With over 109 miles of shoreline, the lakeside destination of Coeur d’Alene is known for its summertime, but in the winter, Coeur d’Alene transforms into a serene and picturesque destination where the town and its surroundings take on a magical appearance as they become blanketed in snow.
- Skiing: The winter season offers unrivaled skiing and mountain experiences. With three different ski areas within an hour of CDA, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy access to Silver Mountain (great for intermediate skiers), Lookout Pass (which debuted a new quad chairlift and expanded terrain this season) and Schweitzer. Offering epic steeps, legendary backcountry, and multiple powder playgrounds nearby, the destination is ideal for ski and snowboarders at all levels.
- Eagle Watching: The region’s lakes and forests provide opportunities for wildlife observation, including bald eagles that congregate around Lake Coeur d’Alene each year from November through February.
- Annual Mac & Cheese Festival: On January 13, 2024, Coeur d’Alene’s Annual Mac & Cheese Festival celebrates a favorite childhood dish by featuring variations carefully prepared by local chefs – all who compete for the Golden Noodle Award! Attendees will enjoy a comfort-food-filled day tasting different cheesy dishes with perfect craft beer pairings and get to vote for their favorite dish to help award the People’s Choice Trophy! Tickets on sale November 24.
- The Chocolate Affair: Indulge in an assortment of locally hand-crafted sweet and savory treats at The Chocolate Affair on Saturday, February 10 from 3 – 7 p.m. Visitors can wander through downtown businesses and sample an assortment of locally hand-crafted sweet treats as they become pop-up chocolate shops. Tickets include a bite-sized gourmet chocolate treat at each tasting location (15+) with the option to add 8 (1oz) wine tastings to create the perfect pairing. In addition, they will host a Premier Chocolate Tasting Event and Competition at this time. Prices start at $20 per ticket.
- Hot Cocoa Cruises: Warm up on the lake with Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises and their Hot Cocoa cruise that takes place through March. The 90-minute boating adventure takes guests to the northern bays of the lake to view wildlife, beautiful lakeside homes and learn about the local history.
- Live Well Spa Retreats: Coeur d’Alene Resort is esteemed for its diversity of extraordinary vacation experiences, including the Live Well Spa Wellness Retreats which take place monthly on the edge of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Experience the ideal balance of relaxation and self-paced adventure with retreats that are contoured for every aspect of your well-being and uniquely designed to enhance your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. January 7 – 8 will feature the Artistic Renewal retreat with a private art class, spa treatment and overnight stay. February’s Live Well theme will celebrate a Galentine’s Getaway from February 11 – 12 that includes a Sonic Serenity immersive sound bath class followed by a Mimosa Social and wine tasting at Whispers Lounge.
Where to stay: One Lakeside opened in 2021 and offers quintessential Northwestern charm with stunning views of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Its proximity to rivers, mountains, trails, and lakes offers plenty of opportunity for exploration. The hotel is located steps from the pristine lake poised for adventure, as well as downtown Coeur d’Alene. The famed Coeur d’Alene Resort offers families a premier lakefront vacation beginning at the modest price point of $229/night.
