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Family-Friendly Pontoon Fun: Kid-Approved Activities in North Idaho

A family enjoying a day at the lake

North Idaho’s stunning lakes and breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect setting for family-friendly pontoon adventures. With its abundance of outdoor activities, scenic destinations, and opportunities for exploration, North Idaho offers endless possibilities for family fun on the water. Let’s explore some of the best kid-approved activities, games, and destinations that are sure to make your pontoon adventure a memorable one for the whole family.

Exploring Kid-Approved Destinations

  • Silverwood Theme Park: Located near Athol, Silverwood Theme Park is a must-visit destination for families in North Idaho. After a day of thrilling rides and attractions, unwind with a relaxing pontoon cruise on nearby Lake Pend Oreille, offering stunning views and plenty of space for picnics and water activities.
  • Farragut State Park: Situated on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Farragut State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Families can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching, followed by a leisurely pontoon ride to explore the park’s scenic shoreline and hidden coves.
  • Lake Coeur d’Alene: With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes, Lake Coeur d’Alene offers endless opportunities for family fun on the water. Kids can splash and play in the shallow bays, while parents relax on the pontoon boat and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Kid-Approved Activities for Pontoon Adventures

  • Swimming and Water Play: Kids of all ages love splashing and playing in the water, making swimming one of the most popular pontoon activities. Bring along inflatable toys, floats, and noodles for added fun, and don’t forget to pack sunscreen and life jackets for safety.
  • Fishing Excursions: Fishing is a great way to introduce kids to the joys of the outdoors and teach them about the importance of conservation. Bring along fishing gear and bait, and spend the day casting lines off the pontoon boat in search of bass, trout, and other freshwater fish species.
  • Nature Scavenger Hunts: Turn your pontoon adventure into a fun-filled nature scavenger hunt by creating a list of items for kids to find along the shoreline. Encourage them to search for rocks, shells, pine cones, and wildlife sightings, and reward them with small prizes for their discoveries.
  • Picnics and Snack Time: Pack a picnic basket filled with kid-friendly snacks and treats, and enjoy a leisurely meal onboard the pontoon boat or at a scenic lakeside picnic spot. Finger foods like sandwiches, fruit skewers, and cheese and crackers are perfect for easy, mess-free snacking.

Safety Tips for Family Pontoon Adventures

  • Life Jackets: Ensure that all children wear properly fitting life jackets while on the pontoon boat or engaging in water activities.
  • Supervision: Assign a designated adult to supervise children at all times, especially when swimming or playing near the water.
  • Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen liberally and frequently to protect children from the sun’s harmful rays, and provide shade with umbrellas or a bimini top on the pontoon boat.
  • Hydration: Keep children hydrated by providing plenty of water and other non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day.

Creating Lasting Memories

Family-friendly pontoon adventures in North Idaho offer the perfect blend of outdoor exploration, relaxation, and quality time together. With its stunning landscapes, diverse activities, and opportunities for adventure, North Idaho provides families with the ultimate playground for creating lasting memories and bonding experiences on the water. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your fishing gear, and set sail for a day of kid-approved fun on the pontoon in beautiful North Idaho!

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