Lake Pend Oreille is one of the most popular lakes in Idaho. This massive body of water is Idaho’s largest lake at 43 miles long and with 111 miles of shore. It is a popular place for boating, fishing, camping, swimming, picnicking, and so much more. But it also has a few unique secrets that make this lake stand above the rest. For example, did you know this lake is bottomless? Just how deep is Lake Pend Oreille?

Well, technically, Lake Pend Oreille is not bottomless but it certainly feels that way. At 1,158 feet deep, it is not only the deepest lake in Idaho, but there are only four lakes deeper in the entire United States!
Jordan Siemens/DigitalVision Via Getty Images
This lake is not only deep but it’s quiet and calm, creating the perfect combination. In fact, this lake is home to the Navy’s NSWCCD Acoustic Research Detachment (ARD), which uses this ideal lake environment to research, test, and evaluate submarine technology such as submarine acoustic stealth technology.
United States Navy, John F. Williams/Wikimedia Commons
While your day at the lake likely won’t be to test advanced technology, there is still plenty to see and do. If you want to spend time on the water, hop on a ski boat, sailboat, kayak, and paddleboard. If you don’t have your own, you will find multiple rental companies around the lake.
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You can always just enjoy the water from the shore on one of the many beaches or picnic areas. This is a great way to spend a relaxing day outdoors.
Erik Michaels/Google

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There are even state parks located around the lake, like the stunning Farragut State Park.
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This is one of the most popular state parks in Idaho and while there is plenty to keep you busy here, check out the Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park, with zipline and rope courses for both adults and children.
Of course, no matter what your plans are during a visit to Lake Pend Oreille, give yourself plenty of time to just sit back and admire the views. While this lake is the largest and deepest in the state, it is also surrounded by three major mountain ranges in the northern Rocky Mountains.
kreulen/iStock Via Getty Images Plus
And don’t be surprised if you see all types of wildlife, particularly various types of birds like ospreys, hawks, swans, eagles, geese, ducks, and more.
Stan Petersen / 500px Via Getty Images
While Lake Pend Oreille may not be bottomless, it’s still fun (or a little frightening!) to imagine it is while out on the water. But regardless, this lake is still one that you need to check out for yourself. Who knows … it may become your new favorite outdoor destination.
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You can learn even more about this deep lake in Idaho in the following video by The Travel Channel.

Have you been to Lake Pend Oreille? Did you know it was one of the deepest lakes in the entire country? Were you aware of Lake Pend Oreille’s depth? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

If you have a favorite outdoor destination in Idaho, we’d love to know about it! Fill out this form and tell us all about some of your favorite outdoor attractions in Idaho from hikes to campgrounds. You may just see your nomination in an upcoming Only In Your State article! And, if you plan to spend the day at the lake, make sure you are prepared. Check out the outdoor equipment at REI for your upcoming outdoor adventures.

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Lakes In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | March 17, 2023

What are some cool facts about the deepest lake in Idaho?

Lake Pend Oreille is one of the most incredible lakes in the Gem State. If you wish to learn a little more about this massive body of water, check out the following facts:

  • Lake Pend Oreille is Idaho’s largest lake. It is 43 miles long.
  • This lake boasts 111 miles of shore.
  • This is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Idaho.
  • Lake Pend Oreille is not only the deepest lake in Idaho, but it is also one of the deepest lakes in the entire country!
  • Lake Pend Oreille is 1,158 feet deep. Now, that’s impressive!

 

What are some of the best lakes in Idaho?

While Lake Pend Oreille is certainly one lake that deserves your attention, there are dozens of other lakes that you can place at the top of your bucket list. Some of our favorite lakes in Idaho include the following:

  • Redfish Lake
  • Priest Lake
  • Lake Cleveland
  • Payette Lake
  • Stanley Lake
  • Alice Lake
  • Bloomington Lake
  • Alturas Lake
  • Henry’s Lake

 

What are some state parks in Idaho I should visit?

State parks are some of the best destinations for spending time outdoors in Idaho. In fact, some of the most beautiful lakes are located within state parks in the Gem State. If you are searching for incredible state parks in Idaho to visit, consider the following:

  • Harriman State Park
  • Ponderosa State Park
  • Bruneau Dunes State Park
  • Heyburn State Park
  • Winchester Lake State Park
  • Farragut State Park

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Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho, USA