Frequently Asked Questions

What time zone is Reflections Inn located in?
Pacific Time Zone. Southern Idaho and Montana are on Mountain Time.

Will my cell phone work?
There is no cell phone service at the Inn and cell phone service is limited in the Upper Clearwater Valley. Highway 12 from Missoula, Montana to the Inn has no cell phone service. Cell phone service between the Inn and Lewiston, Idaho is spotty. Landline telephone service is available at the Inn.

How can I find out more about the area?
There are many excellent resources to learn more about the area. First, see below "What is there to do?" and also take a look at these sites:

What is the weather like?
Reflections Inn is nestled in the river valley at an elevation of 1660 feet. Our weather is milder than the surrounding mountains. While we do get snow in the winter, it does not last for long. Our spring is often rainy and colorful amid new growth. Fall is mild with chilly nights and warm days. Summer days can be quite hot in late July and August with temperatures reaching into the triple digits and night temperatures dropping to the 50's. This is also our dry, "fire season".

What clothing should I pack?
Casual clothing is acceptable everywhere in the valley. Allow for changing weather conditions. In the summer the day and nighttime temperatures can vary as much as 30 degrees. Pack layers and you will be fine! A need for a light hat, gloves and rain coat is not uncommon during all seasons.

What is there to do?
Click here to link to our Area Activities page.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
A wide variety of animals and birds inhabit the area and migratory birds are prolific. An observant traveler can see deer, elk, moose, black bear, mountain lion, and bobcat, even from the highway. Please be respectful and cautious. Hunting is only permitted during restricted seasons and with a license that is strictly enforced. For regulations visit– Idaho Fish and Game

Are there bugs, snakes and reptiles in the area and on property?
It is important to remember we live in the woods where nature is abundant, including the less welcome members of our ecosystem (snakes, bugs, spiders, etc.) Rattlesnakes can sometimes be found in the hot, rocky, river beds. While caution should be taken when hiking, they are more afraid of you than you are of them.

What are the driving conditions like on HWY 12 and surrounding roads?
All highways in our region are two-lane and VERY winding. Average driving speed will probably be about 50 mph. and caution should be exercised. Wildlife, bicyclists, rocks in the road, and slow-moving campers can be a real surprise as you round a sharp curve. Highway 12 is kept open year around, but road conditions should be checked before traveling. Watch your gas tank. Gas stations can be many miles apart. Plenty of time should be allowed for your travel to the Inn.

There are many pull-out locations and interpretive sites worth the stop. It is a bit like traveling in a National Park, but with a few little towns sprinkled in. It is best to avoid driving in the dark. Wildlife is particularly active at dusk as they come down to the rivers to water. Passing lanes are infrequent, but identified, so just relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of our unspoiled country. PLEASE TRAVEL SAFELY!

What's the deal with all of the Forest Service Roads, dirt roads and paths intersecting with HWY 12?
There are many Forest Service gravel and dirt roads in our area. These roads are not always open and should only be traveled in a high clearance vehicle. It is best to check with Forest Service offices for current road conditions and maps before traveling. Never travel in these areas without adequate fuel, clothing, food and water.

For those who enjoy hiking, there are many brochures, books, maps and interpretive signs to assist you in enjoying our National Forests. While we can help with your planning here at the inn, it is best to check on current conditions before starting out. The Forest Service has ranger stations throughout the region. Most of our nearby trails climb up out of the river valley and can be strenuous. Good walking or hiking shoes, layered clothing, water and food are a must and walking sticks can be helpful.

What time is breakfast served?
Breakfast time can run between 7:30 - 9 am depending on the needs of our guests. During rafting season we start earlier to accommodate day trips. If you prefer to leave very early, we can create a "Breakfast To Go" for you. Coffee, tea, coffee makers and refrigerators are found in each room. In addition, a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facility is available to all guests.

What are my options for food, dining and grocery stores in the area?
You will want to anticipate your dining plans depending on the season. We do offer limited small plates, wine and beer here at the Inn. Expressing your interest in these offerings and committing to them ahead of your arrival time is much appreciated and allows us to plan accordingly. A small kitchen (fully equipped with dishes and cookware) and outdoor grills are available for guest use.

Restaurants and cafes are limited in our area and often close during the quieter months of the year. Most restaurants close between 8 and 9 pm even in the busy season. All dining options require additional driving and travel time from the Inn.

There are no convenience stores or grocery stores on HWY 12 to the East between the Inn and Lolo, Montana. The towns of Kooskia, Kamiah, Orofino, and Grangeville, to the West and South of the Inn, all offer full services including gas, post office, restaurants, taverns and grocery stores.