Day Trips from Coeur D'alene. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Nearby Destinations

Explore these regions for urban experiences, outdoor adventures, or historical insights, all a short drive from Coeur d'Alene.

Booking excursions for these destinations is convenient via GetYourGuide.

Popular Day Trips

Spokane, Washington (30 miles / 48 km west)
Silverwood Theme Park & Boulder Beach (20 miles / 32 km north)
Wallace, Idaho (50 miles / 80 km east)
Sandpoint / Schweitzer Mountain Resort (50 miles / 80 km north)

Natural Escapes & Cultural Excursions

Discover more of Idaho's stunning natural landscapes and explore historical sites just a short drive from Coeur d'Alene.

Farragut State Park

Located about 20 miles (32 km) north, on Lake Pend Oreille. This extensive park was once a WWII naval training base.

Highlights

Numerous hiking trails
Camping opportunities
Disc golf courses

Palouse Scenic Byway

Located south and southwest of Coeur d'Alene. This byway passes through the unique, rolling hills of agricultural land.

Experience

Scenic drive through agricultural fields
Photography at various viewpoints
Especially scenic in spring (green) and late summer (golden)

Cultural Highlights

Lake Pend Oreille

Idaho's largest lake by surface area, north of Coeur d'Alene
Known for deep waters, fishing, and boating
Stunning mountain views
Farragut State Park provides a good access point

Cataldo Mission Old Mission State Park

Oldest standing building in Idaho (1850s)
About 30 miles (48 km) east of Coeur d'Alene, off I-90
Look into early European and Native American interactions
Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit

Airport Services

Lounge Access:Priority Pass
Flight Compensation:Compensair
Nearest Airport:Spokane International Airport (GEG)
Distance to GEG:Approx. 40 miles (64 km) west

Transportation to GEG:Rental car, shuttle, taxi
GEG Services:Car rentals, dining, parking
GEG Terminals:One main terminal
GEG Airlines:Major US carriers

Plan Ahead for Day Trips

When planning day trips, account for driving time and the operating hours of attractions. Starting your day early maximizes your time.

Multi-Day Extensions

For travelers with more time, combine your Coeur d'Alene visit with longer trips to iconic Western destinations.

Glacier National Park Montana

Approx. 4-5 hours drive east. Renowned for preserved glaciers, rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Flathead Lake Montana

Approx. 3-4 hours drive east. Largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, known for recreation and cherry orchards.

North Cascades National Park Washington

Approx. 5-6 hours drive west. Glaciated peaks, deep forests, and remote wilderness mark this park.

Logical Next Destinations

From Coeur d'Alene, continue your journey to other major Western cities.

Nearby Major Cities

Seattle, Washington (approx. 5-6 hours west)
Portland, Oregon (approx. 6-7 hours southwest)
Boise, Idaho (approx. 6-7 hours south)

Suggested Routes for Regional Travel

Combine Coeur d'Alene with broader regional exploration.

Regional Journey Options

Pacific Northwest Loop (Coeur d'Alene to Spokane, Seattle, Portland)
Montana National Parks Route (east to Flathead Lake, Glacier NP, Yellowstone)
Northern Rockies Road Trip (incorporating Idaho, Montana, Wyoming)

Travel Considerations for Longer Trips

Glacier NP Time:2-4+ days

Glacier NP Access:Seasonal (Going-to-the-Sun Road)

Flathead Lake Activities:Boating, fishing, cherry picking

North Cascades Time:2-3+ days

North Cascades Access:Seasonal due to snow

Accommodation Booking:Book well in advance for popular parks

Optimal Planning for Multi-Day Journeys

Check seasonal access for mountain roads and national parks.
Secure accommodations early, especially during peak seasons.
Consider travel distances and allocate sufficient time for each destination.
Factor in potential weather variations for outdoor activities.
Verify any park entry requirements or timed entry systems.

Further Exploration from Coeur d'Alene

Extend your visit with more diverse day trips and regional connections.

Nature's Retreats

Explore additional natural landscapes surrounding Coeur d'Alene for tranquil moments and outdoor activities.

Options for Serene Escapes

Coeur d'Alene National Forest trails
Spokane River for kayaking or paddleboarding
Scenic drives along Lake Coeur d'Alene's east shore

Historical Pathways

Step back in time at sites that tell the story of the region's rich past.

Historical Sites and Museums

Northern Pacific Railroad Depot Museum in Wallace
Historic downtown Wallace architecture
Old Coeur d'Alene Public Library building (historic architecture)

Adventure Awaits

For thrill-seekers and active explorers, more options for adventure await.

Active Pursuits

Stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Coeur d'Alene
Extended cycling on the Centennial Trail
Beach volleyball at City Park

Local Charm

Discover the unique local culture and community spirit.

Community & Arts

Explore boutique shops on Sherman Avenue
Visit local art galleries
Attend Kootenai County Farmers' Market (seasonal)

Specialized Excursions

Wine Tasting Tours

Explore vineyards in the nearby Spokane and Palouse regions.

Scenic Flight Tours

See Lake Coeur d'Alene and surrounding mountains from above.

Fishing Charters

Guided fishing trips for trout, kokanee, and more on Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Checking Operating Seasons

Some attractions and activities, especially theme parks and water sports, operate seasonally. Always check their specific opening dates and hours before your visit.

Day Trips from Coeur D'alene