Montana Ice Sailing

It's a new year, so let the new adventures begin!  We get the call from the Bozeman Boys, they've been skating some prime ice since November, but only now has it been cold long enough to build sufficient thickness for boats. I meet John in Missoula at 10 am, and we're unloading the Mini Skeeters on Canyon Ferry, east of Helena, by 1. It's the season opener for the locals, so the boat ramp is bustling. All our buddies are there, and we've got breeze! The ice averages maybe 5", but it's seen some snow, that's drifted, melted and frozen hard, so it's a challenge to find the smoother sections, and endure the teeth rattling transitions. But we're sailing with friends under the big Montana sky, so needle on the gleemeter rises steadily. Three or four hours on the ice is plenty today, so we wind down as the sun seeks the horizon. Glenn has once again offered up the Clubhouse right here at Silos. So we nestle in for the evening, drink a few beers, and put out an effort to stay awake til 9 pm.

The men roll up fairly early, and we hang a bit at Glenn's. waiting for the predicted breeze to show. Around noon i we meander beachward, to find more locals on the ice, setting up more boats. A few of us get in some skating, waiting for the key ingredient. Soon the surface is alive with iceboats. Yesterday's strong breeze and 40 degree temps have polished the surface some, making the lighter air doable. Still a bit rough for those of us with a few days in this season on smoother surfaces, but totally acceptable to all who are eager to get the season underway. Out for a session, in for some tuning or refueling or socializing, then back out for more. Til the light again slants low, and we pack up and return to the nest. Glenn joins us for the evening, feeds us well, and we watch Shacklelton battle the Antartic, til lids droop.

We're up at 6 to hit the road early. We've received intel on Smith Lake, west of Kalispell, smooth refrozen snow surface and 10 plus wind postulated. We're there by early afternoon, and we're offered up fast sailing with 5 skeeters vying for dominance. I have a great day, sailing better than my usual mediocre showing, so it's hard to stop. The dimming light finally winds things down, and we old men are plenty sore. John, Mike and I find a lovely bar in Kalispell for some fine dining and brews, and by the time I hit the cabin in Rollins I'm ready for horizontal. The next day offers even bigger wind, but I'm still creaky in the morning, so I opt to head home, satiated. John and Mike get another day, in a breezy, squally afternoon, and at the days end there's enough snow on the lake to trash it until the next warming trend. We watch diligently for the next venue to present itself.......

Author, David Farmer, Spokane, WA.

Another day on Lake Coeur d'Alene

JANUARY 2019 CLUB ACTIVITY... More to come!

Sailed with my sailing buddies on Lake Coeur d'Alene (Idaho, USA) today as our first club sail of the new year. Goal is to sail every month of the new year. Not just once a month but preferably more as the weather gets warmer. If you sail or do other activities why not invite someone to join you to brighten their day... A great new years goal! Better yet have you and your friend join us!

To learn about Lake Coeur d'Alene see the post below this one or visit this link http://funto https://bit.ly/2RBN4mM

Lake Coeur d'Alene, Kootenai County, Idaho

Click Links to view... Coeur d'Alene River and Chain Lakes, Fernan Lake, Spokane River/Post Falls Reservoir, St. Joe River, and St. Maries River

Lake Coeur d’Alene (31,872 acres) is 25.6 miles long, ranges from 1 to 3 miles wide, is 197 ft. deep at its deepest (off of Driftwood Point), and offers over 109 miles of shoreline. The elevation of the lake is 2,125 feet (648 m) above sea level. The Coeur d’Alene and St. Joe rivers feed Lake Coeur d’Alene, and the Spokane River is its outflow.

There are many recreational and scenic sites to be enjoyed off Lake Coeur d’Alene… Among my children’s favorites are two beautiful little islands: Kid Island in Kid Bay (North End of lake); and Corine Island at the mouth of Swede Bay. Corine Island is very simple, with not much more than a small tree occupying it. Kid Island is its contrast, with dense trees, short trail, a rock wall around part of it, and even a nice fire pit. On its east shore lies the steamboat St. Marie’s Boiler, giving the island a fun, shipwrecked look. It is privately owned, but fun to sail around and take photos of. A third island on Lake Coeur d’Alene appeals to the golfing population: the famous Floating Golf Green, as part of the Coeur d’Alene Golf Course. There are two other golf courses on the lake. Camp sites are another feature of Lake Coeur d’Alene; there are several very nice camp sites on the lake that can even be accessed by boat. My family and I enjoyed one of our most memorable vacations sailing to various camping sites and staying a night or two at each of them over the course of a week. Camping and golfing are only the beginning of the list of activities enjoyed on the lake… which list, of course, is dominated by boating, sailing, and ferry cruises; including a cruise to the “North Pole” around Christmas time and pirate cruises in the summer. Depending upon the time of year, many go to the lake to view Bald Eagles, Osprey, and other wildlife. For anglers, the lake is also known for its great fishing (some of which include Chinook salmon, trout, and Northern Pike)!

