Our Priest Lake guide covers practical planning for Priest Lake Idaho — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
Priest Lake, Idaho, often hailed as the Gem State's 'Crown Jewel,' is a pristine deep-water lake cradled by the majestic Selkirk Mountains. This 19-mile-long, 300-foot-deep body of water offers exceptionally clear waters, perfect for a wide array of recreational activities, from tranquil paddles to thrilling water sports, and boasts secluded beaches that invite relaxation. With over 80 miles of shoreline and seven individual islands, Priest Lake is a natural wonderland that promises an unforgettable escape into Idaho's wild beauty.
Why Visit Priest Lake
Is Priest Lake worth visiting? Absolutely. Our team considers Priest Lake one of North Idaho's most cherished summertime destinations, and its allure extends far beyond the warmer months. The lake's crystal-clear waters, framed by dreamy forests and the towering Selkirk Mountains, create a dramatic and picturesque setting that captivates visitors year-round. Whether you're seeking serene solitude or an action-packed adventure, the diverse landscape and abundant activities make Priest Lake a truly special place.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Priest Lake offers a unique blend of accessibility and untouched wilderness. While Lower Priest Lake provides numerous amenities and lodging options, the remote Upper Priest Lake, connected by a 2.5-mile thoroughfare, remains largely undeveloped and accessible only by foot, boat, or mountain bike, offering a truly wild experience. This balance ensures that whether you prefer the comforts of a resort or the ruggedness of backcountry camping, Priest Lake has something to offer.
Who It's Best For
Priest Lake caters to a wide range of travelers, making it an ideal destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Families will appreciate the calm, clear waters for swimming, building sandcastles on sandy shores, and easy hiking trails. The lake's "no wake" zone in the Thorofare, for instance, is perfect for family-friendly kayaking and canoeing.
Adventure seekers will find plenty to keep them busy, from extensive hiking and mountain biking trails to diverse water sports like boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Anglers can pursue trophy-sized Mackinaw in the main lake or cutthroat trout in alpine lakes. In winter, the area transforms into a wonderland for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, with hundreds of miles of groomed trails.
For those looking for tranquility, Priest Lake delivers. Its relatively undeveloped shores, especially around Upper Priest Lake, provide ample opportunities for quiet contemplation, stargazing, and experiencing nature without the crowds often found at more commercialized destinations. The chance to see the Aurora Borealis during cooler months adds another layer of magic for those seeking unique natural phenomena.
Getting There & Parking
Understanding how to get to Priest Lake is key to planning your trip. Priest Lake, Idaho, is nestled in the northernmost part of Idaho's panhandle, approximately 80 miles northeast of Spokane, Washington, and about 75 miles north of Coeur d'Alene. The most common approach is by car, with Spokane International Airport (GEG) being the nearest major airport, about a 90-minute drive away.
Driving Directions:
- From Spokane, Washington: Travel north on US-2/Division St. Stay right at the US-395/US-2 junction towards Newport, WA. Continue on US-2 through Newport to Priest River, Idaho. At the traffic light, turn north onto State Highway 57. Highway 57 is your main route to access the west side of the lake, leading to towns like Nordman.
- From the East (e.g., Coeur d'Alene, Idaho): Take I-90 to Coeur d'Alene, then US-95 north to Sandpoint. From Sandpoint, take Highway 2 to Priest River, then turn right onto Highway 57 and follow it for approximately 37 miles to Nordman.
Parking at Priest Lake:
Priest Lake State Park offers various day-use areas with parking. Day-use locations within the state park are generally open from 7 AM to 10 PM. A Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee is charged for each vehicle entering Idaho State Parks. As of 2026, non-residents typically pay a doubled fee, which can range from $7 to $14 per vehicle for single-day entry. There are additional fees for overnight parking if not associated with a camping reservation.
For those exploring the islands or Upper Priest Lake, boat launches like Kalispell Bay provide parking for vehicles and trailers. Many resorts and marinas also offer parking, often with boat slips and gas services available.
Important 2026 Alert: Travelers using Eastshore Road, a main access road to Priest Lake State Park, should plan for potential delays. From March 31, 2026, to September 16, 2026, traffic control will be in place at the bridge over Hunt Creek, involving a single-lane closure and alternating traffic. Allow extra travel time and exercise caution in this area.
Top Things to Do
When considering things to do at Priest Lake, visitors will find an abundance of activities spanning all four seasons. Our team recommends focusing on the lake's natural beauty and the diverse recreational opportunities it provides. Priest Lake is truly an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.
Water Activities
The clear, deep waters of Priest Lake are perfect for a variety of water sports. You can rent open bow runabout ski boats, pontoons, kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and more from local marinas like Priest Lake Marina and Clipper Marina. As of 2026, a full-day rental for a 9-passenger pontoon at Priest Lake Marina costs $495.00, while a ski boat is $395.00. Clipper Marina offers a 9-passenger Sea-Doo Switch pontoon for $500-$575 for a full day, and a 22-passenger superpontoon for $925. Many rentals include life vests and safety equipment.
