Another dominant feature in Bonner County is water. The largest lake in Idaho, Lake Pend Oreille, lies in the center, and the more remote waters of Priest Lake lie in the northwest corner. Three major rivers traverse the area. The Clark Fork River drains into Lake Pend Oreille in the east, and the Pend Oreille River drains out of the lake on the western side. (For future reference on your next visit to Bonner County, you cross this point on Long Bridge when entering Sandpoint from Highway 95.) Priest River emerges from Priest Lake and reaches the waters of the Pend Oreille River. A number of other creeks, rivers and smaller lakes also dot the landscape.
One of the highlights of Bonner County is Sandpoint's Festival at Sandpoint. Featuring outdoor music and having hosted such famous acts as Willie Nelson, Nanci Griffith, the Beach Boys, and the Doobie Brothers, the Festival at Sandpoint is now in its 25th year. The Festival is an intimate setting instead of an arena style music experience. It feels as though the artists are playing in your back yard, a private concert just for you.
Since Sandpoint is home to the governmental offices of Bonner County, you are sure to visit more than once. A "must-see" event in Sandpoint is the "retro weekend" - where the hands of time seem to turn backward with a classic car parade and dance shows from your favorite performers of the 1950's and 1960's. With over 20 art galleries and numerous eclectic shops, Sandpoint is sure to provide numerous memorable experiences.