Take a Break

by Maggie Elliot


Tired of spending all week curled over a laptop?
Getting a little bored with your daily route to classes? 


Well, you’re in luck. Students at the University of Idaho have the unique opportunity to explore the diverse regions surrounding the Palouse. Whether you enjoy following a stream in a dense forest, fishing at a lake, or soaking in breathtaking views of golden rolling hills, your outdoor recreational “happy place” may only be a stone’s throw away. 

Some popular places to get you started:

Spring Valley Reservoir is located less than 18 miles east of Moscow, and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game maintains an annual fish-stocking program. Trails around the reservoir are also popular birding pathways.

Spring Valley on a sunny afternoon
Photo Credit: Maggie Elliot


Moscow Mountain is a popular venture for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, since it's sprawling with a plethora of trails and offers unparalleled views of the Palouse. 


Freshman Lizbeth Bumstead at the summit of Moscow Mountain

At the base of Moscow Mountain, Idler's Rest has moss-covered trails resting under towering trees. 
Idler's Rest
Photo Credit: Maggie Elliot









Can you spot the Sam? Trails are fun for all ages!
Photo Credit: Maggie Elliot



The UI Campus features two arboretums as well as countless locations featuring panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The newest Arboretum sits at the top of Perimeter Drive on campus. 
Photo Credit: Arbnet

A 1.3 mile trail encircles 63 acres of trees, shrubs, and flowers from all around the world. 

Shattuck Abortetum features a denser forest tucked behind the Physical Education Building. 
Shattuck Abortetum and Amphitheater
Photo Credit: University of Idaho
Maybe you have a little more time to get to class than antipicated... a great opportunity to take a detour and check out these gems on campus. 

Elk Creek is located about an hour east of Moscow, but as it's a recreational area packed with a waterfall, river, and countless trails deep into the forest, it is well worth the drive!


Forest surrounding Elk Creek Waterfall
Photo Credit: Maggie Elliot



A study featured in the January publication of National Geographic showed how immersing yourself in nature can revamp cognitive ability and improve creative problem solving capacities by lowering stress. Why? Our species evolved among these natural surroundings, and our brains are hard wired to interpret information about plants and streams, not traffic. Boost your academic performance, and take advantage of the surrounding wildlife.

Still need a reason to enjoy life outside? Learn more at:


http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2016/01/call-to-wild-text





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