Spot bald eagles along paved path
Finding good trail conditions in the low country can be tough this time of year. Slush, ice and snow make walking a challenge, if not dangerous, and the lack of a good snow base is rough on skis and snowshoes. One solution is the eastern end of the North Idaho Centennial Trail, from the entrance of the Coeur d’ Alene Lake Parkway near the Beach House to Higgens Point.
The 5-mile paved path winds along the lakeshore and, when dry, is suitable for walking, running, biking and roller blades. When the snow flies, the first half-mile (from the Beach House to Steamboat Point) is plowed by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, making it a “safe and level place to walk,” says IDPR spokesman Randall Butt.
Adding to the scenery is the annual migration of bald eagles, which peaks in December. The Higgens Point parking area is a good spot from which to watch the great birds dive for spawning kokanee salmon in Lake Coeur d’ Alene.
Next Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. IDPR rangers will host an eagle watch day, complete with spotting scopes, hot drinks and presentations by biologists.
Access: From I-90, take exit 15 (Sherman Avenue) to Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive. From the Coeur d’ Alene city center, go east on Sherman Avenue, then right on Coeur d’ Alene Lake Drive (ends at Higgens Point).
Length: 5 miles, with the first ½ mile (from near the Beach House) plowed of snow.
Elevation: approximately 2,152 feet above sea level.
Use: moderate to heavy.
Trail condition: Good walking on the first half section when plowed, but always be careful of ice. The rest of the trail is not plowed and can be hazardous after a snowfall.
Difficulty: Easy.
Restrictions: No motorized vehicles, dogs must be leashed and pedestrians have the right of way.
What to see: Great lake views and eagles.
Special features: Eagles in December and January; interpretative signs; Higgins Point Eagle Watch Day is Dec. 22.
Preparation: Maps and more information available at Idaho Parks and Recreation, 2750 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d’ Alene, 83814, (208) 796-1511.
Gear: Good walking shoes or hiking boots. Consider clamp-on ice grips in slippery conditions. Dress warm in the winter – winds off the lake contribute to the wind chill factor. Binoculars are handy to see eagles.
Note: People travel from all the United States every year to see eagles diving for salmon on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Numbering more than 100 this year, the eagles migrate from the north to feed on the spawning kokanee salmon. A few eagles spend the winter, but most head south after feasting on the fish. Visit the federal Bureau of Land Management Web site, http://www.id.blm.gov/eagle_watch/index.htm, for more information on the Lake Coeur d’ Alene eagles.
The entire North Idaho Trail extends 24 miles from the Washington-Idaho border to Higgins Point. The paved trail has numerous rest areas, scenic overlooks and interpretive signs. For more information, visit the Web site, http://www.northidahocentennialtrail.org/ or write the North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation at P.O. Box 5163, Coeur d’ Alene, ID 83814.