HIKING -- The Mineral Ridge Scenic Area off the northeast portion of Lake Coeur d'Alene, including the popular Mineral Ridge Trail, will be temporarily closed next week for hazardous tree removal, U.S. Bureau of Land Management officials say. 

The Beauty Bay-area closure is scheduled for Monday, March 16, through Thursday, March 19. 

The temporary closure applies to the parking area, picnic shelter, hiking trails and surrounding BLM-managed lands within the recreation area.

As an alternative hiking and recreation area, the Coeur d’Alene Field Office suggests visitors check out the Blue Creek Bay area, which is a short drive north of Mineral Ridge and offers several hiking options, a day use picnic area and fishing docks. 

See more information on BLM recreation areas in the Coeur d'Alene region.