Here at Lake Escapes Boat Rentals, we favor the warmer months for obvious reasons. However, here in Coeur d’Alene Idaho, we also live in a winter wonderland that promises gorgeous views no matter the time of year. It might be frozen water we’re looking at skiing on, but it’s still water and we love this wonderland we get to enjoy it in.
Check out these 3 cross country skiing locations to see this outdoor wonderland:
Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes
We’d encourage you to pick a part of this 73-mile trail and see Lake Coeur d’Alene surrounded by beautiful snow and crisp air. This trail was named one of the top 25 trails in the United States by the Rails to Trails Conservancy. It spans from Silver Valley all the way to Plummer and is ideal for snowshoeing or cross country skiing during the winter. (This is also an ideal trail to check out in the summer!) For more information, including all the way points and entry points along the trail, stop by the Idaho.gov site.
Mullan Road Historic Site
Get a little history while breathing in the chill winter air! This cross country trail is an interpretive trail for hiking and skiing that takes you near the top of the 4th of July Pass. It features remnants of the historic Mullan military wagon road circa 1861. It’s free to use and has an outhouse if needed. Get directions and more information here.
Long Canyon Trail #16
Get out and enjoy the stars! Pack a tent and sleeping bag and take this 21 mile trail to camping sites in Canyon Creek. You’ll over several creeks and ski through some beautiful pine and cedar forests along the way. For a lot more detailed information, hop over to the Forest Service site here.
No matter how you decide to enjoy this outdoor wonderland, we encourage you to get out and see it’s beauty. Stay safe this holiday season.
P.S. Don’t forget to check out the holiday lights in Coeur d’Alene!