Top 10 Water Activities in Coeur d’Alene

It is a little known fact that Idaho has some of the most truly beautiful areas any outdoor lover or nature enthusiast could dream of. From numerous little-known hiking trails and huckleberry picking spots to countless opportunities for adventure and all four seasons, Idaho has it all. With all of the cities and small towns, you can find a recreational activity in almost every area. After all, there is a reason Idaho’s nickname is known as the Gem State.  If you can’t find something here you want to try, check out VisitIdaho.org.

An Idaho city that is one of the most popular North Idaho cities is known as Coeur d’Alene, meaning “heart of an awl” in French, or “sharp-hearted”. This city is sure to capture the attention and heart of any person who sets eyes on it, which is a major reason why this city is so well-loved. The locals adore where they are from, and the citizens in general are known to show their pride in being a part of the Pacific Northwest. There are many recreational opportunities and attractions that take place all year round, but Coeur d’Alene is loved by many for all things involving the water, especially in the warmer seasons.


On the Water

In Coeur d’Alene, the city has taken full advantage of being built around a stunning, picturesque lake known as Lake Coeur d’Alene. Coeur d’Alene has been called the playground of the Pacific Northwest time and time again, partially thanks to this 30-mile stretch of water. Lake Coeur d’Alene offers a wide variety of things to do that have made it a popular area for tourists and locals alike. Most of the downtown area and the entertainment it offers are only short walks away from the lake’s shoreline, and many of the activities on the water are for all ages.

Other bodies of water that feed into Lake Coeur d’Alene are the Saint Joe River and Coeur d’Alene River. Both offer activities separate from the heart of the city in the downtown area as well. On the water, numerous local companies use the popular body of water to provide warm weather activities such as parasailing, rides in seaplanes that take off and land in the lake, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and more.

Kayak around Tubbs Hill and down the lake with Coeur d’Alene Adventures. This locally owned, adventure-driven company offers plenty to do on the lake and on the shores. Take a peaceful scenic float down the Lower Coeur d’Alene River, which is great for all ages and for those who want the possibility of seeing wildlife. Their experienced guides take visitors on fly fishing and spin fishing trips, and they also offer kayak, stand up paddle board, and boat rentals on Lake Coeur d’Alene. ROW Adventures is similar in activities offered, and it was rated #1 in “Things to Do” in the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene region by locals and visitors. In Coeur d’Alene specifically, ROW offers all-day and sunset guided kayaking rides that are sure to stay in your memory for years to come. They also have fly fishing guides that help guests reel in big cutthroat trout on the Saint Joe River or Coeur d’Alene River. Both of these adventure companies have many more activities to do outside of the water, and they would be excellent choices for any outdoor lover!

If you are looking for more of a thrilling experience, CDA Parasail gives you the amazing chance to see the lake in a completely different way. These parasailing experts drive their boat along the lake while those daring enough will soar at a maximum of 800 feet above the lake with a close loved one. There are four options available, depending on if you wish to be 600 or 800 feet out and flying solo or with a friend. The team harnesses you into the parachute and operates a hydraulic winch system, which means flyers are able to take-off and land on the back of the boat. You can choose to have your toes dipped in the water, be soaked in the water, or stay completely dry. Therefore, you can choose to wear your everyday clothes or wear a swimsuit. Others waiting to fly will ride along in the boat and can pass the time taking in the views of the lake. You can expect to be in the air for about 10 minutes and on the boat out in the lake for up to an hour. This attraction is a great way to see Coeur d’Alene through a bird’s-eye view while also checking off a bucket list item and witnessing all the beauty the area has to offer. CDA Parasail is one of the top attractions available in Coeur d’Alene, and your safety and fun experience is always a top priority. They also have received many rave reviews saying that it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and well-worth it to give it a try.

Brooks Seaplane Tours will give you and your group an outstanding tour around Lake Coeur d’Alene, as well as numerous other breathtaking sights in the surrounding areas. The Lake Coeur d’Alene Loop Flight option is a 40-mile, 20-minute flight covers Lake Coeur d’Alene, as well as the Coeur d’Alene, St. Joe and Spokane rivers, Fernan Lake, the Bitterroot Mountains, the Washington Palouse, the world’s only moveable, floating golf green, and finally the city of Coeur d’Alene. The Pend Oreille/ Hayden Flight option is an 80-mile, 40-minute flight which starts out at the north end of Lake Coeur d’Alene and proceeds north to cover Pend Oreille Lake, Hayden Lake, and Farragut State Park. You will also see the Cabinet Mountains in Montana, the Selkirk Mountains, the Clark Fork and Pend Oreille rivers, the city of Sandpoint, Schweitzer Ski Resort, Spirit Lake, Mt. Spokane Ski Resort, Twin Lakes and then back over the city of Coeur d’Alene.
The seaplanes take off and land in Coeur d’Alene lake, and the highly experienced and friendly pilots will provide information about the sights you will see, as well as some history. While there is a lot to see in a short amount of time, taking a flight with these seaplanes is sure to be worth it for anyone wanting to see more of the gorgeous areas in and outside of Coeur d’Alene.

