🌤 Weather at Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31–66 °F | 51–83 °F | 32–74 °F | 26–41 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Coeur D'Alene, 2 mi away, elevation 2,133 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Idaho’s Lakeside Gem — Paved multi-use trail along one of America’s most beautiful lakes, connecting Coeur d’Alene to Higgins Point
Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene — consistently ranked among the most beautiful lakes in North America. The park is essentially a linear trail corridor: a paved multi-use path running from the city of Coeur d’Alene south along the lakeshore, offering cycling, walking, and skating with continuous views of the lake’s crystal-clear waters and the forested mountains beyond.
Table of Contents
The Trail
The parkway trail runs approximately 7.5 miles along the eastern shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene. The paved path is wide, flat, and accessible — perfect for cycling, inline skating, running, and walking. The trail connects at its northern end to the city of Coeur d’Alene’s extensive urban trail system.
Lake Coeur d’Alene
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 🌊 Size | 25 miles long, 1–3 miles wide, ~3,700 acres |
| 💧 Depth | Maximum 210 feet |
| 🏔️ Elevation | 2,152 feet |
| 🐟 Fish | Chinook salmon, kokanee, cutthroat trout, largemouth bass, pike |
| ♻️ Water Quality | Exceptionally clear — visibility often 20+ feet |
Activities
• Cycling: Premier road cycling along the lakeshore trail • Fishing: Lake access for kokanee, chinook, bass, and pike • Kayaking/SUP: Launch from beach access points along the parkway • Swimming: Informal lake access at several points • Birding: Osprey, bald eagles, herons along the shoreline
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | East shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho |
| 📞 Phone | (208) 769-1511 |
| 🕐 Hours | Year-round, dawn to dusk |
| 💰 Fee | $7/vehicle (Idaho Motor Vehicle Entry Fee) |
| ⛺ Camping | No camping at parkway |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| ☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug) | 75–90°F | Lake swimming, cycling, kayaking, best weather |
| 🍂 Fall (Sep–Oct) | 50–65°F | Fall colors, kokanee spawning, fewer crowds |
| 🌸 Spring (Apr–May) | 50–65°F | Wildflowers, osprey nesting, fishing |
| ❄️ Winter (Nov–Mar) | 25–40°F | Eagle watching, quiet trail walks |
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Old Mission State Park (a short drive away) and Heyburn State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Idaho state parks online at getoutside.idaho.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trail?
Approximately 7.5 miles along the eastern shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene. The trail is paved, flat, and suitable for cycling, running, walking, and skating.
Can you swim in the lake?
Yes — informal lake access is available at several points along the parkway. The water is clear and clean but cold. There are no lifeguarded beaches within the parkway.
Is there camping?
No camping at the parkway itself. Nearby Heyburn State Park (30 miles south) offers excellent lakeside camping. City campgrounds in Coeur d’Alene also available.
Can you fish from the parkway?
Yes — shore fishing and boat access points are available. Lake Coeur d’Alene supports chinook salmon, kokanee, cutthroat trout, largemouth bass, and northern pike. Idaho fishing license required.
How far from Spokane?
Coeur d’Alene is approximately 30 miles east of Spokane, Washington — about a 35-minute drive via I-90.
Can you bike the trail?
Yes — the paved multi-use trail is ideal for cycling. It connects to the city of Coeur d’Alene’s trail network, including the famous Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes (73 miles).
Is the park open in winter?
Yes — the trail is accessible year-round, though it may be icy or snow-covered in winter. Winter visitors can enjoy bald eagle watching along the lake.
🚴 Visit Coeur d’Alene Parkway
Cycle or walk along one of America’s most beautiful lakes, fish for chinook and kokanee, and enjoy Idaho’s stunning lakeside scenery.
🗺️ Official Park PageExplore More Idaho State Parks
Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Idaho. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Idaho guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in most Idaho state parks and on trails, but only if confined or controlled on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum leash required, or pet must be confined (e.g. in a camper)
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from all swim areas and beaches statewide (service animals excepted)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are allowed at most parks but some parks prohibit them in some cabins and yurts
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Park managers may designate off-leash exercise areas (e.g. Eagle Island off-leash trails); pets may not be left unattended
Are dogs allowed at Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park?
Pets are welcome in most Idaho state parks and on trails, but only if confined or controlled on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parksandrecreation.idaho.gov. More: Idaho state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
