We came west for the mountains,” said Frank and Terri Schmitz. The couple, originally from Wisconsin, now own and reside at the White Bird Summit Lodge. Originally operated as a Bed and Breakfast for the past 20 years have changed it over to a Vacation rental property.

Open since 2000, the Lodge sits a mile east of Highway 95’s White Bird Pass. At about 4,300 feet above sea level, the two-story structure affords the Schmitz's and their guests a breathtaking view of mountains -- and more mountains. Thirty or so years ago, before the current highway between Grangeville and White Bird was straightened and widened, a meandering Highway 95 ran right by where the Schmitz's now live. The Great Room is filled with comfortable furniture, wildlife art and taxidermy displays. Off one side of the room, French doors open to a spacious sunroom with windows overlooking the canyon. One wall replicas a rock wall that includes a built-in Fishtank. Bringing the outdoors indoors the wall fits right into the wildlife theme. This is another adventure of Frank and Terri's. The manufacture simulated rock panels for building these rock walls. Off of the other, Frank and Terri's private accommodations entry to the Africa room, Where Frank would love to tell you stories about all their Africa trips. Other amenities include an outdoor BBQ and bar garden. Lower level guestrooms – except for the Wisconsin Room that reflects the Schmitz's roots – sports names like Wisconsin room ‘World Travel ,’ ‘Buffalo Bill,’ ‘Mexican Fiesta room.’ Three of the rooms have private patios. All have private baths. “Frank’s had lots of fun with things like putting a stone shower stall with swinging half doors and a ‘rainwater’ shower head in the Buffalo Bill room,” Terri says.