6 Reasons to Visit Coeur d’Alene

Celebrated Idaho destination is a summertime eden

While it may sound like a French village, Coeur d’Alene (pronounced core-da-lane) is decidedly all-American. This northern Idaho lakefront community is a favored, family style vacation destination that has become legendary for its five-star recreation, glacier-carved landscapes and four-season events and festivals.

The next time you’re searching for something unique and enticing, consider Coeur d’Alene. Here are six reasons why:

1. Golf is superb. No doubt you’ve heard about the floating-green thrill found at Coeur d’Alene Resort, the signature feature of a 6,800-yard course designed by Scott Miller. Also in the mix: StoneRidge Golf Course, a 7,000-yard Frank Burandt design in nearby Blanchard; and Circling Raven Golf Club a 7,200-yard layout crafted by Gene Bates at Coeur D’Alene Casino Resort in nearby Worley.

2. Lake Coeur d’Alene is more than water sports. Of course there is sublime sailing, fishing, water skiing, paddle-boarding, kayaking and wind surfing. This 25-mile-long natural wonder also entices with dinner cruises, charming lakeside communities, premier lodging, boutique shopping, eclectic spas and shoreline festivals.

3. Silverwood Theme Park is a blast. Located just north of Coeur d’Alene, the summer resort offers 70 rides, slides, shows and attractions, including four roller coasters, Boulder Beach Water Park, a steam engine train, live entertainment, restaurants and more.

4. Ride the Route of the Hiawatha. The Bitterroot Mountains once were regarded among the most scenic railroad landscapes in America. Today it’s accessed via a spectacular, 13-mile trail that bikes or hikes over seven high trestles and through eight open tunnels. Frequent sightings of moose, deer and elk add to the eye candy.

5. Take the family to Silver Mountain Resort. Just 30 minutes east of the city, the four-season property offers summertime travelers adrenaline-pumping mountain biking, scenic gondola rides, restaurants, lodging and—for guests staying at Morning Star Lodge—a thrilling indoor water park.

6. Party hardy at the Coeur d’Alene Oktoberfest. Scheduled for late September, the weekend celebration of gourmet brats and brew underscores this magical “Playground of the Northwest.”

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Chris Duthie is a contributor to Colorado AvidGolfer, the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it. It publishes eight issues annually and proudly delivers daily content via www.coloradoavidgolfer.com.

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