The Sandpoint, Idaho area offers an abundance of trails and trailheads for hiking enthusiasts. Hikers can embark on day hikes or extended backcountry stays along the many trails around Sandpoint. Trails in the area are maintained by the Forest Service, the Idaho Department of Lands and private landowners, who also continue to expand the Idaho trail system.
Gear
A great place to start finding out about local hiking clubs and trails is through the many outfitters in the area. Several venerable establishments sell gear for hikers as well as bikers who use the hiking trails. These businesses provide information and maps for the various routes as well as serve as meet up spots for hikers embarking on trips. Daypacks and hiking shoes are common essentials, but most retailers stock gear for more advanced excursions. Sandpoint Sports and Alpine Design both offer an array of equipment for hikers.
Books
The area around Sandpoint, located in the panhandle region of Idaho, is so popular with hikers that it has spawned over 25 books on the subject. These guides provide invaluable resources for trails, gear essentials, popular and lesser-known sites, and organizations that operate in the area. Expert hikers can find new routes, and beginners can gain insight into appropriate trails. "Trails of Western Idaho" (2003), "Backpacking Idaho - From Alpine Peaks to Desert Canyons" (2004), and "Hiking Idaho" (2001) are all options.
Geography
The area around Sandpoint features a spectacle of scenery. Hilly climbs, whether rugged or more gentle, quite often lead to lookout points featuring vistas of one of the many lakes in the area. While many of the trails are well-maintained, it is suggested to check a reliable source regarding trail conditions before embarking on one of the lesser-used trails. Groups, such as the Idaho Conservation League or the Spokane Mountaineers, can offer first hand knowledge of most trails in the area.
Weather
Hikers at all times of the year must consider weather conditions. he combination of the very northern latitude and the proximity to the Pacific Ocean creates a weather pattern than can see arctic winds or pleasant breezes, but there is a large amount of snowfall with snow on the ground all winter. Summers can be warm and sunny. Hiking with a group is a good way to increase safety should weather conditions change rapidly.
Something for Everyone
One of the most demanding treks in the Sandpoint area is the single-day, 14-hour traverse known as the Annual Earl Clayton Memorial Walk Up the Blue Creek Canyon. The annual event is guided and only for the very fit. Beginners can join up with the Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society or the North Idaho Mycological Association for easy walks through the area. At any time of year and on almost any night of the week, there are hiking clubs hitting the trails in the Sandpoint area.
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