Priest Lake

This 19-mile-long pristine lake sits in the remote Idaho Panhandle, surrounded by old-growth cedar and hemlock forests with the Selkirk Mountains rising dramatically on all sides. The lake’s crystal-clear waters reach depths of 369 feet and remain remarkably undeveloped compared to other Idaho lakes. Multiple boat launches, beaches, and hiking trails provide access to this wilderness gem that feels more like northern Canada than the Lower 48.

Access via State Route 57 through Nordman requires driving through dense forest on good paved roads. The area can be crowded during summer weekends, but midweek visits offer solitude. Winter access is possible but challenging due to heavy snowfall in this region.

Pristine glacial lake in the remote Idaho Panhandle