The best traffic-free bike rides in Benewah County

Benewah County offers a selection of 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes are specifically designed for a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.

The most prominent no-traffic cycling trail in Benewah County is a significant portion of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes. This paved rail-trail offers an excellent, mostly flat surface ideal for road bikes, spanning diverse landscapes including the shoreline of Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Yes, there are 2 easy-rated no-traffic road cycling routes in Benewah County. For example, the One Shot Charlies loop from Saint Joe River offers a gentle ride, and the shorter Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Harrison is also rated easy, making them suitable for beginners or families.

The no-traffic routes in Benewah County, particularly the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, are predominantly paved and mostly flat, as they follow a former rail line. You'll experience smooth surfaces, ideal for road bikes, traversing valleys, forests, and skirting lake shores.

Along the no-traffic routes, especially on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, you can enjoy scenic views of Lake Coeur d'Alene, particularly between Plummer and Harrison. The trail also passes through Heyburn State Park, Idaho's oldest state park, and crosses the historic Chatcolet Bridge. You'll also encounter the rolling foothills of the Palouse prairie and diverse ecosystems along the Coeur d'Alene River Valley.

A well-equipped trailhead with parking is available at the western end of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, located at the Coeur d'Alene Tribe Veterans Memorial Park in Plummer. Heyburn State Park also offers access points and parking for the trail.

Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. For instance, the Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Plummer and the Bull Run Lake – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Saint Joe River are popular moderate-difficulty circular options.

The best time to cycle these routes is typically from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural beauty of the lakes, forests, and prairies is at its peak. Winter cycling may be possible, but conditions can vary, and some sections might be less accessible.

The diverse ecosystems along the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes and the St. Joe River region provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. You might spot large birds like bald eagles and ospreys, especially near the St. Joe River and in Heyburn State Park, which hosts one of North America's largest nesting osprey populations. Moose and deer are also common in the area.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning lake views, and the well-maintained paved surfaces that make for an enjoyable road cycling experience.

Yes, towns like Plummer and Harrison, which are situated along the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, offer amenities. Plummer serves as a major trailhead, and Heyburn State Park, through which the trail passes, provides facilities including campgrounds and a marina, where you can find refreshments and services.