Aerial view of Priest Lake surrounded by dense evergreen forest in northern Idaho
Coeur d'Alene National Forest

Ready to Trade the Noise for the Sound of Water Against a Canoe?

Priest Lake sits at the heart of one of Idaho's most pristine wilderness areas — 21,000 acres of clear water, old-growth forest, and trails that lead somewhere real.

Explore Activities Get in Touch
21,000+
Acres of Wilderness
44
Miles of Lake Shoreline
100+
Miles of Trails
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Dense conifer forest along the shores of Priest Lake in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest
About Our District

Stewardship Rooted in Over a Century of Service

The Priest Lake Ranger District manages some of the most ecologically significant and culturally rich land in northern Idaho. Nestled within the Coeur d'Alene National Forest, our district encompasses the jewel of the region — Priest Lake — a glacially-formed body of water so clear it reveals submerged timber nearly 30 feet below the surface.

Since 1908, ranger staff have worked to balance wildland preservation with public access, ensuring that the forests, meadows, and waterways that define this corner of Idaho remain intact for the species and communities that depend on them.

Wilderness Preservation
Protecting critical habitat
Community Partnerships
Working with local tribes
Wildfire Management
Proactive forest health
Ecosystem Research
Science-based stewardship
Recreation

What Awaits You on Priest Lake

From the moment you launch a kayak at dawn to the silence of a backcountry campfire, every season on Priest Lake writes a different story.

Kayaker paddling on the crystal-clear waters of Priest Lake

Kayaking & Canoeing

Paddle through coves and inlets where bald eagles nest and the water is so transparent you can watch loons dive for fish below.

Campsite with tent pitched among pines near Priest Lake shore

Campground Reservations

Stay at Priest Lake Campground, a seasonal facility offering sites with lake views, fire rings, and access to trailheads.

Forest trail winding through tall pines in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest

Hiking & Backcountry

Trails range from lakeside strolls to strenuous climbs into the Selkirk Mountains, with backcountry permits available for extended trips.

Angler fishing from a boat on a calm Idaho lake at sunrise

Fishing

Rainbow trout, cutthroat, and kokanee salmon populate Priest Lake and connected waterways. A valid Idaho fishing license is required.

Snow-covered forest trail in winter with sunlight filtering through pines

Winter Recreation

Snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing open across district lands from December through March, depending on snowpack.

Bald eagle perched on a branch overlooking a forested lake

Wildlife Viewing

Black bear, elk, marten, and bald eagles share these forests. The district offers guided interpretation programs during peak seasons.

The Coeur d'Alene National Forest

More Than a Destination — An Ecosystem to Protect

Spanning over 1.5 million acres across northern Idaho, the Coeur d'Alene National Forest is one of the state's most biodiverse landscapes. The Priest Lake District occupies a central role, connecting the Selkirk Mountains to the Cabinet Yarrow wilderness area.

This is country shaped by glaciers and fire, where western red cedar and grand fir give way to subalpine fir and larch at higher elevations. The forest supports a complex web of life — from the bull trout spawning in cold mountain streams to the marbled murrelet nesting in old-growth canopy.

Location
Northern Idaho, bordered by the Canadian border to the north
Wilderness Areas
Selkirk Mountains, Cabinet Yarrow, and the Frank Church-River of No Return nearby
Cultural Heritage
Sacred to the Coeur d'Alene, Spokane, and Kalispel Tribes for millennia
Snow-capped mountain peak rising above the forest canopy in northern Idaho
A clear mountain stream flowing through a mossy forest floor
Golden larch and aspen trees in autumn color along a forest ridge
Tall western red cedar trees in an old-growth forest stand
Plan Your Visit

Everything You Need Before You Go

A little planning goes a long way in the backcountry. Here's what to know before heading to Priest Lake.

Best Time to Visit

June through September offers the best conditions for hiking, boating, and camping.

Seasonal Access

Roads and the campground typically open in late May and close in early October.

Permits & Fees

Some trails and backcountry areas require permits. Check current fees before your trip.

Leave No Trace

Pack out what you pack in. Stay on trails. Respect wildlife and water quality.

Get in Touch

Have Questions? We're Here to Help

Whether you need trail conditions, permit information, or directions to a specific access point, the ranger station staff are ready to assist.

Address
32203 Highway 57
Priest River, ID 83856-8680
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Seasonal variations apply

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