Officially known as Coeur d’Alene (KOR də-LAYN) Lake, the lake is commonly referred to as “Lake Coeur d’Alene,” and is named after the Coeur d’Alene people. The lake extends 25 miles in length with over 109 miles of shoreline. Lake Coeur d’Alene is well known for its beauty and unique shape- formed by ancient floods. This lake is home to many water-based activities such as barge cruises, parasailing, paddle boats, and much more. You can even launch your boat directly in CdA at McEuen Park or on Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive if you are in the city on the lake, or from many other places around the lake as well. 

Neighboring Recreation

Coeur d’Alene Lake is chock full of activities for groups, families, and individuals alike. The area is most popular in the summer due to the gorgeous weather and moderate climate. Although, even in the winter, it provides exciting activities like bald eagle watching!

There are lots of trails surrounding the lake for cycling, jogging, and walking too. There are two trails, though, that are the most well know.

They are the North Idaho Centennial Trail, following the lake’s northern shores, as well as the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes- along the southern end. There are also many many hiking trails all around the area found on various mobile apps and websites as well! (We like to use alltrails.com in particular!)

On, In, and Over the Lake

Lake Coeur d’Alene has a lot of water-based activities thanks to its being a relatively large lake for the area. Its popularity with tourists and locals alike has spurred lots of growth and traffic. Even our neighbors in nearby Spokane, Washington, enjoy visiting the lake for a miniature getaway. It’s considered a refreshing change of scenery from the local concrete jungle! Thanks to this beautifully perfect storm- businesses have been able to take root and make the lake even more of a place to be!

With the lake being such a massive part of local culture, it’s no surprise that water sports have made their way to being some of the most popular things to do. The list of options is long enough to ensure almost everyone can find something to do that they enjoy! From boating to diving, there are plenty of options for you to do as the main event on a trip, or as a bonus activity to other plans- like camping and hiking!

For more water-based activities, there are many locations for water sports like jet skiing, boating, wakeboarding, and parasailing. There are also places for going diving to see the number of Ford Model T’s and sunken shipwrecks that have found their way to the bottom of the lake! Consider looking more into these local businesses for help getting out and above Lake Coeur d’Alene!

ROW Rentals

ROW is a local part of a big whole! Since they started in 1979, they’ve taken locals on hundreds of guided adventures, giving people experiences they’ll tell their family and friends time and time again! And with a mission statement like “Sharing Nature – Enriching Lives,” we can’t help but mention them!

Brooks Seaplane

Brooks Seaplane offers a truly unique experience. Getting to take to the skies and see the lake from an eagle’s eye view is a breathtaking experience that everyone should have! For the adrenaline seeker, flying up to 800 feet above the lake in the open air is a dream come true! Being suspended in the sky is a surreally beautiful experience.