Coeur D'Alene - Idaho

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

The Coeur d'Alene people, so named by French fur traders in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, inhabited the hills, prairies, mountains, lakes, marshes and rivers of northern Idaho for thousands of years. This term means heart of an awl which might refer to their tough trading practices. In their own language they are the Schitsu'umsh (pronounced Skitswich), meaning those who are found here. These tribes had everything they needed near to hand which made them very wealthy by their standards. Now their ancient tribal routes have now become interstate highways.

With the second largest metropolitan area in the state, a population of around 44,000, a favourable climate and beautiful, varied surroundings, it is no wonder that tourism has taken hold and augmented the prosperity of the city, especially since Barbara Walters praised it in her list of desirable places to visit. Tourism is now the third largest contributor to the economy.

Glaciers left behind more than 55 lakes, the largest of which is Coeur d'Alene Lake. Coeur d'Alene Resort has the world's longest floating boardwalk. The Coeur d'Alene National Forest surrounds the city, and there are low hills surrounding it as well. The continental Mediterranean climate is characterized by cold moist winters and warm dry summers which provide the basis for a range of activities to be enjoyed year round.

Coeur d'Alene National Forest
Coeur d'Alene Lake
Silver Mountain Resort, ski resort
Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort
North Idaho Centennial Bike Trail
Tubbs Hill Nature Trails
Ford Ironman Coeur d'Alene Triathlon
Museum of Northern Idaho
Northwest Boulevard, statues celebrating native heritage
Coeur d'Alene Golf Course
Coeur d'Alene Casino Spa Experience