Silverwood Theme Park
Silverwood Theme Park, located in Athol, Idaho, just north of Coeur d’Alene, is the largest theme park in the Northwest U.S. It offers a mix of thrill coasters, family rides, and a full water park, all surrounded by scenic pine forests and mountain views. With high-quality attractions like Tremors and Stunt Pilot, Silverwood is quickly becoming a destination for coaster fans and families alike.
History & Background
The park opened in 1988 on the site of a former airstrip. Built and still owned by the Norton family, Silverwood began as a small local attraction and has grown into a full-fledged amusement resort. The addition of high-thrill coasters and Boulder Beach Water Park helped Silverwood earn national attention, especially among coaster enthusiasts looking for something unique off the beaten path.
Ticket Prices & Packages
Tickets are more affordable than many larger chains:
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1-Day Admission: $69 (ages 8–64), $42 (ages 3–7 and 65+)
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2-Day and 3-Day Passes: Available at discounted rates
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Season Passes: Available for frequent guests
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Combo tickets: Include water park access during summer months
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Silverwood operates from May through October, including fall events.
Typical hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with reduced hours in May and October.
Best times to visit:
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Mid-June through August for full park access
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September for lighter crowds and cooler weather
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October weekends for Scarywood (haunted nighttime event)
Top Rides & Attractions
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Tremors – Wooden coaster with underground tunnels and strong airtime
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Stunt Pilot – Single-rail RMC coaster with sharp dives and inversions
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Timber Terror – Classic wooden out-and-back coaster
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Corkscrew – Historic Arrow coaster, relocated from Knott’s Berry Farm
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SpinCycle – Giant pendulum ride with full inversions
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Panic Plunge – 140-foot drop tower
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Roaring Creek Log Flume – Splashdown ride through the woods
Family & Kids Rides
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Tiny Toot Roller Coaster – Great first coaster for kids
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Krazy Koaster – Wild mouse-style spinning coaster
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Flying Elephants, Carousel, and Frog Hopper – Located in Garfield’s Summer Camp (kids’ area)
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Steam Engine Train Ride – A 30-minute scenic trip through the woods with actors and surprises
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Sky Ride – Chairlift across the park with mountain views
Boulder Beach Water Park
Included with admission during summer (typically late June through early September), this full-size water park features:
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Velocity Peak – High-speed drop slides
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Raptor Rapids – Family raft ride
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Polliwog Park – Toddler splash area
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Elkhorn Creek – Lazy river
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Boulder Beach Wave Pool – Large wave pool with shallow entry
Cabana rentals and locker services are available.
Dining Options
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Lindy’s – Sit-down dining with burgers, steaks, and pasta
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Chuckwagon John’s – BBQ and grilled chicken
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Pavilion Pizza & Subs – Grab-and-go options
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Country BBQ, Ice Cream, and Funnel Cake stands around the park
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Garfield’s Summer Camp Café – Kid-friendly eats near the kids’ zone
Plenty of picnic areas are available, and guests are allowed to bring in outside food (rare for parks this size).
Hotels & Accommodation
Silverwood has both on-site camping and nearby hotel options:
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Silverwood RV Park & Campground – Tent, cabin, and RV spots with shuttle access
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hayden – 20 minutes away
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Triple Play Resort Hotel & Indoor Waterpark (Hayden) – Great for families
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Airbnb and lake rentals are available in nearby Coeur d’Alene
On-site campers often receive early entry and discounted tickets.
Getting There & Parking
Address: 27843 US-95, Athol, ID 83801
Located on U.S. Route 95, about 30 minutes from Coeur d’Alene and 1.5 hours from Spokane, WA.
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General parking: $10
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RV and oversized parking available
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Free tram between the campground and the front gate
Tips for Visiting Silverwood Theme Park
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Ride Stunt Pilot and Tremors early in the day
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Bring swimwear for Boulder Beach — it’s very popular in summer
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The train ride is a must-do for first-time visitors
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Use the Silverwood mobile site for daily schedules and event times
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October’s Scarywood is 100% worth the trip for Halloween fans