Coeur d'Alene River National Recreation Trail #20

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

The starting point shown in this description, is found at a trailhead sign on Forest Service Road 208. From I90 take exit 43 and go north to Coeur d'Alene River Road. Follow Coeur d'Alene River Road to FSR 208, and then FSR 208, for a total of 49 miles to the trailhead from I90.

The trail end point is along Forest Sevice Road 3099.

The trail can also be accessed at Jordan Camp along Forest Service Road 412.

The Coeur d'Alene River National Recreation Trail is primarily a forest trail in the Coeur d'Alene Mountains. However it does break out of the forest to cross small, grassy meadows. The trail runs along the upper reaches of the Coeur d'Alene River for its entire length.

From the trailhead sign at its starting point, the Coeur d'Alene River NRT enters the forest and immediately begins to climb. This climb leaves the river far below. Where the trees thin, there are wonderful views of the river, cliffs along its banks, and the meadows that the river runs through. After about a mile the trail reaches a rocky overlook of the river and its valley below. Continuing on in the forest with frequent views of the river, the trail crosses several small creeks. At the six mile mark, the trail veers right, descends a short ways and crosses Jordan Creek followed by Forest Sevice Road 412.

Here at FSR 412, a very short run to the left/west brings one to Jordan Camp, a nice National Forest Service maintained camp. To continue on Coeur d'Alene River NRT, right after crossing Jordan Creek, cross FSR 412, and re-enter the forest on Coeur d'Alene River NRT.

The trail continues to follow the river upstream in the forest, but again, there are meadows and open areas. More small creeks are crossed. A few dispersed camping sites are passed. This section of trail stays closer to the river for most of its length (as opposed to high above the river). About eight miles after crossing FSR 412, a slightly larger meadow is crossed and the trail ends as it reaches FSR 3099.

Thick conifer forest on the mountain sides with occasional small grassy meadows. Meadows in the Coeur d'Alene River flood plain. There are some amazing large white birds (Trumperter Swans?) around the river. Deer live here and an occasional mountain lion.