International Selkirk Loop
The International Selkirk Loop is the only dual state, dual country designated scenic byway 'All-American' road and selected by Rand McNally as one of five “Best of the Roads” –Rand McNally Atlas 2009 US & Canadian Editions.
The most delightful aspect of the Loop's scenery is its variety, from narrow river canyons to broad fertile valleys and vibrant village scenes, from lowland meadows to breathtaking mountain vistas. Surprises await around every corner! it's a genuinely relaxing experience!
It provides a truly spectacular 280 mile (450Km) experience encircling the breathtaking Selkirk Mountains in Northeast Washington, North Idaho and Southeast British Columbia, a place of forested hillsides, sparkling waterfalls, snowcapped craggy peaks, and charming small towns.
Nearly the entire Loop route follows rivers and lakeshores, within the Loop, the Selkirk Mountains are accessible from the Salmo Basin, Sullivan Lake, Priest Lake, Pack River, Roman Nose, Kootenay Pass and Kokanee Glacier recreation areas.
The waterways historically were used for transportation, but today they are a source of year-round recreation, from fly fishing to ice fishing, boating, water skiing, windsurfing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, diving and rafting. So there are myriad opportunities for outdoor recreation - a vast uncrowded playground! Hundreds of miles of trails are available for all levels of hiking, biking, horseback riding, skiing and snowmobile touring. Rock climbing and geo-caching are popular for the more adventurous.
Motorcyclists rejoice at the light traffic, two lane curves, sweepers and esses that makes up the International Selkirk Loop riding experience. In fact Destination Highways Motorcycle Guide Book rated a portion of this route as it's # 1 riding experience in British Columbia.
If you have the time, incorporate a Super Side Trip into each days ride (there are 6 to include) which in most cases will provide you with about a 200-mile day of blissful riding. The International Selkirk Loop has enough roadway for 3-4 days of touring.
International Selkirk Loop Area Map (click to view larger image)