The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes stretches 73 miles across northern Idaho’s most stunning landscapes, running from the old mining town of Mullan west to Plummer along a former Union Pacific Railroad corridor. Spanning three counties — Shoshone, Kootenai, and Benewah — this paved rail-trail is one of the finest long-distance cycling and walking paths in the Pacific Northwest.

What makes this trail exceptional is its variety. The eastern section winds through the historic Silver Valley, passing former mining communities where interpretive signs tell the story of Idaho’s silver boom. The middle stretch hugs the southern shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, delivering mile after mile of sparkling waterfront views with access points for fishing and wildlife watching. The western portion crosses the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation, rolling through open prairie and farmland with wide-sky panoramas.

The fully paved, relatively flat surface makes it accessible to cyclists of all skill levels, families with strollers, inline skaters, and wheelchair users. Fourteen trailheads with restrooms and parking are spaced along the route, making it easy to tackle in sections. Birdwatchers will find ospreys, bald eagles, and great blue herons along the lake and wetland stretches.

The best time to visit is late May through early October, when temperatures are comfortable and the trail is fully clear. Summer weekends draw the biggest crowds near Harrison and the lakeside segments.

Several campgrounds and lodging options sit within a short drive of the trail in towns like Wallace, Kellogg, and Harrison, making multi-day trips easy to plan.