Georgie Oakes... See more pictures of these steamboats on
our Google map by clicking on the ship wreck symbols

Another unique feature of Lake Coeur d’Alene is its steamboat history. Author John V. Wood has been researching the lake’s steamboats for over 30 years, and explains: “For a start, the lake was boasted as being fed by the world’s highest navigable river, the St. Joe, and this actually found support in the 1912 Cram’s Atlas of the World which went even further to state that both, ‘The Coeur d’Alene and St. Joe rivers [tributaries of the lake] have the distinction of having the highest altitude of any navigable streams in the world.’ Both of these rivers offered easy navigation for about 30 miles each, and some swift-water boats were able to operate even beyond this during the spring run-off. This, combined with the lake’s north-south length of an additional 30 miles (not including all the bays and the short section of the Spokane River at the outlet that was navigable), made for a setting that belied the seeming limitations of such an inland lake.

Reliable... A Launch was a name given in the 1800's and early
1900's to small steam or gas powered boats with no
substantial deck.

“Then the sheer numbers of steamboats that ran on the lake were highly unusual. Author Ruby Hult in her book, Steamboats in the Timber, claimed that, ‘In the heyday of its water commerce, Lake Coeur d’Alene Lake in northern Idaho was the scene of more steam boating than any other lake, salt or fresh, west of the Great Lakes.’ And the numbers appear to support that.  At the height there were over 50 boats operating, and the total number operating over the years—from the start in 1880 until the last in the 1950’s—approached 200. The boats ranged from the longest, the 160-foot Georgie Oakes; and the one with the greatest capacity, the Idaho, that was said to accommodate 1,000 people; to the many little steam launches like the Dolphin and the Reliable (see pic) that did everything from carry their owners to summer homes, hire out for picnic and fishing groups, or even tow logs. But those that survived the longest were the tugs that worked the countless logs down the rivers and lake to the many mills.

“Perhaps the most important thing the steamboat era accomplished was to develop the area and popularize it to the rest of the world as a place of great beauty.  And the huge tourist industry that now exists owes its gratitude to the steamboat history that came before.”

Explore this history further by visiting our Google map on this site, with an underwater video and pictures of all of the steamboats that sunk. Also, further down this page is information about the boat launches, parks, etc

NEW LAKE COEUR D'ALENE HISTORICAL NAVIGATION MAP...

Map retails for $17.95 at Divers West of Coeur d'Alene or Spokane; at the Museum of North Idaho in Coeur d'Alene; and at SAIL Marine in Hayden Idaho... You may also order via phone (208)704-4454, or email @ boatingtheinlandnw@gmail.com

Click Here For Basic PDF Map of Lake Coeur d'Alene

UPDATE: New Discovery!

Have you ever heard of the sunken ship, Nugget (Lake Coeur d'Alene)?

Old timers have circulated stories about the mysterious old ship, but the location has been a forgotten mystery for many years... In the process of researching to create this historic map of lake Coeur d'Alene, a couple friends and I (historian, an inquisitive sailor, and a scuba diver) put our heads together, and discovered the location of the sunken ship...

I'm excited to share with you a three page article about the ship, as written by Historian John Wood.  ...hope you enjoy! :)

The Sunken Ship - Nugget

Written by historian, John Wood...

PAGE 1     PAGE 2      PAGE 3   

Articles supplied curtsy of the Museum of North Idaho

Amenities: Coeur d'Alene Lake is great for water skiing, boating, camping, and is a fabulous place to explore due to the many bays & marinas with restaurants, gift shops, etc., in addition to three slow moving rivers to boat on (Coeur d’Alene and Associated Chain Lakes, St. Joe Rivers and associated lakes, and Spokane River).

There are 36 public access points to Coeur d'Alene Lake, boasting 17 boat launch facilities and 5 boater parks (for detailed boat launch info see below), as well as a multitude of access sites. There are also several great campsites.

Boating to the many on-the-water restaurants, gift shops and resorts is an experience which I especially enjoy. There are a couple of these on-the-water restaurants that stay open during the winter months.

