Trail of the Coeur d' Alenes on the Land Conservation Assistance Network

Trail of the Coeur d' Alenes
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last updated: August 2020

The "Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes" is one of the most spectacular and popular trails in the western United States. Here, you will find 73 miles of newly laid asphalt that’s perfect for road bikers and in-line skaters.

The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes nearly spans the Panhandle of Idaho as it runs along rivers, beside lakes and through Idaho’s historic Silver Valley. The uniqueness of the trail isn’t simply the beautiful scenery and attractions along its route, but it’s an innovative solution to the environmental problems caused by the early miners in the Valley.

Silver was discovered in the Valley around 1884 and construction of the rail line to support the growing mining and timber industries was started in 1888. Much of the trail today follows this original rail line, giving it a gentle grade. When the rail line was built, mine waste rock and tailings containing heavy metals were used for the original rail bed. In addition, the bed was contaminated with accidental ore concentrate spillage.

Now, the trail itself is part of the environmental cleanup in a partnership between the Union Pacific Railroad, the U.S. Government, the State of Idaho and the Coeur d’Alene Tribe. The thick layer of asphalt on the trail and the gravel barriers along the trail serve to isolate the contaminants and allow the area to be used once again. Although not all of the trail is susceptible to recontamination, it’s best to use caution and follow trail rules.

The section between Plummer and Harrison has been thoroughly cleaned and is not susceptible to recontamination. Because the section between Harrison and Mullan is vulnerable to flooding, contaminants may be in the soil around the trail. Please stay on the trail and in designated picnic areas.

Arc GIS map of complete trail

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Trail of the Coeur d' Alenes is not employed by or affiliated with the Land Conservation Assistance Network, and the Network does not certify or guarantee their services. The reader must perform their own due diligence and use their own judgment in the selection of any professional.