscapes, and it's no secret that keeping the area clean is a top priority for residents and visitors alike. From the crystal clear waters of Lake Pend Oreille to the rugged peaks of the Selkirk Mountains, North Idaho's natural wonders are worth protecting.One way that North Idaho residents are taking action to protect their environment is through regular clean-up events. In celebration of Earth Day, the City of Sandpoint is hosting a clean-up event at City Beach and Lower Sand Creek. This event provides an opportunity for residents to come together and make a tangible difference in the community by clearing our shorelines and waterways of trash.Participants are encouraged to meet at the City Beach pavilion on April 22, 2023 a... 04/16/2023

We are keeping the Easter Bunny hopping and those chickens havent been laying down on the job either.  Local communities in Sandpoint and Ponderay are gearing up for Easter with a host of exciting festivities planned for children and families. Here are some of the local events happening in the area.Christ our Redeemer Lutheran Church is hosting its annual 10K Egg-stravaganza on Sunday, April 10th. (Yep that is 10,000 brightly colored eggs)  The egg hunt, which begins at 11 a.m., is open to children between the ages of toddler and 12 years old. The event also offers complimentary refreshments for everyone. You can find more information on corsandpoint.org.The Sandpoint Lion Clubs will hold their annual Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 16th, at Lakeview Park. The event starts at 9 a.m. ... 04/04/2023

   Thank you Mark McInnes for this  5.6 treed acres with beautiful mountain and panoramic views.  It is amazing how well the road is plowed and maintained.  This will make a really nice homesite for someone.  The terrain is perfect for someone that wants to capture the open views or to be tucked away in the forest for serene privacy.  Electric right at the property line and an area of high output wells.  Direct line of site to Schweitzer means wireless internet will be available.   I sold the parcel next door to this and here are a few summer time photos for you. Congrats on a nice listing and speedy sale.  01/23/2023

Flags in Sandpoint Idaho "Let's show off 'Ole Glory', in Active Rain, and proudly show our 'Stars and Stripes' being flown across the USA."  Thanks to Mark Don McInnes, and Endre Barath, Jr., for the June Active Rain Challenge.Mighty muscle cars and regal classics lining the streets of downtown Sandpoint Idaho.We come to see the cars, enjoy the ambiance, music and atmosphere year after year. It doesn’t really matter if you have been to dozens of shows and know every detail or if you’ve never been to a car show and simply like to look at cool cars.Take a look at a few of these beauties lovingly restored by their owners.   If you happen to be in Idaho next May be sure to come by during lost in the 50s weekend!      06/07/2022

Its that time of year again.  After a 2 years we finally get lost in the 50s back.  Come out and enjoy the fun. Schedule of Events Friday, May 20, 2022 Vintage car parade. Vintage car parade through downtown Sandpoint, looping first east down Church Street then north up First Avenue and back west up Cedar Street. Pick a spot anywhere along the parade route. Parade starts at 6 p.m.! Street dance. Immediately following the parade downtown, at Second Avenue and Main Street, it's dance time Its free and you can dress 50s style or come as you are.  Show and Dance at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.  Darlene Love and  Rocky and the Rollers will be rocking the house before and afterwards.  Saturday, May 21, 2022 Car show. Hundreds of hot rods and classics on display all up and down First, Cedar,... 05/20/2022

Sandpoint Idaho offers a full range of activities throughout the year.  Ski Schweitzer Mountain resort, go boating on lake pend Orielle, kayak and fish the river, ice fishing on Cocolalla lake. Enjoy the fresh grown goodies and local art at the farmers market.  Check out the bicycle paths of hike the hundreds of trails perhaps snap a photo of the mountain goat on Scotchman's peak. Enjoy a day of thrilling rides at Silverwood theme park or a casual day of downtown shopping.  Come Play and enjoy the many seasonal activities, there is something for everyone. 01/07/2022

Top of the morning all.  I have a weekly feature 'Friday Flag'.  Shots of our USA Flag being flown in the North Idaho area.  Business's and residents in and near Sandpoint Idaho.  I especially enjoy being able to highlight one from our listings.  This particular shot is of the flag at the Sandpoint Airport where we have a 'hangar lot' listed.  The weather has been turbulent the last week, which made for a nice 2nd shot looking south down the runway.  For further information regarding Hangar Lot: https://www.sandpointnorthidaho.com/idx/listing/featured/301810686/160-Airpark-Sandpoint-ID-83864  04/11/2021

