Peterson Sorenson
Idaho has its fair share of lakes, but Priest Lake is something else entirely. Tucked away in the northern panhandle, this glacial masterpiece isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to disappear into. It’s remote, untouched, and so pristine that it feels like stepping into another world. If you think you’ve seen Idaho, think again.
Almost In Canada, Yet A World Away
Drive north until you almost hit the border, and you’ll find it—about 15 miles from Canada, surrounded by thick forests and dramatic peaks. The northern end of the lake is so secluded that the only way in is by boat or trail. If you want peace, this is where you’ll find it.
Wildlife Encounters You Won’t Forget
This is deep wilderness, and the locals have fur, feathers, and claws. Moose wade in the shallows at sunrise, bald eagles patrol the sky, and black bears slip between the trees. At night, coyotes fill the air with howls, and if you’re really lucky—or really quiet—you might catch a wolf moving through the mist.
Surrounded By Towering Mountain Ranges
This remote paradise is also surrounded by breathtaking alpine views. To the west, the Selkirk Crest dominates the skyline, while the east is framed by the Kalispell and Sundance Mountain Ranges. This natural fortress keeps the area secluded, wild, and unbelievably scenic, like something straight out of a postcard.
A Hidden Lake Within A Lake
Think Priest Lake is remote? There’s another one hidden inside it. Upper Priest Lake is accessible only by kayak, canoe, or a narrow channel called The Thorofare. No roads, no development—just pure, untouched wilderness. If you’re chasing that “completely off-grid” feeling, this is where it happens.
Fishing That Sets The Bar High
The lake trout here aren’t just big—they’re legendary. Some weigh over 30 pounds, and they’re not shy about putting up a fight. Cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass also make an appearance, but the trophy fish are what people come for. If you don’t know where to start, local guides will put you on the water and point you in the right direction.
Endless Boating Adventures Await
This isn’t some sleepy little lake where paddling is your only option. The 19-mile stretch of crystal-clear water is open to motorboats, so you can wakeboard, waterski, or just coast with the sun on your face. If you’re up for an adventure, navigate The Thorofare and drift into the untouched stillness of Upper Priest Lake.
Boat Rentals Make Exploring Easy
If you don’t have your own, no problem. Local spots like Priest Lake Marina and Hills Resort have everything from pontoon boats to kayaks. There’s nothing quite like pulling away from the dock with a full cooler, an open lake, and zero obligations for the next few hours.
No Cell Service, No Distractions
Forget checking emails or doomscrolling—it’s not happening here. Priest Lake is one of the last places where you can be completely unreachable, and it’s a relief. Instead of notifications, you get the sound of waves hitting the shore, the rustling of pine trees, and the kind of silence that’s impossible to find anywhere else.
A Winter Wonderland Like No Other
In the summer, it’s all about the water. In the winter, the lake freezes over, the crowds disappear, and the whole area transforms. Snowmobiles take over the trails, ice fishing huts pop up, and the cozy lakeside cabins suddenly feel like the best place on Earth.
A Destination That Transforms With Every Season
Some destinations shine only in summer, but Priest Lake offers adventure year-round. June through August, it’s all about boating, hiking, and fishing. When the temperatures drop, it becomes a winter wonderland with snowshoeing, skiing, and frozen lakeside views. No matter when you visit, it never feels the same twice.
