Water Sports

With the one of the largest freshwater lake in the west, it is easy to imagine the possibilities for fun on the water in North Idaho. Only Flathead Lake in Montana and some man-made lakes are larger. However, Lake Pend Oreille is not the only water possibility in North Idaho. There are hundreds of lakes and ponds, some of which are impressive in their own rights. To the south are Hayden Lake, Lake Cocolalla, and Lake Coeur d’Alene, a body of water almost as large as Lake Pend Oreille. There is also every kind of stream and river. Rapid Lightning Creek fits its name, with roaring torrents of rushing water for much of the year. The Pack River and Clark Fork River both offer kayaking, and for the more tame, lake kayaking, sailing, and rowing can be had on the larger lakes. The Pend Oreille River is ideal for motor boating and water skiing. Wind surfing can be seen on many of these waterways, though it is not as popular here as on Lake Tahoe or the Columbia River.

During World War II over 300,000 sailors trained near Farragut State Park near Bayview on Lake Pend Oreille, and Navy submariners still train for submarine sonar at the naval station there.

Even scuba and snorkeling fans find a wonderful inland outlet for their sport. This is truly one of the nation’s best places for water sports. Below you will find several resources to satisfy whatever your boating or water needs may be.
 

Wildernet