Priest Lake

Having spent a lot of time in Northern Idaho in my lifetime, it is somewhat funny that I've never been to Priest Lake. I guess we always figured that we had a beautiful lake to play in, so why go to a different one?

After years of hearing about the clear waters and unpopulated shores, I wanted to check it out. Being quite pregnant, it sounded like a great trip, since I can no longer do long hikes, mountain bike rides, or rock climb due to premature labor concerns. We made the short drive from CD'A to Priest Lake and settled into our campsite. With a little time before dinner, we decided to do a short hike out of the campground to a viewpoint.

K was slow to start but became highly motivated to hike once we found huckleberries. I'd go a little ahead and he'd say, "Momma, did you find some?!" When I replied 'yes', he was quick to come up the trail behind me. 

In this fashion, he hiked on his own 2 miles with some elevation gain too. 

It was a muggy night, but the coolest weather we would see the whole trip; hiking, even short distances, became out of the question once the heat set in. And so, we spent our days chilling by and in the water, which is truly crystal clear.

 Trying out the new paddle board

Where are the hordes of people?!?

(They did come on the weekend, but week-days looked like this.)

We really enjoyed the Indian Creek Campground and would like to go back again with a large family/friend group. The beach is spectacular, the little campground store (5 minutes walking) sells ice cream, and there is something for everyone: beach volleyball, horseshoes, frisbee golf, and 'nature education' programs too. Plus, after you got all grubby with sunscreen and sweat, the free, hot showers were appreciated.

Happy 4th of July!

(think he's a bit too hot...sorry, no smile)