Hiking on the hill

Tubbs Hill offers great scenery and a variety of trails for hikers to enjoy on forested peninsula extending into Lake Coeur d’ Alene. The 135-acre publicly owned park, managed by the Coeur d’Alene Parks Department, offers easy access and a family friendly environment.

From the gentle path around the hill to steep climbs to the peak, Tubbs features caves, beaches, scenic overlooks and wildlife. The area was named for Tony Tubbs, who emigrated from Germany in 1882, bought land on Tubbs Hill and was the city’s first justice of the peace. A large sawmill was operated at the base of Tubbs Hill in the late 1880s and early 1900s, where McEuen Field is now located. D.C. Corbin, railroad and steamboat owner in the late 1800s, built a home on the hill overlooking the lake.

Access: Main trail begins on the west side – access off Third Street through the parking lot next to the Coeur d’ Alene Resort. East entrance is at the south end of 11th Street.

Length: Main loop is 2.2 miles. Upper trail breaks off near the Third Street entrance and goes to the top of the hill. Various side trails traverse Tubbs Hill.

Elevation: Begins at 2,140 feet (mean sea level). Summit is 2,533 feet.

Use: Extra heavy

Trail condition: Excellent, with wide paths.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with terrain changes and rocks.

Restrictions: Foot traffic only, dogs must be leashed – bags are provided for waste at the west entrance.

What to see: Boats and seaplanes on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Wildlife includes eagles, ospreys, small birds, squirrels, chipmunks, fox and deer. Great variety of flora and geological formations. Concrete foundations of the Corbin House, sawmills and grandstands (erected in 1914 to watch lake celebrations and boat races) are viewed along the trail.

Special features: Fishing and swimming on beaches. Geocaches are hidden on the hill. Variety of restaurants and shopping nearby.

Preparation: Self-guided tour maps are available for free at the Coeur d’ Alene Parks Department, 710 E. Mullan, Coeur d’Alene, (208) 769-2252. Wooden signs mark points along the main loop trail, which correspond to the trail maps.

Gear: Good walking shoes or hiking boots are essential. Dress for changing conditions – weather often changes to windy and cool, to sunny to shady as you progress around Tubbs. Drinking water and first-aid kit are always a good idea.

Notes: Great trail for beginning or occasional hikers. Geocaches are found in a treasure hunt game, using clues from the Web site, www.geocaching.com