Coeur d'Alene is Where Northern Idaho's Heart Beats
Tips on renting in Coeur d'Alene
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, a picturesque lakeside city where your family’s next adventure begins. Imagine starting your day at Coeur d’Alene City Beach, where gentle waves invite you to relax, followed by afternoons spent wandering the scenic 2.2-mile Tubbs Hill trail, renowned for its breathtaking views of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Drawing more than 150,000 visitors each year, this natural oasis is a beloved spot among locals. For a dose of excitement, McEuen Park awaits with its lively playground and splash pad, perfect for children seeking fun.
Families in search of thrills will find Silverwood Theme Park just a short drive away, offering over 70 rides and attractions for every age and interest. Back in town, the Museum of North Idaho captivates with interactive exhibits that make the region’s history engaging for all ages—a true treasure for inquisitive families.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll down Sherman Avenue, where the inviting aromas from local restaurants mingle with the soft glow of streetlights, leading you past charming shops and boutiques. Here in Coeur d’Alene, the blend of natural beauty and warm hospitality creates unforgettable experiences for families to enjoy together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Coeur d'Alene has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To experience the breathtaking beauty of Coeur d’Alene Lake, take a stroll along the 2-mile Tubbs Hill Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests. For a more immersive experience, enjoy a lake cruise or rent a boat to explore the lake’s 135 miles of shoreline. Visit Coeur d’Alene City Park to relax on its sandy beaches, and consider a guided Segway tour to discover the area’s scenic highlights, all set against the backdrop of the vibrant downtown area and the magnificent 30-mile lake.
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For those looking to launch a boat on Lake Coeur d’Alene, the Blackwell Island Boat Launch is a top choice, especially for those staying in downtown Coeur d’Alene. This launch offers ease of access, excellent facilities, and is conveniently close to nearby attractions. Alternatively, Higgens Point Boat Launch at the northern end of the lake provides ample parking and well-maintained facilities, making it an ideal starting point for your boating adventure.
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Yes, there are several rental facilities for kayaks and paddleboards on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Coeur d’Alene Watersports, located right on the lake, offers rentals of paddle boards, kayaks, and paddle boats, with convenient pricing and friendly staff. Alternatively, Kayak Coeur d’Alene provides kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals delivered to the North shore of the lake seven days a week from May through September, starting at $45 for a single kayak or paddle board rental.
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Around Lake Coeur d’Alene, some of the most scenic hiking trails include the Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail, a 3.3-mile moderate hike offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, and the Indian Cliffs Trail in Heyburn State Park, a 2.9-mile loop through old-growth cedar groves and open meadows with sweeping vistas across Lake Chatcolet. For a shorter, yet equally stunning experience, hike Tubbs Hill in downtown Coeur d’Alene, a short but scenic trail with great views of the lake. These trails are generally open from mid-April to October, making them ideal for spring and summer hikes.
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To watch the sunset over Lake Coeur d’Alene, head to Tubbs Hill, a nature reserve in the heart of Coeur d’Alene, offering trails that wind through forests and along the shoreline with stunning lake views. For a more secluded experience, visit the Mineral Ridge Scenic Area, where a 3.3-mile loop trail takes you through dense forests and wildflower meadows to a panoramic viewpoint perfect for capturing the vibrant colors of the setting sun. Alternatively, enjoy a sunset cruise on the lake, which provides a serene and enchanting atmosphere as the sun’s reflections dance on the water’s surface.
