Go Visit Priest Lake

Amy and I are no strangers to the north Idaho and eastern Washington region – we’ve been lucky enough to call this beautiful area home for our whole lives! We love sharing all the amazing destinations this part of the world has to offer. When people ask us about things to do in north Idaho, one of our absolute favorite answers is to go visit Priest Lake in the northwestern part of the Panhandle.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Priest Lake is a must-visit destination. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed!

Get ready to have some serious outdoor fun at this gem, a natural freshwater paradise nestled in the Selkirk Mountains range! This beautiful lake is surrounded by forests, mountains, and wetlands, making it a dream destination for nature lovers.

Whether you prefer boating, fishing, hiking, or camping, Priest Lake has something for everyone. And when the snow starts to fall, come experience some epic cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear – the lake is home to a variety of fish species, from trout to bass to salmon, so you’re sure to have a successful catch.

All in all, Priest Lake is the perfect outdoor enthusiast paradise.

A Bit of Priest Lake History

The lake’s current name comes from Father Pierre-Jean De Smet, a Jesuit priest, and missionary who visited the area in the 1840s. Father De Smet was known as the “Black Robe” because of the distinctive black catholic priest robes that he wore.

He played a key role in establishing peaceful relations between the Kalispel Tribe and European settlers in the area. The lake was named in honor of Father De Smet’s efforts to bring Christianity to the region.

Priest Lake holds great significance for the Kalispel Tribe, a Native American community with deep roots in the region dating back thousands of years. To the Kalispel people, Priest Lake is known as ‘Qutqet’ (pronounce “koo-ket”), or “the home of the spirit,” and has always been considered a sacred place.

The tribe has a long history of utilizing the lake for fishing, hunting, and gathering food, and continues to maintain a strong connection to the land to this day. They currently own and operate the Kalispel Golf and Country Club in Spokane, Northern Quest Casino in Airway Heights, and the Kalispel Casino in Usk, which stand as a testament to the tribe’s enduring cultural traditions and history.

Hill’s Resort at Priest Lake

Looking for a family-friendly vacation destination that’s chock full of outdoor fun and boasts a peaceful atmosphere? Look no further than the popular Hill’s Resort on the east side of the lake.  We absolutely love this destination and visit it the most.!

This charming, family-owned resort is a favorite amongst nature lovers, and it’s easy to see why – with its stunning setting and serene surroundings, it’s the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Nestled amongst towering pine trees, Hill’s Resort is a hidden gem located within walking distance of the sandy lake beaches. The views alone are worth the trip! The resort offers a variety of comfortable and spacious accommodation options, including cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. All with friendly staff and an impressive array of amenities (hello, pool, hot tub, and boat rentals!) that take this resort to the next level.

And let’s not forget about the food! The meals at the on-site restaurant were both hearty and delicious, even serving huckleberry desserts that are sure to tantalize the tastebuds! All this with friendly staff and top-notch service to boot makes Hill’s Resort an excellent destination for a fun and enjoyable getaway.

The resort is the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts as well! In the summer, take a dip in the lake, cast a line, and explore the beautiful forests and mountains. And when the snow starts to fall, strap on some skis or snowshoes and hit the trails or hop on a snowmobile for an exhilarating ride.

And don’t forget about ice fishing – it’s a wintertime favorite at Hill’s Resort. No matter the season, there’s always something to do at this recreational paradise.

If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, Hill’s Resort has got you covered in that department as well. This fabulous getaway is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends who want to just kick back and unwind in the great outdoors.

With its peaceful setting and natural beauty, Hill’s Resort is the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Fishing Priest Lake – An Angler’s Paradise

Are you ready to cast a line and reel in the big one? Then you’ve come to the right lake! This lake is a hot spot for all you anglers out there, with a variety of fish species just waiting to be caught.

Rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and bull trout are just a few of the tasty treats you’ll find swimming in these waters. And don’t worry about how you’ll get your line in the water – there are plenty of marinas and boat rentals available for those who want to fish from the comfort of a boat.

But don’t wait until the summer to visit – while the lake may be warm then, the fish aren’t as active. Spring and fall are the best times to cast your line, and in the fall, the lake is stocked with rainbow trout for even more opportunities to catch these popular game fish.

And let’s not forget about the kokanee salmon – a type of landlocked sockeye salmon known for its bright red flesh. And if you’re up for a challenge, try your luck at catching a bull trout – a larger species that’s a bit more elusive. So come on down to Priest Lake and see what you can reel in!

The Crown Jewel Lake of North Idaho

Get ready to check all the boxes of your lake vacation dreams at Priest Lake. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed by the endless fun and relaxation waiting for you. So, gather your friends and family, pack your bags, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories at this fantastic destination. Trust us, you’ll be itching to come back for more soon!

 

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