Left in the aftermath of the largest geological event on earth, Lake Pend Oreille's scenic qualities testify of unbelievable power. Witness the effects of the biggest of the ice age floods that shaped the continent during your thirty-three mile drive on Idaho's Pend Oreille Scenic Byway. Enjoy the region's rugged mountain scenery, abundant water recreation opportunities, and laid-back Pacific Northwestern culture. The byway spends its entire length alongside pristine and scenic bodies of water, inviting you to relax on their beaches or plunge beneath their cool surfaces.
The centerpiece of the byway is stately Lake Pend Oreille, the fifth deepest lake in the nation. The lake is so deep, in fact, that the U.S. Navy uses it as a submarine base. Pend Oreille's depth isn't its only impressive dimension. An intrepid kayaker needs a week to paddle around its 111 miles of coastline. As you drive the byway, notice the massive mountain ranges that seem to extend directly from the lake's surface. Glaciers, flooding, and the ancient inland lake, Lake Missoula, carved captivating geographic formations in the area. Bring along your camera and a fresh sense of awe, as you will use both often on your journey.
Your trip down the byway takes you through a variety of quaint lakeside towns. The largest of these is Sandpoint, the main hub of activity near the byway. While compact in size, this city packs in outstanding dining and shopping opportunities. As you stroll through the culturally rich downtown area, stop in at its eclectic shops, art galleries, and antique shops for that perfect souvenir. More communities dot the rugged and fertile land along the byway, including Hope, Trestle Creek, and Clark Fork, the latter of which resides along the river of the same name. Most area towns offer a boat ramp and beaches to get you on the lake or the river as soon and as often as possible.
While the byway offers easy access to sailing, kayaking, rafting, swimming, and power boating, your choice of activities is hardly limited to water sports. Flanked by water on its west side, Pend Oreille Scenic Byway skirts Kaniksu National Forest on its east side, which is home to its own assortment of attractions. Bring along a mountain bike or some backpacking gear to tromp around the forest's diverse trail systems, or take advantage of quality golfing at one of several local courses. In the winter visit Schweitzer Mountain Resort, the biggest ski and snowboard area around, or seek the area's some pristine mountain terrain for a cross-country skiing trip or a snowmobile ride.
With its breathtaking scenery and recreation opportunities, Pend Oreille Scenic Byway excels both as a pleasant afternoon drive and a destination for several weeks' worth of fun. Whether you spend your trip taking in the galleries and live entertainment, camping in primitive conditions, or just relaxing on the beach or a houseboat, plan on an unforgettable experience.
Outdoor Activity along Pend Oreille Scenic Byway
Reeling in Good Times on the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway
Powder on the International Selkirk Loop and Pend Oreille Byways
Flooded Skies Along Pend Oreille