Top 4 Lakes in Bonner County

Yes, Bonner County offers several family-friendly options. Gamlin Lake features a 3-mile trail system that is gentle and easy, suitable for families. The trail around View of Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk Mountains from Gold Hill is also popular with families due to its moderate incline and panoramic views. Additionally, Sandpoint City Beach on Lake Pend Oreille provides amenities like playgrounds, and Priest Lake is known for its sandy beaches, perfect for family outings.

You can find several popular trails. The Serenity Lee Trail Long Bridge Over Lake Pend Oreille offers a paved multi-use path with great views. The trail leading to the View of Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk Mountains from Gold Hill is a favorite for its scenic vistas. For a unique experience, the Gamlin Lake Trail system provides three miles of easy walking through a forest overstory. For a more remote feel, the Tillicum Creek Path near Upper Priest Lake is an excellent choice.

The Serenity Lee Trail Long Bridge Over Lake Pend Oreille is a paved, multi-use trail that is wheelchair-accessible, offering stunning views of the lake. Sandpoint City Beach on Lake Pend Oreille also provides accessible amenities and easy access to the waterfront. The town of Priest River, near Priest Lake, offers a boat launch, swimming, and picnic areas that are generally easy to access.

For wildlife viewing, Gamlin Lake is an excellent spot, known for its unique wetland habitat where moose, osprey, and various fish species thrive. The undeveloped shoreline of Upper Priest Lake also provides a tranquil environment ideal for observing native wildlife in its natural habitat.

Bonner County's lakes offer diverse fishing opportunities. Lake Pend Oreille is renowned for trophy fishing, including Mackinaw trout and Rainbow Trout. Priest Lake also boasts trophy fishing for Mackinaw trout, Dolly Vardens, Cutthroat, and Rainbow Trout. Cocolalla Lake supports a wide variety of species like Black Crappie, Bluegill, Brook Trout, Largemouth Bass, and Yellow Perch. Upper Priest Lake is home to Bull Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Lake Trout.

Yes, camping is a popular activity. Lake Pend Oreille has campgrounds like Garfield Bay Campground, which offers RV and tent sites. Priest Lake also provides numerous lakeside resorts and campgrounds. For a more rustic experience, Upper Priest Lake allows boat camping along its undeveloped shoreline, offering a unique wilderness connection.

While many activities are seasonal, Priest Lake offers extensive winter recreation with over 400 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. The Gamlin Lake trail system can also be used for cross-country skiing during the winter, though it is not groomed. Ice fishing is also popular on some lakes, such as Spirit Lake, which is nearby.

Bonner County's lakes are characterized by their significant depth and pristine natural surroundings. Lake Pend Oreille is Idaho's largest and the fifth deepest in the nation, framed by the Cabinet and Selkirk Mountains. Priest Lake is celebrated for its remote beauty, sandy beaches, and extensive forested public lands. Upper Priest Lake stands out for its entirely undeveloped shoreline and roadless access, preserving a serene wilderness environment.

Beyond hiking, the lakes offer a wide range of activities. Lake Pend Oreille is perfect for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Priest Lake also provides abundant year-round recreational opportunities, including golf at the Priest Lake Golf Course. For cycling enthusiasts, you can find various road cycling routes in Bonner County. There are also many running trails to explore.

Upper Priest Lake is often considered a hidden gem due to its designation as a Scenic Area and its roadless access, offering a truly serene wilderness experience. Gamlin Lake, with its unique wetland habitat and abundant wildlife, also offers a distinct and peaceful natural setting away from more developed areas.

The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for water sports, hiking, and camping, with pleasant weather for boating, swimming, and exploring trails. Fall offers beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures for hiking. Winter provides opportunities for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, particularly around Priest Lake.

The city of Sandpoint, located directly on Lake Pend Oreille, offers a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Near Priest Lake, you'll find various lakeside resorts and campgrounds, and the nearby town of Priest River also provides amenities. For more information on local services, you can check the Bonner County government website for parks and recreation details.

While specific regulations can vary by location, many trails and public lands around Bonner County's lakes are dog-friendly. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash and to clean up after them. Always check local signage at specific parks, beaches, or trailheads for any particular rules or restrictions that may apply.