Sailing: Some say Lake Pend Oreille is a better boating and sailing lake than Coeur d'Alene Lake. I have to totally disagree as I think neither is better, but for sure Pend Oreille is a safer and much warmer lake.

Wind: Fall & Spring bring consistent winds.

Winter typically has a steady breeze, and in the summer wind is variable. The morning and late evening produce the most consistent and steady winds. In the morning there is normally a nice east or south wind, and in the evening when the sun is just tucking behind the hills the wind almost never fails to fill in (almost like clock work) from the west/northwest  desert. During the summer months, winds become light and variable, and in July, there is typically very little to no wind.

Islands: There are only 2 small Islands on this lake. Kid Island (See on map), in Kid Island Bay, is a privately owned Island with a small rocked in fire pit. This Island also has an old steam engine boiler on its east show from the days when steam ships use to travel these waters. The other Island on this lake is called Corine Island, which is located off of Swede Point at Swede bay; its basically a big rock with a tree on it. This Island is owned by the state and is a popular place for swimmer to rest on.

South end of Lake Coeur d'Alene - Live Webcam just east of Harrison Idaho

Boater Parks

A. Higgens Point Park (boaters park), and Coeur d'Alene Park Way

(part of the Idaho Centennial Trail bike path)

Boat launch, docks, rocky beaches, restrooms, picnic tables, shelters, hiking and biking trails, running water...

The park is accessible, but only the west side docks at Higgins Point Hill are wheelchair accessible. From this trail to the dock there is sand so a person that uses a wheelchair will most likely need assistance to the dock.

From Higgins Point all the way to the city of Coeur d'Alene is Coeur d'Alene Park Way, a long

park which is mainly a bike/running trail. This trail is part of the North Idaho Centennial Trail. All along this route where the park is next to the lake, a person could access the lake via portaging over the bank into the lake with their Kayak or Canoe.

Camping is only allowed on boats at docks, except at the boat launch docks where camping is not allowed.

History... Dr. Milton Ignacius (M. I. or Mel) Higgens and Maybelle Higgens owned Higgens Point and had a gorgeous home and several cottages there from the '40s until the mid '70s when the State Department of Transportation exercised Eminent Domain over the property because they planned to build a bridge across the lake from Higgens Point.  They never did build the bridge off Higgens Point. It is wonderful that the we all enjoy the trails, picnic areas, docks and eagles there now. But let us not forget it was a huge sacrifice for the whole Higgens family when the forced sale occurred.

Directions: From I90 take Exit 15 to stop light. Go straight through stop light and follow the road (E. Coeur d'Alene Dr.) to its end to get to the boat launch. Maps: Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Info: Other links http://www.idahoparks.org/parks/coeurdaleneparkway.aspx

B. Mica Bay (boater park)

Docks, tent campsites, restrooms, hiking trails, picnic tables and shelters, no running water or vehicle access...

Due to the level ground of this park, it could be considered moderately accessible to persons who use wheelchairs.

Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! The boater park is in the southwest end of of Mica Bay. Info/Links: Additional info about this park - http://www.kcgov.us/departments/parkswaterways/

C. Windy Bay Boaters Park

Docks, tent campsites, restroom, picnic tables and shelters, hiking trails, no running water or vehicle access...
Due to the level nature of this park it could be considered moderately accessible to persons who use wheelchairs. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Windy Bay is the large bay on the southwest end of the lake.
Info/Links: http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene.html

D. Mowry Boaters Park

Docks, tent campsites, restroom, hiking trails, picnic tables and shelters, no running water or vehicle access...

This park is not accessible to wheelchairs due to a steep and uneven trail from dock ramps to camping areas.

Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Mowry Boaters Park is part of Aberdeen Lodge Bay on the south end of the lake. Info/Links: http://www.kcgov.us/departments/parkswaterways/

E. Bell Bay Campground

Vehicle access, docks, tent campsites, restroom, picnic tables and shelters, hiking trails, no running water, vehicle parking no boat launch...

This park is not accessible to wheelchairs due to a steep uneven trail from the dock ramp and beach to camping areas.

Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Bell Bay is on the south end of the lake on the north side next to East Point. Info/Links: http://www.kcgov.us/departments/parkswaterways/ and Forest Service.

