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Autumn Golden Hour on Lake Coeur d’Alene
By: KM Collins
Surrounded by yellowing leaves on land and a fiery sunset on the water, I shoved off for a golden hour paddle on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Although the temperature dropped fast once the sun dipped below the horizon, with the right gear the chilly temps are worth it. Plus, the threat of incumbent weather in the fall is enough to keep the masses away - which meant I had the water all to myself. A little colder air is a small price to pay to have a solo sojourn on 49.81 square miles of pristine glass.
There are numerous putins and takeouts. Here’s a round up of the hot spots to try this winter…
Bennett Bay
Just off of Interstate 90 enjoy an easy access boat ramp adjacent to a cobble beach, a stand of gorgeous oak trees, some private lake side chateaus and wide open water. In the fall and winter months you will likely have the whole putin to yourself. Up to 20 feet deep the enchanting rocky bottom is visible under blade. This bay is tucked away and sees very little traffic outside of locals.
Sanders Beach
Central to downtown and on the water, Sanders Beach is a great launch point for traversing the shore. Heading west, round an undeveloped and treed peninsula. Make it as far as Lovers Island and enjoy some rocky points. Continue on and enjoy a hike up Tubbs Hill. Heading east, enjoy the shoreline of the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course.
Beauty Bay
It's a favorite among locals and visitors alike. On the southeast shoreline, Beauty Bay is in the heart of forested recreation land with highlights like Beauty Creek Campground, Mineral Ridge Scenic Area and Silver Wave Viewpoint. When your ready, slip your kayak in the water off the beach or one of the Beauty Marina Docs.
There are countless places to drop your boat in the water around the emerald clear waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene. See you there sometime!
