The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a 73-mile paved trail spanning the Idaho panhandle between Mullan and Plummer. It was created through a unique partnership between the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, Union Pacific Railroad, the U. S. Government and the State of Idaho. The trail begins in the historic Silver Valley, continues along the Coeur d'Alene River, past scenic Lake Coeur d'Alene and through rolling farmland to Plummer. Twenty developed trailheads provide entry points and there are seventeen scenic waysides along the route for picnicking.
The Park Today
December 2009
For all you trail lovers out there who have been anxiously waiting to dust off your cross country skis, we have started to receive snow on the trail. When we receive another 12 inches we will start to groom portions of the trail for skiing.
The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is one of the most spectacular trails in the western United States. Here, you will find 73 miles of smooth asphalt that’s perfect for road bikers and in-line skaters.
The trail nearly spans the Panhandle of Idaho as it runs along rivers, beside lakes and through Idaho’s historic Silver Valley.
Click here to download a brochure and detailed map.
What to Expect
You don’t have to be fit to enjoy this trail with its gentle grade and smooth surface. The trail has 20 developed trailheads and 17 scenic waysides that have picnic tables and benches. Dispersed along the trail are 36 unique bridges and trestles that cross mountain creeks, whitewater rivers and tranquil lakes.
The east end of the trail passes through a narrow mountain valley once heavily mined for silver. The valley is dotted with numerous small historic mining communities each offering their own unique features. The middle section of the trail follows the tranquil Coeur d’Alene River, passing fifteen small lakes and marshes loaded with waterfowl. The west end of the trail lies along the shoreline of scenic Coeur d’Alene Lake for six miles. It crosses a 3100-foot bridge/trestle to Heyburn State Park, the Northwest’s oldest state park. The trail then follows the remote forested Plummer Creek canyon for six miles, ending in the community of Plummer.
Unauthorized Use
No ATVs, electric golf carts, electric or gas powered bicycles, four-wheel drive vehicles or any motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail, shoulder of the trail or within the trail corridor.
Member Sought for Trail of Coeur d'Alenes Commission
Learn more!
What are the roles and responsibilities of a Trail Commission member?
Download an application.
Submit completed applications to:
Lonnie Johnson - Old mission / Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes State Park Manager
ljohnson@idpr.idaho.gov, Phone: (208) 628-3814, Fax: (208) 682-4032
IDPR North Region Service Center
dwhite@idpr.idaho.gov / 2885 Kathleen Avenue, Suite 1, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Phone: (208) 769-1511, Fax: (208) 769-1418