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Coronavirus (COVID19) and River Dance Lodge
In 2020 we remained open and in compliance with all Idaho laws regarding our lodge operations. We opened later than usual but, in the end, we had a reasonably busy summer season. As we look forward to the spring/summer/fall of 2021, we want to give you these updates.
If we’ve learned anything in the past year, it is that no one knows what the world will be like in a few months’ time. While there is certainly much hope that the COVID-19 vaccine is going to help get the pandemic under control, we remain vigilant. In 2020 we had good operating procedures in place so that we could remain open and keep our staff and guests protected. For 2021, we continue to have plans in place in the event that the virus is still a public health risk.
We take standards for hygiene and cleanliness seriously and regardless of the status of the pandemic in 2021, we will continue to take additional steps to protect our guests and employees from virus spread. Our health and safety measures are designed to address a broad spectrum of viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 (a novel coronavirus that causes the disease COVID -19) and include everything from employee and guest use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), handwashing hygiene and cleaning product specifications to the cleaning of our facilities.
Our “Clean Promise” is that we will do our best to minimize the risks associated with COVID-19 by cleaning our cabins and facilities thoroughly at all times. We use CDC-approved cleaning agents including Vital Oxide, an environmentally friendly, but effective cleaning agent.
In addition, we will follow and enforce any mask mandates in place at the time of your visit. Fortunately, River Dance Lodge is spacious and surrounded by nature. Each cabin and glamping tent is private and well separated from others. When you come to the main lodge building, if the virus is still a health risk, we will require you to wear a face covering. In the privacy of your cabins, the decision is yours.
Cabin and Glamping Tent Season 2021
We plan to open and are accepting reservations from May 1 to September 30, 2021.
Syringa Café Operations:
We have made the decision to close the Syringa Café for the 2021 season and will not be serving meals to the traveling public. We will have limited meal service for a select few dates when we have all-inclusive packages booked. As well, for groups of ten or more we continue to offer all-inclusive packages with accommodations, activities and meals. We recommend you reserve as far in advance as possible as space is limited.
Cabin Kitchens:
We are upgrading our cabin kitchens with the addition of an outside two-burner gas cooktop and griddle area. Inside the cabins are equipped with a microwave, toaster and coffee pot. Cookware, cooking utensils, kitchenware and utensils are all provided. When you reserve a cabin, we send you a suggested packing list to help you plan your meal preparation.
Glamping Tents & Cooking:
If you plan to prepare your own meals in the glamping area, we provide you with an outside two-burner camping stove and griddle that operate from propane. You do need to bring your own cookware, utensils and other kitchen supplies. Each glamping tent has a picnic table outside.
A short note from owners Betsy Bowen & Peter Grubb
When this pandemic started in February 2020, few thought we would still be trying to bring it under control a year later. It has created struggles for many around the world. We continue to be thankful for all the frontline health care workers who are fighting for us all as well as those that provide other essential services.
Since we opened River Dance Lodge in 2004, we have been sharing the joy of meaningful, life-enriching vacations. We’ve been through a number of difficult times, but like most people, have never experienced anything that has impacted so many people in so many ways, all around the globe.
We want to reassure you that our first priority is the health and wellbeing of our guests, our employees and our greater travel community. As a family owned and operated company, we are doing our best to make sound decisions that are fair, and in the best interest of everyone. We thank you for navigating these difficult times with us. Thank you for valuing travel and the positive changes it provides the world. To those planning a stay at our River Dance Lodge, we look forward to seeing you.
As we find our path, I am reminded of the words of Henry Kissinger who said: “A diamond is a chunk of coal that did well under pressure.”
May we all find the diamonds within us and our communities.
Peter Grubb & Betsy Bowen
Founders & Owners of River Dance Lodge