Priest Lake is one of North Idaho’s most scenic outdoor destinations, offering year-round recreation, fishing, camping, and family-friendly resorts. This guide covers the best things to do at Priest Lake, where to stay, fishing opportunities, and a brief history of the area to help you plan your visit.
Why Visit Priest Lake, Idaho
Amy and I are lifelong residents of North Idaho and Eastern Washington, and we’ve been fortunate to call this beautiful region home for most of our lives. We enjoy sharing the destinations that make this area special, and when people ask about things to do in North Idaho, Priest Lake is always one of our top recommendations.
Located in the northwestern corner of the Idaho Panhandle, Priest Lake offers a peaceful escape surrounded by forests, mountains, and wetlands. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking to slow down and enjoy nature, Priest Lake is a destination that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
Things to Do at Priest Lake
Boating and Water Activities
Priest Lake is a large, clear freshwater lake ideal for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. With multiple public access points and marinas, visitors can easily spend a full day enjoying the water during the warmer months.
Hiking and Camping
The Selkirk Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and camping around Priest Lake. Trails range from easy lakeside walks to more challenging mountain hikes, making the area suitable for all experience levels. Campgrounds and dispersed camping options are available throughout the surrounding forest lands.
If you’re outdoor enthusiasts like us, then you’ll absolutely love Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars near Priest Lake, Idaho—a serene, hidden gem reached by a gravel road north of Nordman. This 22-acre protected stand features old-growth western red cedars over 800–2,000 years old, towering up to 150 feet with trunks 12 feet in diameter.
The easy short loop through the lower grove offers a cathedral-like atmosphere of massive trees, lush moss, and dappled light—perfect for family photos. Snap plenty next to the trunks to show friends and family their jaw-dropping scale! The connected Granite Falls Trail (3.5-mile easy out-and-back) delivers roaring waterfalls (including a dramatic “waterslide” cascade) and the upper grove with wildflowers and streams.
With solitude, a family-friendly vibe (leashed dogs welcome), and raw charm despite the rough access, it’s profoundly rejuvenating and well worth the detour.
Winter Recreation at Priest Lake
When winter arrives, Priest Lake transforms into a quiet recreational haven. Popular activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. The snow-covered scenery offers a completely different, yet equally rewarding, experience.
Priest Lake History and Cultural Significance
Priest Lake received its current name from Father Pierre-Jean De Smet, a Jesuit priest and missionary who visited the region in the 1840s. Often referred to as the “Black Robe” due to the distinctive clothing he wore, Father De Smet played a role in establishing peaceful relationships between European settlers and local tribes.
Long before European contact, Priest Lake was—and continues to be—an important place for the Kalispel Tribe. Known to the Kalispel people as Qutqet (pronounced “koo-ket”), meaning “the home of the spirit,” the lake has long been considered sacred.
For thousands of years, the Kalispel Tribe relied on the lake and surrounding lands for fishing, hunting, and gathering. Today, the tribe maintains a strong cultural presence in the region. It operates several successful enterprises, including Northern Quest Resort & Casino near Spokane and the Kalispel Casino in Usk, Idaho.
Where to Stay at Priest Lake
Hill’s Resort at Priest Lake
Hill’s Resort, located on the east side of Priest Lake, is one of the area’s most well-known and family-friendly accommodations. We visit this resort frequently and consistently recommend it to friends and visitors.
Nestled among towering pine trees and within walking distance of sandy lake beaches, Hill’s Resort offers cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. Guests also enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, hot tub, boat rentals, and an on-site restaurant.
The resort provides easy access to summer activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking, as well as winter recreation, including snowmobiling, skiing, and ice fishing. Its peaceful setting makes it a popular choice for families, couples, and groups seeking a relaxed outdoor getaway.
Fishing at Priest Lake
Priest Lake is widely regarded as one of the top fishing destinations in North Idaho. Anglers can expect to find a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, bull trout, and bass.
Fish Species You Can Catch
Kokanee salmon, a landlocked form of sockeye salmon, are especially popular and known for their bright red flesh. Rainbow trout are commonly stocked, providing consistent fishing opportunities, while bull trout offer a more challenging catch for experienced anglers.
Best Time of Year for Fishing
Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons for fishing at Priest Lake, as cooler water temperatures make fish more active. While summer fishing is still possible, early mornings and evenings tend to be more productive during warmer months.
Why Priest Lake Is the Crown Jewel of North Idaho
With its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain surroundings, and diverse range of outdoor activities, Priest Lake remains a favorite destination for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a fishing trip, or a quiet retreat into nature, Priest Lake offers a setting that encourages relaxation and exploration.
About the Authors
We are lifelong residents of North Idaho who enjoy sharing travel guides and outdoor experiences to help visitors discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities our region has to offer.
