Dec 10, 2008 2:24 - By: Phil Corless
The Silver Valley of North Idaho used to be known for its mining. Over a billion ounces of silver have been taken out of mines in the area since the 1880’s. But times change, and now the Silver Valley is becoming better known for its recreation. Leading the way is Silver Mountain (notice how everything has the word silver in it?), a world-class ski resort in Kellogg, Idaho, that just recently opened up the beautiful new Morning Star Lodge and an adjoining 42,000 sq. ft. waterpark, called Silver Rapids.
Lazy river, at Silver Rapids Waterpark
Having just spent the weekend there, my family can tell you that there is no better way to beat the cabin fever of winter than with a trip to an indoor waterpark. Silver Rapids is exclusive to guests of the lodge, which keeps down the crowds and makes for a more relaxed experience. This is the first time I could float a lazy river and actually be lazy. Usually I’m being jostled and splashed by swimmers on all sides.
The lack of crowds meant no waiting for any activity except the Flow Rider, a continuous wave of water that was perfect for bodyboarding and surfing. But even that line only had 2 or 3 people in it at a time. My son was able to keep at it until he had mastered the art of bodyboarding. My daughter practiced shooting baskets on the “water court” for an hour, then ran the floating obstacle course like a young Lara Croft. Both days we were in the waterpark, it sometimes felt like we had the place to ourselves. Even when Santa Claus made an appearance, we didn’t have to contend with a line to sit on his lap.
Flow Rider, at Silver Rapids Waterpark
After awhile I started wondering if our “good thing” was unique to this waterpark. Certainly, any park that is only open to guests of its hotel or lodge is going to be less crowded. But, how many of them are part of a ski resort where a majority of the guests are hitting the slopes all day? Silver Mountain has a built a unique addition to its resort. There are only a handful of ski resorts with indoor waterparks in the U.S., but I’m sure more will follow as people see what an awesome combination it is.
For my family of non-skiers, all we cared about was that the water was 82 degrees while the outside temperature hovered around 35. What better way to spend a winter vacation?
Morning Star Lodge, just outside the indoor waterpark
Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark
Even Santa enjoys the warm indoor weather
All photos by Phil Corless
