Athol

Local History

Athol, Idaho, is a small but proud community in northern Kootenai County. Established in the late 1800s, it was originally a farming and timber settlement that grew along the railroad lines connecting the region. Incorporated in 1909, Athol became a gathering point for ranchers, loggers, and families drawn to its open land and proximity to both farmland and forests. Today, it’s known as the gateway to Farragut State Park and sits just minutes from Lake Pend Oreille, blending rural traditions with outdoor recreation.

Top Hiring Jobs

Athol’s small-town economy is complemented by its proximity to larger job centers like Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, and Hayden. Local employment includes:

• Retail & Services: Athol has grown as a service hub with new retail developments, including grocery and home improvement stores.

• Hospitality & Tourism: Nearby Farragut State Park and Silverwood Theme Park generate seasonal jobs in lodging, food service, and recreation.

• Construction & Trades: With ongoing residential growth, contractors, carpenters, and landscapers are in steady demand.

• Forestry & Agriculture: Logging and farming remain part of the local workforce.

• Healthcare & Education: Though many commute for these jobs, clinics, schools, and regional hospitals provide employment opportunities.

Local Lifestyle

Life in Athol is defined by quiet rural living and easy access to North Idaho’s lakes and mountains. Residents enjoy larger lots, open space, and the slower pace of small-town life, while still benefiting from new amenities in town. Families value the community’s friendly feel and safe environment, while outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the close proximity to trails, campgrounds, and water recreation. Many people choose Athol for its blend of affordability, space, and central location between Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint.

Things to Do

Athol offers plenty to see and experience for both residents and visitors:

• Farragut State Park: Once a World War II naval training station, today it’s one of Idaho’s largest state parks with camping, hiking, disc golf, and a military museum.

• Silverwood Theme Park: The Northwest’s largest amusement park and water park, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

• Lake Pend Oreille: Just a short drive away, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.

• Hiking & Outdoor Recreation: Endless opportunities for biking, horseback riding, and nature trails in the surrounding forests.

• Community Events: Seasonal fairs, local gatherings, and farmer’s markets bring the community together.

Yearly Average Temperatures

Athol shares the four-season climate typical of North Idaho:

• Summer: Warm and sunny, with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s°F.

• Fall: Cool and crisp, with highs in the 50s–60s°F and colorful foliage.

• Winter: Cold and snowy, with lows in the teens and highs in the 20s–30s°F; snowfall is common and ideal for winter recreation.

• Spring: Mild, with highs in the 50s–60s°F and blooming wildflowers as the landscape comes alive again.