Amazing Pacific Northwest Road Trip Destinations for Families
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Star trails over Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint, Idaho.
Sand Point, Idaho
Just outside Sand Point, Idaho, lies a destination most people know as a ski spot: Schweitzer. But Schweitzer in the off-season is equally epic: At the summit of this ski hill, you’ll find wildflowers, hiking and incredible views of three states and Canada.
Schweitzer is a place to try all kinds of family recreation. Make a home base at the stylish new Humbird hotel, then get set to try mountain biking, ziplining, huckleberry-picking and taking a scenic chairlift ride. Geocache, go horseback riding and play disc golf during the day. In the evening play lawn games, go for a bike ride or try pickleball.
Perhaps your kids need a little quiet time. The front desk at the Selkirk Lodge has books and board games to loan out. Find a comfy spot outdoors and enjoy. Is your crew competitive or up for a challenge? Hike up the nature trail and be rewarded with a free chairlift ride down the mountain. Just make sure to reach the summit before 5:30 p.m. to catch a ride down. Searching for a sense of accomplishment or adrenaline rush? Tackle the climbing wall and trampoline jumper.
In addition to fun on the mountain, Sandpoint’s Lake Pend Oreille is a great spot to rent paddle boards, learn to fly fish with Long Drift Outfitters or book a day out on a lake with Lake Pend Oreille Cruises. It’s also great for swimming. Make sure to stop at the Pie Hut for soup, sandwiches and, of course, pie. Hit Farmhouse Kitchen for burgers and barbecue.
From free and fun to daring and adventurous, Sand Point has a little something for everyone in the family.
