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Auto Tour
Idaho Panhandle
Map by John King (Click to Enlarge)
Idaho Panhandle Auto Tour
By John King
This auto tour through the Idaho Panhandle covers 220 miles and takes five to six hours to drive without stops. The trek heads north from Spokane along US-2 before turning east into the Gem State, then strikes north to Priest Lake on Idaho Highway 57. Upon returning to Priest River, the tour continues east to Sandpoint on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille. After a scenic side trip to Schweitzer Mountain and/or the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway, the tour turns south on US-95 to Coeur d’Alene and then west to close the loop in Spokane.
Because of COVID-19, please take recommended safety precautions if you are planning a future trip.
Spokane to Priest River
This auto tour begins in Spokane and goes through Mead, Newport and more.
Priest Lake
Reaching Priest Lake offers the choice between two side trips.
Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint & Schweitzer Mountain
If you drive the Idaho Panhandle, you should not miss touring Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint and Schweitzer Mountain.
Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene is the largest city in the panhandle and a must-visit destination year-round.
Return to Spokane
Post Falls and more on the return trip.