The best traffic-free bike rides in Heyburn State Park

Heyburn State Park offers several dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. Our guide features 8 routes, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, ensuring a suitable option for various skill levels.

The best time for touring cycling in Heyburn State Park is generally from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the park's diverse landscapes, from flower-filled meadows to towering forests, are at their most vibrant. Spring and early summer offer lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall brings beautiful foliage.

Yes, Heyburn State Park has several easy, family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes. For instance, the Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Saint Joe River is an easy 25.3 km ride, perfect for a relaxed family outing. Another great option is the Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Harrison, which is 24.3 km and also rated easy.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Heyburn State Park primarily utilize the renowned Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which is a paved path. You can expect mostly flat to gently rolling terrain, making for a smooth and enjoyable ride. Some routes may feature minor elevation changes, such as the Heyburn State Park – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Heyburn State Park, which has about 249 meters of elevation gain over 30.5 km.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Heyburn State Park, including the paved sections suitable for touring cycling. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the park's natural beauty for everyone.

The routes offer stunning views of Heyburn State Park's natural beauty. You'll cycle past towering forests of ponderosa and white pines, alongside the tranquil waters of Chatcolet, Benewah, and Hidden Lakes, and catch glimpses of the shadowy St. Joe River. A major highlight is the impressive 3,100-foot trestle bridge spanning the St. Joe River, offering breathtaking views of the river and Lake Coeur d'Alene. The park is also home to abundant wildlife, including osprey and whitetail deer.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Heyburn State Park are designed as loops, providing a convenient and scenic experience. For example, the Harrison – Marshlands loop from Harrison is a 28.5 km circular route, offering diverse scenery without retracing your steps.

Heyburn State Park provides multiple trailheads with parking for easy access to the cycling routes, particularly the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes. Notable access points include the Chatcolet Lake Trailhead and Plummer Point Trailhead. Many of our featured routes, such as the Heyburn State Park – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Heyburn State Park, start directly from within the park, making parking convenient.

The touring cycling routes in Heyburn State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the stunning lake and river views, and the well-maintained paved surfaces of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes. The opportunity to spot wildlife and enjoy the serene natural setting is also frequently highlighted.

While many routes are easy to moderate, there are options for longer rides. The Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Plummer is a moderate 51.4 km route, offering a more extended touring experience with varied scenery along the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes.

Heyburn State Park offers amenities within its boundaries, including Rocky Point Marina, which provides supplies. Additionally, nearby towns like Harrison and Plummer, which serve as starting points for some routes, offer cafes and other services where you can refuel and find refreshments before or after your ride.