What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
The History
Built in 1934, the log cabin-like Big Creek Hotel attracted generations to this outdoor wonderland. Until, in 2008, a fire burned this piece of Idaho history to the ground. Many thought this unforgettable destination was lost to the past. Until we gave it a new future.
Back in the Day »
The IAF
Basically, the Idaho Aviation Foundation exists so aviation destinations that often fly under the radar keep existing, too. This dedication is exemplified in Big Creek-a remote, rare gem in Idaho's rich aviation heritage.
The Area
Big Creek lies on the lip of a vast 2.4 million acres of untamed land known as the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. By and large, it's pretty epic out here.
The Place to Be »
The Crew
Go behind the scenes to see who makes the magic happen. Our fabulous crew is here to help you.
News & Happenings
SNOW STORM!!! ![]()
I'm feeling my minority status when it comes to loving snow! Sure, I don't like driving in it, or the way a winter storm rearranges your dance card. ![]()
But I will always go back to that feeling when I was a kid...snow days, sledding, skating, river walking, snow mobiling....The snow draped on the evergreens is an unmatched beauty. Even the cold wind....listening to it from the comfort of a warm blanket, a warm fire, with a hot mug in your hand- downright romantic! ![]()
It's a gift of Mother Nature's. Take the day off. Shelter in place while I lay down a layer of white, blow it all around and work magic in the eco- system. Feel free to play in it, dig in it, move it around and then tomorrow you can resume your regularly scheduled life activities.![]()
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As i watch the snow accumulate here in Wisconsin, I found some writings from the early Big Creek settlers this morning, and it never ceases to amaze me, their hardiness. A winter in Big Creek is on my bucket list! I'm also pondering the upcoming season, the old friends, the new faces, a few new menu items and since I'm staying in today, a few new songs to work on. So much to look forward to! ![]()
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And a quick Happy Birthday shout-out to Jim Davies, (president of the IAF)... A debt of gratBig Creek Lodge Idahowho love Big Creek Lodge Idaho ...💝
At least once a day I find myself typing, "Ida...." into my search bar and tapping on the link that automatically pops up now: Idaho Aviation Foundation, and clicking on the Web Cams to check on the sleeping Lodge. While my life rolls in Wisconsin, a sizeable piece of my heart is still in Big Creek🥰. ![]()
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This past week of Thanksgiving has been just that. We have so much to be thankful for, not the least of which is the restoration of the lodge that has become my summer home, and it's impact on the people who visit. And none of this would have been possible without the Idaho Aviation Foundation and its mission. The cameras that allow us to see the various airstrip is another service that they fund. They also funded the "Fly Idaho" book set, which has become a staple for the pilots that fly the Idaho back country. ![]()
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But what I want to make sure you all know that these are not the only projects that have impacted people in profound ways. There is another one that truly touches my heart, and that is the Wilderness Within Reach project. ![]()
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While the IAF has championed the continued access to enjoy the back country, there are still great challenges to the physically disabled population to experience the wilderness. In response to that, the IAF in tandem with the Boise Parks and Recreation have held this annual event. With help of air taxi operators and volunteers, they are able to fly in those who would have no other way to enjoy a holiday in the back country! ![]()
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This year, we are excited to bring an adult group into Big Creek Lodge, and a children's group into the Flying B for a 2-day adventure. This is done at no cost to the participants. For more information, I've included a link below for you to read about it. Be sure to check out the link to the History of The Wilderness Within Reach Program at the end of the article!![]()
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In the spirit of Thanksgiving, and what is coming to be known as Giving Tuesday, if this strikes a chord with you, please consider a donation to further not only the continuance of this project, but even it's expansion in the future! ![]()
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I will be sure to post more about this as this year's event takes shape! It's truly life changing for the participants! ![]()
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With so much THANKS and Gratitude...💝💖
Something about the first snowfall of the season vibrates the heartstrings in me! It will come and go for a bit like a restless child who's not quite ready for bed. But then it will finally overtake the sun's ability to melt it and the peaceful blanket of white will envelope her for her winter hibernation. May the aviators and locals keep an eye on her til she awakens again in spring! 💖![]()
( Thank you, Carrie Ellie, for taking the hike I would if I were there to get this spectacular photo!)
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