Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes FAQ

Are e-bikes allowed on the Coeur d'Alenes Trail?

Class 1 and 2 E-Bikes are allowed.

Are pets allowed on the Coeur d'Alenes Trail?

Yes, pets are allowed, but please keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Be alert for other trail users, to avoid injury to your pet.

What activities are allowed on the trail? Is horseback riding allowed

You can use the trail for cycling, hiking, in-line skating, cross county skiing, and snowshoeing.

Equestrian use and snowmobiles are prohibited on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes.

How hilly is the Coeur d'Alenes Trail?

The trail has long gradual downhills from either end, which of course becomes a long gradual uphill as you approach the other end. In between, the trail roughly follows the Coeur d'Alene River and the bank of Lake Coeur d'Alene, so there's less change of elevation in the middle portion.

Take a look at the Coeur d'Alenes Trail elevation charts for a better understanding.

Is camping allowed along the trail?

You are not allowed to camp beside the trail. However, there are campgrounds located all along the trail; check out the Camping on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes web page.

What is the trail's surface like?

The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is paved.

How long does it take to bike the Coeur d'Alenes Trail?

The answer is different for every person. Of course it depends on your speed, and how often you stop along the way.

At 10 MPH, the 73 mile route would take just over 7 hours. Experienced riders could do this in one day, but most people will spread it out over two or three days. When riding a beautiful trail like this, why rush it?

As mentioned above, when riding end to end from either direction, you'll have a long gradual downhill for the first several miles and a long gradual uphill for the last several miles - so you can expect this to affect your speed accordingly, during those portions of the ride. Take a look at the elevation charts and hills discussion - but here's a preview of the elevation profile:
Coeur dAlenes Trail elevation chart

Try the Coeur d'Alenes Timeline Tool to see your expected travel time, and expected arrival times at towns along the way.

Where can I report problems or maintenance issues with the Coeur d'Alenes Trail?

Report problems to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation at 208-769-1511 or inquiry@idpr.idaho.gov. And of course call 911 as appropriate for emergencies. Please be as specific as possible about the location, for example try to determine the approximate distance from a nearby town, or landmark.