Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes
The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is one of the most spectacular trails in the western United States. It was named one of the 25 top trails in the nation in 2012 by the Rails to Trails Conservancy. The trail runs for 72 miles on smooth asphalt that is perfect for road bikers, in-line skaters, walkers and wheelchairs.
The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a 72-mile paved trail spanning the Idaho panhandle between Mullan and Plummer. It was created through a unique partnership between the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, Union Pacific Railroad, the U. S. Government, and the State of Idaho. The trail begins in the historic Silver Valley, continues along the Coeur d'Alene River past scenic Lake Coeur d'Alene and through rolling farmlands to Plummer. Twenty developed trailheads provide entry points, and there are seventeen scenic waysides along the route for picnicking.
History of the Trail
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.
From Idaho Parks