Metal Detecting Hunts in Idaho
Idaho hosts one of the Northwest's institutional events: the Northwest Treasure Hunters Club's annual "Big Hunt" at Farragut State Park in Athol, north of Coeur d'Alene. The Spokane-based club has been running it since the early 1970s — the 2026 edition was the 54th — and it draws detectorists from across the Inland Northwest every June.
Upcoming hunts in Idaho
No Idaho hunts currently have announced upcoming dates — but see below: the state's hunts are annual, and this page updates as hosts publish next year's dates.
Recent hunts
- Northwest Treasure Hunters Club 54th Annual Treasure Hunt — Jun 19, 2026, Athol, ID · Seeded hunt · hosted by Northwest Treasure Hunters Club. The 54th annual 'Big Hunt' run by the Northwest Treasure Hunters Club (a Spokane-based non-profit founded 1971) at Farragut State Park, Athol, ID — about 30 minutes north of Coeur d'Alene.
Recurring hunts to watch
The NWTHC Big Hunt has run annually since 1971 — every June at Farragut State Park. The club's site posts the next year's date and registration form over the winter.
Detecting in Idaho: the short version
Organized hunts are the easy way in — the host has already secured land permission, and that's most of what your entry fee buys. Outside events, get landowner permission on private ground and check state and local rules for parks and beaches before digging. Seeded hunts are the friendliest start for beginners and kids; natural hunts reward experience. New to organized hunts? Start with the guide to metal detecting hunts and the FAQ.
Nearby states with listed hunts: Washington, Oregon. Listings come from the DigRallies directory — dates and fees are checked against the hosts' own announcements, but always confirm with the host before traveling.