- Boating & Island Exploration: Cruise the main lake and visit its seven islands. Bartoo Island and Kalispell Island are popular for boat-in camping and day use, with Kalispell Island featuring a 2.5-mile loop trail.
- Kayaking & Canoeing the Thorofare: Paddle the calm, no-wake Thorofare, a 2.5-mile waterway connecting Lower Priest Lake to the remote Upper Priest Lake. This scenic route offers crystal-clear waters and stunning forested scenery.
- Swimming & Beaches: Enjoy the many sandy beaches along the 80 miles of shoreline. Public day-use areas with beach access can be found at Indian Creek Campground, Luby Bay Campground (which charges a day-use fee), and Reeder Bay Campground (Ledgewood Picnic Area, no charge).
- Fishing: Priest Lake is renowned for its fishing, particularly for trophy-sized Mackinaw. You can also find cutthroat trout in nearby alpine lakes and brook trout in the numerous streams.
Priest Lake Hiking Trails & Nature Exploration
The Selkirk Mountains surrounding Priest Lake offer miles of Priest Lake hiking trails for all skill levels. From leisurely lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents, the options for exploring the natural beauty are vast.
- Upper Priest Lake Trail: This easy 7.3-mile out-and-back trail (or 9.3 miles if hiking to Upper Priest Lake from the main lake) takes you through lush cedar forests and along the shoreline to Upper Priest Lake. It's an excellent option for a day hike or an overnight camping trip.
- Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars: Located 14 miles north of Nordman, this unique area features old-growth cedar trees, some estimated to be 800 to 3000 years old and reaching heights of 150 feet. A one-mile loop trail leads to Granite Falls.
- Lakeview Mountain Trail: Offering panoramic views of Priest Lake, this 5.5-mile trail starts easy and becomes more difficult with increasing elevation.
- Kalispell Island Trail: A 2.5-mile loop trail on Kalispell Island provides scenic lake views and is open from Memorial Day to late October.
- Hanna Flats Nature Trail: A short, accessible 0.7-mile nature walk through a cedar grove that survived a 1926 fire, featuring interpretive signs.
- Hunt Lake: A small alpine lake at the base of Gunsight Peak, accessible via a 1-mile hike on an unimproved trail from Horten Creek Road.
For more challenging Priest Lake hiking trails, consider Upper Standard Lake (16.2 miles out and back, difficult) or the Plowboy Mountain Navigation Loop (13.7 miles, intermediate/difficult). Remember to check trail conditions and bring bug spray, especially during warmer months.
Other Activities
- Huckleberry Picking: Late summer (July through August) is prime huckleberry picking season. Popular spots include Lamb Creek Road and Kalispell Creek Road.
- Golfing: The Priest Lake 18-hole Golf Course offers a beautiful setting for a round of golf.
- Winter Sports: In winter, Priest Lake boasts over 400 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and 70 kilometers of groomed cross-country skiing trails. Snowshoes are available for rent at the Priest Lake State Park visitor center.
- Northern Lights Viewing: Priest Lake is an excellent spot to view the Aurora Borealis due to minimal light pollution and north-facing views, typically between late September and early April.
- Visit Priest Lake State Park: The park has three units—Indian Creek, Lionhead, and Dickensheet—offering camping, boat docks, beaches, and various recreational activities. The visitor center and store are open on weekends for coffee and hot chocolate.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit the Priest Lake Museum and Visitors Center in Luby Bay for historical displays, open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM during the summer.
For more Idaho adventures, consider exploring the Blue Heart Springs for stunning turquoise waters or the Boise River Greenbelt for urban outdoor recreation. If you're up for a unique desert experience, Bruneau Dunes State Park offers towering sand dunes to explore.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Priest Lake largely depends on the activities you're seeking, as it's a year-round destination.
- Summer (Late June to Early September): This is the peak season for enjoying the lake to its fullest. The weather is usually perfect, with average high temperatures in July and August reaching 81-82 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature is comfortable for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and all water sports. Beaches are popular, and resorts are bustling with live music and activities. Expect more crowds during this time.
- Late Spring (Late May to Early June): As the snow melts and wildflowers bloom, late spring offers a tranquil experience with fewer crowds. The lake begins to warm up, making it pleasant for swimming and paddling. Hiking trails are typically free of snow and mud.
- Fall (Late September to October): Autumn brings a peaceful escape with vibrant foliage as trees turn to yellows and reds. Hiking trails offer serene beauty, and it's a prime time for viewing the Northern Lights.
- Winter (November to March): Priest Lake transforms into a winter wonderland, ideal for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter camping. The area boasts 400 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. This season is also excellent for Northern Lights viewing.
Our team suggests that for those who want to fully immerse themselves in water-based recreation, late June to early September is ideal. However, if you prefer quieter trails and fewer people, early June and late September are excellent alternatives.