Boat Launches and Landings

North Lake Coeur d'Alene

1. City of Coeur d'Alene - (starting on the west end of the beach and going east)

Hubbard Street Park (Picnic tables, beach, shade); City Beach and Park (Family and group picnic facilities, large event and band shell, swim beach, volleyball, basketball, restrooms and award winning playground, Summer Sunday Concert series); Independence Point Dock and Beach (Beach, benches, swim area, cruise boats, parasail rides, seaplanes, kayak rentals); 1st Street Dock (Not wheelchair accessible); Boardwalk (Beach, restrooms; park; sports facilities; kayak rentals and parasailing (http://www.cdaparasail.net); jet ski rentals, power boat rentals, ferry cruises (http://www.cdaresort.com); sailboat rentals (http://www.funtosail.com).

Directions: From I90 follow the signs to City Center. Turn southeast on to E. Lakeshore Ave. to enter the Diamond Parking lot to Independence Point. OR - From I90 take NW Boulevard South. Continue on as the road curves left and turns into Sherman Ave. Turn right on Front Street, which again curves left and hang a right into Diamond Parking. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Info: ATTENTION - During the summer months and holiday seasons this is a highly congested area.

2. 3rd Street Boat Launch, Marina, and Tubbs Hill

Boat launch and docks, dock pump out station, restrooms, large parking lot, hiking trails, beaches and large rock shoreline.

3rd Street Boat Launch and Marina, Tubbs Hill:

ATTENTION This launch in this picture has changed (new pic coming soon)... the parking area has moved about 600 ft. the north and northeast. The launch remains as does the marina. The changes are due to the new park that was built. A new picture will be added soon. 3rd Street Boat Launch is next to Tubbs Hill and in between McEuen Park and the CdA Resort. During the summer months this is a highly used, very congested launch, due to the fact this launch is next to Tubbs Hill, the Resort, downtown area, and Park. The poor redesign of the park and parking area makes its not an ideal place to launch a sailboat from as there are limited space to put up ones mast before launching. ATTENTION the parking and marina officials that check if you have paid are quick to give tickets. Get your parking/launch permit before doing anything. Launch fee is $4.00 for Idaho residents and $8 for nonresidents with 20 minute limit at docks. Marina docks located southeast of the launch and next to Tubbs Hill allow free moorage between 8:AM-10:PM for up to 6 hrs. The fee is $15 for per night from 10:PM-8:AM with a limit of 2 consecutive nights. Be advised these fees and rules may have changed since I last checked. Directions: From I90 follow signs to City Center. On Sherman Ave. turn south onto 3rd Street. This road takes you directly to the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

3. 10th Street Landing & Tubbs Hill

Click on image to enlarge

There is a beautiful non-motorize watercraft access point on the east side of Tubbs Hill at the 10th Street park that gives kayakers, canoeist, etc. access to the Lake Coeur d'Alene and the Tom McTevia accessible trail. Right where the trail turns from paved to hard packed dirt and sand to the left you will see a small building and beach area... this is the place. Getting to the water is tricky for anyone with mobility limitations due to having to climb down a small bank to the water. Once on the beach it's an easy launch into the lake. This site is excellent non-motorized watercraft site due to the area being virtually wind and wave free due to Tubbs Hill, 11th street marina, log breakwater, and away from powerboats. There are a couple powerboats that park at the 11st dock next to this site but the traffic is minimal. If one paddles a few hundred feet away from the beach you will come to a nice protected bay with beach... great place to hang out and relax. ACCESSIBILITY SCALE: 1. Environment... Not accessible; 2. Restroom… Restroom not accessible; 3. Parking/Paths... 2 accessible spaces. Paved path to accessible trail head then the trail surfaces turns to hard packed dirt that gives one in a wheelchair access to the east side of Tubbs Hill. When the trail turns east it becomes inaccessible to wheelchairs; 4. Dock… No dock; 5. Direct Water Access… Inaccessible. There is a beach but is not accessible to wheelchairs due to small bank and concrete obstructions; 6. Other/Amenities... Water fountain operates only during summer months. DIRECTION: From I90 follow signs to City Center. On Sherman Ave. turn south onto 10th Street. 10th Street will appear to end at E. Mullan Ave. Simple turn right and then left to get back onto 10th Street. This road takes you directly to the land. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST ACCESS POINT FOR KAYAKERS, ETC. WANTING TO PADDLE AROUND TUBBS HILL!

4. North Idaho College

Beach, restrooms, dock...

Directions: From I90 follow the signs to North Idaho College. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Info: ATTENTION - During the summer months this is a highly congested area. During fall, winter, & spring the area around the college is also congested due to college courses taking place. This area also has problems with vandalism.

5. Sanders Beach

Small public beach, no parking...

