Priest Lake

Priest Lake is located in the northernmost portion of the Idaho Panhandle, about 80 miles north of Spokane Washington. The northern end of the lake extends to within 15 miles of the Canadian border. There are actually two parts to the lake, Upper Priest and Lower Priest which are connected by a 2.5 mile thoroughfare.

The Lake serves up multiple opportunities for recreation including summer activities like Camping, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, fishing, swimming, horseshoes, motorized and non-motorized boating, water sports, and volleyball. Winter activities include nordic walking, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

There are 151 campsites and 5 cabins surrounding the lake. There are also nearby Private resorts, restaurants, and grocery stores. The Priest Lake State Park provides showers, flush toilets, a dump station, and a full service park store with gasoline. Groceries, hand scooped ice cream cones, fishing and camping gear, souvenirs, and clothing are all available at the park store. There are also shelters and campsites with private beach within the park. WiFi is also available in the visitors center and at all campgrounds at the Indian Creek Unit and most sites at Lionhead. Pets are allowed in the park if leashed.

For boaters, the lake boasts multiple boat ramps, docks, boat camping, and even a life jacket loaner station.

Hiking and biking trails surround the lake and offer ample wildlife viewing opportunities. Some wildlife that can be seen at the lake include Whitetail deer, black bear, moose, and bald eagles. There is also a small population of grizzly bear in that could possibly be seen. The State Park offers guided walks around the park and has a nature program.

Info courtesy of Idaho Parks and Recreation.