Lake Coeur d’Alene, located in northern Idaho, is a 25-mile-long natural lake known for its clear waters, scenic mountain backdrop, and recreational opportunities. It was formed thousands of years ago by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, when the Missoula Floods carved out much of the surrounding landscape. Historically, the area was home to the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, whose name means “Heart of the Awl,” a reference given by French traders to the tribe’s skilled trading practices. In the late 1800s, the region became a hub for the mining and timber industries, with the lake serving as an important transportation route for logs and ore. Today, Lake Coeur d’Alene is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking, and it plays a central role in the tourism-driven economy of the city of Coeur d’Alene. Its shoreline is dotted with parks, trails, and resorts, making it one of Idaho’s most visited natural attractions.