Where to Stay Nearby
Priest Lake lodging options range from cozy cabins and year-round resorts to various campgrounds, ensuring every traveler finds a suitable place to stay. The area is less developed than some other lake destinations, with much of the surrounding land being state-owned, which contributes to its serene atmosphere.
Resorts & Hotels
For those seeking comfort and amenities, several resorts and hotels offer Priest Lake lodging:
- Elkins Resort on Priest Lake: A popular year-round resort offering cabins and various amenities, including a boat launch and marina.
- Hill's Resort: Another well-regarded resort in Luby Bay, offering rentals and a lively atmosphere during summer.
- The Historic Northern Hotel: Located in Coolin, this hotel offers a charming, budget-friendly experience with lake views, private beach access, and proximity to outdoor activities. It's about an 8-minute walk from Priest Lake.
- The Inn at Priest Lake: Centrally located in Coolin, offering a restful getaway with various room types, including pet-friendly options, and amenities like an outdoor pool and spa.
- Newly Constructed Home at Priest Lake: A highly-rated guesthouse (10.0 on Expedia) located about 5 miles from the lake, ideal for families and couples, offering amenities for tubing, kayaking, and mountain climbing.
Many vacation rentals, including cabins and homes, are also available through various booking platforms, offering options for families or groups.
Camping at Priest Lake
Priest Lake State Park offers 151 campsites and five cabins across its three units: Indian Creek, Lionhead, and Dickensheet. Reservations for Idaho State Parks can be made online or by phone at 1-888-922-6743. Day-use fees apply, and non-residents pay a doubled fee for entry to Priest Lake State Park. Camping fees also vary, with additional fees for non-residents.
- Indian Creek Unit: The largest unit, offering boat ramps, docks, camping, and wide sandy beaches.
- Lionhead Unit: Located at the north end, with camping, a boat dock, and a splendid sandy beach. It's also a popular starting point for hikes to Upper Priest Lake.
- Dickensheet Unit: A smaller unit along the Priest River below the lake's outlet, offering camping spots and excellent river swimming.
Additionally, the US Forest Service manages several campgrounds around Priest Lake. Bartoo Island and Kalispell Island offer developed boat-in campsites, many on a first-come, first-served basis, with vault toilets and picnic amenities. These island sites require a "pack-it-in, pack-it-out" approach for waste. Reservations for USFS campgrounds can be made via recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
For more inspiration on places to stay in Idaho, check out our guide to the Best places in Idaho.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
Our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Priest Lake, balancing relaxation with adventure.
Day 1: Lake Exploration & Scenic Views
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Boating and Island Hopping. Start your day by renting a pontoon or ski boat from Priest Lake Marina or Clipper Marina. Head out onto the pristine waters of Priest Lake. Navigate to Bartoo Island and Kalispell Island. Spend some time swimming off the shores of Bartoo and then dock at Kalispell Island to hike its easy 2.5-mile loop trail, enjoying panoramic lake views.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Lakeside Picnic. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of Kalispell Island's scenic spots or a secluded beach on the western shoreline. Remember to pack out everything you pack in.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Paddle the Thorofare. Return your rental boat and switch to kayaks or canoes. Paddle through the tranquil 2.5-mile Thorofare, a no-wake zone that connects Lower Priest Lake to the wild Upper Priest Lake. This is a remarkably peaceful experience, surrounded by clear waters and dense forests.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Stargazing. Enjoy dinner at one of the lakeside resorts, like Elkins Resort, known for its dining and atmosphere. As night falls, find a spot away from artificial lights to experience the incredible stargazing opportunities Priest Lake offers. If visiting between late September and early April, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights.
Day 2: Hiking, History & Waterfalls
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Roosevelt Grove & Granite Falls Hike. Begin your day with a visit to the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars, located north of Nordman. Walk the one-mile loop trail among ancient, towering cedar trees, some thousands of years old, and enjoy the beauty of Granite Falls. This is an easy and rewarding Priest Lake hiking experience.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Local Eats. Head to a local eatery for lunch, perhaps in the Coolin area, to sample some local flavors.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Priest Lake State Park Exploration. Spend your afternoon exploring the Indian Creek Unit of Priest Lake State Park. Enjoy swimming at the sandy beaches, play a game of volleyball, or simply relax by the water. The visitor center can offer insights into the park's natural history.
- Late Afternoon (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Huckleberry Hunt (Seasonal). If you're visiting in late summer (July-August), dedicate some time to huckleberry picking along Lamb Creek Road or Kalispell Creek Road.
- Evening (6:30 PM onwards): Sunset & Reflection. Enjoy a final lakeside sunset, perhaps from a quiet spot at the Lionhead Unit of Priest Lake State Park. Reflect on your adventures in this Idaho gem.
Last updated: 2026-07-12 by the Roam States team.