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Fall tends to breathe new life into a handful of states that are normally skipped. Take New Hampshire, for example.
What is normally just a pass-through state turns into a veritable kaleidoscope of fall colors, luring millions of tourists every year.
But seeing nature transform before our eyes isn’t limited to the hidden gems of the East Coast; you can also enjoy visiting other overlooked states across the country.
Idaho isn’t just a foodie destination where every potato concoction imaginable is made; it is a beautiful state through and through.
The state capital, Boise, may be the Pacific Northwest’s new trendy spot, but it’s the chic town on the lake. Coeur D’alene that takes care of the ultimate autumn holiday.
Ritzy Hideaway in North Idaho
Coeur D’alene attracts all types of travelers, including the rich and famous. Rather than being similar to the bright lights of Hollywood, this is the perfect place to escape the noise, so you might see some familiar faces trying to blend in with the ‘normies’.
Celebrities such as The Kardashians, Justin Bieber and Mark Wahlberg have been spotted on holiday here, while Oscar winners Matthew McConaughey and George Clooney are said to own homes here.
Coeur D’alene is lovely in the fall, no matter how big or small your paycheck, but be warned: it’s a chic destination.
People tend to splurge on the wide selection of top-notch resorts and vacation rentals found here.
The resorts here sell out like hot cakes, so it is highly recommended that you make plans in advance.
While there are some truly opulent cabins available to book through Airbnb and local agencies, TripAdvisor listed these 3 resorts as Coeur D’alene’s best places to stay:
- The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort
- Coeur D’Alene Casino Resort Hotel
- One resort on the lake
Although my first choice is not a resort at all – The Blackwell is a historic boutique hotel in a dazzling circa-1900 home that exudes Savannah vibes and is much more affordable at a low $100.
Endless autumn splendor
Sure, you can hang out at the resort during your trip, but Coeur D’alene was made to be explored.
With an abundance of designated trails and scenic drives within easy reach, you’ll have the sights, sounds, and smells of fall at your fingertips.
There’s probably no more beautiful place in Idaho to immerse yourself in all that fall brings, from peeking through the vibrant foliage to incredible wildlife sightings, including bald eagles.
We’re not saying you should stop and say the Pledge of Allegiance, but there is certainly no better place to witness our country’s emblem as 2024 has been a record year so far with over 400 sightings.
For the best viewing opportunities, the eagles flock to Wolf Lodge Bay and Lake Coeur D’alene from November to February to feast on salmon.
But the truth is, you never know what goodies you’ll find while exploring this lakeside town. That said, visitors love to take the Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway through lush forestry to really take in the city’s autumn glory.
Otherwise, simply enjoying a walk around the lake offers incredible views, especially on Tubbs Hilla vast park on the edge of the lake.
Beat the winter crowds!
Despite its magical feeling in autumn, this season is undoubtedly the best time to visit among the hordes of summer lakes and the unstoppable wave of winter skiers.
Not every place is blessed to be a true treasure every season, but that is the case with Coeur D’alene.
Located in the Bitterroot Range of the Rockies, this beautiful town has a lot to offer. Not only is it a place to enjoy Idaho’s best resorts and fall colors, there are also many other ways to unwind.
One of these is Coeur D’alene, an underrated golf destination with several beautiful courses where you can hit the links before the winter weather takes hold.
You can also enjoy fishing and boating around the picturesque lake by renting a kayak, or Lake Coeur D’alene Cruises offers daily cruises for about $30.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
