Hidden in the old-growth forest near Priest Lake in Idaho's far north, the Lionhead Natural Water Slide is one of the most delightfully unique adventures in the state — a long, naturally polished granite chute that sends sliders careening down the rock on a thin sheet of icy mountain water. Often called Idaho's only natural water slide, it's a bucket-list summer thrill for those willing to hike in and brave the cold.

The journey is part of the magic. From the Lionhead area at the north end of Priest Lake, the Lion's Head Creek Trail runs about 3 miles round trip (with a few hundred feet of climbing), winding through stunning stands of ancient cedars, past creeks and small waterfalls, and across a chilly mountain stream before emerging above the slides. Bring shoes you don't mind soaking, because you'll cross water along the way.

The slide itself is a roughly 100-foot ramp of water-smoothed granite. The local tradition is to ride it seated on a plastic garbage bag (some add a little foam padding), leaning back and letting the rushing water carry you down the rock face into the small pool at the bottom. It's exhilarating, icy, and a whole lot of fun.

Be careful — this is a real natural feature, not an engineered ride, and people do get hurt here. Most years see one or two broken bones. The single most important rule: stay off the slide during spring runoff and any time the water is high or fast, when the current can flush sliders over the top and into the rocks below. Wait for mid-to-late summer when flows drop, scout the run before you commit, go feet-first, and remember that cold water and hard rock leave little margin for error.

Time your visit for July through early September, when the water has mellowed and the forest is at its best. Pack your garbage bag, sturdy wet-ready shoes, a towel, and a sense of adventure, and Lionhead will reward you with a one-of-a-kind ride that northern Idaho does better than anywhere else.