To access this site you will have to park at the Tubbs Hill east parking area then walk a short distance southeast along the road until you get to the beach. Be sure to stay on the designated small beach as there was a big lawsuit between the land owners and city over this site. Of course once in the water you can swim in either direction as no one owns the water but again do not touch the private beaches. Directions: From I90 follow signs to City Center. On Sherman Avenue, turn south onto 11th Avenue. Where the road T's, turn right to the Tubbs Hill parking; turn right to go to Sanders Beach Access site. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

Jewitt House & Sanders Beach

Small public beach, paved wheelchair access path, no parking...

To access this site you will have to park at Tubbs Hill east parking area then walk about a mile to the site. As you start down the path you will see a sign indicating No Trespassing. This sign does not apply to the path you are on and only applies to the beach west of this path. Be sure to stay on the designated small beach as there was a big lawsuit between the land owners and city related to the beach area to the west of this site. Of course once in the water you can go in either direction; no one owns the water. Directions: From I90 follow signs to city center. On Sherman Avenue turn south onto 11th Avenue. Where the road T's turn right to the Tubbs Hill parking. Turn right to go to Jewitt House Beach Access site. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

6. Boothes Public Boat Launch

Launch, docks, restroom, small parking area, no running water...

Directions: From I90 take Exit 15 to the stop light. Go straight through the stop light and follow the road (E. Coeur d'Alene Dr.) To its end to get to the boat launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

7. Blue Point Launch

Launch, docks, restrooms, beaches, bike trail, large parking lots, observation binoculars, park...

Blue Point Launch is right next to the North Idaho Centennial Bike Trail, Coeur d'Alene Park Way, and Higgins Point Park (4 docks at this site).

Directions: From I90 take Exit 15 to stop light. Go straight through stop light and follow the road (E. Coeur d'Alene Dr. road) to its end to get to the boat launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

8. Blue Creek Bay Sportsman Access

Dock kayak/canoe launching, 2 docks, restroom, hiking trail, large parking lot, picnic table, long dock access ramp.

This site/park is located in beautiful Blue Creek Bay. The bay is home to Osprey and Bald Eagles depending on the time of year. This is a popular fishing location. Directions: From I90 take Exit 22. At the end of the off ramp turn north toward the hill (opposite direction to get to lake). Follow this road (E. Yellowstone Trl road.) to area with dumpsters. The road to the Sportsman's Access is next to this. Turn north onto South Landing road. Follow this road to site. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

9. Lake Coeur d'Alene Camp Resort Landing and Marina

You can only access these facilities if you are camping at this resort. No day service available. Facilities include a landing with dock (no launch or swim area), small marina, swimming pool, restrooms, running water, boat rentals, tent and RV sites, Cabins, Store, hiking trails.

Directions: From I90, take Exit 22 onto HWY 97. At the end of the off ramp turn south toward the lake. Follow this road several miles and turn right (north) onto S. Eddyville Rd. Turn left onto S. Squaw Bay road. There is a big green sign at this turn point indicating "Drive Slow." Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

9.1 Wolf Lodge Creek Marsh Access

Bank portaging and/or fishing, small gravel parking area.

9.2 Wolf Lodge Creek Bridge Access

Bank portaging next to north end of bridge, bank fishing, small gravel parking area. Please do not block private road entrance at gate. This is a real nice area of the Wolf Lodge Creek Marsh to fish from the banks. One could kayak up stream from here during late spring when the current slows done yet does not get to shallow. Be careful of sweepers, etc. as even though the water may appear moving slowly its probably is not. With all the debris in this area it could potentially be dangerous if you were to fall in and get tangled up.

Directions: From I90, take Exit 22 onto HWY 97. At the end of the off ramp turn south toward the lake. Follow this road several miles and turn right (north) onto S. Eddyville Rd. Turn left onto S. Squaw Bay road. There is a big green sign at this turn point indicating "Drive Slow." Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

Wolf Lodge Bay Sportsman Access

ATTENTION THIS SITE IS CURRENTLY CLOSE TO THE PUBLIC...

NO OFFICIAL DATE WHEN AND IF IT WILL OPEN

Directions: From I90 take Exit 22 At the end of the off ramp turn south toward the lake. A short distance down the road to your right (west) is a gravel road to the Sportsman Access. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

10. Mineral Ridge Launch

Launch, dock, restrooms, large parking area...

