Coeur d'Alene
Impromptu Trip
In 2022 my husband and I decided we were ready to move and wanted to ensure that this move was right. We had whittled it down to two states Colorado and Idaho. This trip had two goals - have fun and check out the Spokane Valley. A couple weeks before our departure I booked flights, Airbnb, and rented a car. Thankfully my mom was able to accompany me on this mission. With three whole days to explore we were bound to have some fun. I am super appreciative of Hertz who gave us a free upgrade so that we could have 4-wheel drive in the snow.
Airbnb
We arrived late to our Airbnb nestled in the heart of the picturesque Garden District of Coeur d'Alene. Unlocking the door, you are met with a cozy interior that promises a restful night. I ended up choosing this location because shopping, dining, multiple parks, hiking trails, and beaches were only a short walk from the apartment. Overall this was an affordable accommodation that was clean and in a good location.
Day 1
Schweitzer Ski Resort - Sandpoint, ID
Happy my mom was on board for some winter fun as we traversed up to Schweitzer. The guided snowmobile tour through the Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges with our expert guide was the experience of a lifetime. He led us on an exhilarating tour that not only showcased the beauty of the region but also provided unforgettable views of Lake Pend Oreille.
Day 2
Falls Park Hydroelectric Dam - Postfalls, ID
With some free time on our second day, we decided to go check out the Spokane River and Dam. The Falls Park Overlook Trail was an easy hike to view the falls, there were low water levels in late January. I understand that it is more active in the spring with the winter melt. The trail is a family-friendly spot with hydroelectric education, the history behind the dam, and a playground for kids. Next to the trail are benches for parents, shade, and a park for children. Overall, the trail seems to be a good option for a quick and enjoyable outdoor activity.
CDA Symphony
On the evening of our second day, we went to the CDA Symphony and performed Mussorgsky’s "Night on Bald Mountain". The symphonic poem was inspired by an ancient Russian legend that tells of nighttime celebrations that took place on St. John's Eve on a barren hill called Lysa Hora near Kyiv. Chernobog the demon led the revelry until the sounds of the far-off bell of a little church in the village dispersed the evil spirits. We thoroughly enjoyed the performance. Afterwards we drove around downtown to view the lights.
Day 3
Most of the day was spent driving around checking out the communities and houses listed for sale. Afterwards, we ended up crossing the panhandle on I-90 and made it all the way to Montana before we decided to turn back. It was absolutely stunning seeing the forest and terrain snow-capped. Stopping by the historical marker Kellogg’s Jackass: Noah Kellogg came here prospecting in 1855. Not far from here, his jackass strayed away. Kellogg finally found his wandering burro grazing on a tremendous outcropping of galena on the hillside above Wardner, about two miles south of here. Such was the discovery of the world-famous Bunker Hill mine, which has produced over 28 million tons of lead, silver, and zinc and the end is not yet in sight.
Mudgy & Millie / Downtown Art
Mudgy and Millie have become the town’s mascots. At each of the 5 stops along the 2-1/4-mile Mudgy Moose Trail, Mudgy searches for his playmate Millie, who has secretly been hiding in his antlers all along! Next to each of the statues is a page from the book Mudgy and Millie, upon which the statues and trail are based. It was fun finding the statues and seeing a little piece of Coeur d’Alene. Sprinkled through the downtown you can also find beautiful pieces of art on every block.
Spokane Airport
Since when do airports have rocking chairs??? Apparently, Spokane has these decked out for passengers to enjoy. Some things are just a little different in smaller airports.