Horseshoe Lake Tested Our Luck on a WINDY Paddle Tour

Horseshoe Lake, nestled in the pine forests of Pend Oreille County, Washington, is a 135-acre lake known for its distinctive horseshoe shape. Located approximately 8.5 miles northwest of the town of Elk, it sits about four miles north of the Spokane County line and one mile east of Stevens County.

Natural Features and Geology

The lake is fed by the Little Spokane River, which enters via Exley Falls on the northeast side and exits on the southeast. Exley Falls is a picturesque waterfall with pools at its base, popular for cooling off during summer months. Above the falls lies Corine Pool, another natural feature enjoyed by visitors.

A notable geological feature near the lake is the Devil's Well, a large vertical hole in the rock on the east side of the lake. This formation was likely created by swirling waters during the Missoula Floods, a series of cataclysmic glacial floods that occurred at the end of the last Ice Age.

Recreational Use

Horseshoe Lake is a popular destination for kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Due to a 5 mph speed limit, the lake maintains a tranquil environment, free from jet skis and high-speed boats. Anglers can find a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, kokanee, largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead catfish, and lake trout.

Public access is available year-round via a gravel boat launch managed by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Facilities include a gravel parking lot and a vault toilet, though there are no ADA accommodations or camping facilities.

Ecological Significance

The area surrounding Horseshoe Lake, including the West Branch of the Little Spokane River and nearby Fan Lake, is part of the Rustlers Gulch conservation area. This region encompasses over 2,700 acres of diverse habitats, such as wetlands, riparian zones, and forests, supporting a variety of wildlife including bald eagles, moose, black bears, and several amphibian species.

Historical Context

While specific historical records of Horseshoe Lake are limited, the broader region of Pend Oreille County has a rich history. The area was originally inhabited by the Kalispel people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. European exploration began in the early 19th century, with fur traders like David Thompson navigating the Pend Oreille River. The arrival of settlers and the development of railroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought significant changes to the region.

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