North Idaho is known for its lakes, stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Travel here is not fast paced, so plan to spend a few days or weeks relaxing and enjoying everything this portion of the Northwest U.S. offers. Accommodations range from hotels to guest ranches.
Traveling to Sandpoint
When you travel to Sandpoint, Idaho, allow time to take in the scenery along the way. If you arrive at Spokane International Airport (the nearest large airport), you can rent a car and drive the 35 miles east on Interstate 90 to Lake Coeur d’Alene then 45 miles north on State Route 95 to Sandpoint. The first view of Sandpoint is from the two-mile Long Bridge, crossing Lake Pend Oreille.
Another way to get to Sandpoint is via Amtrak’s Empire Builder, with daily arrivals and departures. The Empire Builder is an east-west route connecting Chicago and Minneapolis with Seattle and Portland. Sandpoint’s historic train depot is located in the downtown area. Both rental cars and taxis are available in Sandpoint.
Activities in Sandpoint
The town of Sandpoint is defined by Lake Pend Oreille. Ringed by the Selkirk Mountains, this glacially formed lake is the largest and deepest lake in Idaho. Since Sandpoint is right on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, it gives this town a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere. Outdoor activities focus on the lake and surrounding mountains, while a thriving arts community and shopping possibilities offer something for everyone.
Boating, fishing and swimming on Lake Pend Oreille are popular summer activities. Take a cruise on the Shawnodese, a stern-powered boat with a variety of lake excursions (from historic cruises or views of deluxe lakeshore cabins to dinner or wine cruises). The winds on Lake Pend Oreille offer exciting sailing conditions, with rentals available. Try parasailing, water skiing, jet skiing or wake boarding, with rental craft at City Beach. Numerous bike paths surround Sandpoint, and nearby Schweitzer Mountain offers mountain biking.
Sandpoint’s many resident artists and musicians contribute to its vibrant arts and entertainment events. Many performances take place at downtown’s Panida Theater, an ornate Spanish mission-style building opened in 1927. The two-week Festival at Sandpoint, held each August since 1982 at a variety of locations, features outstanding musicians (from classical and pop to rock and country). Summer ArtWalks offer self-guided tours of Sandpoint’s many art galleries and exhibits.
Shoppers relish Cedar Street Bridge Public Market’s shops, boutiques, European café, deli and bakery. Nationally known Coldwater Creek offers upscale women’s clothing in downtown’s historic Bernard Building. The Sandpoint Farmers’ Market features fruit and veggies (the sweet corn is so good, you can eat it raw) from local farms, fresh flowers and artisans selling handmade baskets and soaps.
Sandpoint Lodging and Dining
Accommodations in Sandpoint range from hotels, motels and lodges to cabins and guest ranches. The Holiday Inn Express suites are newly renovated and not far from Schweitzer Mountain. The Lodge at Sandpoint is a lakeside boutique hotel with Old World charm. The Guesthouse on Fourth offers renovated cottages with kitchens in a residential area near downtown Sandpoint. The Western Pleasure Guest Ranch has guest rooms in the spacious main lodge and private log cabins.
Dining in Sandpoint showcases regional Northwest bounty – from fresh fish and mushrooms to huckleberries. Forty-One South is a popular lakeside restaurant with a casual atmosphere and classic cuisine. Seasonal foods from local farms are featured at The Bistro at the Inn at Sand Creek. Trinity at City Beach offers deck seating and a broad menu – from pulled-pork enchiladas to local trout.
A summer vacation in Sandpoint offers a relaxing time to rejuvenate. Outdoor activities centered in and around Lake Pend Oreille range from floating on a raft off of City Beach to fishing for oversized Kamloops or mackinaw trout. Take in a concert or performance, and shop at boutiques or craft shows featuring local artisans. Dine lakeside on local cuisine and stay in cozy inns. You’ll come away refreshed after spending time at one of the gems of the Northwest – Sandpoint.
Susan Lynne Hamilton - Award-winning writer Susan Lynne Hamilton is the Topic Editor of Suite 101's Northwest U.S. travel section, showcasing its rich ...
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