HopePicture perfect sunsets and expansive lake views dotted with islands, is how most people
remember Hope. Just 12 miles from Sandpoint, on the North shore of Lake Pend Oreille. Hope
found its begining with the building of the Northern Pacific Railroad which has since settled
into two unique cities. Hope and East Hope and the name I love Beyond Hope on the Sam Owen Game
preserve on the Hope peninsula.
In the height of its time, Hope was a bustling town of 3000. Quite a bit of the labor to make
the railroad were Chinese, brought over under 25 year contracts, Once the railroad was finished
many made their home in Hope. The Historic Hotel Hope, was built by Joseph M. Jeannot in 1897
and still watches over Lake Pend Oreille. In the basement are the tunnels that once allowed
guests to go to the railway station. Hotel Hope has seem many faces over the years, including
Teddy Roosevelt, Bing Crosby, J.P. Morgan, and Gary Cooper.
Today the town isn't nearly as full, but you can get a great meal on the floating restraunt or
rent a boat at the Hope Marina. Just beyond the marina on the peninsula is the Sam Owen
Campground, with over 80 campsites, a wonderful beach, and boat ramp, Sam Owen ranks as one of
North Idaho's finest settings. You will want to drive slow through the area as hundreds of
whitetail deer make this preserve their home. In the fall and winter Bald Eagles are often seen
watching the water for their next meal.
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