Idaho's Prettiest Panhandle Road Is An Ethereal Drive For Mountain And Lake Adventures

Taking a road trip has long been an iconic feature of the American lifestyle and is an excellent way to experience some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes. One popular option is to head out on the Olympic Peninsula's only major route for a Washington road trip with world-renowned stops and views. And just one state over in Idaho, eager adventurers can set off on a whirlwind journey along the Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway. Meandering through forested slopes dotted with glistening lakes and quaint mining towns, add this route to your next road trip itinerary.

Stretching about 36 miles long, you could zoom through this picturesque road in a little over an hour, but definitely factor in time for plenty of detours and scenic stops along the way to make the most of the drive. The Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway joins the two quaint towns of Sandpoint and Porthill at the very tip of Idaho's panhandle, which forms a slice of the International Selkirk Loop. From Porthill, the route continues into British Columbia and swoops back down into Washington state before closing the loop in Idaho. Once just a dusty packhorse trail frequented by the Kootenai people and European miners, the scenic byway traces the original route of the historic "Wild Horse Trail" from days of yore.

Start your road trip in Sandpoint, tucked against the northern edge of Lake Pend Oreille, considered Idaho's largest lake and a recreational paradise. Drive through in the summer to splash by the lakeshore, while a detour here in the winter means access to powdery slopes for a thrilling ski run. The journey north towards Porthill and the Canadian border takes you through the foothills of the Selkirk Mountains, a dramatic swath of breathtaking alpine slopes. It's guaranteed to be a road trip to remember.

As you make your way from Sandpoint to Porthill, the route will be dotted with exciting detours. While in Sandpoint, don't miss the Sandpoint City Beach Park for sunbathing and splashing. The sand is invitingly soft, offering idyllic views of Lake Pend Oreille. More eager adventurers should certainly spend time exploring the Kaniksu National Forest, made up of dense woodlands about an hour away from Sandpoint. Hikers can head out into the winding trails to summit towering peaks, while gushing creeks and dazzling lakes await for waterfront exploration. Anglers should pack their rods to wade in for catch-and-release and fly-fishing, or bring kayaks to paddle the serene waters.

As you follow the route north, don't miss a stop at Bonners Ferry, a wildly underrated waterfront city with enchanting views. Bisected by the Kootenai River, both sightseers and adventurers will find diversions here. Also called "Idaho's best kept secret," visitors can head out for a leisurely stroll through the downtown streets to soak up the quaint, Old West atmosphere. Spend an afternoon wandering through the Boundary County Museum for a dose of local history, or duck in to one of the local eateries to grab a scrumptious meal. Outdoorsy travelers should trek the Katka Peak Trail just south of town, where you'll catch breathtaking panoramas of the Kootenai Valley from the mountaintop.

West of Bonners Ferry is the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, another must-visit. Almost 3,000 acres of scenic backcountry landscapes stretch across the Selkirk Mountain valleys. Drive through to admire the views from the comfort of your car, or head out to trek the nature trails, watching out for abundant wildlife as you go. With so much to see, the Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway never disappoints.

Anyone planning a Wild Horse Trail road trip from out of state can catch a flight to Spokane International Airport in Washington state, then rent a car to drive about 90 minutes up to Sandpoint, Idaho. Making detours to explore the Idaho landscape could add several days to your drive across the scenic byway. The good thing is that accommodations along the route are plentiful. About a 25-minute drive from Sandpoint is the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch, sure to be an unforgettable stay. Spend the night in rustic log cabins with beamed ceilings straight out of a Wild West film, and you'll even be able to canter around the ranch on horseback.

While in Bonners Ferry, spend the night at the Northside School Bed and Breakfast. Situated within a former historic schoolhouse, the elegant guest rooms are themed according to classroom subjects, boasting private bathrooms and fantastic views. Guests can tuck into a scrumptious breakfast in the morning, while an outdoor hot tub offers soothing relaxation at the end of the day. A more rustic abode is the Dodge Peak Lodge, a quaint log chalet offering cozy guest rooms and hearty evening meals.

Outdoorsy types can pitch a tent at the Smith Lake Campground about 15 minutes north of town. The campsite is completely free and offers drinkable water, not to mention easy access to the lakeside for fishing and swimming. From the campground, it's just a 30-minute drive to Porthill, marking the end of the Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway, but the adventures don't have to end there. Keep driving into Canada to explore the rest of the International Selkirk Loop for more mesmerizing scenery. Whatever you decide, it will surely be the road trip of a lifetime.