This spring has seen higher than usual deaths of tundra swans in North Idaho. Under the bucolic waterway of the Chain Lakes of the Coeur D’Alene River lies the toxic legacy of the Silver Valley’s productive mining history.

According to the Basin Environmental Improvement Project Commission, the Coeur d’Alene River delivers 200 tons of lead to Lake Coeur D’Alene each year. Along with signs along the basin stating not to disturb the sediments, the most visually striking evidence of this ongoing heavy metal pollution is the death of migrating tundra swans.

In early April 2022, the lakes near Harrison, Idaho, were dotted with numerous white piles of feathers in the cattails and along the shoreline. These swans in particular accumulate lead while they feed and digest sediments in flooded fields and along the shore. Counts of dead birds for this season are still preliminary, and there can be a number of factors on why this spring has seen higher mortality.

The remediation of toxic sediments in the CDA basin is one of the largest brown field projects in the country and involves the EPA, local counties, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, and both Idaho and Washington states. Most of the work so far has focused on areas around Kellogg, but this year work to dredge contaminated sediment from the river will move downstream near the Old Mission State Park.

Additionally, there is the task of restoring the wetlands. In 2007, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service worked with a local landowner to create an easement on farmland that contains uncontaminated wetlands. One thought is to try to haze swans away from the contaminated wetlands to those that get water from uncontaminated streams. There is plenty of restoration work still needed along the river to safeguard the health of wildlife and water quality.

Learn more about Idaho’s wetland habitat.

Find more wildlife stories in the Nature column archives.

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What to Do in Town

Harrison is a small town with big adventure opportunities. Fish, paddle, or boat on Lake Coeur d’Alene, the Coeur d’Alene River, or a sprawling chain of lakes connected to the river; hike, bike, or do some inline skating on the nearby Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, a paved rail trail stretching from Plummer to Mullan; wander and birdwatch at the Thompson Wildlife Refuge; or take a self-guided historical walking tour around town, where you’ll learn about the timber boom, gold rush, and steamboat port that shaped this historic town.

After you’ve spent the day playing in the sun, hit up the Harrison Creamery and Fudge Factory, where you’ll find fresh ice cream, fudge, cookies, cheesecake, and pies. Eat dinner at One Shot Charlie’s, or visit the Trading Post for the deli hot case and sandwiches on house-made bread. The Trading Post also carries camping gear and outdoor supplies if you forgot anything at home. After watching the sunrise on the lake, fuel up at the Tin Cup or The Cycle Haus, which has locally-roasted DOMA coffee, and then fill your day with a new adventure or just relaxing on the beach.

Summertime Events

You’ll find plenty to do around Harrison without an organized event, but these summer celebrations will add a memorable flair to your vacation. Regular-occurring summer events include the Summer Music in the Park series (Saturdays, 2-5 p.m., Memorial Day – Labor Day) and the Grange Market (Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Memorial Day – Labor Day). Music ranges from Americana and Blues to Southern Rock, Jazz and more.

Pig in the Park (June 16):Great food, music, yard games, vendors, and activities at this annual event at Harrison City Park.

Celebration & Fireworks (July 4):Enjoy a Fourth of July Firework show on the waterfront at dark. JamShack will also be playing live music in the downtown park from 4-8 p.m.

Annual Golf Tournament (July 13): Make your registration ahead of time for the Harrison Annual Golf Tournament. 

Old Time Picnic (July 26-28):A traditional community celebration complete with a parade and family-friendly games such as sack race, baby crawling contest, and the greased pole climb. There is also a ladies’ nail driving contest and a men’s obstacle contest.

Haul Ass to Harrison (Sept 14):A classic car show located in the center of town, with music, raffle, and voting for the best cars.

Oktoberfest (Oct 5): This celebration features area micro-breweries and home brewers, vendors, food, music, games, and activities for the kids, including face painting and a bounce house.

