Fall tends to give new life to a handful of states that are normally skipped over. Take New Hampshire, for example.
What’s normally just a pass-through state turns into a real-life kaleidoscope of fall colors, luring in millions of tourists each year.
But seeing nature transform before our very eyes isn’t limited to the East Coast’s hidden gems; you can enjoy visiting other overlooked states across the country as well.
Idaho isn’t just a foodie destination whipping up every potato concoction imaginable; it’s a gorgous state through and through.
The state’s capital of Boise may be the new trendy spot of the Pacific Northwest, but it’s the ritzy lakeside town of Coeur d’Alene that makes for the ultimate fall getaway.
Northern Idaho’s Ritzy Hideaway
Coeur d’Alene attracts all types of travelers, including the rich and famous. Far from being comparable to the bright lights of Hollywood, this is the perfect place to escape the noise, so you may see some familiar faces attempting to blend in with us “normies”.
Celebs such as The Kardashians, Justin Bieber, and Mark Wahlberg have been spotted vacationing here while it’s said that Oscar winners, Matthew McConaughey, and George Clooney, own homes here.
Coeur d’Alene is delightful in fall no matter how big or small your paycheck, but be warned it is a ritzy destination.
People tend to splurge on the ample selection of premiere resorts and vacation rentals found here.
Resorts sell out like hotcakes here, so making plans ahead of time is highly recommended.
While there are some truly lavish cabins to book through Airbnb and local agencies, TripAdvisor has these 3 resorts listed as Coeur d’Alene’s top stays:
Although, my top pick isn’t a resort at all – The Blackwell is a historic boutique hotel set in an eye-popping circa-1900 home oozing Savannah vibes and much more affordable in the low $100s.
Endless Fall Splendor
Sure, you can lounge around the resort for the duration of your trip, but Coeur d’Alene is made to be explored.
With a plethora of designated trails and scenic drives at your fingertips, you have the sights, sounds, and smells of fall in close reach.
There’s arguably no prettier place in Idaho to immerse in all that fall brings, from peeping the vibrant foliage to incredible wildlife sightings, including bald eagles.
We’re not saying you have to stop in your tracks and say the Pledge of Allegiance, but there’s certainly no better place to witness our country’s emblem, as 2024 has so far been a record year with 400+ sightings.
For the best viewing opportunities, the eagles tend to flock to Wolf Lodge Bay and Lake Coeur d’Alene to feast on salmon from November – February.
But truth is you never know what goodies you’ll find exploring this lake town. That being said, visitors love taking the Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway through lush forestry to truly take in the town’s autumnal glory.
Otherwise, simply enjoying a stroll around the lake offers incredible views, especially at Tubbs Hill, a sprawling park at the edge of the lake.
Beat The Winter Crowds!
Despite feeling magical in the throws of autumn, this season is undoubtedly the best time to visit between the hordes and summer lakers and the unstoppable surge of winter skiers.
Not every place is blessed to be a real treasure each season, but that’s the case with Coeur d’Alene.
This pretty town nestled in the Bitterroot Range within in the Rockies has a lot going for it. Not only is it a place to enjoy Idaho’s finest resorts and fall colors, there are many other ways to unwind as well.
One of which is Coeur d’Alene is an underrated golf destination with multiple scenic courses to hit the links before the winter weather rolls around.
You can also enjoy fishing and boating around the picturesque lake by renting a kayak, or Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises provides daily cruises for about $30.
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