Directions: From I90 take Exit 22 At end of the off ramp turn south towards the lake. A short distance down the road you will easily see the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

11. Neachen (Squaw) Bay Boat Launch and Dock

Directions: From I90, take Exit 22 onto HWY 97. At the end of the off ramp turn south toward the lake. Follow this road several miles and turn right (north) onto S. Eddyville Rd. Turn left onto S. Squaw Bay road. There is a big green sign at this turn point indicating "Drive Slow." Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

12. Kid Bay Boat Launch - no dock or restroom

It is easy to drive past this launch as its not well marked and looks just like a field. Kid Bay is extremely shallow and full of aquatic life. If you are launching a power boat it may be a good idea to paddle out a ways to get through the aquatic plant life. Directions: On HWY 95 turn east onto W. Kidd Island road. Follow this road to the launch. The launch is on the corner of W. Kidd Island road and South West Way dr. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

Kid Island - Private.

Cougar Bay shoreline is primarily a wildlife preserve, with exception to its privately owned north shore and one other spot on its west shore. This is, of course, an excellent location to view wildlife.

Cougar Bay is shallow but a great place to kayak from any time of the year. One can kayak up Cougar Creek to the small bridge in the park. The best location to launch a kayak/canoe from is at the BLM sportsman access on the northwest shore of this bay off of HWY 95. Even though the North Idaho College beach is further away across the Spokane river from the bay it is also a good location to launch from. Be warned though that crossing the Spokane River during the high boat traffic time of year (July) can be a challenge. Blackwell Island public boat launch is a great place to launch from during the summer months when the water level is up. From this launch one can paddle up the channel behind Blackwell.

Island through a marina to Cougar Bay. The channel goes southward and then opens into a marina. From here you will have to deal with boat traffic, but at least it is slow moving. Spring is not a good time to access the Spokane River and channel due to the dangerously fast current. Cougar Bay is certainly well worth the time to paddle.

Cougar Bay Wildlife Park

Trail, viewing areas...

This wildlife park is an excellent location to view wildlife from. It is also a popular area with fisherman and kayakers/canoes due to the variety of wildlife. One could potentially launch a kayak/canoe from the small bridge in the park during the high water time of year (spring and early summer). See other launch info in Cougar Bay info above and #11 next to this info. Directions: Coming from Coeur d'Alene on HWY 95 (going south towards Moscow Idaho), cross the bridge over the Spokane River/Post Falls Reservoir. Drive until you go around a strong southerly curve in the road. When you are driving along the shoreline, watch for the Cougar Bay Wildlife Park sign. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

13. Cougar Bay Bureau of Land Management Sportsmen Access

Short trail to beach, no restroom or running water...

Due to the narrow gate at the entrance of this site, kayaks or canoes are the only crafts feasible to portage from this site. Directions: On HWY 95 from Coeur d'Alene Idaho (going south towards Moscow Idaho), cross the bridge over the Spokane River/Post Falls Reservoir. Drive until you go around a strong southerly curve in the road; when the road straightens out look to your left (east) for the Bureau of Land Management sign for Cougar Bay. There is a good size gravel parking area. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

14. Murphy's Landing (Marina)

Launch for marina customers, marina, restrooms, running water, marine tug towing services, no fuel in marina next to this marina... On the Water Crane is near by for mast raising.

I have placed this private launch into this section because this is the site where sailboats and some large powerboats typically crane into Coeur d'Alene Lake. This marine also has a lunch (pictured). Directions: On HWY 95 from Coeur d'Alene Idaho (going south towards Moscow Idaho), cross the bridge over the Spokane River/Post Falls Reservoir. Turn left/east on West Blackwell road and follow signs to this marina. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

Blackwell Island and Post Falls Reservoir/Spokane River

We have placed the Blackwell Island Public Boat Launch and channel info in the Post Falls Reservoir/Spokane River section even though the south end of the Island is on Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Between the North and South ends of Lake Coeur d'Alene - Starting north and going southward.

15. Gould's Boat Launch (Mica Bay)

Boat launch, dock, restroom...

Directions: On HWY 95 turn east onto W. Kidd Island road. Turn Left (east) onto W. Valhalla road. Turn left (south) onto South Gould Landing road. Follow this road to the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

16. Mica Bay Boat Launch

Boat launch, docks, restroom...

Directions: On HWY 95 turn east onto South Putnam road. Up the road a short distance turn left onto South Tall Pines road to the launch. Watch for the sign to the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Info: Right across from this launch (south) is Mica Bay Boaters Park.

17. Turner Point Sportsman Access

Dock, primitive launch, rocky beach, picnic area...

