Sightseeing
Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Considered by many as the best skiing in Idaho and the best family-friendly resort in the Pacific Northwest, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is independently owned and proud of it. Schweitzer ranks as one of the nation’s top winter destinations with 2900 acres of amazing terrain thanks to its two massive bowls and renowned tree skiing. Located in the rugged Selkirk Mountains of the northern Idaho panhandle, and only 80 miles from Spokane, WA , Schweitzer overlooks the town of Sandpoint, ID and offers breathtaking views of three states, Canada and the impressive Lake Pend Oreille. The resort also offers 32 kilometers of Nordic trails for cross-country, snowshoeing and snow biking during the winter season. Other activities for non-skiers like an on-site spa, dining, and shopping are all located in the intimate village.
In summer, the resort offers a variety of activities for families including hiking, mountain biking, a zip line, climbing wall, trampoline jumper, and scenic chairlift rides. Schweitzer offers year-round accommodation on the mountain with lodging options from classic hotel style rooms to full ski-in/ski-out condominiums.
A visit to Schweitzer is one the whole family will remember and want to repeat!
Sandpoint City Beach
The crown jewel in Sandpoint’s fine parks system, City Beach is just adjacent to downtown with 6 acres of sandy beach, grassy lawns and developed recreation swimming, boating, tennis, volleyball, picnicking and more. The center of Sandpoint is only two blocks away across the bridge over Sand Creek where there are shops, inns, art galleries, the Panida Theater, Cedar Street Bridge and many fine restaurants. Activities include boating, sailing, paddling, swimming, picnicking, volleyball, basketball, tennis, horseshoes, playground equipment, family and group creative fun … just use your imagination!
Mickinnick Trail Head 13
This route is a very challenging and the workout is the uphill section. When coming back down, it is essential to be careful and watch your footing because of the grade and loose tread. The hike starts with less than a 1/2 mile of flat field before the climb begins. Right from the start the grade is steep and the footing degrades to loose rock and a lot of exposed roots. It is singletrack the entire way and contains many switchback turns. At just over a mile, you get your first views of the Selle Valley. Then, it is mostly pine tree forest until the 3-mile mark when the trail goes straight east through a large fern patch and from that point, you have about 1/2 mile to the end. The route is an out and back, and the top has a panoramic view of the area. Prepare for a long, difficult climb with the reward at the top.
Gold Hill Trailhead
One of the best views of Sandpoint you can find. The trailhead is approximately 4 miles down Bottle Bay Road. The 3+ mile trail (one way) is steep at times, but worth the effort. It ends ends at a great lookout with two benches. A great hike that is also a great mountain bike grind with some incredible downhill on the way back to the trailhead!
Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area
Stunning views and picture opportunities along this maintained trail in an ancient cedar grove. Information boards along the trail. Easy access on flat ground . About 1 mile in length. For the adventurous, take the middle fork spur trail for a bit more of a climb and less foot traffic.
Kootenai Falls
Kootenai Falls is the largest undammed falls in the state and a major attraction to those traveling through the area. It offers an unforgettable and breathtaking view as the Kootenai River loses 300 feet in elevation traveling a few hundred yards down river. A pleasant surprise to any photographer or nature lover. An attraction at the falls is a swinging bridge that provides access to the opposite side of the Kootenai River, a prime Montana fishery. To the Kootenai tribe, the falls is a sacred site. They view it as the center of the world, a place where tribal members can commune with the spiritual forces that give direction to the tribe and to individual members.
Food Scene
City Beach Organics
Great breakfast and lunch, juices, smoothies and coffee. Healthiest food in town and right across the street from Sand Creek.
Beet and Basil
All locally-sourced food with a globally-inspired menu. Excellent tapas, light servings, and full-plates for sharing. Great vegetarian options, too. Beautiful patio and garden seating that overlooks the Marina! Tue-Sat: 11am-9pm, Fri: 11am-10pm
Spuds Waterfront Grill
The sandwiches with a little kick are my favorite here, especially the Capistrano and the San Miguel. Ask for a sample of their homemade soups. And don't pass by the desserts featured at the bar. (I've never actually ordered potatoes at Spuds, though I'm quite sure they are amazing.) Only open until 4:00 pm, so come for lunch!
The Fat Pig
Located at the Belwood Building with Pend Oreille Winery. Beautiful atmosphere, rotating seasonal menu featuring local ingredients. Great fresh-ground burgers, and a robust vegetarian menu, too. Mon-Sat 12pm - 10pm
Drinks & Nightlife
Pend d'Oreille Winery Tasting Room
Beautiful ambiance. Head over for a tasting, and then grab a bite to eat at the fabulous restaurant in the same building - the Fat Pig. Open 7 days a week 11am-8pm
MickDuff's Brewing Company - Brewpub
A Sandpoint staple, MickDuffs crafts beautiful beers and delightful burgers. We recommend Tuesday trivia night! Trivia starts at 7, but get there early to get a table!
Eichardt's Pub, Grill & Coffee House
Eichardt's is a great little place for a good, draft, craft beer, a glass of wine and good food in the form of great snacks, burgers or full meals. They have a great vibe and live music on Mondays. The eclectic art and the taps hanging from the ceiling complete the atmosphere.