About

Enjoy exploring a pathway that connects Lake Coeur d'Alene to Spokane, Washington! Known as the Centennial Trail, we'll be exploring the section in CDA, the North Idaho Centennial Trail.

This paved, multi-use recreational pathway begins at Higgins Point and connects to surrounding communities. It is a destination for cyclists, walkers, and anyone looking to explore the outdoors.

The North Idaho Centennial Trail follows the historic route of the Spokane International Railroad. This route transported timber, minerals, and agricultural goods.

As the reliance on trains diminished, many of these lines fell into disuse. In time, officials removed the tracks, leaving behind a graded corridor winding through forests, along riverbanks, and past developing towns.

In the late 1980s, a new vision for this abandoned railway began to form. Community leaders and outdoor enthusiasts saw an opportunity to transform the forgotten path into a public asset. The idea was to create a paved trail linking Lake Coeur d'Alene to the Washington state line, offering a safe, scenic route for non-motorized travel.

The project gained momentum as part of Idaho's centennial celebration in 1990, giving the trail its name. Volunteers, local governments, and private donors worked together to bring the vision to life.

This team of like-minded people built the trail in sections, connecting key points of interest throughout Coeur d'Alene. More importantly, the trail symbolized community collaboration and a commitment to preserving the area's natural splendor.

This transformation from an industrial artery to a recreational haven makes it a place for health, leisure, and appreciation of nature.

North Idaho Centennial Trail: Fun Facts & Cool Features

As mentioned, this pathway connects to a larger network at the Idaho-Washington state line. By joining the Spokane River Centennial Trail, it becomes a 63-mile route that connects Lake Coeur d'Alene and Nine Mile Falls, Washington. This corridor is a calling card for long-distance cyclists or multi-day excursions, linking two states and numerous parks and communities along the Spokane River.

AllTrails lists the 30-mile pathway as moderate, with an elevation gain of 597 feet, and it offers a variety of scenery. While most pick up the route at McEuen Park near Tubbs Hill, the start is actually further east at Higgins Point on Lake Coeur d'Alene. This scenic start hugs the shoreline, offering breathtaking views, and meanders past one of Idaho's iconic restaurants, Tony's on the Lake.

Once you reach McEuen Park, the trail winds past Downtown Coeur d'Alene and follows the Spokane River beside Riverstone Park and restaurants like Terraza Waterfront Cafe. From there, it hugs I-90 to the state line.

The paved trail also features markers and interpretive signs that provide information about the local history, flora, and fauna. Mile markers along the pathway make it easy to track distance and navigate one's journey.

Additionally, several dedicated rest areas with benches and picnic tables offer spots to relax and take in the scenery.

The North Idaho Centennial Trail offers accessibility, a car-free environment, and a gentle grade, making it a budget-friendly way to experience the best of Coeur d'Alene's outdoor beauty.

Local Tips

Rent a bike or e-bike for a fun way to cover more ground.
Pack water and snacks.
Stay to the right side of the trail.
Pets must be on a leash.
Start early in the morning during summer to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Staging environment