Living in Coeur d’Alene, ID is a wonderful experience, and the town has some beautiful scenery. Sometimes, we want some scenery that’s a little different so we can disconnect from the daily troubles we face and our work routine. There are some beautiful, refreshing, and interesting places for a quick getaway near Coeur d’Alene, so you don’t have to travel far. Here’s our list of summer weekend getaways and day trips from Coeur d’Alene to help you get the rest and relaxation you need.
Wallace, Idaho
First on our list is Wallace, Idaho. Wallace is over 100 years old and is the world’s largest silver producer. Although it is the richest mining town in existence today, what makes this a great place to visit is its kind residents and rich history. It is a great stop for those who love history and the outdoors.
Consider going on a mining tour at the Sierra Silver Mine Tour. This adventure takes participants on an informative underground mining tour to learn about the methods implemented when hard-rock mining. The hour and fifteen-minute tour captures the essence of Wallace, establishes the role mining has played in developing this unique community and begins by trolley with a narrated tour of Historic Wallace.
A retired miner then guides the tour through a real silver mine so you’re getting accurate information and an authentic account. Tickets range from $9 for children to $16 for adults. There are discounts for senior citizens and special rates for families. Check their website for details.
If you’re into biking and prefer to lead the way yourself, grab your gear and head over to the Route of the Hiawatha Trail. You can enjoy this 15-mile trail by mountain bike or on foot. This exciting trail features ten trail tunnels and seven trestles. There are bikes available for rent and shuttle buses waiting to transport you and your gear to the top of the mountain trail, so you’re energized enough to enjoy your descent and the scenery. The family-friendly trail is great for young and old alike.
Sandpoint
Along the banks of Lake Pend Orielle, you’ll find the lovely city of Sandpoint, ID. Any time of year is a great time to visit this picturesque spot, once named America’s most beautiful small town. Socialize with nature and learn more about what moves you. Surrounded by three mountain ranges, you can find opportunities to ski, bike, hike, or swim. If you’re visiting in the summer and want an adrenaline rush, head over to Boulder Beach Water Park, which is inside Silverwood Theme Park. It is an expansive 200 acres of land with 70 water rides to choose from. Tickets start at $36.
If you’re visiting during the winter, take time to check out Panida Theater. It is Sandpoint’s historic performing arts center and features concerts, plays, fine arts films, and various family-friendly events. Once a vaudeville and movie house in the 1920s, it is now a central location of art and entertainment. Their website has an updated list of current events. You can even participate in a virtual film festival!
You can also float along the Pack River or head on to Farragut State Park for some disc golf on their course. If you want to get a taste of history, visit the Bonner County History Museum. You can enjoy a nice picnic on their grounds before heading in to see exhibits such as their Loren Evenson Collection, or the exhibit that recognizes the Kalispell and Kootenai people, Bonner County’s longest residents. A visit to Sandpoint has a little something for everyone.
Colville National Forest
Colville National Forest is the destination if you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and just want to be still with nature. The 1.5 million-acre forest has 23 waves of mountains that run from north to south and is a camper’s paradise. There are primitive camping sites available throughout this ponderosa pine and fir forest. You can take your gear and set up camp along the streams of Kettle Range or set your campsite and tents up in the Salo-Priest Wilderness area. For campers that want the wilderness but also the convenience of modern living, there are 28 developed campgrounds.
Aside from camping, visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hunting, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling throughout the year. Take a beautiful scenic drive along Sherman Loop, a historic route used by Native Americans. Or challenge Beth Lake Trail #361, accessible all year long. Or sit beside Big Meadow Lake and watch the early morning sunrise in its magnificence.
Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch
For the animal lover in you, visit Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch. It is a great little getaway, without having to drive far at all. As their website shows, it is a “truly remarkable experience” to witness these majestic animals each with their quirky sense of humor and intelligence. Contact them in advance to make an appointment for a self-guided walking tour. They’re open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the tour lasts about an hour. Everyone 12 years and older pays a $10 entrance fee. Enjoy the alpacas and the many other farm animals that call the ranch home. Then head over to the country store and buy yourself a little souvenir to commemorate your experience.
Getting away from it all and just relaxing and reconnecting with yourself and nature is essential to physical and mental well-being. To ensure the best quality of life, self-care should be a top priority. While you’re taking care of your mental health, let us at Wendle Ford see to your vehicle’s health.
As a family-owned and operated establishment, we know the importance of taking care of others. Whether you are looking to upgrade your current vehicle or need some routine maintenance performed to keep your vehicle running its best, we commit ourselves to providing our customers the best service and experience possible. Contact us to set up an appointment for service or for questions. What did you think of our list of summer weekend getaways and day trips from Coeur d’Alene? Did we miss your favorite? Stop by or leave a message and let us know. We will happily add your suggestions to our list.
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