Our Favorite Things to do at Priest Lake
With the beautiful Selkirk mountains, miles of trails, and gold medal waters for fishing, there is much to see and do at Priest Lake, Idaho. Discover our favorite things to do at Priest Lake and start planning your getaway today!
Things to do in the spring and summer
Spring, and especially summer, are the most popular times to visit Priest Lake. From fishing to hiking, there is something to do on or off the water.
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular activities at Priest Lake. The lake itself contains 40 square miles of “lucky fishing spots,” so everyone from the youngest of fishermen to seasoned veterans will find something to catch! Learn more here about fishing at Priest Lake.
Kayaking and canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing is a great activity to enjoy on the water. One of the best locations to kayak or canoe is at Upper Priest Lake. Accessible only by boat or trail, this section of the lake is connected to the lower lake by the scenic two-mile Thorofare. To help get you started, Elkins Resort offers rentals such as kayaks and paddleboards to get you out on the water.
Hiking
Priest Lake is a true hikers paradise. From deep cedar forests to panoramic views of the mountains and lake, there is something unique to discover on the trails near Priest Lake. Whether you want a leisurely stroll around the lake or get your heart pumping up high in the Selkirk mountains, there is a hiking trail for everyone.
Swimming
From the sandy shores that line the property of Elkins Resort, guests can swim the lake and enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. Elkins Resort has plenty of beachfront to enjoy the view and watch the activity while sunbathing. It’s the perfect summer day!
Things to do in fall and winter
Just because the temperatures get cooler and snow falls to the ground, there are still plenty of things to do at Priest Lake in the fall and winter.
Fall foliage
Autumn is a great time to explore the beautiful fall foliage in Idaho. Each fall season a colorful display can be seen throughout the state’s dramatic landscapes, and Priest Lake is no exception. From hiking to golfing, or even a scenic drive, there are many ways to enjoy the seasonal colors.
Ice fishing
Fishing at Priest Lake is available year-round with ice fishing opportunities. The lake is open year-round with a limit of six lake trout per day. The most common you will find are trout and perch. But there is a possibility of catching bluegill, crappie, kokanee, or even bass.
Snowmobiling
One of the most popular things to do at Priest Lake in the winter is snowmobiling. Elkins Resort features hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails right outside the comfort of your cabin door! Snowmobiling is a fun and exhilarating way to experience the beauty of the Selkirk Mountains during winter, with our trails winding through forests to the windswept ridges of 7,000-foot mountain passes.
For all you first-timers, read our helpful beginners’ guide to snowmobiling at Priest Lake.
Stay at Elkins Resort
Of course, one of the best things to do at Priest Lake is to stay at Elkins Resort. Our year-round lodging at Priest Lake offers 30 cedar cabins situated along the lake at Reeder Bay. Whether you want a cabin on the lake or a creek-side cabin, we offer the comfort and tranquility you are looking for, no matter the season. Each accommodation provides a full kitchen, bathroom, and living area, with some equipped with a fireplace and views of the lake.
Book your vacation today at Elkins Resort!