Spend a Day in the Great Outdoors

A report completed by Expedia in 2016 found that out of thousands of verified user-generated reviews, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho ranked among the highest in terms of cleanliness for cities in Pacific Northwest. With an average cleanliness rating of 4.85/5, the lakefront is home to 726,362 acres of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Surrounded by such natural beauty, you’ll want to spend every chance you get in the great outdoors. Here are five of the best places, all within a day trip from Conkling Marina & Resort.

Trail of the Coeur d’Alene

Named one of the top 25 trails in the nation in 2010 by the Rails to Trails Conservancy, this 73-mile trail rolls through Silver Valley along the Coeur d’Alene River. The entire trail is paved with smooth asphalt, so it’s the perfect scenic route for cyclists, strollers, or for those who use wheelchairs. Click here for an interactive map.

Circling Raven Golf Club

This 18-hole layout takes you through 620 acres of wetlands, woodlands and Palouse grasses. You’ll admire Northern Idaho’s beautiful landscape as you play on a well-manicured course, with a conveniently located pro shop! Click here to book your tee time.

Emerald Creek Garnet Area

Just a 35-minute drive from Conkling Marina & Resort, Emerald Creek Garnet Area is a unique geographical location that causes some garnets to display a reflection similar to a four or six-pointed star. It is so unique, that there are only two places in the world where you can find these “star” garnets! The Forest Service developed the Emerald Creek Garnet Area as a safe and environmentally friendly place for people to collect these crystals and gems. The area is open by reservation only, so click here to get your ticket and learn some need-to-know information on the area!

Wiley E. Waters Whitewater Rafting

Cross over the border in Washington State after just an hour drive to end up at the largest urban waterfall in the United States. If you’re seeking a thrill through Class III rapids, you’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment before taking on the most adventurous route on the Spokane River. Or, if you prefer a calmer trip for families and beginners, the Spokane River Scenic Float option offers drinks and games. Click here to book your trip!

Sierra Silver Mine Tour

It takes only an hour and a half drive to step back in time when you visit Sierra Silver Mine in Wallace, Idaho! On this educational and fun tour, you’ll learn all about hard-rock mining in the richest mining district on earth. Hop on the 18-passenger trolley and listen to a narrated tour of Historic Wallace, all told by retired miners from the local mines. This underground experience includes live demonstrations of the operations of pneumatic powered mining equipment as well as educational lessons on how silver and other metals are brought into daily life. Click here to visit the website and plan your adventure.

No matter what your outdoor plans are, the area surrounding Conkling Marina & Resort has everything you could want from a fun day out in the sun. Check out the weather and forest conditions before you go! Click here for local weather service reports and here for alerts and notices regarding closures and restrictions. You can also check out our Explore Page for further recommendations.