Sandpoint

"Get social with nature", says the city of Sandpoint. Not that Sandpoint doesn't have a lovely natural setting; in fact, it was named the "most beautiful town in America" by USA Today and Rand McNally. It is nestled between three mountain ranges, on the shores of Idaho's largest lake, Lake Pend Oreille, and at the foot of Schweitzer Mountain ski and board resort. Despite all of those accolades, Sandpoint prides itself on "pace" as much as "place", with a thriving arts community, acclaimed culinary and dining scene, overflowing arts and entertainment calendars, and an authentic small-town, not-a-resort vibe.

Visitors can discover this mighty beautiful place at any pace they want, thanks to the wealth of outdoor activities provided by its lake and mountains. Sandpoint is located on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho's largest lake, and is surrounded by three major mountain ranges: the Selkirk, Cabinet, and Bitterroot ranges. Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Idaho's largest ski resort, is located here, as are the International Selkirk Loop and two National Scenic Byways (Wild Horse Trail and Pend Oreille Scenic Byway).

There are thousands of acres to explore in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests surrounding Sandpoint. Downhill skiing is popular in the winter at the nearby Schweitzer Mountain Resort, which is less than 15 miles away. For the millions of tourists who visit each year, Sandpoint has plenty of lodging, dining, and shopping options. Every August, the Sandpoint Festival is one of the most important events in the region, featuring eight nights of live music.