🌤 Weather at Old Mission 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, 14 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 — The oldest building still standing in Idaho — the Cataldo Mission (1850-1853) was built by Coeur d’Alene tribal members and Jesuit missionaries using wattle and daub, with no nails! Father Anthony Ravalli designed the Greek Revival church, and tribal members carved the interior decorations by hand.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Idaho |
About Old Mission
Old Mission State Park in Kootenai County preserves the Cataldo Mission — built in 1850-53 by Coeur d’Alene Indians under Father Ravalli’s direction, it is the oldest standing building in Idaho. The mission’s architecture is remarkable: built entirely without nails using traditional wattle-and-daub and wooden peg construction, with interior murals created using local plants and minerals. The Greek Revival facade was designed from a single architectural book.
Things to Do
Touring Idaho’s oldest building (1850), viewing the original interior murals, attending summer interpretive programs, hiking, picnicking, and connecting with the Coeur d’Alene Indian heritage of northern Idaho.
Plan Your Visit
The mission church is open for tours Wednesday through Monday. The interior murals — created with local plants, minerals, and animal blood — have been carefully restored. The adjacent cemetery contains 19th-century Coeur d’Alene graves. The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes (73-mile paved bike trail) passes nearby. Coeur d’Alene Lake (30 minutes) is a major resort destination. Wallace (20 minutes east) preserves Silver Valley mining heritage. Free admission.
Insider Tips
Oldest building: The Cataldo Mission (1850-1853) is the oldest standing building in Idaho — built by Coeur d’Alene Indians under Jesuit Father Antonio Ravalli’s guidance. Pro tip: The mission was built without nails — using wooden pegs, wattle-and-daub, and hand-whittled timbers. Coeur d’Alene: The name means “heart of an awl” — French traders’ description of the tribe’s sharp trading skills.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Full tours and events. Fall: Idaho foliage. Spring: Wildflowers. Year-round: Building accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How was the mission built without nails?
Father Ravalli designed the mission using European architectural principles adapted to available materials. The Coeur d’Alene workers shaped massive timbers with hand tools, joined them with wooden pegs, and filled walls with wattle-and-daub (woven sticks covered with mud plaster). The walls are 18 inches thick. The building has survived 170+ years, earthquakes, and harsh Idaho winters — a testament to skilled craftsmanship using entirely local materials.
More parks nearby: Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park is a short drive away, while Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes lies within about an hour’s drive.
Wildlife & Nature
Old Mission SP — home of the Sacred Heart Mission — the oldest building in Idaho. The site’s historic grounds and Coeur d’Alene River support white-tailed deer and songbirds.
Nearby Attractions
Cataldo — adjacent. Silver Valley — surrounding.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Old Mission 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 Old Mission 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 Old Mission State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