If you would like a more relaxed experience with the lake, taking a Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruise is the way to go. These cruise boats are one of the lake’s staples, in warmer months and even when the weather is colder. They will give you the sights right on the lake, getting you closer to wildlife and all of the scenery. The two-deck Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises boats are climate-controlled and have picture windows, sound systems, and full bar service, which help create a wonderful experience on the water. There are many cruises that you can choose from that will be a perfect fit with your outing with your loved ones, no matter what time of year. Cruise around the lake with a romantic sunset dinner and a loved one, or take the scenic route with friends and family. Taking a scenic cruise on the gorgeous Saint Joe River is also an option. There are many beautiful sights to see in Coeur d’Alene, and the rail of a cruise boat is one of the best places to appreciate it.

Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises can accommodate romantic boat weddings, receptions and rehearsal dinners as well. Reserving your own lake cruise boat for any events such as family reunions, business functions or other special events is also an option. Whatever cruise you decide on, these cruise boats will be sure to give you the relaxation and views you have been searching for.

One of the best qualities about Idaho is that outdoor adventures can always be found, whether that is with a guide or on your own terms. There are countless prime fishing spots in Coeur d’Alene alone, and a fishing license is your only restriction. Likewise, you can bring your own watercraft to the water and use one of the numerous dock locations to have smooth, scenic sailing wherever you want to go and for however long, enjoying the sunshine. The possibilities on the water are nearly endless!


By the Shores

Being the top-rated in outdoor activities in the Coeur d’Alene area, Timberline Adventures is the first and only zipline adventure in the area, and they give you an experience completely unique to the company. With breathtaking views of Coeur d’Alene lake in the distance, these ziplines will give you views of Coeur d’Alene and surrounding areas unlike anything you’ve seen before. This adventurous activity is for ages 7 and up that are looking for a thrilling yet extremely safe experience. The committed guides at Timberline are there to ensure that all visitors feel comfortable and entertained, and the team values safety and customer satisfaction above all else. If you are not convinced on total safety and a fun time, just take a look at their plentiful rave and positive reviews.
Timberline hosts 7 epic world class ziplines, 2 breathtaking sky bridges and 2 thrilling auto-belays, as well as a treehouse 30 feet up that hosts lunches and smores. Timberline also offers four ziplining options that are equally fun and sure to give you your adventure fix. Choose between their three ziplining tours that vary in what they include, or pick the to-the-point half tour and zipline from platform to platform. Timberline prides themselves in meeting and exceeding industry standards to bring you one of the most unique, secure experiences while still taking in the sights from the trees in all their glory.


Camping

One of the most popular things to do in Idaho is take a relaxing camping trip to escape from civilization and reconnect with nature. In Coeur d’Alene, there are many camping sites and campgrounds that are by the water and, of course, all around the area as well. By the lake, Camp Coeur d’Alene is a terrific campground that has water access to Lake Coeur d’Alene. It is known to be wild and remote, and yet it is located only 15 minutes from the heart of Coeur d’Alene. Wildlife that are resident to the area are spotted makes the experience more enjoyable for all guests, as well as having access to the water for canoeing or kayaking and swimming. Hiking trails can be found around in this area as well. Camp Coeur d’Alene has its own cabins for your use, and RV spaces and tent spaces are also available for your stay.

On the east shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Bell Bay Campground is a popular campsite for summer getaways and relaxation. Bell Bay Campground is 35 miles from Coeur d’Alene and consists of 2 campground loops (upper and lower loops) with 26 campsites and 4 boat campsites, a day use area and a group camping area. A hiking trail connects the loops.The lower lakeside loop has 15 campsites including one host site, and a day use parking area for the docks and boating. A trail from the lower loop will allow you to access three docks, campfire rings and picnic tables. Bell Bay campers use these docks for swimming and fishing.The upper loop has 12 campsites and serves as the group site; this loop overlooks the lake, but has no direct lake access. The Bell Bay Group Site can accommodate 60 people and can be reserved through the National Recreation Reservation Service. This campground, as well as the many other campsites, are only the start of the camping Coeur d’Alene offers.

Mica Bay Boater Park Campground is more than just a place for boating or camping. This bring-your-own-tent campground right on the water is usually accessed by campers by boat, but you can also hike in. There are picnic tables and a playground onsite, so this the perfect site to bring kids along with you. There is a beach area, as well as hiking, horseback riding, wildlife watching, and a swimming hole close by. Pets are also allowed. This campground is for any camper that loves the water and does not mind being one with the forest!


Hiking Trails

Hiking is also extremely popular in this area, and many locals have grown up following the numerous trails, most of which are away from the city. One of the most well-known and frequently used hiking trails is known as Tubbs Hill. This area consists of over 120 acres and is bordered by Lake Coeur d’Alene on the west, south and east sides, so there are plenty of views of the lake to be found. There are several miles of easy to moderate hiking trails on the hill that provide spectacular scenery for all ages to enjoy, and leashed dogs are also allowed. The trail head on the west side of Tubbs Hill is located in the south western corner of McEuen Park, which is very close to the water as well and has multiple attractions. Climb down to the beautiful beaches that are exclusive to Tubbs Hill and soak up some sun. If you are in need of some adventure or adrenaline, you can also do some cliff diving in certain parts of its trails. Tubbs Hill is sure to show you how fun hiking can be while also taking in its striking scenic views.

