Pend Oreille Lake
Pend Oreille Lake is a large, high-elevation reservoir in northern Idaho, known for deep, clear waters and scenic mountain surroundings. Popular for boating, fishing, and water recreation, it spans roughly 146 miles of shoreline and serves as a critical regional resource. Nearby towns and parks provide access points and facilities.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Pacific Northwest |
| Subregion | Northern Rockies |
| Country | United States |
| State | Idaho |
| County | Bonner County |
| District | Pend Oreille County |
| City | Sandpoint |
| Postal Code | 83854 |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 48.284 |
| Longitude | -117.245 |
| Maps |
6:15 PM LOCAL TIMEPend Oreille Lake is a long, narrow glacially carved reservoir that straddles eastern Idaho and western Washington, with the majority of its (~146 miles) shoreline and surface area (~376 km²) within Idaho. The lake's deepest reaches exceed 1,150ft (350m), making it one of the region's most substantial freshwater bodies; meanwhile, its surface elevation hovers around 630–650m (2,065–2,130ft) depending on seasonal inflows and dam operations. Its crystalline waters are fed by snowfall from the Rocky Mountains and outlet streams, supporting vibrant populations of kokanee salmon, bull trout, and lake whitefish. Surface transactions—moderate to strong winds over open water—coupled with considerable depth, create excellent conditions for powerboating, water skiing, and multifamily fishing. The lakeside terrain is steep and heavily forested, with mix of private properties, public parks, and remote backcountry access points. Major towns like Sandpoint and Kootenai provide visitor services, marinas, and paved corridors for shoreline drives; smaller communities and national forests routes offer more isolated experiences. The region experiences cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers, with transition seasons bringing variable weather; always check current conditions before planning high-elevation activities.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:55 AM