Security upped at PL slides

COOLIN — The Idaho Department of Lands is confirming reports that somebody has been attempting to collect fees from visitors to use a natural water slide near Priest Lake.

Reports surfaced earlier this month that someone was attempting to charge for access at the popular feature near the Lion’s Head Campground in the Priest Lake State Forest.

“In response, the presence of our security patrol contractor, Quality Services, was increased in that drainage,” Priest Lake Supervisory Area Manager Mick Schanilec said in an email to the Daily Bee. “Our security contractor will continue to patrol Lion Creek and other State endowment lands at Priest Lake during the summer and fall months and engage with law enforcement if illegal activities are observed.”

The natural slide has been growing in popularity over the years and videos of people skidding down the smooth rock while seated on trash can liners can be seen on YouTube.

The site is located about 20 miles north of Coolin.

Bonner County Undersheriff Ror Lakewold said his office has received reports over the years that people were attempting to collect fees from slide users, but were unable to confirm the reports.

“We, however, have sent marked and undercover units to the area in years past, but have not been able to confirm any of the similar reports.

Lakewold said the slides and a good portion of the road leading to them are in Boundary County and that Boundary County Sheriff Dave Kramer has been notified.

Keith Kinnaird can be reached by email at kkinnaird@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow him on Twitter @KeithDailyBee.