Staying in Harrison

Harrison has three lodging options that will give you a view of the lake while you stay and play: Grandma’s Cabin, Lakeview Lodge, and the Osprey B & B. You can also stay at the destination dude ranch Red Horse Mountain Ranch, a family-friendly spot where you can go horseback riding, clay shooting, mountain biking, or test your skill on a challenge course with climbing wall and zip lines. You can also get a massage, do yoga, or take a fly-casting lesson. Any place you choose will offer an authentic slice of Idaho where you can recharge for the next day on the lake or trail.

[Photos courtesy of Harrison Chamber of Commerce]

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If you’ve been thinking about planning a lake getaway, here are some of our favorite ways to play on and around all that water surrounding the historic, friendly resort town of Harrison. While most of the events, festivals, and live music happen on the weekends, if you’re planning to stay overnight in Harrison, consider a mid-week trip to beat the crowds and enjoy an even more laid-back and serene experience. Whenever you visit, you can wander easily between the enjoyable grassy park, to the city beach, to the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, and back again in minutes, making Harrison the perfect lake town to maximize relaxation and adventure.

Boating 

One of Harrison’s prominent features is its public boat launch, making it a haven for boaters looking to hit the lake any time of day. You can also start your boating adventure from Black Lake Boat Launch, Carlin Bay Boat Launch, Harlow Point, Neachen Bay, Sunup Bay, or Tuner Bay. If you’re traveling light, you can rent a boat for the day through Harrison Pontoons & Rentals. At the Harrison Docks and Boat Launch you’ll find a sandy beach, wading and swimming area, and picnic tables for your family lunch. 

Kayak, Paddleboard, or Canoe

If a slow, scenic paddle is more your style, bring your own watercraft and launch from public beach or docks for a peaceful day on the lake. You can also rent a paddleboard or kayak (or full kayak tour) through Harrison Idaho Water Adventures. You’ll find a day well spent as you glide along the glassy lake or river waters and admire the classic North Idaho surroundings. If you stay close to the shore you can scope for local wildlife such as an array of regional birds, moose, and other animals. It’s also a relaxed place to canoe or paddleboard and catch some beautiful on-the-water sunsets. 

Fishing

Situated near where the Coeur d’Alene River and Lake Coeur d’Alene meet, Harrison has abundant fishing opportunities with unforgettable scenery. The local fish species lineup includes chinook salmon, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, crappie, perch, large-mouth bass, bullheads, channel catfish, blue gills, sunfish, northern pike, and tiger muskies. (Snag your bait for the day at the Harrison Trading Post.) Bring your own boat or paddlecraft or rent your fishing vessel of choice in Harrison. If you’d like a bit of competitive fishing on your Idaho getaway, check with the local chamber for angler tournament schedules. 

Swimming

Bring your over-sized flotation devices, water wings, pool noodles, and more to play at the Harrison Beach. This protected sandy area is located between the county boat docks and the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, with close access to the town park with plenty of shade for a family picnic. Kids will love splashing in the sun, and all ages can practice their diving form from the swimming and diving platform.

Hiking

It’s not exactly on the water, but you’ll feel like you’re floating far above the water with one of these scenic hikes near Harrison. Each one provides a bird’s-eye lake or river view. Start from Heyburn State Park and take the 3-mile Indian Cliffs trail for a great view of the surrounding lakes and St. Joe River. Look out over the Coeur d’Alene River and Anderson Lake from the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes’ Springston Trailhead. Hike the Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail and Scenic Area for epic views of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Or set out on a stroll along the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes right in town.

Biking on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes

Water views will abound from this renowned rail trail, an impressive 73.2-miles of paved pathway stretching from Plummer to Mullan. Bike on scenic bridges across sparkling Idaho rivers and pedal close to lakes and wetlands teaming with birds and other wildlife. Start your out-and-back ride right in Harrison. Bring your own bikes or rent from The Cycle Hausin downtown Harrison.

[Photos Courtesy of Harrison Chamber of Commerce]

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North Idaho is rich with history, and there’s no better way to experience many of these historical sites than by riding along one of the Northwest’s longest rail trails on your bike. Plan a historic sight-seeing bike trip on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, a 73.2-mile paved trail stretching across the Idaho Panhandle from Plummer to Mullan. Visit historic mining towns, museums, old railways, mines, memorials, a mission, and more either from your bike or short side trips by car.

