Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park
A scenic state park offering easy trails, stunning lake views, and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical sunset views
Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park
Best Time
Magical sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic state park offering easy trails, stunning lake views, and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
"Easy small hike with great lake views... the perfect place to enjoy God’s masterpiece."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The trails are easy, but good shoes make enjoying the park's beauty much better.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for spotting eagles and other birds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Higgins Point Trail
Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park
An easy hike with breathtaking lake views, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying the sunset.
Lake Coeur d'Alene Views
Throughout the park
Experience the sparkling waters and surrounding natural beauty, a true masterpiece.
Wildlife Spotting
Various points in the park
Keep an eye out for eagles and other local fauna; a peaceful encounter with nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The trails are easy, but good shoes make enjoying the park's beauty much better.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for spotting eagles and other birds.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Higgins Point offers stunning sunset vistas, perfect for photography.
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is available, including near the boat launch and trailheads.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The trails are easy, but good shoes make enjoying the park's beauty much better.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for spotting eagles and other birds.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Higgins Point offers stunning sunset vistas, perfect for photography.
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is available, including near the boat launch and trailheads.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning lake views and peaceful atmosphere of Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park, particularly highlighting the easy hike to Higgins Point. Many appreciate the opportunities for wildlife spotting, including eagles, and the beautiful sunset vistas. While some note potential traffic noise from I-90, the natural beauty and accessibility are consistently praised.
"Easy small hike with great lake views. We did just a portion of it, but I think it was the best portion of it since it's a really good opening to the lake. After this viewpoint, you start seeing a lot of trees on the trail, so I'm not sure how the view is from there."
Diana Gonzalez
"Beautiful place with amazing views this is where I got to see my first Eagle. I got some great photos and it’s so peaceful here the perfect place to enjoy God’s masterpiece"
Erikah Petro
"Parking, boat launch, educational installations. I parked here and enjoyed the short hike to Higgins point. Several displays discuss the wildlife in the area. Beautiful views anytime of day but magical around sunset. Drive, bike, walk or run, but make your way here."
Trypp Adams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible from I-90 near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. It's conveniently located and offers easy access for visitors.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park.
Key access points include parking areas near the boat launch and trailheads, such as the one for Higgins Point.
Yes, the park is situated right beside I-90, making it easily visible and accessible for travelers.
While not a direct route, the park is part of the Idaho Centennial Trail, which is popular for biking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free, though specific activities or facilities might have associated fees.
State parks typically have dawn-to-dusk hours, but it's always best to check official sources for the most current information.
While the park is free to enter, parking fees may apply at certain access points or for specific amenities like the boat launch.
Reservations are generally not required for day use of the park. However, for specific events or group gatherings, it's advisable to inquire with park management.
No, the trails within Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park are free to access for all visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail to Higgins Point is highly recommended for its easy terrain and stunning lake views. Other portions of the Idaho Centennial Trail are also available. +1
Absolutely! The park is known for its wildlife, especially eagles during certain times of the year. Bring binoculars for the best experience. +1
Yes, there is a boat launch available, and the lake is a popular spot for fishing.
The easy trails, like the one to Higgins Point, are generally suitable for families. The educational displays also add an engaging element.
The park features several displays that discuss the local wildlife and natural environment, offering an educational aspect to your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Higgins Point offers incredible vistas, especially during sunset. The lake itself provides beautiful backdrops throughout the park.
Golden hour, particularly around sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs.
Yes, the park is a prime location for spotting eagles, especially in late fall and winter.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with park authorities or the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation for current rules.
Expect to capture stunning lake views, forested landscapes, and potential wildlife sightings. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty. While the park itself is free, be mindful of any potential fees for specific amenities like the boat launch if you plan to use them. The peaceful atmosphere and natural surroundings provide a wonderful opportunity for families to disconnect and enjoy quality time together outdoors.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Walkers
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and perhaps bring a water bottle. The park's natural beauty, from the sparkling lake to the potential for wildlife sightings, makes every step a rewarding experience.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the park is known for eagle sightings, offering unique chances for wildlife photography, particularly in the late fall and winter months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Views
The park's natural setting is a major draw. Many visitors come specifically for the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to connect with nature. The combination of the sparkling lake and the surrounding landscape creates a picturesque environment that is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more active exploration.
For those seeking a truly memorable experience, the park is also a fantastic spot for photography. The vistas are beautiful at any time of day, but they become truly magical around sunset.
Wildlife Encounters and Natural Beauty
Beyond eagles, the park's diverse ecosystem supports a variety of other wildlife, making it a prime location for nature observation. The educational installations within the park further enhance the visitor experience by providing insights into the local flora and fauna.
Whether you're hoping to spot a soaring eagle or simply enjoy the serene environment, the park offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Idaho. It's a place where you can truly enjoy God's masterpiece, as one reviewer put it.
Park Amenities and Activities
For those interested in water activities, the presence of a boat launch means that boating and fishing are popular pursuits on Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Even if you're just looking for a peaceful spot to relax, the park offers plenty. You can drive, bike, walk, or run through the area, taking in the beautiful views. The combination of natural scenery and accessible amenities makes Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park a versatile destination for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit