WOLF LODGE, Idaho – A year has passed since the iconic Wolf Lodge Steakhouse was destroyed by a tragic fire. On Sep. 1, 2024, the fire shocked the region.
The beloved red log cabin, situated near I-90, held decades of memories that vanished in an instant.
The community’s response was overwhelming, highlighting its importance in North Idaho.
“We were in just complete shock. We didn’t know what to think,” Gretchan Inman, an employee at Wolf Lodge Campground, expressed.
Shawn Martel, the steakhouse manager, shared that the past year has been challenging.
Martel recalled the day vividly, saying, “I was in the fire. We saw smoke coming out of the roof. I got up on the roof. I was trying to put it out, figure out where it was coming from. I did get burned pretty good. We were in complete shock.”
Despite the efforts of dozens of firefighters, the structure was lost.
Martel added, “We feel for everybody – all the customers, the staff. There are so many memories that have been made there.”
The emotional impact of the fire extended to the nearby Wolf Lodge Campground.
Aspen Kiser, who works at the campground, shared, “I went there for my 10th birthday, and it was the best thing ever. I had the time of my life.”
Inman noted, “We have a lot of people (customers) here, wondering why they can’t get through to the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse.”
Many customers are left wondering if the steakhouse will ever return.
Martel remains hopeful, saying, “We’re trying to do what we can to bring it back.”
However, there have been challenges, including insurance limitations and the high cost of rebuilding.
“It was an old building. We couldn’t insure it for very much,” Martel explained.
They are working with engineers and builders to design something new and affordable.
Martel emphasized that they need to update everything to current codes, including water suppression systems.
Despite these hurdles, he reiterated, “We’re trying to do what we can to bring it back.”
When asked how the community can help, Martel was clear that they are not seeking monetary donations. Instead, he requested the community’s hope and prayers.
