North Pend Oreille Scenic Byway

mapnorthpendoreilleThe North Pend Oreille Scenic Byway is called the “Forgotten Corner” for a reason. Located in the very northeast corner of Washington State, the area seems as if time stands still. See where huge glaciers buried the ancient shoreline forever beneath the rubble of the ages and shaped the land anew. Today a great emerald river “carves its way northward around the ankle bones of mile-high, majestic mountains.”

Part of the International Selkirk Loop, this byway provides visitors with the chance to experience solitude in the Selkirk Mountains. Encounter the breathtaking scenery and wander the trails and side roads for closer views. Catch a glimpse of some of the wildlife in the area. Visitors are likely to see woodland caribou, grey wolves, grizzly bears, and bald eagles. Come and discover the legacy that local pioneers have left for modern-day residents and visitors.

Location
Begins on Hwy 31 at the junction of US 20 / US 31 at Tiger to the International Border.

Length
23 miles. Allow 40 minutes.

When to see it
Any season is the best time to visit the “Forgotten Corner.” Lush green springs and summers contrast with brilliantly colored autumns and white, snowy winters. Take the opportunity to enjoy the variety of recreational aspects of this beautiful area.

Special Attractions
Gardner Caves at Crawford State Park (reservations required), Sullivan Lake, Sweet Creek Falls, Eagles Nest View Point, Box Canyon Dam, Boundary Dam, Cutter Theater & Museum, Mill Pond Historic Site, Abercrombie-Hooknose Viewpoint, Tiger Historical Museum.

Camping (drive to)
USFS Campgrounds: Noisy Creek 19 sites; East Sullivan Lake 38 sites; West Sullivan Lake 10 sites; all east of Ione, 11 miles to lake. Edgewater 20 sites on Pend Oreille River’s east bank, Ione; Mill Pond 10 sites, 2 miles north of Metaline Falls, then 4 miles on Sullivan Lake Rd. Little Pend Oreille Chain Lakes – Lake Gillette 30 sites, Lake Thomas 16 sites, Lake Leo 8 sites, all approximately 7-10 miles west of Tiger on Hwy 20. Crescent Lake 6 sites, 10 miles north of Metalline Falls. There are also several private campgrounds in the area.