Stay in home is so much better when you have a home. Yes houses are still selling and it is my extreme pleasure to be able to find a home for a family and get them in at the perfect time. I was a little worried that things might get held up and my people become homeless with the shut down. Luckily the governor deemed real estate essentional and that people are in the middle of moving.  We are getting pretty good at doing everything long distance and we were able to get this home closed without any risks. I had an awesome team in lenders, seller, buyers, and escrow and all of us pulling together made this happen.  Congratulations Julie and Chris on your new home in Sandpoint. I am so very happy for you and your children. 04/01/2020

 Sold By Rain.  Congrats Tyler Francis and Taylar Doolittle, the new owners of the Cedar Street Bistro and Wine Bar who will adopt a new name: Taysty’s. It’s a winning combination of the owners’ names and it is sure to be a crowd pleaser.   It was my extreme pleasure to help this young dynamic duo achieve their dreams and I am asking everyone to swing by the Cedar Street Bridge to get them off to a great start.  Congrats!!!  The Cedar St. Bistro brings the European cafe experience to beautiful downtown Sandpoint. Great-tasting food, drinks and desserts in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Taystys is located on the historic Cedar St. Bridge, with its massive tamarack logs and huge glass passive solar wall through which you can enjoy a view of peaceful Sand Creek and the mountains beyond. S... 03/14/2020

VERY RARE opportunity to have your own PRIVATE runway access on .30 acre of industrial/commercial land adjacent to the Sandpoint Airport (SZT). Level parcel with outstanding mountain views and ready to build. City water, sewer and power to property line with a paved TaxiWay Easement to the airport. Great opportunity to acquire one of the few private airport access lots remaining. Whether you would like to have your own plane or build a hangar for office space, this gated access parcel is ready for you! 02/17/2020

Last year I sold a piece of land to a young couple I had been working with for quite some time. They had come to Idaho for the second time in 3 years looking for that special place. Their parents thought they were crazy to move from Colorado to Idaho to build a home. We looked at everything and one of the last ones on the list was a piece that had been on and off the market a few times. When we got there, they werent overly impressed. We walked the land which was heavily treed, trying to keep the kids from tripping on branches. There was a small kinda level spot by the road and then went way down a hill. It was a mess but I saw a huge potential for it to be so much more and with some work to be exactly what they were looking for.  They looked at me a bit sideways when I told them "This... 10/04/2019

 I have been lucky enough to have 3 home sales close in a day a few times, but it is always exciting and I am always grateful.  I have always said that I have the best clients in the world.  You are loyal and thoughtful and I feel blessed that such good people are drawn into my life.  Thank you always for letting me help you with one of the most important decisions in your life.   You always make me strive to be better.  Thanks to the title companies for your hard work@northidahotitle@alliancetitle@CommunityTitle 06/05/2019

Congratulations to the Till Family for their new home on 70 Williamson way.I hope you have many happy years here.    This home is situated on 15 private acres and it has beautiful brand new floors, cabinets, countertops and fresh paint. Two new decks front and back and all new stainless appliances. There is room for a garden and more. The land is so beautiful with several natural granite rock outcroppings and large pine cedar and larch trees. The location is less than 8 miles from Sandpoint. 06/04/2019

  There is hope! (I  think) Spring has sprung ! Literally just a week ago we had 6-8" of new snow!This is a picture of a tree we have growing through our deck. Why a picture of a tree?A tree symbolizes change, growth, seasons, good times and bad and life.If that tree could talk.When we bought our house here  last year, it was springtime (early summer), the tree was beautiful and just barely turned it's beautiful green colors. The house had been built by a young man who was building his dream home on a lot his father had left him. For whatever reasons, the poor kid ran out of money and could not complete it.It wasn't our style of house because was a contemporary style. It was meant to be a temporary house while we built our Idaho house about 7 miles away. It was less expensive for us to ... 03/19/2019