Higgens Point
A scenic viewpoint on Lake Coeur d'Alene, famous for bald eagle sightings and panoramic lake vistas along the Centennial Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for eagle sightings
Higgens Point
Best Time
Best for eagle sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic viewpoint on Lake Coeur d'Alene, famous for bald eagle sightings and panoramic lake vistas along the Centennial Trail.
"Stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas and a must-visit for breathtaking natural beauty and eagle spotting."
🎯 Eagle Viewing Prime Time
Visit early morning or late evening for the best chances to see bald eagles.
👟 Easy Paved Trail
The trail to the point is paved and offers a gentle incline, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bald Eagle Spectacle
Higgens Point
Witness a remarkable gathering of bald eagles, particularly during winter. A true wildlife spectacle!
Panoramic Lake Vistas
Higgens Point Trail
Enjoy breathtaking, sweeping views of Lake Coeur d'Alene from this scenic viewpoint. Perfect for photography.
North Idaho Centennial Trail
Extends from Higgens Point
Walk or bike this scenic 24-mile paved trail offering continuous lake and river views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Eagle Watching Hotspot
Trail Access & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Eagle Viewing Prime Time
Visit early morning or late evening for the best chances to see bald eagles.
👟 Easy Paved Trail
The trail to the point is paved and offers a gentle incline, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Higgens Point provides stunning panoramic views ideal for capturing memorable photos.
🐿️ Watch for Squirrels
Be aware of red squirrels that may mimic bird calls to defend their territory.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Eagle Viewing Prime Time
Visit early morning or late evening for the best chances to see bald eagles.
👟 Easy Paved Trail
The trail to the point is paved and offers a gentle incline, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Higgens Point provides stunning panoramic views ideal for capturing memorable photos.
🐿️ Watch for Squirrels
Be aware of red squirrels that may mimic bird calls to defend their territory.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Higgens Point for its stunning panoramic views of Lake Coeur d'Alene and its exceptional opportunities for bald eagle watching, especially in winter. The easy, paved trail makes it accessible for most, and it's considered a peaceful, beautiful spot for photography and a relaxing outing. Some mention traffic noise from I-90 can be noticeable.
"Nice viewpoint for birds in early morning hours or late evening hours. From parking lot, it’s about 0.5 miles to the point. Easy incline and decline on soil dirt trail. Lots of Red Squirrels that mimic bird chirps because they are trying to scare away visitors on their territory."
Winston Dy
"Higgins Point (North Idaho Centennial Trail): Stunning viewpoint along the scenic North Idaho Centennial Trail offering panoramic vistas of Lake Coeur d’Alene. A must-visit for breathtaking natural beauty and a perfect spot for photos."
Jay McCormick
"CDA is absolutely one of the most beautiful spots in the country, and not many people outside the PNW are aware. Hiked this around 8 am on a beautiful August morning, so relaxing and beautiful minus the traffic noise from 90 if you pay attention to it.
A nice little workout to get the blood flowing, particularly coming back up from the point. Great stop if you’re in the area."
FFKDTP1
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Higgens Point is accessible via a scenic drive along Lake Coeur d'Alene. It's part of the North Idaho Centennial Trail, with parking available nearby.
Yes, there is parking available, and from there, it's about a 0.5-mile walk to the point itself.
Absolutely! Higgens Point is a key access point for the North Idaho Centennial Trail, which is perfect for biking.
Yes, Higgens Point is a significant viewpoint along the 24-mile North Idaho Centennial Trail.
The drive offers beautiful scenery along Lake Coeur d'Alene, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Higgens Point is a public park and access is free of charge.
Higgens Point is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's a natural area, so official hours are not strictly enforced, but it's best to visit when there's natural light.
There is no entrance fee to visit Higgens Point. It's a free public access point.
Yes, Higgens Point is accessible year-round, though winter conditions may affect trail accessibility and eagle viewing opportunities.
As a natural area, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and wildlife. Pack out what you pack in.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy birdwatching (especially eagles), take photos, walk or bike the trails, and have a picnic.
The main trail to the point is paved and has an easy incline and decline, making it suitable for most visitors.
Higgens Point is famous for its bald eagle population, especially in winter. You might also see squirrels and various bird species. +1
Yes, there are covered tables available at the end of the paved trail, perfect for a picnic.
Absolutely! The panoramic lake views and potential eagle sightings make it a prime spot for photographers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly at Higgens Point. However, picnic tables are available for you to bring your own food.
The nearby town of Coeur d'Alene offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants. +1
Yes, Higgens Point has covered picnic tables, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Coeur d'Alene has diverse culinary offerings, including American, seafood, and Mexican cuisine. +1
While not directly at Higgens Point, food trucks can sometimes be found in the broader Coeur d'Alene area, especially during events. It's best to check local listings.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, early morning and late evening, offer the best light for landscape photography and are also prime times for eagle sightings.
Bald eagles, panoramic views of Lake Coeur d'Alene, and the surrounding natural landscape are popular subjects.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for landscape shots. For wildlife photography, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing eagles.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of wildlife and other visitors.
The combination of stunning lake vistas, accessible trails, and abundant wildlife, particularly eagles, makes it a photographer's delight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to see bald eagles can be incredibly exciting for children, turning a simple outing into a memorable wildlife adventure. +1 Pack a picnic to enjoy at the covered tables, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed family lunch amidst nature. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and encourage kids to look for squirrels and other small creatures along the trail.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
+2 The real stars, however, are the bald eagles that frequent the area, offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography. +2 Bring your telephoto lenses and patience to capture these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. The North Idaho Centennial Trail also offers diverse photographic subjects, from the expansive lake views to the intimate details of the surrounding flora and fauna.
The accessible trails ensure you can reach prime viewing and shooting locations without strenuous effort. Whether you're capturing grand landscapes or intimate wildlife moments, Higgens Point delivers.🚶♀️ Active Seniors & Casual Strollers
The opportunity to see bald eagles adds an extra layer of interest, providing a chance for some delightful wildlife observation.
The availability of picnic tables also allows for a relaxing break to enjoy a snack or a light meal while taking in the views. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Viewing: The Majestic Eagles
+2 The best times for viewing are typically during the early morning and late evening hours, when the eagles are most active. Bring binoculars for a closer look and be prepared for a truly unforgettable wildlife experience. Beyond eagles, the area is also home to red squirrels that are known to be quite bold and may mimic bird calls to ward off visitors from their territory.
Pro Tip: While winter is peak eagle season, the scenic beauty of Higgens Point is present year-round, offering different but equally captivating natural displays.
Exploring the North Idaho Centennial Trail
This paved pathway is ideal for a leisurely walk, a brisk jog, or a scenic bike ride, offering continuous panoramic vistas of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the surrounding natural beauty. The trail is well-maintained and provides a relatively easy experience, making it accessible for individuals of all fitness levels. Starting from Higgens Point, the trail meanders along the lake, offering numerous opportunities to stop, admire the views, and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
It's a fantastic way to experience the grandeur of the region at your own pace. Whether you're looking for a short stroll to a viewpoint or a longer excursion, the Centennial Trail offers a rewarding experience. +1Key Features of the Trail:
* Paved Surface: Smooth and easy for walking, running, and cycling.
* Scenic Views: Constant, breathtaking views of Lake Coeur d'Alene.
* Wildlife Opportunities: Potential sightings of eagles and other local fauna.
+1* Connectivity: Links Higgens Point to other recreational areas and eventually to Spokane, WA.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit