Hiking the Palouse

Lake Pend Oreille

With friends and family in town recently, we needed an activity to interest our more adventurous visitors.  To enjoy the fine summer weather and beautiful scenery, Nancy suggested a short hike to Lake Pend Oreille.  While, not technically on the Palouse, Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho is only about a 60 mile drive to the northeast of Spokane.  Rather than the rolling hills of the Palouse, a visitor is treated to the timbered forests and stunning lakes of North Idaho. 

Marching single file along the wooded trail

From the trailhead, a path leads down the steep, windy, and rugged trail to Lake Pend Oreille.  The switchbacked trail drops to the lake shore about 1,300 vertical feet below.  The trail, itself, is about one and three quarter miles in length. 

Once departing the trailhead, a hiker must go up before going down to the lake.  Once the bluff is crested, a partial view of the lake is visible.  A stunning view it is too!

First glimpse of Lake Pend Oreille

Continuing on down the trail on the descent, the views of the lake from high on the bluff are even more spectacular.  While the views of the lake are often screened by trees along the path down, many breathtaking views of the blue water and mountains present themselves for a quick snapshot.   

After many a switch back and an hour later, we arrive at the serene waters of the lake.  Beautiful 180 degree views showing the calm lake waters and surrounding mountains are present with every turn.

The hike down was hot so after reaching the lake we found a suitable stretch of graveled beach to rest.  After a light lunch, cold drinks, several photo ops, and a quick wade into the cool lake waters, we gathered our belongings and headed back up the steep trail to return to our vehicle.   

The day's hikers

While indoor activities of our hobby frequently beckon, when the weather is pleasant and friends and family are willing, enjoy these opportunities to connect to both family and nature.