Directions: From I90 take Exit 22 onto HWY 97 south... There are no physical features or signs indicating you have reached this site. A few miles past the Boy Scout Camp, you will see to your left (east) East Driftwood Heights Drive; pass it. A short distance down HWY 97 from East Driftwood Heights Drive (along the lake) you will see a gravel road leading to a dock. This is the place. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

18. Turner Bay Dock and Primitive Launch (north of Carlin Bay) Boat launch, dock...

Directions: From I90 take Exit 22 onto HWY 97. At the end of the ramp turn south toward the lake. Follow this road until you see the Burma road sign to your left (northeast). The dock is southwest of this road - sign in view.  Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

19. Lofts Bay Boat Launch

Launch, dock, restroom...

What a beautiful setting. There is a hiking area south up the road a little from the launch and a beautiful creek that some boats and kayaks can go up. Directions: On HWY 95 turn east onto West Rockford Bay road, then go straight (east) onto South Loffs Bay road at the intersection of West Rockford Bay road & South Lofts Bay road. Follow South Lofts Bay to the launch. Watch for the sign on HWY 95 to Rockford Bay. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

20. Carlin Bay Launch and Park

Launch, dock, beach, pump out station at new dock, park, restroom, picnic area, no parking...

If you want to use this site and park with your trailer you will have to park about 2 miles up the road (east) along an extended paved shoulder area. Directions: From I90 take Exit 22 onto HWY 97. At the end of ramp turn south toward the lake. Follow this road until you see the Carlin Bay Resort & store. The launch and park is next to (west side) the marina store. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

21. Black Rock Launch

Gravel launch, limited parking along road, no dock or restroom...

You will have to park along W. Rockford Bay Rd. and walk quite a distance to use this launch. This launch is technical for local residence. Directions: On HWY 95 turn east onto West Rockford Bay Rd. Follow this road to the launch. Watch for the street sign -W. Solitair Rd. turn left/east down this road, followed by turning left onto W. Phish Ln. Follow this road to the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

22. Rockford Bay Boat Launch

Launch, dock, restroom, small picnic area...

You may want to park along the road some distance away from the launch after dropping your boat off at the launch. Directions: On HWY 95 turn east onto West Rockford Bay Rd. Follow this road to the launch. Watch for the sign on HWY 95 to Rockford Bay. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

South and Southeast end of Lake Coeur d'Alene.

23. Sunup Bay Boat Launch

Launch, dock, restroom, large parking area...

Directions: On HWY 95 between the city of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho and the CdA Casino (Setters ID.) watch for the sign to Sun Up Bay. Take Sun Up Bay Road all the way to the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

24. Powder Horn Bay Sportsman Access

Gravel mud primitive launch, limited parking along road...

Directions: From I90 take Exit 22 onto HWY 97. At the end of the  ramp turn south toward the lake. When you get to its south end you will see a small gravel road just up the road that goes to a pole building in the marsh area. This is just past the short sportsman access road. The access road runs along the main road. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

25. Harlow Point Launch

Launch, dock, gravel beach, limited camping...

Directions: On HWY 97 near Harrison Idaho just a short distance northwest of the bridge that crosses the Coeur d'Alene River take East Harlow Point Road to the launch.

Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

26. Spokane Point Boat Launch

2 Launch Pads and Dock, no parking available...

Directions: From HWY 95 in the city of Worley Idaho, take Cave Bay Road northward then turn right (east) onto South Cottonwood Road. Turn right (east) again onto West Cottonwood Road. Follow this road to the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

27. Harrison Boat Launch and Docks

Launch, docks (marina), beach, restrooms, picnic area...

 Directions: This facility is in Harrison Idaho next to the Trail of the Coeur d'Alene bike trail. Harrison Idaho is a beautiful rural town with restaurant, small grocery store, motel, RV park, etc. Directions: From I90 take either Exit 22 onto HWY 97 to Harrison or Take Exit 34 onto HWY 3 to the HWY 2 & 97 junction and take HWY 97 to Harrison. In the city of Harrison turn east on to W. Harrison Street to go to the launch and marina. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section! Info: To learn more about Harrison Idaho click here http://www.harrisonidaho.or

28. Fullers/Bloomsburg Bay Launch

Two launch pads and a dock, no parking...

Directions: From HWY 95 just east of Worley Idaho, take West Conkling road, then turn left (north) onto South Larson road. Turn right (east) onto South Rolling Hills road. Turn left (north) onto South Bloomsburg Bay road. Follow this road to the launch. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

29. Conkling Marina East Boat Launch

Two launch pads, a marina, restrooms, parking, camping, store...

Directions: From HWY 95 just east of Worley Idaho, take West Conkling road, then turn left (north) onto South Bella Vista road. Turn right onto West Jerry Lane. Follow Signs to Conklin Resort. Maps: See Lake Coeur d'Alene Google map above at the start of this section!

