There’s so many great hidden beaches waiting to be explored here in Idaho and this gorgeous hiking trail will take you straight to one of them. Evans Landing is a stunning gravel beach that’s tucked along the western shore of Lake Pend Oreille. Accessible only by a two-mile hiking trail through the forest, finding this lovely beach is an adventure in itself! However, the waterfront views that wait for you at the end of the trail are worth every single step.
Wander down to a hidden beach on Lake Pend Oreille's shoreline when you take on the Evans Landing Trail near Careywood. Not only is this moderate hike a great way to stretch your legs, but the end destination is downright stunning!
Access to the trailhead can be found 17 miles south of Sandpoint on U.S. Highway 95. Head east on Blacktail Road for 2.6 miles before turning right onto Little Blacktail Road. Follow this road for 2.5 miles before turning right again onto East Ridge Road. From here you can follow the signs directly to the trailhead's small parking area.
The trail starts at the top of Kreiger Creek on Trail No. 64 and begins to meander downhill. A variety of switchbacks along the trail makes for a gentle grade that becomes increasingly steeper as you reach the lake. Rated as moderate, you'll want to take your time soaking in the views of the lake through the trees.
Although it's just two miles to the beach, you'll notice that the trail packs in a ton of fantastic scenery along the way. Hikers will find themselves totally immersed by towering fir, pine, and western red cedar trees, plus a plethora of colorful wildflowers depending on the season.
It won't be long before you finally stumble upon the delightful beach at the end of the trail. The gravel beach opens up to a fantastic view of Idaho's largest body of water—Lake Pend Oreille.
Swimming and boating are popular activities at Evans Landing in the summertime. Pack a picnic and bring your beach gear! You'll want to spend all day at this hidden gem of a beach. After all, the views of the lake are simply spectacular and the water is perfectly refreshing on a hot day.
Just be sure to conserve some energy for the trek back uphill. The numerous switchbacks help to make it an easy ascent, but you'll want to be prepared for some of the trail's steeper sections. For a relaxing day at a tucked away beach, hop on the Evans Landing Trail and follow it to the lake's gorgeous waterfront.
