The weather that winter brings can keep you cooped up indoors. But this time of year is actually a wonderful time to travel. Many destinations throughout Idaho come alive in the winter such as Sandpoint. This small town is where you can find outdoor opportunities galore, tasty places to eat, and family-friendly indoor destinations to warm you up. Sandpoint, Idaho is one winter destination that you don’t want to miss.

Sandpoint is a beautiful town located in northern Idaho, right along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. It is home to approximately 9,000 residents and while beautiful and lovely any time of the year, winter is one season when you definitely want to visit.
Alex Marks/Google
The backcountry near Sandpoint receives an average snowfall of 300 inches each year. This makes the entire area an outdoor lover's paradise, especially for individuals who enjoy winter sports.
SEASTOCK/iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Cross-country skiing is a popular activity with trails all around Sandpoint.
Farragut State Park/Facebook
Farragut State Park, for example, offers several miles of groomed trails that are perfect for beginners and experts alike. Plus, on your journey, you’ll capture incredible views of Lake Pend Oreille and ski through forests blanketed in snow.
Cross-country skis aren’t the only way to explore Sandpoint and the surrounding area. Hop on a snowmobile or fat bike to explore snowy terrains. You can even strap on a pair of snowshoes and enjoy a winter hike in Sandpoint’s backcountry.
Farragut State Park/Facebook

Related Stories

This Mountain Lodge In Idaho Offers A Dining Experience Like No Other

This Mountain Lodge In Idaho Offers A Dining Experience Like No Other

 The Little-Known Park In Idaho That Transforms Into An Ice Palace In The Winter

The Little-Known Park In Idaho That Transforms Into An Ice Palace In The Winter

 Also Known As 'Christmas City, USA', The Small Town Of Rupert, Idaho Is Alive With Holiday Spirit

Also Known As 'Christmas City, USA', The Small Town Of Rupert, Idaho Is Alive With Holiday Spirit
Of course, one of Sandpoint’s most popular winter attractions is Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort. This resort is one of the reasons this town comes alive in the wintertime.
Schweitzer/Facebook
Schweitzer offers 2,900 skiable acres and there are 92 trails to explore – perfect for individuals of all skill levels. Schweitzer also offers twilight skiing and snow tubing.
You don’t have to spend all of your time outdoors in this northern Idaho town. Head to Cedar Street Bridge, a unique shopping center that is also a bridge over Sand Creek.
robert peterson/Google
This unique bridge in Idaho was built in the 1930s and is home to multiple restaurants, shops, and other businesses. It connects Sandpoint’s downtown area to the east bank of Sand Creek.
You can also grab a drink and tasty food at MickDuff’s Brewing Company. Located in downtown Sandpoint, this craft brewery is also a family-friendly restaurant where you can enjoy everything from rice bowls to burgers to salmon.
MickDuff's Brewing Co./Facebook
MickDuff's Brewing Co./Facebook

Sandpoint is a year-round vacation locale in northern Idaho but in the winter, it certainly outdoes itself. Have you explored this area during the winter? What are some of your favorite activities in this small town? How do you like to spend winter in Idaho? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to visit Schweitzer Mountain Resort and MickDuff’s Brewing Company websites for additional details.

If you have never been to Farragut State Park, add this destination to your bucket list immediately! It was named the best state park in Idaho and you can read our feature article to learn why. And, if you plan to spend time outdoors in Sandpoint or at Farragut State Park, make sure are prepared for the winter weather! Bundle up and have fun!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Winter In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | December 15, 2023

What are some things to do in winter in Idaho?

There is nothing quite like winter in Idaho. This time of year is magical with so many activities to help you get out of the house, moving your body, and falling in love with this season. While we could list dozens of winter activities in the Gem State, the following are just a few of our favorites:

 

What are some small towns I should visit in Idaho?

There is no doubt that Sandpoint is a wonderful small town to visit in Idaho. It is beautiful, home to incredible attractions, and has plenty to see and do. However, Sandpoint is not the only stunning small town in Idaho you should add to your bucket list. The following are just a few towns in Idaho that are certainly worthy of a visit:

 

What are some hidden gems in Idaho worth checking out?

It is hard, if not impossible, to narrow down the best hidden gems in Idaho. However, there are many incredible destinations around the state that locals don’t even know exist. If you are looking for hidden gems in Idaho, check out the following spots:

Related Articles

Explore Idaho

Featured Addresses
Sandpoint, ID 83864, USA