On the trail, you’ll travel through the historic Silver Valley, the chain lakes region, over bridges, along stunning Lake Coeur d’Alene, and from the wildlife and scenery rich Bitterroot Mountains down into the Palouse prairie. When you’re not soaking up the history of this unique part of Idaho on the below highlighted sites, you’ll find peace and quiet and spectacular mountain views from the trail, which is frequented by moose, elk, deer, eagles, and many species of birds and other wildlife. Along the trail, you’ll find access to Coeur d’Alene Lake in Harrison, as well as the Coeur d’Alene River and several lakes (a few other renowned fly fishing rivers are a short drive from the trail too).

As you explore the trail and the region’s history over several days, the trail-side communities of Harrison, Kellogg and Wallace each offer their own unique, friendly charms and lodging, dining, and entertainment options. The trail runs right through each of these Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes gateway communities that are home to their own historic buildings, museums, memorials, and other sites that you can easily explore on foot. The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is the connecting thread between this swath of North Idaho’s natural wonders and history, making it an ideal ride for history buffs who like to bike, hike, and explore our natural wonders.

1. Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park

Located near Cataldo, Idaho, a short detour off the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, this state park is home to the Mission of the Sacred Heart, constructed between 1850 and 1853 by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and Jesuit priests. The story of the coming together of the Jesuit Missionaries and Coeur d’Alene Tribe is different from some others during this same time period. It is an example of acceptance, understanding, and a willingness to respect beliefs that may not mirror your own. The two groups did not see the world the same way. They lived very different lives, and yet, were able to find similarities, so that together they could worship and build the Mission of the Sacred Heart, now known as the Cataldo Mission and as the oldest standing building in Idaho.

In 2002, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe gained ownership of their historic building and land, and through an agreement, the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation manages the site for the Tribe that honors both history and outdoor recreation. “The Sacred Encounters Exhibit: Father De Smet and the Indians of the Rocky Mountain West,” which is a world-class, multi-million-dollar exhibit detailing the history of the coming together of the Jesuit Missionaries and Coeur d’Alene Tribe, occupies half of the visitor center.

Every year, the park hosts an outdoor mass and celebration in honor of the annual Coeur d’Alene Tribe Pilgrimage and Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15. Together the Tribe and Catholic Church, along with many others, honor each other’s history and beliefs as they celebrate their shared understandings and faith. Be sure to make this state park a stop along your Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes adventure. There’s also an Annual Historic Skills Fair at the Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission (July 13-14, 2019), an event worth planning your trip around.

2. Crystal Gold Mine Tour

An authentic underground gold mine tour of one of the first hard rock mines in the Silver Valley, this guided tour will illuminate the lives of the hard-working miners, explaining the tools they used, their methods for tracing quartz veins to find gold, and how they tested the veins. Marvel at the gold and silver still visible in the quartz vein as you pass by colorful stalactite crystals lining the walls.

3. Crane House Museum

Located in Harrison, Idaho, the Crane House Museum has many interesting artifacts from the town’s early settlement days. Consider it a tour of what it would be like to live in North Idaho in the 1800s. While you’re there, take a Historical Walking Tour of Harrison, which was the largest city in Kootenai County during the gold rush. Explore historic downtown Harrison buildings as well as modern establishments serving homemade fudge, ice cream, and other treats. There’s also a Historic Waterfront Walking Tour along a beautiful stretch of Lake Coeur d’Alene.

4. Shoshone County Mining & Smelting Museum

Located in Kellogg, Idaho, this museum was founded in 1986 as a way to save the beautiful 1906 Stanley Easton home. The museum features the history of Bunker Hill & Sullivan Mining, one of the oldest and largest mining companies in North Idaho, as well as many others in the region. The museum’s collection includes 3D mine models of the Sunshine and Bunker Hill mines, rock and mineral displays, mining history exhibits, local history, and equipment displays. Award winning author Julie Weston will be at the museum in July 2019 for a book signing and open house. From the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, take the trail spur adjacent to Silver Mountain up the hill directly to the museum.

