Get a good workout on Caribou Ridge Trail

Although you have a better chance of seeing Bigfoot than the trail’s namesake, caribou, this trek is worthwhile for the workout and views.

A short drive from Coeur d’Alene, the almost 5-mile hike connects the Beauty Creek campground recreation area with the Mount Coeur d’Alene Viewpoint picnic area. After crossing Beauty Creek, the trail uses four switchbacks to ascend the 1,800 feet to Caribou Ridge, where you can look down at the campground and compliment yourself for climbing the tough part of the hike.

Although there are some filtered views along the trail, the really spectacular view of Lake Coeur d’Alene and area mountains is at the trail’s end.

This is a favorite hike of Coeur d’Alene locals and is considered “dog friendly,” even earning selection as “hike of the month” by www.hikewithyourdog.com/.

Access: Take Interstate 90 east to State Highway 97 (about 10 miles from downtown Coeur d’Alene). Turn right on Highway 97 and go about 2.3 miles, then left on Beauty Creek Road (Forest Road 438). Follow 438 a short distance to Beauty Creek campground on the right. The trailhead is at the parking loop, just south of the main campground entrance. For those with a GPS, the approximate coordinates of the trailhead are N47.35.410, W116.40.400.

Length: Approximately 4.6 miles (one-way) to the Mount Coeur d’Alene summit.

Elevation: 2,200 feet above sea level at the parking lot, ascending to 4,000 feet.

Use: Light to moderate.

Trail condition: Mostly well-packed trails with some brush. Some slopes are very steep, so keep kids close. Check local snow conditions, as this trail can be tricky in the snow and ice.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Restrictions: No motorized vehicles or horses are allowed.

What to see: Great lake view and wildlife.

Special features: Nice resting point at the viewpoint and campsite at Beauty Bay campground (closed during winter months). There are Geocaches in the area (Geocaches are found in a treasure hunt game, using clues from the Web site, www.geocaching.com).

Preparation: Maps and more information on Caribou Ridge Trail are available at Idaho Parks and Recreation, 2750 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814, (208) 796-1511. Detailed topographical maps are available for purchase from the following vendors in Coeur d’Alene: Black Sheep Sporting Goods, The Yacht Club Sales and Service and North Idaho Blueprint. Consider leaving your trip schedule with a responsible person.

Gear: Good hiking boots are essential, and hikers should dress for changing conditions and carry drinking water and a first-aid kit.

Note: Trails and roads in this area were built during the Great Depression and a Civilian Conservation Corps camp was located near Beauty Bay campground, housing 150 men. The Caribou Ridge Trail was completed in 1982.