Lake Coeur d'Alene

           10.  Lake Coeur d’Alene is different than all the other lakes in northern Idaho.  The Coeur d’Alene Reservation encompasses most of the southern portion of the lake. The tiny town of Harrison rests on the eastern shore at the mouth of the Coeur d’Alene River. Old rail paths follow and cross the southern portion and they are now turned to beautiful bike paths. The city of Coeur d’Alene rests on the northern shores and at the head of the Spokane River which flows out of the lake making its way to the mighty Columbia.

            The lake is a mish mash of bays formed where creeks flow into it. The south end is where the St. Joe River flows between two lakes before entering Lake Coeur d’Alene. Interstate 90 follows the path of the Spokane River and crosses bays of the lake on the north end. That’s probably where the majority of people see the lake. That and the city of Coeur d’Alene itself where there are nice beaches, a resort, golf course, floating board walk and boat tours. It’s a beautiful place, very picturesque.

            I have spent lots of time on and in the waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene and it carries many fond memories for me. I’ve hiked Tubbs Hill, swam at the main beach, and purchased food from the street vendors in Fort Sherman Park. In summertime it can have the atmosphere of an amusement park where the attraction is the lake itself. I’ve taken cruises on the water, walked the boardwalk and enjoyed that whole atmosphere. I said it was different from the other large lakes because it isn’t quiet. But it still has its hidden bays where solitude can be found. It’s also the lake I live closest to and frequent most these days. I suppose I sometimes take it for granted. But it has a beauty and joy all of its own for which I am very thankful.