Lake Pend Oreille
Here's how to go deep with Idaho's largest lake
Magnificent Lake Pend Oreille, the ‘home port’ for Sandpoint, Idaho, offers a host of activities come spring and summer
A gorgeous lake, and so much to do!
Want to go deep in summer? You can do that in Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest lake and the fifth deepest in the entire nation with depths exceeding 1,100 feet. Lake Pend Oreille offers a summer playground of pristine waters, scenic shorelines and endless recreational opportunities.
Swimming
Sandpoint City Beach, located right downtown, is a favorite for families and sunseekers, with sandy shores, panoramic views, and tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits, plus playgrounds for kids. Other top swimming spots include the inviting beaches at Sam Owen Campground on the Hope Peninsula, or farther south, Farragut State Park, one of Idaho’s premier parks.
Paddling
Lake Pend Oreille’s protected bays are perfect for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. From Sam Owen Campground near Hope, paddlers can explore quiet coves and islands such as Warren, Cottage, and Pearl. The Pack River and Clark Fork deltas, where river waters meet the lake, are calm, wildlife-rich zones of backwaters and channels ideal for nature lovers.
Boating & Cruises
A number of power boat rentals are available in Sandpoint and Hope for craft ranging from pontoon boats to jet skis. Even more accessible are the daily outings offered by Lake Pend Oreille Cruises on the classic Shawnodese tour boat. If your tastes run to sailing, connect with Dogsmile Adventures, with boats in Sandpoint and Bayview.
Walks & Hikes
Trails around the lake offer stunning views and peaceful escapes. Among lakeside trails, the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail provides an easy, scenic walk just steps from downtown Sandpoint. For something wilder, head to the Lost Lake-Mineral Point trails near Garfield Bay. Other hikes up in the mountains afford amazing high-level lake views, among them the trails at Schweitzer, Mickinnick and Scotchman Peak.