LOCAL HOTSPOT - Lake Pend Oreille
It’s time for lake days! And we couldn’t be more excited!
One of the most stunning and expansive lakes in Northern Idaho is also the state’s largest. Lake Pend Oreille is located in Bonner County, a 35 minute drive south of Bonners Ferry. At 43 miles long, 1,158 feet deep and with 111 miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the clear refreshing water, whether you walk along the City Beach, drive along the shore to spend a day in Clark Fork or take the boat out and go wake boarding! Here’s some ways to have a real Idaho summer on the lake:
ON THE WATER
Whether you’re into wakeboarding, jet skiing, kayaking, or simply floating on a hot summer day, Lake Pend Oreille has it all. Here’s where you can launch your boat or jet skis:
Eagle Boat Landing: Located in Farragut State Park, with a large concrete ramp and docks suitable for most vessels
Bayview Public Boat Launch: Free and centrally located in Scenic Bay near Boileau’s Resort
Sandpoint City Beach Ramp: Near the marina—perfect access for powerboats, sailboats, and paddle craft
Memorial Field Boat Launch (Trestle Creek area): Close to Sandpoint and the scenic Long Bridge trail
Boat or jet ski rentals are available at various marinas—just drop in and rent by the hour or day.
Stay aware of other traffic!
BY BIKE OR FOOT
Here’s some of the best bike paths with views if you want to walk or ride!
Long Bridge Path: Crosses Lake Pend Oreille near Sandpoint; a 2-mile flat ride across the bridge with beautiful views.
Dover Railway Path: Begins Larch & Fifth, stretches approx. 2 miles west along former railroad tracks into Dover.
Sand Creek Trail: Runs alongside the creek by City Beach—perfect for a casual stroll or bike ride.
There are plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails to enjoy near Lake Pend Oreille as well, especially at Schweitzer Mountain Resort.
BY THE SHORE
If you want to lie out in the sun and take a dip, there are several beaches that vary from rocky private spots further away from town or City Beach itself, just a quick walk away from shops and restaurants. City Beach in Sandpoint provides a sandy, lifeguarded swimming area with grassy lawns, picnic tables, restrooms, concessions, playgrounds, volleyball and courts—all right next to downtown.
FISHING
Lake Pend Oreille is also one of the biggest playgrounds for all you fishermen! Fish for trophy mackinaw, Kamloops rainbow trout and lake trout; also chase the local kokanee for a different adventure. Other freshwater fish such as smallmouth bass can be caught right off the docks.
CAMPING
If you’re planning to stay a while, Lake Pend Oreille is surrounded by beautiful places to camp.
Round Lake State Park, just 10 miles south of Sandpoint, is open year-round with camping, hiking, swimming, and great perch and trout fishing—plus winter fun like sledding and cross-country skiing.
Farragut State Park, at the lake’s southern tip, is a 4,000-acre destination with over 200 campsites, cabins, hiking and biking trails, disc golf, and the Museum at the Brig, all set against a stunning mountain backdrop.
Other popular campgrounds include:
Garfield Bay – Near a public boat launch, with RV and tent sites.
Sam Owen – Forested, with a swim beach and boat ramp near Hope.
Whiskey Rock – Boat-in only, perfect for peace and quiet.
Wherever you stay, the lake views won’t disappoint.
Whether you're boating, biking, camping, fishing, or chilling in a hammock, Lake Pend Oreille offers the ultimate summer playground.
