Dog Days of Summer in Coeur d’Alene
I’ll admit it: my dog is spoiled. He’s an eleven year old boxer-black lab- but a puppy at heart. My family loves taking him along on coffee runs and downtown outings. When we moved to Coeur d’Alene, we were pleasantly surprised with how accommodating businesses and restaurants are to dogs. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly vacation spot this summer, look no further than Coeur d’Alene!
The beautiful Coeur d’Alene Resort is a dog-friendly hotel. Imagine waking up to the gorgeous views of Lake Coeur d’Alene with your pup by your side. The Resort’s location makes it easy to walk to shops and restaurants in Downtown Coeur d’Alene, and dogs are welcome at several of these businesses.
I would definitely recommend hiking around Tubbs Hill with your dog. Tubbs Hill is located beside The Resort and offers incredible views, hidden beaches, a suspension bridge, and over 120 acres to explore. The walk around Tubbs Hill is a 2.2 mile trail- make sure to look for the Resort’s Golf Course and iconic Floating Green as you pass by!
If you’re not up for the full 2.2 mile loop, a short trail walk will lead you to multiple dog-friendly beaches. Dogs are required to be leashed while walking on the trails, but they can swim and frolic on the beaches free!
Tubbs Hill is also adjacent to McEuen Park. The park consists of a play structure and water spray park for children, a pavilion and covered seating area, and tons of grassy area perfect for playing a game of fetch with your furry friend.
Energetic dogs and owners looking for a more challenging hike can head to Canfield Mountain for miles and miles of old timber roads and multiple trails with spectacular views of Coeur d’Alene. Cougar Bay Preserve is another dog-friendly hike; the one mile loop trail showcases beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene and the Coeur d’Alene Resort. Keep your eye out for local wildlife as you explore Cougar Bay: moose, beavers, otters, shorebirds, and deer have been known to frequent the area!
If you’re looking to walk along the water, you must check out The Floating Boardwalk at The Coeur d’Alene Resort. The boardwalk is nearly ¾ of a mile long and offers incredible views of the marina and lake; it’s the perfect place to snap a selfie with you dog or relax on one of the lakeside benches and take in the scenery. After all this walking, it’s best to cool off with a refreshing drink from the Boardwalk Bar.
Located at one end of the boardwalk, you can sit and relax at one of the outdoor bar tables, or take your drink with you as you enjoy the boardwalk and Resort grounds!
If you’re hungry, check out Sherman Avenue for multiple dog-friendly restaurants and patios. Taphouse Unchained is a great, fun option for patio dining. The bicycle-themed pub features a margarita bike if you’re in the mood for a blended concoction, as well as an extensive tap beer selection and delicious food.
Like most restaurants in Downtown Coeur d’Alene, water dog bowls are available so your best bud can enjoy some refreshments as well! Vault Coffee, Iron horse, Moose Lounge, Bakery by the Lake, and many other downtown restaurants also accommodate dogs.
Dog owners and dog-lovers alike should check out The Labrador Store & More located in The Resort’s Plaza Shops. The shop is dedicated to dogs and is filled with dog collars, toys, apparel, and dog-themed housewares. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir to commemorate your trip and outfit your pup with some new gear!
Coeur d’Alene really is the perfect vacation destination for dog-owners. With the lake, walking and hiking trails, and tons of pet-friendly businesses it’s easy to make memories with your four-legged friend in Northern Idaho! Check out The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s newly-renovated guest rooms- all ready for you and your dog to enjoy! For room packages, click HERE!
