Trail Boosters Look For More Support

Unpublished correction: The name of Higgens Point is misspelled in this story. This information is from the Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation.

Randy Haddock knew the community eventually would see things his way. He just didn’t realize he’d have to wait 12 years.

He was director of the Coeur d’Alene Triathlon in 1987 when talk began of a cycling and walking trail from the Washington state line through North Idaho. The trail, which began in Washington, was to commemorate the centennials of both states.

Randy loved the idea and joined a committee to work on the plan.

“I thought, `This is a year’s work, a walk in the park,”’ he says, chuckling.

The squabbling and not-in-my-back-yard attitude that followed are old news now. Everyone wanted the 23-mile trail; few wanted it on their land or along their back fences.

Randy and his stalwart Centennial Trail Foundation board learned patience over the years. Their persistence yielded a scenic strip that stretches from the Washington state line through Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene to Higgins Point on Lake Coeur d’Alene.

But it wasn’t easy to do without an organized support base.

“We need a greater voice,” Randy says.

So the foundation has begun courting members - $25 for one, $50 for a family, $100 for a business and more for anyone willing.

The money will help with trail maintenance. Members will show the area’s commitment to the trail.

Anyone who has followed the smooth asphalt path along Lake Coeur d’Alene at sunrise or under the pines to Post Falls knows the trail is a treasure worth saving, Randy says.

The cities of Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls have applied for grants to finish two unprotected sections in the next few years.

Eventually, the foundation will work with Kootenai County and various cities to build links to the east-west trail. Randy says he envisions a branch along state Highway 41 to Rathdrum and spurs to subdivisions throughout the county.

His committee hasn’t officially counted the trail’s users, but Randy says use has far exceeded his expectations.

He sees walkers, parents pushing baby carriages and children on bikes throughout the year. Those users assure him the trail is reaching a larger segment of the population than anyone had imagined.

“Serious athletes will always find places to work out,” Randy says. “Where can the average guy take a walk?”

To become a trail member, send your name, address and phone number to North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation Inc., P.O. Box 5163, Coeur d’Alene 83814.

If you have a fax number, include that too.

Mountain mamas

Saddle up the ol’ mount and prepare for a wild weekend at Farragut State Park on July 10 and 11 if you’re a woman into mountain biking or even considering the sport.

The annual Skurtzendirt campout includes expert riders as teachers and trail leaders. The $55 fee covers bike handling and basic mechanics workshops, rides, a catered dinner, campfire entertainment, a pancake feed, massages, insurance, T-shirts and a lot of fun.

Everyone from beginner to expert is welcome. The 60 camper slots go fast, so register well before the July 1 deadline. Call (208) 263-4987 or check out www.keokee.com/skurtzendirt for details.

Raw energy

If you’re into wholesome eating, Coeur d’Alene’s raw foods group is gathering at the City Park band shell for a potluck today at noon.

The group feasts on fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Throw something together (sans oils) and join the picnic.

Co-founder Paul Holm says he’s searching for other great dining venues - yachts, mountaintop retreats, etc. Any offers?

This sidebar appeared with the story: WALK THE WALK To become a trail member, send your name, address and phone and fax numbers to: North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation Inc., P.O. Box 5163, Coeur d’Alene 83814. Memberships are: $25 for one; $50 for a family; $100 for a business. The money will help with trail maintenance.