Summer the North Idaho Way
If you’ve ever spent a summer in North Idaho, you know: it’s magic. The kind of magic that smells like pine trees and sunscreen, sounds like boat wakes and kids laughing, and feels like sunshine on your shoulders after a long winter.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or just visiting for the first time, here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of a North Idaho summer:
1. Hit the Water
There’s no shortage of lakes, rivers, and swimming holes in this part of the world. Pend Oreille, Priest Lake, Spirit Lake, Lake Coeur d’Alene—you really can’t go wrong. Pack a cooler, load up the paddleboards or kayaks, and spend the day floating, fishing, or just drifting in the sunshine.
2. Take a Hike (Literally)
North Idaho is full of trails that range from casual family walks to all-day treks with serious elevation gain. Some favorites? Try Mineral Point near Sandpoint for sweeping lake views, or pack a lunch and head up to Roman Nose Lakes. And don’t overlook the beauty of early morning hikes—quiet trails, cool air, and a thermos of coffee in your daypack? Yes, please.
3. Visit a Farmers Market
There’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a strawberry that was picked that morning. Local farmers markets are buzzing with fresh produce, handmade goods, music, and friendly faces. Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, Coeur d’Alene—all have their own charm, and all are worth the trip.
4. Go Fishing
Evening fishing trips with the kids or a couple of buddies are a North Idaho rite of passage. Whether you’re casting for bass, trolling for trout, or just tossing a line in off the dock at sunset, it’s less about the catch and more about the quiet moments.
5. Explore Schweitzer in Summer
Don’t pack away your gear just because the snow melted. Schweitzer Mountain stays alive in the summer with lift-served mountain biking, hiking trails, and events! Even if you’re not into biking, take the lift up, grab some dinner, and enjoy the view.
6. Camp Under the Stars
There’s something about a North Idaho night sky that makes you stop and stare. Whether you’re setting up a tent near a lake or pulling a camper into a forest service site, summer camping here is about slowing down, roasting marshmallows, and telling stories by the fire.
7. Ride the Trails
Mountain bikers, rejoice. From the more rugged backcountry trails to family-friendly paths like the Route of the Hiawatha, North Idaho has options for every level. Don’t forget your helmet—or your sense of adventure.
8. Just… Be Outside
Sometimes, the best days are the simple ones. Lawn games with neighbors. Chores that turn into water fights. A walk through the woods with your dog. A quiet morning on the porch with a cup of coffee and nowhere to be.
Summer in North Idaho isn’t about doing everything. It’s about choosing the things that fill your days with fresh air, muddy shoes, sunburned noses, and memories you didn’t plan—but won’t forget.
So whether you’re knee-deep in lake water, ankle-deep in garden dirt, or just sitting still in the shade—here’s to summer up here. We think it’s the best place on earth to be.
