A Day Exploring Idaho's Natural & Historic Gems
Mineral Ridge, A View Worth the Climb
- July 20, 2023
- 2.83 mi
- 1:20:52 hrs
- 81°F
While staying in Spokane, we decided to cross the border for an Idaho adventure, embracing nature and culture in Coeur d’Alene. We started our visit in “The heart of Alene” with a hike in the Mineral Ridge Scenic Area, following the historic 3-mile Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail.
The trail ascended and passed through lush, green vegetation. After an approximate 700-foot elevation gain, reaching Mineral Ridge, the rewards were breathtaking panoramic views of Beauty Bay and Wolf Lodge Bay.
Mineral Ridge also provided a glimpse into the region’s history. The area was once active with early mining exploration; a short side trail led us right to one of those abandoned mine prospects! We continued our loop, descending back to the parking lot. In hindsight, we had made the right decision to hike the loop counterclockwise; we noticed that the descent, although aided by well-graded switchbacks, was still quite steep.
Exploring Coeur d'Alene's Heart
- July 20, 2023
- 2.92 mi
- 1:11:04 hrs
- 90°F
After our hike, we explored downtown Coeur d’Alene, ID, starting at Coeur d’Alene City Park. Here, we visited the Coeur d’Alene Carousel, a historic carousel built in 1922 in North Tonawanda, New York. It was a favorite attraction of Playland Pier in Coeur d’Alene from 1942 to 1974. When the Playland Pier closed, the carousel “disappeared”. In 1986, the carousel surfaced at an auction in Puyallup, Washington, and was relocated to Coeur d’Alene. After restoration, it reopened to the public in 2017.
We also met “Mudgy,” one of the playful statues from the “Mudgy & Millie” children’s story, which is set along the beautiful shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene. On this sunny and warm day, people enjoyed the crystal-clear water. The view of the lake with the majestic Coeur d’Alene Mountains in the background was mesmerizing. Via Coeur d’Alene’s charming downtown, we entered McEuen Park with two memorable stops: the “Onion statue” at the entrance, a fun reference to Idaho’s wild onions, and the peaceful waterfall.