Summer Getaway
Experience the lake, mountains and music in Sandpoint! By Patty Hutchens.
While the term “staycation” became popular during the economic downturn in recent years, the reality is that residents of Sandpoint, Idaho have been taking their summer vacations at home for years. Why? Because summer in Sandpoint simply cannot be beat. Voted America’s Most Beautiful Small Town by USA Today and Rand McNally, Sandpoint is nestled between Lake Pend Oreille, which is the country’s fifth deepest lake, and the Selkirk, Cabinet and Bitterroot mountain ranges and is located just 60 miles south of the Canadian border and 45 miles north of Coeur d’Alene. And with the multitude of activities and opportunities for recreating, there is possibly no better place to spend the summer.
Whether you are a sailor, a fisherman, or a wake boarder, Lake Pend Oreille and its waterfront amenities are a place where you will feel right at home. There are several marinas from which you can launch your vacation on the water. One popular marina is Holiday Shores, located in Hope a short 20-minute breathtaking scenic drive from Sandpoint. Here one can find a restaurant, café, convenience store and a view that will leave you coming back for more. It is especially popular with sailors because it provides access to the entire lake without the concern of overhead bridges.
If you are looking to be in downtown Sandpoint amongst its many great shops and restaurants, Sandpoint Marina provides a great place to explore the town and the water. From there, boaters can dock and be within walking distance of shops, restaurants, walking paths and the Farmers’ Market, just to name a few. Here you can also rent a boat as well as paddleboards, kayaks and more.
Another marina, just a few miles west of Sandpoint on Highway 2, is Dover Bay - one of the better-kept secrets in North Idaho. At Dover Bay there is not only a fantastic view and restaurant, but there is a café, market and many homes, condominiums and bungalows to rent and enjoy the 9 miles of walking trails.
So just what is there to do in Sandpoint during the summer months? There are a multitude of choices and something for everyone!
One of the highlights of the summer is the Festival at Sandpoint. Over the course of 11 days, there are 8 outdoor concerts in a venue that many performers have said is one of the most beautiful places they have had the privilege to perform. Each year, Festival attendees pack their coolers and bring their blankets to sit under the stars and enjoy the talent of some great musicians. Organizers recently announced this year’s lineup and, as usual, it promises to be a great time.
From August 7th through August 17th, people will be treated to music by Huey Lewis and the News, Nickel Creek, Galactica, Montgomery Gentry, The Head & The Heart, Trombone Shorty, Ray LaMontagne, and the Spokane Symphony Orchestra. One of the highlights for many with young children is the Family Concert, which includes an array of activities for children prior to the fun filled concert.
As word has spread, the Festival at Sandpoint has become increasingly popular. “People have heard about it and want to attend,” said Mack Deibel of the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce. “It is magical.”
If you plan to come over the 4th of July holiday you will be treated to a spectacular fireworks display at City Beach as well as a fun community parade in the morning. And it’s a great opportunity to stroll through the many amazing and fun shops in downtown Sandpoint as well.
A trip to Sandpoint is never complete without a trek up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Famous for its world-class skiing, the Resort has activities all summer long for young and old. There is mountain biking, hiking trails, chairlift rides, zip lines and a lot of more to enjoy at Schweitzer.
So when you get out your calendar and begin to plan your summer vacation, be sure to put Sandpoint at the top of your list! You will not be disappointed! For more information, check out the following websites:
