North Idaho’s Ridge Runners

May be Idaho-er than you.

You may have never heard the term “Ridge Runner”, but they really aren’t all that mysterious. In fact, if you happen to be from North (not “Northern”, but that’s subject for another time) Idaho the term is pretty common. I, myself—born and raised in Southern Idaho—had never heard the term until my Sister brought her then boyfriend home from college for the holidays. My sister would jokingly refer to him as her “little ridge runner”—a moniker that didn’t seem to offend my future brother-in-law in the least.

“Ridge Runners” refers to a group of people in North Idaho who have chosen to live off the grid and pursue a self-sufficient lifestyle in the backwoods and remote areas of the region. These individuals are known for their independence, resourcefulness, and strong connection to the land.

Living off the land is not easy, and the Ridge Runners of North Idaho have developed a range of skills and knowledge to survive and thrive in the rugged terrain of the region. They may rely on hunting, fishing, and foraging to sustain themselves, and may have a deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna.

The term “Ridge Runners” is believed to have originated from the fact that many of these individuals live in or near the ridges and mountain ranges that define North Idaho’s landscape. They may have chosen to live in these remote areas to escape the bustle and noise of modern life, and to be closer to nature.

c'mon, they're people… not Sasquatches!

The Ridge Runners of North Idaho have a strong sense of community and often help each other out in times of need. They may share tools and resources, provide advice on hunting and foraging, and work together to maintain the trails and roads that allow them to access their remote homes.

Despite their independent lifestyle, the Ridge Runners of North Idaho are not hermits. They often participate in local events and festivals, and are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Visitors to the region may even be lucky enough to receive an invitation to a Ridge Runner gathering, where they can experience firsthand the warmth and generosity of this unique community.

the origins of the ridge runner

It is difficult to pinpoint who the first actual “Ridge Runner” was in North Idaho as the term has been used for many years to describe a general way of life and a type of person who lives off the land in the region. However, it is known that the area has a long history of people living off the grid and in remote locations.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, homesteaders began moving into North Idaho, looking for land to settle and farm. Many of these homesteaders lived in remote locations, often in the mountains and valleys away from the established towns and cities. These early settlers had to rely on their own skills and resources to survive, often living off the land by hunting, fishing, and farming.

As the years went on, the population of North Idaho grew, and the region became more established with towns and cities. However, there were still people who chose to live off the grid and in remote locations, becoming known as “Ridge Runners.”

While several books have been written on the subject, it is impossible to determine who the first actual “Ridge Runner” was in North Idaho. It’s clear that the region has a long history of people living off the land and pursuing a self-sufficient lifestyle. The term “Ridge Runner” has become synonymous with this way of life, and continues to be used to describe individuals who choose to live off the grid in North Idaho today.

Living off the land is not for everyone, but for the Ridge Runners of North Idaho, it is a way of life that provides freedom, self-sufficiency, and a deep connection to the natural environment. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a curious traveler, or just someone looking for a different way of life, the Ridge Runners of North Idaho offer a fascinating glimpse into a world that is both challenging and rewarding.

Fast forward three decades, and I’ve definitely seen the varying-degrees of what it means to be a “Ridge Runner”. My brother-in-law may not be a full-on Ridge Runner… but a boy can dream.