Why go
Sandpoint is just an hour's drive north of Coeur d'Alene, a charming small town on the shores of the impressive Lake Pend Oreille. Although it is far less known than many national parks in the west of the United States, it is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Idaho.
Lake Pend Oreille, with a depth of over 350 metres, is the deepest lake Idahos and one of the largest lakes in the west of the United States. Surrounded by dense forests and Selkirk as well as Cabinet Mountains, the region offers perfect conditions for outdoor activities, recreation and spectacular landscapes.
Sandpoint combines the relaxed atmosphere of a mountain village with a lively art and gastronomy scene. If you want to experience Idaho away from the big tourist streams, you will find one of the most beautiful places in the entire state here.
At a glance
Category | Information
Inhabitants | approx. 10,000
Sea | Lake Pend Oreille
Sea depth | ca. 351 m
Ideal stay | 2–3 days
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Nature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Water sports | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Downtown Sandpoint
The historic city centre delights with a relaxed atmosphere and lots of charm.
Here you can find:
Art galleries
Small boutiques
Bookstores
Cafés
Breweries
Food & drink
In summer, street musicians and small markets provide additional life.
Lake Pend Oreille
The huge mountain lake is the symbol of the region.
The crystal clear water is ideal for:
Bathing
Kayaking
Sailing
Fishing
Boat trips
Thanks to its enormous depth, the lake shimmers in different shades of blue and turquoise depending on the light.
Photo Tip
The most beautiful photos succeed in the early morning, when fog clouds float over the water.
Sandpoint City Beach
Right next to the city center is one of Nordidaho's most popular beaches.
Ideal for:
Swimming
Picnic
Sunsets
Walks
Schweitzer Mountain Resort
The well-known ski resort turns into a beautiful hiking area in summer.
From above you can enjoy spectacular views of:
Lake Pend Oreille
Cabinet Mountains
Selkirk Mountains
A gondola ride is also worthwhile because of the view.
Pend d'Oreille Bay Trail
A beautiful walk along the lakeshore.
Perfect for a pleasant evening walk or a small bike tour.
Boat trip on Lake Pend Oreille
A tour on the largest lake Idahos is one of the most beautiful experiences in the region.
You will discover:
hidden bays
small islands
Wooded shores
impressive mountain panoramas
Kayak or stand-up paddling
Especially in the morning, the lake often presents itself mirrored.
Several providers rent:
Kayaks
SUP Boards
Canoes
Hike to the Schweitzer Mountain
In summer, numerous hiking trails lead through alpine meadows and forests.
Depending on the route, fantastic views of the entire lake await you.
Fishing
Lake Pend Oreille is one of the most famous fishing areas in Idaho.
Here live among other things:
Sea trout
Rainbow trout
Coke salmon
Shopping
For a city of this size, Sandpoint offers surprisingly good infrastructure.
Recommended are:
Walmart Supercenter
Safeway
Yoke's Fresh Market
Outdoor shops
local delicacy shops
Ideal for replenishing supplies before the journey.
Trinity at City Beach
Located directly on the water.
Known for:
regional cuisine
Fish dishes
beautiful lake terrace
Joel's Mexican Restaurant
One of the city's most popular addresses.
Generous portions and relaxed atmosphere.
The Hydra Steakhouse
Ideal for high-quality steaks and regional specialities.
Evans Brothers Coffee
Perfect for breakfast or a coffee break.
The in-house roasting company enjoys an excellent reputation.
Riley Creek Recreation Area
Located directly on the lake.
Ideal for:
Bathing
Kayaking
Fishing
Spacious pitches also for larger campers.
Sam Owen Campground
Quiet National Forest Campground on a wooded peninsula.
Perfect for nature lovers.
Bottle Bay Resort & Marina
Camping directly on the water with marina and boat rental.
Bonner County Fairgrounds RV Park
Practical starting point for exploring Sandpoint.
RV tip
The roads around Lake Pend Oreille are well developed and easily accessible with large Fifth Wheels. However, the pickup truck is recommended for driving on the Schweitzer Mountain.
Insider tip
Visit Sandpoint during the week. Then the city seems particularly relaxed and many viewpoints at the lake are almost deserted.
Photo Tip
The view from Schweitzer Mountain over Lake Pend Oreille is one of the most spectacular panoramas in Idaho.
Avoid frequent errors
Plan enough time for the lake – many visitors underestimate its size.
Reserve campsites early, especially on weekends in summer.
Take warm clothes for boat or kayak tours – on the water it can be surprisingly cool even on hot days.
Don't forget to take enough provisions if you want to explore more remote coves or hiking areas.
Our recommendation
Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille are some of the most beautiful secret tips Idahos has to offer. The combination of impressive mountain scenery, crystal clear water and a charming small town creates an atmosphere that is often sought in vain in the more well-known tourist regions.