Hike among old-growth cedar in Settler’s Grove

Settler’s Grove Trail, near the old mining towns of Prichard and Murray, offers hikers a step back in time in a magical setting.

Wandering through extensive old-growth Western red cedar (according to the United States Forest Service, cedars were considered trash by early loggers, “not even worth cutting down, much less hauling out.” Cedars were left to grow in inaccessible areas like Settler’s Grove, and some are hundreds of years old), the path begins in the cool forest, crossing the crystal-clear waters of the West Fork of Eagle Creek with several wooden footbridges. The trail continues along a hillside, offering several viewpoints of the area, for another four miles.

Access from I-90: Go east on I-90 to the Kingston Exit 43. Go north on Forest Highway 9 (FH9 – begins as the Coeur d’ Alene River Road), bearing right at the Prichard “Y,” for a total of 26 miles to Eagle. Turn left on FR 152, going northeast 1.3 miles to the junction. Take the left fork onto FR 805 and go 5.6 miles to the trailhead.

Length: 5.3 miles (one-way).

Elevation: There is an elevation increase change of approximately 1,760 feet from the parking lot to the trail end.

Use: Moderate.

Trail condition: Begins as a wide and well-maintained trail through the cedars, turning into a narrow and occasionally rocky trail along a ridgeline.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

Restrictions: Hiking only.

What to see: Wildlife, forests with cedars large enough to stand inside, and views.

Special features: Interpretative signs (learn how Settler’s Grove got its name), ample parking and restrooms at the entry. Two Geocaches are hidden on the trail system.

Preparation: Free trail guide available at the Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District’s Fernan Office, 2502 E. Sherman Ave., in Coeur d’Alene 664-2318, www.fs.fed.us/outernet/ipnf, or from the U.S. Forest Service, 3815 Schreiber Way in Coeur d’ Alene. The ranger office suggests leaving your trip schedule with a responsible person.

Gear: Good hiking boots are recommended. Hikers should take plenty of drinking water, dress for changing conditions and pack a first-aid kit.

Note: Geocaches are found in a treasure-hunt game, using clues from the Web site, www.geocaching.com.