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Explore Idaho

The Love for Idaho's Outdoors While Giving Back to Conservation

Article by Staff Writer

Photography by Provided + Ed Cannady

Originally published in Boise Lifestyle

Idaho’s wild places are cherished by outdoor enthusiasts who hike its trails, paddle its rivers, and camp beneath its starry skies. Now, a new app called Lodestar offers a unique way to plan adventures while giving back to the very landscapes they explore. Just in time for the holiday season, Lodestar has launched a digital gift card, providing a thoughtful gift that benefits both the recipient and the environment.

Outdoor lovers can be notoriously difficult to shop for—gear is personal, and the “right” choice is often elusive. Lodestar’s gift card solves that problem. Available in amounts ranging from $20 to $100, the card allows recipients to support local conservation nonprofits or offset the carbon footprint of their travels.

“Whether these gift cards are used for trip planning or supporting community conservation efforts in the outdoor spaces we love, this gift is as impactful as it is thoughtful,” says Alicia Roessler, Lodestar’s co-founder and an experienced environmental attorney.

Lodestar simplifies both trip planning and environmental stewardship. The app allows users to create itineraries, collaborate with travel partners, reserve campsites, and share memories through integrated journals. It also tracks the environmental impact of each journey, offering users opportunities to donate to grassroots conservation efforts.

Roessler highlights the need for this kind of support: “Currently, only 3% of all charitable donations go to conservation and climate nonprofits. By simplifying the process of donating to grassroots organizations, we can encourage more outdoor enthusiasts to contribute.”

Local conservation groups, like the Idaho Conservation League (ICL), are among Lodestar’s trusted nonprofit partners. “Lodestar allows outdoor adventurers to see the carbon footprint of their travel and help inform decisions that may reduce that footprint,” says Courtney Hamilton, ICL’s philanthropy liaison.

Lodestar is free to use, ad-free, and packed with features like detailed 3D maps, an Adventure Library for saving trips, and tools to make planning seamless. It’s a practical, thoughtful tool for anyone who values adventure and preservation.

Lodestar’s gift card is delivered digitally and can be scheduled for holidays, birthdays, or other occasions. Learn more about Lodestar’s mission and features at lodestarhub.com