Cover photo courtesy of Visit Sandpoint
Sandpoint is a great basecamp for exploring trails throughout the Idaho Panhandle. Choose from lower-elevation trails near water that are great for swimming or high-country hikes with summer wildflowers and mountain views. Here are a few local favorites.
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge: There are a number of easy trails at this beautiful area 45 minutes north of Sandpoint that are perfect for spotting birds and other wildlife. There’s also an auto tour route.
Mickinnick Trail: This forested trail, only a few miles from downtown, offers several miles of hiking trails with wildflowers often lingering through June.
Scotchman Peak Trail: This strenuous hike climbs 3,500 feet to views you won’t soon forget with the chance of viewing resident mountain goats.
Schweitzer: Head up to Schweitzer for spectacular sub-alpine hikes. The resort recommends the 2.5-mile Nature Trail that starts near the Village. Or, take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain and hike Stewart’s Loop (0.3 mile) or the Summit View Loop (0.5 mile).
Pine Street Woods: Just two miles from downtown, there are around a dozen wooded trails to explore with miles of hiking possibilities.
