A Cycle Vacation on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes

by Estar Holmes
(Harrison, Idaho)

Bicycle trail along south Lake Coeur d'Alene

For people who don't mind transporting themselves on a bicycle, North Idaho's Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes provides a great option for a very affordable family getaway.

The Panhandle's 72-mile paved recreational trail spans some spectacular scenery from Plummer Canyon on the Coeur d'Alene Indian Reservation to aromatic conifer forests that reach into the Bitterroot Mountains near the Montana state line. Visitors to the non-motorized trail will be treated to the sparkling waters of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the Coeur d'Alene River most of the way.

Arrive at any of 17 trailheads by car or leave the vehicle behind and arrive from as far away as Spokane International Airport by using centennial trails and public transit. There are also a couple of local tour companies that will handle logistics.

In addition to spectacular scenery, there is plenty to see and do with options that appeal to a variety of tastes. From pursuits like mountain biking, camping, huckleberry picking and hiking, to fishing, floating and kayaking local rivers, exploring historic museums and underground mine tours, or taking in live performances in towns along the way, it's easy to create a memorable vacation along this trail.

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