Coeur d'Alene

Coeur d'Alene is a county seat on the northern shore of a large lake in Idaho, surrounded by forested mountains at roughly 670 meters elevation. The downtown area stretches from the lakefront promenade northward and includes several residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and recreational facilities along main thoroughfares.

Settlement began in 1878 during the mining boom and quickly grew into a trading hub for nearby silver and lead operations. After mining declined, the town shifted over the course of the 20th century toward becoming a lakeside resort drawing visitors from across the region.

Water activities define daily life during warm months, when sailboats and motorboats fill the lake and families gather at public beaches along the shoreline. The community organizes frequent street festivals and craft markets along the waterfront promenade, where local musicians perform and vendors sell their goods under open skies.

A regional airport handles smaller flights, while major connections run through Spokane in Washington, roughly an hour's drive to the west. During summer months, lodging and boat rentals see heavy demand, so early booking is advisable for stays during peak season.

A golf course near the shore includes a floating hole that sits on a movable platform in the water and changes position daily. This mechanical structure shifts with wind conditions and wave patterns, making each shot from the tee a different challenge every time.