A fun-filled summer is still in reach, and just a short drive away
The last few months have been more challenging, yet some things have remained consistent: North Idaho is a world-class destination with outdoor recreation the whole family can enjoy… safely and easily. Have you spent a summer in Coeur d’Alene before? And if you haven’t visited recently, make this summer the one to remember. While travel into Idaho is still not permitted without a two-week quarantine, that doesn’t stop you from dreaming a little and then making your plans and reservations, right now.
You’ve been cooped up forever (OK, maybe not, but it can seem like that!) so picture yourself on the TRAIL OF THE COEUR D’ALENES, 72 miles of mostly flat trail along waterways, farmlands, and bits of forest with numerous trailheads, restroom facilities, and picnic benches along the way. The ROUTE OF THE HIAWATHAS is scheduled to reopen May 22, and has you exploring 15 miles of wooded trail, 10 tunnels and seven trestles offering breathtaking views. The mostly downhill ride isn’t strenuous, which also makes it a great option for families. Bike rentals are available, as well as shuttle service from the end of the trail back to the parking area.
Plan your unforgettable camping trip. WOLF LODGE CAMPGROUND, is your home base for excellent fishing, exploring nearby Chain Lakes and trails, bike riding, and more. Now is the time to put in your reservations for July and August campsites at popular Idaho campgrounds and state parks like BELL BAY CAMPGROUND in the Coeur d’Alene National Forest, CHATCOLET CAMPGROUND, which is right on Lake Chatcolet in Heyburn State Park and FARRAGUT STATE PARK on pristine Lake Pend Oreille. Bring the boat and spend the day exploring hidden bays or bring the horses and camp right alongside them!
They might be opening a bit later than usual, but SILVERWOOD THEME PARK is opening, with some modifications to ensure the health and safety of its guests. It’s fun for all ages at five distinct adventure areas with some of the best roller coasters in the country, along with its beloved BOULDER BEACH waterpark full of water slides, wave pools and splash zones. How about camping there this year? Spots go fast at the RV park and campground, so make reservations now (silverwoodthemepark.com/lodging). There are 123 full RV hookups and more than three dozen tent sites.
Golfing is naturally socially distant, and when it comes to North Idaho, it’s absolutely world class. Golf Digest put CIRCLING RAVEN GOLF COURSE in their top 100 for its challenging play across 620 acres of rugged beauty and local wildlife. Or treat yourself to a round at the COEUR D’ALENE RESORT GOLF COURSE, loved by locals and experts alike, including Golf Digest and Golf Magazine. You won’t find better-maintained greens in the region and playing the world’s only floating green is a memory you deserve to have.
Not everyone in your party is into golf, and that’s OK; the COEUR D’ALENE RESORT has plenty for everyone, including the world’s longest floating boardwalk, perfect for sunset strolls. Plus, you’re just steps away from downtown Coeur d’Alene and the lake for paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, beaching and even parasailing.
And if you need a little pampering to look forward to, how about booking a decadent day at the Resort SPA later this summer, to help you relax, refresh and dream big about your North Idaho Summer.
Idaho Rebounds
Idaho has developed a comprehensive plan to bounce back from suspended business operations during the stay-at-home order. Called Idaho Rebounds, it outlines four phases of reopening with an extensive, cooperative effort to keep Idaho’s citizens — and its visitors — safe and healthy.
Assuming requirements for North Idaho’s lower-than-average positive test scores continue to be met, Idaho moves into phase two beginning May 16. That’s when gyms, hair salons, and recreation facilities can reopen. Restaurants, which have worked tirelessly to care for their employees and feed folks through takeout orders, may also reopen, adhering to strict safety protocols. It’s important to note that during this stage, out-of-state visitors are being asked to isolate for 14-days after entering Idaho.
Phase three is scheduled to begin May 30, easing Idaho’s nonessential travel guidelines. That means out-of-state visitors will no longer be asked to isolate for two weeks after entering the state. Although larger venues like bars and sporting venues will remain closed, small gatherings of 10-50 people will be permitted (so plan that modest family get-together in the park).
By June 13, if all goes as planned, many restrictions will have been lifted. Of course, the plan is just that; dates and protocols might shift as we all ease into this new normal. And the timeline is dependent upon all of us doing our part to allow plenty of room between ourselves and others, making good choices, and helping Idaho rebound.
What’s Open?
While the governor’s orders present a basic timeline of when businesses can reopen, some may be opening on a slower timeline. To see what businesses are open, you can find an up-to-date list, by category, at coeurdalene.org/we-are-open/. This site will be constantly updated with the hotels, restaurants, shops, art galleries, and activities open in Coeur d’Alene.