5. Sunshine Miners’ Memorial

Located between Kellogg and Osburn, the 13-foot-tall Sunshine Miners Memorial statue, erected by sculptor Ken Lonn, pays tribute to the 91 miners who lost their lives in 1972 in one of the worst mining disasters in American history. The Sunshine Miners Memorial is held on May 2nd at 11 a.m. each year.

6. Chatcolet Bridge

The historic Chatcolet Bridge, a 3,100-foot-long, former swing railroad bridge originally built in 1921, has been converted to a trail bridge on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes. Located on the south end of Lake Coeur d’Alene near Harrison, the bridge connects the last trail segment through Heyburn State Park to Plummer. Exploring the bridge and state park makes a great day trip by bike from Harrison.

7. Avery Museum

This stop is south of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, but is worth the back road drive from Wallace. Plan to visit this complex that was built in 1909 by the Milwaukee Railroad as part of a westward expansion from Chicago, Illinois. It served as an evacuation site during the Great Fire of 1910, and is now filled with historic railroad photos and memorabilia. There’s free admission to the always-open Twin Grove, Fish Pond, and Library, and the museum room and post office are open on weekdays.

8. Wallace, Idaho

Known playfully as the “Center of the Universe,” Wallace is a town packed with history and character. In fact, the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you may get the feeling that you’ve gone back in time as you stroll around the many historic buildings of this longtime mining town. The town has modernized in recent years with many quality restaurants, breweries, and bars without sacrificing the Old West charm and friendly locals that makes it so unique.

Be sure to visit the Wallace District Mining Museum to learn how the Silver Valley earned its name, and wander through the town’s historic Nine Mile Cemetery. Anyone with an interest in railroad history won’t want to miss the Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum. Walk the recently restored Historic Stairs for a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, river, and town. The Historic Wallace Preservation Society houses a collection of historical photos and written and oral accounts of history from the last 125 years, and the Oasis Bordello Museum provides a glimpse at the past with a guided tour of the bordello, which was active until 1988. You can also tour the Sierra Silver Mine via open-air trolley with an underground mine tour led by a modern-day hard rock miner. A side cycling or driving tour north of town will take you to the nearbyBurke Canyon for historical markers among the remains of mines and town buildings from the heyday of silver mining.

9. Pulaski Tunnel Trail

When you feel the need to hop off your bike to stretch your legs, consider this 4-mile round-trip hike. Only a few minutes from downtown Wallace, this 2-mile trail is a historic path that played a central role in a major historic event: the great fire of 1910. This historic trail follows part of the route taken by Ranger “Big” Ed Pulaski to escape the devastating 1910 fire. Interpretive signs along the trail guide you through Big Ed’s journey as he herded his 45-man crew to the abandoned mine tunnel saving most of their lives. Immerse yourself in the lush forest surroundings, cascading Placer Creek, and retrace the steps of this harrowing Old West experience.

10. Captain John Mullan Museum

This museum in Mullan, Idaho, is located in the old Liberty Theater. Learn about the history of the town of Mullan and the building of the Mullan Road, the first wagon road across the Rocky Mountains into the Inland Northwest, which was built in the mid 1800’s by U.S. Army troops under the command of Lt. John Mullan. You’ll find mining relics, historical newspapers and photographs, vintage clothing, and memorabilia from local school, sports, firemen, and drug stores. The eastern trailhead of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is just one block south from this museum, and there’s easy access to the Route of the Hiawatha Trail, just 6 miles from Mullan. Revel in the history and then cycle on to your own modern-day adventure through the North Idaho mountains.

11. Springston “Barren” Ghost Town

Springston, Idaho, is often described online as a ghost town, but the only ghostly thing where the town once stood is the remains of the Golden Star tug beached against the bank of the Coeur d’Alene River. Ghost town experts have a category for “barren” ghost towns, where virtually nothing remains. This accurately describes Springston. Today, Springston is a trailhead on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes three miles northeast of Harrison.

