Here find a small pocket of nature tucked between the Interstate, a neighborhood and Fernan Lake. The views are unique and you can not complain about how easy and close the trailhead is located. You are likely to see some wildlife and you can also fish from the lakeshore access. The trails within the natural area are increasing each year by the parks department. This was once a simple mile loop but now additional trails have been added extending the distance available to hike. As of 2024, there were no signs along the way so you might end up wherever.
WillhiteWeb.com
Hiking Distance: 2.5 miles of trails possible
Elevation Gain: 300 to 700 feet possible
Access: Paved
Fernan Lake Natural Area
From Interstate 90, take Exit 15, Sherman Avenue. Go south on East Coeur d Alene Lake Drive for half mile to East Potlatch Road at the big hotel. The road crosses over an overpass and starts climbing a hill. Look for the parking area on the left side of the roadway.
Access:
Looking westbound Interstate 90 from the trailhead parking lot
Trailhead
On the trail
The highpoint goes up to the top of this hill
Fernan Lake
Looking West over the city
Fernan Lake
Lake Coeur d'Alene from the trailhead
Fernan Lake
Rough idea of the trails that are in the park as of 2024