The Legend of The Vanishing Paddler On A Massive Idaho Lake Is Fascinating Local Lore

Idaho is full of creepy legends. There are some, like the Water Babies of Massacre Rocks, that send chills down our spine. But, there are others, like Sharlie, the Payette Lake Monster, that bring a smile to our faces. Located at one of Idaho’s largest lakes is one of the scariest, most fascinating legends in the Gem State — the Vanishing Paddler on Lake Pend Oreille.

Lake Pend Oreille is one of the most impressive lakes in the entire country. This is Idaho’s largest lake at 43 miles long and it features up to 111 miles of shore. It is also one of the deepest lakes in the United States at an impressive 1,158 feet deep.

People travel from all over the country to spend time near this massive body of water. It is a popular vacation destination in Idaho and a fabulous spot for fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and more.

But what many people don’t know is this lake is home to one of the most fascinating legends in Idaho.

According to the legend, Lake Pend Oreille is home to a massive water beast that is known by locals as the Pend Oreille Paddler.

Witnesses say the beast is a Jurassic creature that is gray in color. The water monster is believed to be quite peaceful and can race both on top and beneath the water.

Reports of the creature have occurred since the 1940s with many sightings occurring after the 1990s.

However, not everyone is convinced the Lake Pend Oreille Paddler exists. Many believe the reports are simply sightings of a submarine or machinery from the U.S. Navy Acoustic Research Detachment (ARD) at the lake.

Although, many witnesses say that what they saw was certainly not machine-like and swam more like an animal.

What do you believe? Do you believe there is a creature living in this lake? Have you ever seen anything suspicious when visiting Lake Pend Oreille? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

No matter whether you believe this fascinating legend or not, I recommend you spend some time at Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho. While you are there, take a drive down the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway and book a stay in a comfortable vacation rental.