Sandpoint in Summer: A Family-Friendly Escape to Schweitzer Mountain Resort

When most people hear the words “Schweitzer Mountain Resort,” they picture snow-dusted slopes, ski lifts, and après-ski hot chocolate by the fire. Which isn’t wrong, but here’s the secret: Schweitzer isn’t just for winter warriors. Come summer, the mountain transforms into a vibrant, sun-soaked playground perfect for families—especially those looking for a nature-packed getaway that’s equal parts adventurous and kid-friendly. And if you time your trip right? You’ll be greeted with the sweetest (literally) surprise—huckleberry season.

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Why Sandpoint Is the Perfect Summer Base

Nestled in northern Idaho on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille (the largest lake in the state), Sandpoint is the kind of small mountain town that makes you wonder how it has survived the test of time. It’s charming yet rugged, quiet but filled with adventure. From swimming and kayaking in the lake to wandering the downtown boutiques and enjoying locally roasted coffee, Sandpoint makes an ideal base for families road-tripping from Washington or beyond.

And just a quick drive from town, Schweitzer Mountain Resort rises high above it all, offering stunning views of the lake, the Selkirk Mountains, and more hiking and biking trails than your kids will know what to do with.

Schweitzer in Summer: The Mountain Playground

While Schweitzer is world-famous for skiing and all things winter, its summer personality is a lesser-known gem that makes it perfect for families. With wildflowers blooming, chairlifts gliding through warm alpine air, and miles of hiking and biking trails, you’ll quickly realize why locals say, “You come for the winter, but stay for the summer.”

Family-Friendly Activities at Schweitzer in Summer:

• Scenic Chairlift Rides – Even toddlers can ride up the lift (a big thrill on its own!) to soak up the sweeping views of Lake Pend Oreille. There is a restaurant at the top of the lift that allows you to have a stunning view of Canada, Washington, Idaho, and Montana —it’s absolutely stunning to sit there with a glass of wine and enjoy the views.
• Hiking Trails – Trails range from stroller-friendly nature walks to longer treks for school-aged adventurers. Pack snacks, sunscreen, and water, and let the kids become “mountain explorers.”

• Mountain Biking – If you have older kids, Schweitzer has trails for all skill levels, plus rentals and lessons available.
• Disc Golf – A fun, low-cost activity that gets everyone moving. The course winds through mountain meadows, perfect for family competition.
• The Village – Shops, casual dining, and plenty of outdoor seating make it easy to relax while kids run off energy.

Huckleberry Season: A Sweet Idaho Tradition

If you’re lucky enough to visit between mid-July and early September, you’ll hit huckleberry season, when the mountainsides are dotted with these purple gems. Think of them as Idaho’s answer to blueberries—but smaller, tangier, and absolutely worth the purple-stained fingers. My daughter had her first experience trying huckleberries straight from the bushes on the slope of the mountains, and now she understands the craze of Idaho’s huckleberries!

Local restaurants in Sandpoint and Schweitzer celebrate the season with huckleberry pancakes, milkshakes, jams, and even huckleberry ice cream. Kids love hunting for them along the trails, and parents love adding a spoonful of jam to their morning coffee or pastries. It’s a taste of summer you’ll never forget.

Important to Know: Summer Season Ends Labor Day Weekend

Here’s the catch—Schweitzer’s summer operations (lifts, activities, and most family programming) officially close after Labor Day Weekend. So if you’re dreaming of huckleberry picking, lift rides, and warm mountain air, make sure you plan your visit for June through early September. After that, the resort shifts gears to prepare for its snowy winter debut.

Things to Do in Sandpoint with Kids

When you’re not up on the mountain, Sandpoint itself is packed with family fun:

• Lake Pend Oreille Beaches – City Beach is a kid favorite, with sandy shores, shallow swimming areas, and a playground.
• Historic Boat Tour – Lake Pend Oreille Cruises offers a very interesting historic tour of the area that gives you an insight into past explorers who mapped out more miles than Lewis and Clark!
• Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Rentals are easy to find, and the calm waters near town are toddler-friendly.

• Downtown Sandpoint – Grab ice cream, browse quirky shops, and enjoy family-friendly brewery and dining options (many with outdoor patios). A must-stop is walking through Cedar Bridge Public Market.
• Huckleberry Goodies – Don’t leave without trying huckleberry ice cream at Panhandle Cone & Coffee.

Where to Stay

• In Town (Sandpoint) – Perfect if you want walkable access to restaurants, shops, and the lake. Family-friendly vacation rentals are plentiful.

• On the Mountain (Schweitzer Resort Lodging) – Stay in the village for quick access to hiking trails, activities, and stunning sunsets over the mountains. Perfect if you want to roll out of bed and straight into adventure. The village is perfect if you’d like an Alpine escape from the world.

Tips for Families Traveling with Young Kids

• Pack Layers – Even in summer, mountain mornings and evenings can get chilly.
• Snacks are Your Best Friend – Whether on a hike or a chairlift ride, hungry toddlers can’t wait – and I know all about “hangry” kids. Stock up before heading up the mountain.

• Road Trip Ready – Coming from Washington? Break up the drive with kid-friendly stops like rest areas with playgrounds or small-town diners along the way. It’s a very easy trip from Washington to Sandpoint – it took us around 7 hours to drive from the peninsula of Washington to Sandpoint, ID.
• Stroller or Carrier? – Bring both! The village and downtown Sandpoint are stroller-friendly, but you’ll want a carrier for the mountain paths.

Why Sandpoint & Schweitzer Belong on Your Family Travel List

Summer in Sandpoint is the kind of getaway that checks all the boxes—outdoor adventure, small-town charm, family-friendly activities, and the added magic of huckleberry season. And with Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s summer season ending after Labor Day Weekend, it’s the perfect excuse to plan a late summer road trip from Washington or beyond.