Enjoy Lake CdA views on this hike

If you want a pleasurable hike and the absolute best view of Lake Coeur d’Alene, this is it.

The drive from Interstate 90 takes you along the Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway then through old homestead country on Burma Road. From the parking lot, trails drop down to the south and to the north for extended hikes.

The unnamed south trail leads down the mountain toward the lake, initially paralleling Forest Road 439. The north trail ties into Forest Trail No. 227, a 3.5-mile hike dropping more than 2,500 feet in elevation.

The trails connect to other trails, offering the hiker options for length and scenery.

Access: From Northwest Boulevard in Coeur d’Alene, go east on I-90 for 10.3 miles to exit 22. Turn right on Highway 97 for 5.9 miles, then left on Burma Road. Go east on Burma Road for 2.4 miles, then left on Forest Road 439 for 1.4 miles, turning left at the Forest Service “Motorized Trail….” sign. Go one-tenth of a mile on the dirt trail to the parking area.

Length: This is the hiker’s choice – feel free to turn around whenever you have had enough scenery and exercise.

Elevation: The summit at the parking lot is approximately 4,439 feet above sea level.

Use: Light.

Trail condition: Mostly well-packed trails.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

Restrictions: No motorized vehicles are allowed on Trail No. 227.

What to see: Incredible views of Lake Coeur d’Alene, along with a variety of plants and wildlife.

Special features: Camping at Mount Coeur d’Alene summit.

Preparation: A free trail guide is available at the U.S. Forest Service, 3815 Schreiber Way in Coeur d’Alene, (208) 765-7223. The ranger office suggests leaving your trip schedule with a responsible person. Detailed topographical maps are available for purchase from the following vendors in Coeur d’Alene: Black Sheep Sporting Goods, The Yacht Club Sales and Service and North Idaho Blueprint.

Gear: Good walking shoes or hiking boots.