Sandpoint Idaho with a population of 9391, is a fantastic eclectic city, in the heart of an unimaginable, beautifully serene and picturesque scenery. Travelling North from Coeur d’ Alene on Hwy 95, your first views are from the long bridge. Lake Pend Oreille (Pronounced Ponderay). The bridge is 1 mile long and is the dividing line between Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille River. The lake is the 5th largest and 2nd deepest lake in the lower 48 states. This lake is 43 miles long, with 111 miles of shoreline, and a depth of 1,158 feet, (there are only four deeper lakes in the nation). The Lake is surrounded by the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains and is even home to a submarine base in Farragut State Park in the area of Bayview. As you cross the bridge into Sandpoint you take in a large panoramic view of water, trees, mountains and wildlife which never fails to give the viewer an Aha moment, that takes your breath away.
You will find that downtown Sandpoint has some of the most seasonal and artistic store fronts, waterfront eateries, clothing stores and galleries. Sandpoint is home to the well know manufacturer of Lighthouse Salad dressing and the availability of its downtown Store, that provides cheeses, and a variety of their famous salad dressings with many unique gifts.
The community airport is home to the Daher Group of France, well known for the Kodiak plane developed by Quest Aircraft Company. Sandpoint’s Museum located a few blocks from downtown provides the traveler with a glimpse of Sandpoint’s history and times past. The unique history will envelop your mind to the desirable and quaintness of this area.
As you meander through town be sure to drop by city beach. There are many recreational rentals such as boat, jet skis, cruise ships. The white sandy beaches offer glamorous expanding lake views, and surrounding mountains. On the walk out pier you will see a replica of the Statue of Liberty. Be sure to take a memorable picture with Miss Liberty. if you are here around the 4th of July, you must take in the fantastic fireworks over the water or play a round of golf at one of our many golf courses. The Idaho Club Golf Course offers an 18-hole course, wonderful dining at the clubhouse and a wide selection in the pro shop.
During summer bring a blanket and cooler to enjoy the concerts in the park and visit the areas Artists on the Artwalk tour. Find local artists artwork and some great home-grown veggies at the Farmers market, and don’t miss a show at the historic Panida theater. In May step back in time for the Lost in the 50’s classic car show and fabulous 50’s dance.
In winter come Enjoy Schweitzer Mountain Resort with deep Snow, Expansive Terrain, Uncrowded Slopes and a Small-Town Welcoming Vibe. Schweitzer Sets the Perfect Stage to Create a Lifetime of Family Memories with Nordic Skiing, Snowshoeing, Twilight Skiing, Terrain Parks. Snowboarding, Sleigh rides. Winterfest gives the visitors the most delightful experience for all ages. Snow skiing with Santa during the Torch Light Parade, then stay at the lodge in a cozy inviting room and enjoy the village eateries.
Sandpoint has received some wonderful accolades throughout the years including.
Sandpoint, Idaho the most beautiful small town in America Autumn of 2011 Rand McNally / USA Today
They also touted Sandpoint in winter of 2011/2012 Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort was named the Best Ski Resort of the Season.
Sandpoint nation’s eleventh Coolest Small Town Budget Travel
Top 10 Dream Towns Published in August 2008, Sunset Magazine
four-season outdoorsy resort that’s also a real town with a strong community spirit
Second homes having it all April 16, 2010 in USA Today article about Ten Great Deals for second homes in the USA.
Forbes.com named Sandpoint, Idaho one of the best places to live if you can telecommute to work
National Geographic Adventure named Sandpoint one its Top 10 Adventure Towns
The greatest places to live in the West April 2009 issue of American Cowboy
Lakeside living that’s far from the crowds – US News & World Report named Sandpoint one of the nation’s top 10 retirement spots “that offer delightful surroundings and amenities but still are easy on the wallet,”
Artist Haven – In the winter edition of SkyWest magazine, “When Mother Nature needs inspiration she goes to Sandpoint, Idaho”
August 2004 issue of Outside Magazine’s Best Towns, Sandpoint was named the “The cool northwest’s hot property.”
Sandpoint: Undiscovered Haven – Where to Retire magazine in the December 2009 issue, proclaiming Sandpoint’s “spectacular setting, fulfilling lifestyle and right prices.”
Sunset Magazine loves Perfect Summer Trips, The West’s Most Beautiful Lakes, Legendary Lake Country
Idyllic Sandpoint – USA Today: “It’s a Norman Rockwell-meets-Ansel Adams classic, brought to life every summer…” August 2004.
