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 Heavenly Hayden Lake by Shirley Thagard (from the print edition, May 2011)  There is something magical about Hayden Lake. Surrounded by towering tree-covered mountains that rise to an elevation of 6,000 feet and bordered by the Bitterroot Mountains and Coeur d’Alene National Forest, Hayden offers nearly 40 miles of sandy beaches and timbered shoreline. Sophistication meets small town charm in this picturesque enclave, where locals, summer residents, and adventure-seeking travelers descend upon Hayden's sparkling waters in search of relaxation, refuge and fun. The lush hills surrounding the lake are ideal for hiking, nature walks, photography, biking, and horseback riding. Honeysuckle Beach, on the lake’s southwest shore, is the perfect summer spot for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. Experienced anglers and enthusiastic children both love fishing the waters by Sportman’s Park off Lancaster Rd. Waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking and all manner of watersports are popular, with convenient rentals at the Hayden Marina. Golf has long been a tradition at Hayden Lake. The Hayden Lake Country Club, Idaho's first 18-hole course, opened in 1907. Although HLCC is private, walkers, joggers, and cyclists enjoy spectacular lake views across the fairways along Strahorn Rd. and Hayden Ave., a short stroll from Honeysuckle Beach. Just up the road, the public Avondale Golf Club features a challenging scenic 6600-yard 18-hole course. Dining options around the lake include bistro fare in a casual, waterfront setting at the Boathouse, and marvelous multicourse dinners at the Clark House, an elegant country inn. A variety of cafés and family restaurants in and around downtown Hayden village, along Government Way, offer everything from burgers to Mexican to sushi. Family fun-seekers should stay-and-play at the nearby fun-zone Triple Play, adjacent to the Holiday Inn Express, and plan for several days to explore Silverwood theme park, just minutes away. No matter how long your stay, be sure you’re visit to North Idaho allows for time to explore the magic of Hayden Lake. And once you’re here, that’s all that matters. Shirley Thagard moved from Los Angeles to Hayden Lake in 1989 and has been loving it ever since. DESTINATION GRANDEUR: The Clark House on Hayden Lake Nestled on 12 lush acres above the shores of Hayden Lake is one of the most magnificent country estates in the Northwest. The Clark House, named in honor of its original owners F. Lewis & Winifred Clark, was completed in 1910. A lavish summer retreat for the Clarks, sophisticated East Coast transplants who amassed a fortune in booming turn-of-the-century Spokane, it was the most expensive home ever built in Idaho at the time. Modeled after Kaiser Wilhelm’s summer palace in the Swiss Alps, the mansion was furnished with the finest European furnishings. There were gardens, boathouses, tennis courts – even a private zoo. The Clarks hosted lavish parties at the mansion for the region’s elite. But the party came to end just a few years later. Soon after arriving at their winter home in Santa Barbara in January, 1913, F. Lewis Clark mysteriously disappeared into the night, never to be seen again. Less than 10 years later Winifred Clark, heartbroken and destitute, lost the mansion to foreclosure. Years passed and ultimately the home was slated for fire demolition. Enter present owner Monty Danner, who, with partner Rod Palmer, saved the grand house, lovingly restored it, and opened as a country inn in 1990. Today, Mark Danner, Monty’s son, continues the Clarks’ legacy, welcoming guests from around the world to experience the Clark House as a luxury bed & breakfast and fine dining establishment. - John Stevens WHEN YOU GO: Accommodations include 10 rooms and suites, 4 with fireplace, all with private bath. Gourmet breakfast is included. For dinner, savor chef Kevin Kneisly’s take on classic American and Continental cuisine, while exploring the extensive wine list. Summer bar service features entertainment by renowned pianist Ron Pass, full cocktail menu and light meals. Dining & piano bar are by reservation only. - J.S. More info: clarkhouse.com. SPOTLIGHT: THE HAYDEN LAKE COUNTRY CLUB Golf has been a popular pastime at Hayden Lake since the turn-of-the-century. In 1907, a Kirtland Cutter-designed clubhouse was opened on the lake’s western shore. With railway expansion, including a stop at the lake, the area quickly earned a reputation as a posh summer resort and was dubbed the “Switzerland of America” because of the alpine scenery. Great golf soon followed and by 1912, the course at Hayden Lake was the first 18-hole golf course in the state of Idaho. Over the years, the club has hosted a number of distinguished visitors. President Taft was an overnight guest in 1909, played golf, and served a lavish game dinner. Teddy Roosevelt visited in 1915. Bing Crosby, who owned a summer home on Hayden Lake, entertained many celebrity friends at the club in the 1950’s and ’60s. Today, this private club continues the tradition of great golf at Hayden Lake. Info: haydenlakecc.com. – John Stevens |
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