Picture Coming Soon

Corine Island

Corine Island in Swede Bay is owned by Bureau of Land Management. Some locals use the Island to cliff dive off and as a swim platform. One can only access the Island with a boat as the shoreline of Swede Bay is all privately owned.

SOME MAPS ARE WRONG!
There are no public boat launches and docks within Bottle & Cave Bays no matter what other maps and websites say!

East End of Lake!
See our Benewah County section for information about the southeast end of the lake, Heyburn S.P., St. Joe River, etc., & Chatcolet, Benewah, Hidden, & Round Lakes... Click Here!
marinas, and additional On-lake launch, Boating parks, etc.

Kootenai county parks & waterways boating sites
Mowry Park - http://www.co.kootenai.id.us/departments/parkswaterways/facilities/MowryPark.asp (South end of lake)
Harrison Marina and Boat Launch - http://www.co.kootenai.id.us/departments/parkswaterways/facilities/HarrisonDocks.asp (Southeast end of lake)
Many Boat Launch only sites -  http://www.co.kootenai.id.us/departments/parkswaterways/facilities/FacilitiesMap.asp

Idaho National Forest Service & KOOTENAI COUNTY MAINTAINED boating site (south)
Bell Bay Campground - http://www.fs.fed.us/ipnf/rec/yourplace/cgguide/32.html &  http://www.co.kootenai.id.us/departments/parkswaterways/facilities/WindyBay.asp Is accessible by car but there is no boat launch at this park.

BLM & KOOTENAI county maintained boating sites (north to south)
Mica Bay Boater Park - http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene/recreation_sites_/Mica_Bay_Boater_Park.html & http://www.co.kootenai.id.us/departments/parkswaterways/  Not accessible by car.
Windy Bay Boater Park - http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene/recreation_sites_/Windy_Bay_Boater_Park.html . Not accessible by car.

BLM boater sites on Lake CdA (top of lake CdA east to west)

Beauty Bay Boat Launch - http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene/recreation_sites_/beauty_bay.html
Mineral Ridge Boat Launch and National Recreation Trail - http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene/recreation_sites_/Mineral_Ridge_Boat_Launch.html
Blackwell Island Boat Launch and Park - http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene/recreation_sites_/Blackwell.html
General CdA Boating Site info - http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene/recreation_sites_.html

RESORTS AND MARINAS

NORTH: Lake CdA Yacht Club, CdA Resort & Marina, Silver Beach Marina http://www.cdaresort.com  : City of Coeur d’Alene Marine (day use only); Arrow Point Marina & Restaurant; Booth’s Beach Marina 208-446-1275 – MIDDLE PART OF LAKE: Carlin Bay Marina – Black Rock Marina http://www.blackrock.Marina.aspx – Sunup Bay Resort is no longer in service. – SOUTHEAST: City of Harrison - Gateway Marina http://www.harrisonidaho.org/ - Conklin Marina http://www.cdalake.com - Heyburn  State Park (http://www.idahoparks.org/parks/heyburn.aspx). Docks & Marinas with limit of 1 & 2 day use: City of Coeur d’Alene Marina (limited 2 day stay max).

Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park (Northeast end of lake)
Higgins Point Boat Launch & Park -  http://www.idahoparks.org/parks/coeurdaleneparkway.aspx

City of Coeur d'Alene boat launch site; 3rd Street Boat Launch - http://www.coeurdaleneidaho.org

Bald Eagle Viewing Info
http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/fo/coeur_d_alene/special_areas/Mineral_Ridge-_Wolf_Lodge_Bay/eagle_watch.html

OTHER: Coeur d’Alene Parkway - CdA Chamber http://www.coeurdalene.org . Phone #'s: Black Rock 446-1275; Booth's Park Coeur d'Alene 446-1275; Carlin Bay 446-1275; Fuller's Landing 446-1275; Gould's Landing 446-1275; Greensferry Bay 446-1275; Harlow Point 446-1275; Harrison City Docks 446-1275; Loff's Bay 446-1275; Mica Bay 446-1275; Spokane Point 446-1275; Third Street Breakwater 446-1275.

RENTALS: Sailboats, Power Boats, & Kayaks: funtosail.com 762-7110; Boardwalk Marina 415-5600; Kayak Coeur d'Alene 676-1533; Red Lion Templin's Hotel 773-1611; Serendipity Houseboat and Events Center 651-6319; North Idaho College 769-5941.