The best road cycling routes in Heyburn State Park

Road cycling in Heyburn State Park primarily takes place on the paved Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes. This trail follows old railroad grades, offering a smooth riding experience through diverse landscapes. You'll encounter sections weaving through forested areas dominated by old-growth ponderosa pines, as well as scenic stretches with views of Chatcolet, Benewah, and Hidden Lakes, and the St. Joe River.

The routes in Heyburn State Park generally feature gentle gradients, as they utilize old railroad grades. While most routes have moderate elevation changes, you can expect climbs of around 100 to 300 meters on longer routes. For example, the Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Harrison has an elevation gain of approximately 306 meters over its 50.9 km distance.

Yes, Heyburn State Park offers routes suitable for various ability levels. There are several easy routes, such as the One Shot Charlies loop from Saint Joe River, which is 25.5 km long with minimal elevation gain. The paved Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is generally considered family-friendly due to its smooth surface and gentle slopes.

Cyclists can enjoy a variety of natural and historical sights. A major highlight is the 3,100-foot trestle bridge that crosses the St. Joe River, offering panoramic views of Lake Coeur d'Alene, Lake Chatcolet, and the St. Joe River Valley. You'll also pass by picturesque lakes like Chatcolet, Benewah, and Hidden Lakes, and ride through forests of old-growth ponderosa pines. Keep an eye out for structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) from the 1930s, which add to the park's historical charm.

Heyburn State Park provides convenient parking options for cyclists accessing the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes. Two primary trailheads are available: the Chatcolet Lake Trailhead and the Plummer Point Trailhead. The Plummer Point Trailhead is particularly well-equipped, featuring restrooms, picnic tables, and a bike fix-it station.

Yes, Heyburn State Park requires a day-use fee for vehicle entry. This fee helps maintain the park's facilities and trails. For current fee information and details on annual passes, you can visit the official Idaho State Parks website: Idaho Parks and Recreation.

The spring and summer months are ideal for road cycling in Heyburn State Park. During this time, the park's meadows burst with vibrant wildflowers, and the weather is generally pleasant. The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is well-maintained, making it accessible for cycling throughout these seasons. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, though temperatures will be cooler.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the paved sections of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes within Heyburn State Park, provided they are kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to maintain the park's cleanliness for all visitors.

Heyburn State Park is a haven for wildlife. While cycling, you might spot whitetail deer, beavers, and various bird species, including osprey, bald eagles, and blue herons. The park is known for a significant Great Blue Heron rookery, and you may also see woodpeckers and squirrels. Moose are occasionally sighted, particularly in quieter areas.

Komoot features a selection of road cycling routes in Heyburn State Park, with over 6 routes currently available. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, primarily utilizing the scenic Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes.

The road cycling routes in Heyburn State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the smooth, paved surface of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, the stunning views from the Chatcolet Bridge, and the peaceful experience of cycling through old-growth forests and along the lakeshores.

Yes, Heyburn State Park offers several loop road bike routes. For instance, the Bull Run Lake – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Saint Joe River is a substantial 84.5 km loop, and the Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Plummer provides a moderate 51.9 km option, allowing cyclists to experience diverse scenery without retracing their path.