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Coeur d’Alene Lake, a majestic natural wonder in Idaho’s Panhandle, stretches 25 miles long and offers a diverse array of experiences for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for jet skiing, fishing, and kitesurfing, with twelve public boat launches available. For those preferring to stay on land, the surrounding trails like Tubbs Hill Nature Trails and the North Idaho Centennial Trail provide scenic hikes with breathtaking views of the lake and the opposing mountainsides.
Nearby, McEuen Park and the Coeur d’Alene City Park are ideal spots to relax and enjoy the lake’s ambiance, with the added spectacle of seaplanes landing on the water. During winter, the lake transforms into a wildlife sanctuary as hundreds of bald eagles congregate to feed on spawning kokanee salmon.
In the vicinity, The Art Spirit Gallery showcases original works by regional artists, while Old Mission State Park offers a glimpse into the area’s historical significance. The Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway and St. Joe River Scenic Byway are must-drive routes for those who appreciate stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities or serene wellness retreats, Coeur d’Alene Lake is a destination that caters to all desires.
- Surface area (mi)
- 33.19
- Max depth (ft)
- 219.82
- Elevation (ft)
- 2129.27
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 130.49
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Fishing
- Fly Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Hiking
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Marinas on Coeur d'Alene Lake
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Coeur d'Alene Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, it is not entirely safe to swim in Coeur d’Alene Lake. Swimming carries risks due to contamination from lead and other heavy metals, which can be ingested if water, soil, or sand is accidentally swallowed. Exposures can be reduced by following cautionary instructions at recreational areas.
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Coeur d’Alene Lake is a popular destination because of its crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings. The lake offers swimming, hiking on scenic trails, and a unique floating boardwalk, with vibrant downtown shops and dining nearby. It also provides various recreational activities like boating, paddleboarding, and picnic areas by the shore.
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The daily bag limits for different fish species in Coeur d’Alene Lake are as follows: Chinook salmon limit is 2, none under 24 inches; Bass limit is 6 (Largemouth and Smallmouth combined); Kokanee limit is 15; Trout limit is 6. These limits help maintain the fish population’s sustainability. Specific limits vary by species to ensure conservation.
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The Coeur d’Alene City Beach is best for families. It has a long stretch of beach, water toy rentals, and is close to other family-friendly activities. It can get crowded near the resort, but it’s less crowded further away.#
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Towns near Coeur d’Alene Lake that offer outdoor recreation activities include Bayview, Hayden, and Post Falls. Bayview is known for hiking, biking, and boating on Lake Pend Oreille, while Hayden and Post Falls provide access to various lakes and forests for similar activities. These towns are close to Coeur d’Alene and offer a range of outdoor pursuits.
