There are plenty of things to do in Sandpoint, Idaho, a city in northern Idaho situated on Lake Pend Oreille. The town features bike trails, footpaths, and other outdoor activities for tourists. It’s also home to the Schweitzer Mountain Resort, terrain parks, and ski slopes. Other attractions include the Bonner County Historical Society and Museum, which features Native American artifacts.
Sandpoint, Idaho, is known for its pristine waterways and natural beauty. It is also home to a thriving arts and entertainment scene. You will find a variety of festivals and live music events in the area. In addition, Sandpoint is home to a vibrant culinary scene. Over forty restaurants are serving gourmet food in Sandpoint. The downtown area is also a hub of activity.
Located on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint offers a variety of festivals and events to enjoy throughout the year. So whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a fun day out with the family, there’s something for everyone in Sandpoint.
Why is Sandpoint, Idaho, a great place to visit?
Sandpoint, Idaho, is a picturesque town surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it a great destination for those who love the outdoors and breathtaking landscapes. With a charming downtown and plenty of recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone in Sandpoint. Here are a few reasons why Sandpoint is a great place to visit:
- Scenic beauty: Sandpoint is surrounded by the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains, offering stunning views and great outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.
- Outdoor recreation: There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Sandpoint, including hiking, fishing, boating, skiing, and snowboarding.
- Charming downtown: Sandpoint’s charming downtown is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a great place to spend the day exploring.
- Festivals and events: Sandpoint is known for hosting various events throughout the year, including the Festival at Sandpoint, a famous summer music festival.
- Beautiful lakes: Sandpoint is located near two stunning lakes, Lake Pend Oreille and Priest Lake, offering opportunities for water sports and scenic views.
Check out the annual Sandpoint Festival if you’re visiting in the summer. The festival aims to promote cultural diversity and to inspire through music. This event has been held at the Memorial Fields since 1983. With a seating capacity of about 4000 people, the festival is a great way to enjoy music during the warmer months.
Sandpoint City Beach Park
Sandpoint City Beach is a 22-acre park that provides recreation and entertainment in a beautiful setting. Its features include sandy beaches, volleyball and tennis courts, a boat ramp, horseshoe pits, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park is open year-round from 7 am to 11 pm, seven days a week.
The City Beach park was created in 1922. It was donated to the city by the Northern Pacific Railroad. Since then, improvements have been made to the park.
Its features include a beach, a boat basin, and a walking/biking path. In addition, several special events are held at the park throughout the year. These include the 4th of July fireworks and the Sandpoint Arts & Craft Fair.
One of the most attractive features of the park is its location at the edge of Sandpoint’s downtown. Many fine restaurants and art galleries are located in the area. In addition, there is a Panida Theater, a boat tie-up dock, and an extensive parking area.
Schweitzer
Schweitzer, Idaho, is a beautiful ski destination with panoramic views and plenty of terrain for all levels of skiers. This resort is one of the best in the state and is located in the Selkirk Mountains of the northern Idaho panhandle.
It is easy to get to the resort from many locations in the Inland Northwest. It is 83 miles from downtown Spokane, WA, and 58 miles from Coeur d’Alene, ID. The ski area boasts over 2900 skiable acres, the most in the state.
Schweitzer is home to 92 ski trails and averages 300+ inches of snow annually. There are also some terrain parks. A new base area is set to open this winter, providing easier access and more efficient parking.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is an excellent location for families. It is just nine miles uphill from Sandpoint, Idaho, a small town with lots to do. You can stay in one of the top-notch condominium hotels or enjoy a traditional lodge room.
Schweitzer has been a favorite for years. It’s ranked as one of the best skiing destinations in the country and has been voted “Best Resort in the Inland Northwest” for 13 consecutive years.
The Village of Schweitzer is home to the ski area’s base of operations. Here you will find a variety of dining, shops, and accommodations. One option is the White Pine Lodge, which has two to four-bedroom units. These are equipped with full kitchens and washers and dryers.
The Trailhead for Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail
If you’re planning a getaway to Sandpoint, Idaho, there are plenty of reasons to check out the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail. A newly opened trail, the Bay Trail offers views of the Cabinet Mountains and Lake Pend Oreille and a waterfront path for biking, running, and walking.
The trail begins near the Sandpoint Water Treatment Plant and runs along the lakeshore. It’s a three-mile round trip.
After completing the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Kootenai Bay and the Cabinet Mountains. Also, the trail will take you through a habitat education area and 6.5 acres of forested wetland. This area is part of the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Site.
Located near Sandpoint’s City Beach, the Pend d’Oreille Bay trail is ideal for a stroll or a long run. It’s been nicknamed “the most beautiful small town in America.” With a three-mile out-and-back trail, the Bay Trail is perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to park.
Bonner County Historical Society & Museum
To learn about Bonner County’s history, you’ll want to check out the Bonner County Historical Society & Museum. This museum is located in Sandpoint, Idaho. You’ll find lots of information there, including a homestead cabin, a steamboat anchor, a caboose, and numerous displays.
The Bonner County Historical Society & Museum is a nonprofit organization that engages diverse audiences by presenting historical objects and stories. Its mission is to promote research, education, and community bonds.
The Bonner County Historical Society aspires to collect and preserve the county’s history. This includes its people, land, and industries. In addition, as a member-driven organization, society promotes public education and research.
Bonner County Historical Society & Museum has many exhibits, including an eclectic gift shop. In addition, visitors can view a collection of photographs, a pioneer kitchen, and a caboose. Friendly docents organize exhibits. There is also a traveling trunk program, which provides visitors with hands-on artifacts.
Grouse Creek Falls
If you are looking for a waterfall in the northern Idaho Panhandle, you may want to check out Grouse Creek Falls. It is the most miniature waterfall in the state. You can see it from the road, but you’ll have to hike.
While the waterfall isn’t easy to see, it is worth a visit. A 1.2-mile out-and-back trail leads to a spectacular 50-foot fall.
The trail isn’t as well marked as you might like. In addition, there aren’t any guardrails to keep you safe. As a result, you’ll need to be prepared to be active and cautious.
You’ll probably see snow on the trail during most of the year. This is a nice feature for those who like to hike in the winter.