Cross the Long Bridge over Lake Pend Oreille to enjoy a fantastic stay in this small town in the heart of northern Idaho’s mountains.
Sandpoint’s location jutting into Lake Pend Oreille makes it a perfect spot to participate in land-based and water-based activities. Watch pretty sailboats in the wide channel under the bridge, rent your own boat at one of the downtown marinas or join cyclists pedaling through the town and countryside.
Stand on the shoreline and look around at the Cabinet, Selkirk and Coeur d’Alene mountains rising beneath clear blue skies. These peaks are great for hiking in summer and skiing in winter, with plenty of uncrowded space to enjoy. Ride your dirt bike on winding trails through thick forests and over bumps. After the snow falls, attach skis and a tread system to try snow biking, a lighter alternative to snowmobiling.
More than 100 years ago, Long Bridge was claimed as the longest wooden bridge in the world. Its more modern replacements provide access for cars, bikes and pedestrians to enjoy the scenic passage across the lake. In August, participate in or watch the annual 1.76-mile (2.83-kilometer) Long Bridge Swim below the bridge. Relax during the days before and after the race at outdoor concerts during the Festival at Sandpoint.
Plan your trip to enjoy more of Sandpoint’s many community activities. Stock up on fresh local food at the farmers market from May through October. See February’s Sandpoint Winter Carnival, with fireworks, concerts and a parade of lights. Check the town’s events schedule for the ArtWalk, Beerfest, Festival of Quilts, Battle of the Bulls and other unique happenings.
Fly to Spokane, Washington and rent a car to drive about 1.5 hours to reach Sandpoint. Use the SPOT bus to get around the town and between neighboring communities. Visit some of the two dozen parks in and around Sandpoint or drive about 1.5 hours to Kaniksu National Forest or Coeur d'Alene National Forest.