Location: Coeur d'Alene
Top Things to do in Coeur d'Alene
The 10 Best Nature & Parks in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho (ID)
While it may sound like a French village, Coeur d'Alene (pronounced core-da-lane) is decidedly all-American. Located in northern Idaho, this lakefront resort offers five-star amenities in a beautifully rugged setting. Visitors enjoy everything from pristine golf courses and professional quality tennis courts to hiking on pine-forested trails and biking through natural preserves. The sparkling Coeur d'Alene Lake is the center of most of the action. Sunbathe on the beach, water ski, kayak or tour the area by sea plane. At night, dine in fine restaurants and see top-rated shows. With upscale attractions in an unspoiled setting, Coeur d'Alene offers visitors the best of both worlds.
Restaurants in Coeur d'Alene
1. Coeur d'Alene National Forest
2. Coeur d'Alene Lake
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,397 reviews
Fed by waters from three different rivers, this pristine, 30-mile lake offers just about every water sport imaginable.
Reviewed By Gregg-Midlo
Whether you want to water ski, tube, fish, hike, bike, golf or just cruise the lake you will be amazed as the contrasting vistas of cool water against the green mountains and blue skies. Be on the lookout for bears, moose, eagles, egrets and more. What a magnificent place to create a memory.
3. Big Red's Barn
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By rickh57 - Portland, United States
My wife and I heard about this petting zoo from some friends who had petted the baby otters -- and we had to visit. We loved the otter encounter, having 3 wiggly baby otters to pet and enjoy. The other animals, including the wallabies, were so much fun too. It was well worth the visit.
4. Saint Joe River
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 57 reviews
Excellent cutthroat trout river.
Reviewed By AllanPHD - Coeur d'Alene, United States
Fishing is my life and there is no better river than the St Joe! You also have to visit during the sprint boat races as well!
5. Tubbs Hill Nature Trails
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 807 reviews
Offering a taste of the wilderness in downtown Coeur d'Alene, this self-guided two-mile trail loop has historical points along the way as well as several great viewing areas.
Reviewed By gin48 - Idaho, United States
First time hiking here and we were on a bit of a time schedule - we took the main loop around the lake. Even tho' the temps were in the hi 30's when we started, the sun eventually came out; and the views are spectacular. Next time we'll take the summit trail. Highly recommend for an easy to moderate hike with spectacular views.
6. North Idaho Centennial Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 175 reviews
This 22-mile paved trail is part of the Idaho Centennial Trail, which passes through 11 national forests and extends 1,200 miles from Nevada to the Canadian border.
Reviewed By 752jefferyg - Gainesville, United States
Beautiful bike trail that runs through the heart of Coeur d'Alene. We picked it up in the heart of downtown and rode all the way to the south end. (About 15 miles round trip). There is a section where you have to go through a neighborhood but it's well marked and easy to follow. Loved the scenic views. (Warning: There are some hills, so be prepared). Well worth it though, and you can rent bikes in town. We rented ours from Coeur d'Alene Bike Company, which is about one block off the trail.
7. Coeur d'Alene City Park and Independence Point
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 251 reviews
A sandy beach great for picnics and outdoor sports.
Reviewed By pupepause - Portland, United States
What a beautiful day and park. We enjoyed strolling this park. It was where you could see the lake and the trees were beautiful.
8. McEuen Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 241 reviews
Reviewed By HappyTraveler76 - Bothell, United States
This park has something for everyone. A truly fantastic location with activities for the young, young-at-heart, and those who may not be able to run like they used to. From splash pads to playgrounds to tennis and basketball courts, and an open field for volleyball, to sculptures and quick access to Tubbs Hill, this location cannot be beat. It is amazingly clean and its location on the waterfront lets you soak in the sun and the view, but also turn around and walk downtown for shopping or a bite to eat.
9. Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By rdlibby - Spokane, United States
This is a nice, moderately steep hike to start with great views at the top of the ridge. Large paved parking lot with a picnic area and restrooms. Very enjoyable experience.
10. Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By Stonecroft7 - Rexburg, United States
This car park is close to the Higgins Point boat launch and Higgins Point itself, which affords a nice view of Lake Couer d’Alene. During the winter we watched bald eagles catch fish in this area—so spectacular! Even in late winter it is a pretty place to enjoy the vista of the lake.
