beloved for generations
The ground now officially known as Idler's Rest Nature Preserve has been a community gathering and outdoor recreation site for over 100 years. The site has been used by native American tribes, homesteaders, community groups, scout troops, and families and continues to be a treasured space to enjoy nature, take a leisurely hike, and explore.
The Berrigan cabin
Early Days
The preserve land was originally used as a gathering site for the Nez Perce Tribe, and was homesteaded by several families during the early 1900's, including the Berrigans. There are still remnants of an historic orchard, logging activities, and other glimpses into the past use of the space.
The first payment toward the creation of Idler's Rest Nature Preserve
formation of the preserve
Worried about the potential for commercial development of the land, the community banded together with the help of the Nature Conservancy to form the 35-acre preserve now known as Idler's Rest.
The Land Trust owns and manages the preserve to maintain a natural space that can be enjoyed by all members of the community
a special place
Over the years, the preserve has served as an outdoor classroom, community gathering place, event venue, and so much more! Since 2004, the Land Trust has owned and continues to manage the space and strives to carry on the community tradition.