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More stories about the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes in the OTO archives.

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Nestled in northern Idaho at the mouth of Coeur d’Alene Lake, Harrison’s a small town with big adventure opportunities. With it’s stretching lake views and hills full of pines, it’s a beautiful spot to fish, boat, hike, bird watch, or take a historical walking tour. Read on for ideas to make this cozy lake town your next summer getaway!

Fish, Boat, and Paddle on a chain of lakes

With numerous boat launches and a sprawling chain of lakes, water access is easy to find on any given summer afternoon. As Harrison is located on the mouth of lake Coeur d’Alene, and also has access to the St. Joe River, it’s a mecca for all things with a paddle.

The fishing isn’t half bad, either: the local lineup includes chinook salmon, cutthroat trout, crappie, perch, large-mouth bass, bullheads, channel catfish, blue gills, sunfish, northern pike, and tiger muskies. Plan to attend during an open tournament, and get your bait at Harrison Trading Post.

Near the marina, Harrison also has a sandy beach and wading area with picnic tables for family enjoyment.

Bike the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes

The 72-mile-long Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes will provide ample room for scenic biking, running, or walking. This paved path will take you through high mountain splendor via the historic Silver Valley and near the chain of lakes surrounding Lake Coeur d’Alene. Eventually, the trail climbs to the Palouse prairie for rolling farmland views. Visit Friends of the Coeur d’Alene Trail for more.

While you’re close, take a steep hike up Springston Trailhead for a bird’s-eye view of the Coeur d’Alene River, Thompson Lake Wildlife Refuge, and Anderson Lake.

Visit the Wildlife Refuge

Birders will find a unique opportunity to birdwatch in the Thompson Lake Wildlife Refuge or Heyburn State Park. You can view raptors, shorebirds, and more at the 1,000-acre Thompson Lake Wildlife Refuge. Pick up a $5 Idaho Birding Trail Guidebook for an informed adventure. Heyburn State Park also offers a checklist of birds at park headquarters.

Grab Ice Cream and Burgers

Harrison Creamery and Fudge Factory—The name sells itself, right? In the Creamery and Fudge Factory, you’ll find over 30 flavors of ice cream, 10 varieties of fudge, and fresh cookies, cheesecake and pies. Treat yo’ self after a day on the water.

The Cycle Haus—With coffee from DOMA Coffee Roasting Company and craft beer and wine options, the Cycle Haus is a great place to re-fuel. The Tin Cup is also a stellar option.

Burgers. Pizza. Lasagna. Deli.—Visit One Shot Charlie’s or the Lakeside Bar and Grill for a variety of dining options. Stop by the Harrison Trading Post for some Deli hot case, salads, or sandwiches on house-made bread. (Bonus: The Trading Post also carries camping gear.)

Take a Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour

Walk along the historical sites of Harrison with this walking tour map. Highlights include the first bank of Harrison (now the aforementioned creamery), the hardware store (now the Cycle Haus Bikes and Brews), and Tom Collier’s Barber Shop.

You’ll learn a bit about the timber boom, gold rush, steamboat port, and more that shaped this town in its heyday. There’s a lot of history here!

Celebrate 4th of July or Oktoberfest

Do all of the above activities and more on some special event weekends. 4th of July brings a waterside fireworks show; some classic cars show up on September 8 in the Haul Ass to Harrison classic car show ‘n shine; and the October 6th Oktoberfest celebration will include home- and micro- brewers along with family-friendly activities. Check out a full list of events here. 

We’ve only summed up the highlights—you can also find wine tasting, camping, garnet hunting, gaming, shopping, and golfing in and around Harrison.

Benefits of a mid-week trip:

Booking your family’s trip during the middle of the week will beat weekend crowds, giving you an advantage to experience the relaxed and wild side of Harrison. Less people will lead to calmer lake water (great for paddle boarders), more wildlife in the refuge and parks, and better deals on lodging.

Below are some additional glimpses of Harrison. Book your trip for this summer!

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