For those looking for a kid-friendly and easy trail, the Blackwell Island Recreation Site is the perfect choice for you. With views overlooking the Spokane River, this area has a reservable group picnic shelter, multiple individual picnic tables and areas, a boat launch and docks, and a one-quarter mile boardwalk trail. This trail also has multiple viewing decks perfect for spotting wildlife. An on-site native garden featuring north Idaho native species educates visitors about the connections between people, plants and pollinators. The site and facilities are also fully accessible for those with disabilities, dogs on leashes are allowed. This cozy spot off the Spokane River is the perfect spot for a lunch picnic or a relaxed family outing.

The Mineral Ridge Scenic Area is a popular area to get a good hike in and appreciate Idaho’s views. The 3.3-mile trail was the first BLM recreation site developed in Idaho in 1963. It now offers an invigorating hike and outstanding views over the Beauty and Wolf Lodge bays of Coeur d’Alene Lake. The BLM’s Trail Guide describes the plants, animals and interrelationships of the forest at 22 marked stations along the trail, which is perfect for anyone interested in learning more about Idaho’s native species. The Scenic Area has paved parking that serves as a trailhead and picnic area. There are pleasantly landscaped turf areas, drinking water, and two picnic shelters with tables, as well as numerous individual picnic tables. All trailhead facilities except the upper picnic shelter are also accessible to visitors with disabilities. The Mineral Ridge Boat Launch lies below the trail. The trail is 11 miles from the city, making this the perfect area for anyone looking for an escape to nature but still located close.

The Beauty Bay Recreation Area is a small but pleasant highway rest stop area, perfect for a short, easy hike and a place for sightseeing. There is an 800 foot paved trail leading to a viewing deck that overlooks Lake Coeur d’Alene’s stunning Beauty Bay, perfect for bird watching or spotting wildlife. From that trail, there is an additional half mile, unpaved scenic loop trail with more beautiful sights to see. This is one of the best spots to bring family and kids for a brisk walk, then have a picnic afterwards to enjoy the warm weather.

Right in the middle of the popular Riverstone area, Riverstone Park is just on the other side of buildings and shopping attractions. There is a quiet, easy walk along the Spokane River that is boat accessible, as well as potential bird watching. The community park has high-quality restaurants scattered in the area, and it occasionally hosts outdoor music in its amphitheater.

The park also has a group picnic shelter with BBQ grills, other open space picnic areas, pedestrian and bicycle paths, a playground, and a small dog park. Come to this small but pleasant park for the attractions and find the beauty of the river just on the other side.

The beautiful Blue Creek Bay trail is where hikers go over an extensive network of former logging roads into about a six mile lollipop loop. This is known to be easy to hike, but the forest is more open, and meadows are scattered around, providing less shade than most other trails available in the area. This makes this trail more suitable to enjoy on a nice and refreshing Spring day. This trail is located only a few miles from Coeur d’Alene, and the lower trailhead offers a peaceful lakeside site right on Beauty Bay, where there is non-motorized boat launch, several docks, and some picnic areas. Some of the trail paths offer the best views of Lake Coeur d’Alene, especially Wolf Lodge and Beauty Bays and Mineral Ridge. You are sure to see not only views of the lake, but many glens and native plants will be spotted as well.


Golfing

The famous 14-hole Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course is set along the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, and the course ranks among the best in the world by golf enthusiasts for its pampering service and beautifully manicured course conditions. Coeur d’Alene has another golf course away from the lake, but the city prides itself on this famous course located right next to the city’s signature resort hotel. The course gained its fame with having outstanding landscaping and the world’s only floating, moveable green. The 14th hole is a challenging floating green that is computer controlled and is moved to new distances daily; players are shuttled out to the island green by a sleek, electric shuttle boat. The rest of the golf course is an experience as well. To get to the course, you arrive in a custom mahogany lake shuttle and are greeted by your own personal forecaddie. Breathtaking panoramic lake views from nearly every hole can be taken in by players, and the award-winning, expertly groomed course aesthetics compliment the experience. Any golf player would find the games they play on this course unforgettable!

The adventures are calling. Idaho has so much to offer to people of all ages, and the beautiful city of Coeur d’Alene is no different. Between all the activities available during the warm seasons to the moments that will make your heart soar, this city is sure to amaze you. Coeur d’Alene’s rivers and lakes undoubtedly are the highlight of this gorgeous area. From the Spokane River to Fernan Lake to Lake Coeur d’Alene and its many bays, there are opportunities everywhere for picturesque sightseeing and relaxation. Idaho promises that visitors and homegrown locals alike are sure to get lost in its majesty and breath-taking beauty. With the help of Coeur d’Alene and its many thrilling and relaxing water activities, in the water or on shore, you are guaranteed to make memories that will last a lifetime.


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Lakeshore Realty

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