Now that we are settled into our home in Coeur d’Alene, we are eager to explore the lakes, rivers and trails that we have not yet been on, in addition to enjoying ones we are familiar with. Last weekend, we enjoyed a 30-mile bike ride on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, which we have biked on a handful of times. This past Saturday, we ventured to Spirit Lake, located west of Athol and north of Rathdrum.
The Native American name for Spirit Lake is “Tesemini,” loosely interpreted as “Lake of the Spirits.” A few different legends are associated with this lake; it is unclear which one(s) is/are accurate. Spirit Lake is 1,534.8 acres with roughly 13 miles of shoreline surrounding it. Mount Spokane is located due west and visible. Picturesque views of the Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges, covered with lush green trees surround the lake. There are homes scattered around the lake, but they do not detract from the natural beauty of the area like some developed lakes have the tendency to do.
We launched the kayak from Fireside Park, just off the main town road. There is ample (free) parking, a boat launch and a few picnic tables. We began paddling south, taking us under the bridge to a small section of the lake that is very shallow. There are a few homes along the shore on one side and beautiful forest land across from them. When we emerged onto the main body of the lake, we paddled counterclockwise around the whole lake. The views were stunning and we were often ‘lost in the moment.’
The weather and water conditions were the most ideal that we have experienced in a few years. Very seldom are we lucky enough to paddle on a calm day where the water is like a sheet of glass. What a glorious treat for us that was! And, we experienced another blessing on this paddling adventure: we spotted four bald eagles flying together directly above us! Larry attempted to photograph all four, but it was a challenge to capture them. This was an amazing paddling day, one of the best we’ve had in a very long time.
Each day we are grateful that we were able to relocate to Coeur d’Alene! As the season progresses closer to winter, our minds drift toward thoughts of the abundance of places to explore with our snowshoes and different cross-country ski gear. Since getting my (Stella) new legs, I am eager to see how they perform. Soon, we will provide a brief post readdressing our winter gear, and since we both plan on getting some new things, we will publish reviews for that gear once we’ve tested them out. Coeur d’Alene – watch out! Paddle & Trails is here!
WHERE IS PADDLE & TRAILS HEADED NEXT?
- October 4-6: Priest River, Idaho
So happy for you both now that you are settled in and getting out to adventure. Beautiful location, pictures and video !!!