Enhance your exploration of the Coeur d’Alene region with a guided tour tuned to your precise interests and level of adventure
There is so much to see and do in and around Coeur d’Alene, which makes guided tours a great way to ensure you don’t miss a single thing as you explore the outdoors.
Coeur d’Alene Lake, for example, might be one of the most majestic of North Idaho’s lakes, but it’s by no means the only one. Gain a new perspective on lake country with BROOKS SEAPLANE, which offers numerous scenic flight options guided by a former commercial airline pilot. The 30-minute Chain Lakes flight skirts the national forests and down the “chain” lakes, each one an oasis of wildlife and beauty, over to the charming town of Harrison and home again (adults, $150; ages 5-11, $100). Don’t forget your camera!
Rather be on the water than above it? ROW ADVENTURE CENTER can put you there, from white-knuckle rafting to gentle floats. ROW knows Idaho, with 40 years to their credit, including worldwide tours recognized by National Geographic. Their sunset kayak tours through Sept. 1 are a family-friendly way to enjoy beautiful Fernan Lake just off Lake Coeur d’Alene and popular with anglers. Tickets include all necessary gear for a gentle two-hour paddle (adults, $54; ages 5-12, $47).
Although they’re known for water-based tours, ROW is a great resource for other adventures, too, including hiking and biking. Join them on a guided bicycle tour of the TRAIL OF THE COEUR D’ALENES.
Learn about the region’s history — miners, missionaries, fur traders, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe — as you pedal parts of the magnificent 73-mile trail. Tickets (adults, $89; ages 5-12, $79) include bicycle, helmet and transportation to and from your departure site.
Learn more about the region’s rich mining history on an hour-and-a-half tour of Wallace via their vintage trolley, then descend into the Earth for the SILVER MINE TOUR (adults, $16; ages 60-and-up, $14; ages 4-16, $8.50; family rate, two adults, two children, $49).
Less physically adventurous, but no less appealing to your curiosity are tours offered by the MUSEUM OF NORTH IDAHO. Tuesday through Saturday (by appointment), their local historian may arrive looking like any number of local figures — a fur trader, a riverboat captain — to walk you through Coeur d’Alene. Tickets are $15 and include admission to the museum, as well as parking nearby.
Finally, don’t forget the tummy. Eat your way through Coeur d’Alene, including six to seven tastings and a bit of local lore with BLUE MOOSE FOOD TOURS. Adults, $59 ($79 with alcohol); children, $45.
Special Events
Smokey Joe’s Cafe
AUGUST 8-25
Set in the idealized ’50s, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, presented by Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre, is a compelling musical about love lost and won, brought to life with some of the greatest songs ever recorded. $49 adult, $42 senior, $27 child; Friday-Saturday at 7:30 pm, Sunday at 2 pm; Salvation Army Kroc Center.
ArtWalk
AUGUST 9
Enjoy the last ArtWalk of the summer, as dozens of art galleries, restaurants and businesses showcase the work of talented local, regional and national artists. Free; go to artsandculturecda.org/artwalk to download a map of locations.
Ales for the Trail
AUGUST 10
Sample great local and regional craft beer and cider from almost two dozen producers while supporting the North Idaho Centennial Trail. Live music from Kelly Hughs, food trucks and a free bike corral round out the event. $30 for six 5-ounce pours; 2-8 pm; McEuen Park.
