The best cycling routes around Plummer

The touring cycling routes in Plummer are generally considered moderate. They are primarily located on the paved Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which offers a mostly flat to moderate terrain. While there are no routes classified as easy or difficult, the manageable 3% grade of the 'Plummer Grade' section, for example, makes them accessible for most cyclists.

There are four dedicated touring cycling routes available around Plummer, all highly rated by the komoot community. These routes offer diverse experiences along the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes.

The touring cycling routes around Plummer vary in length and duration. You can find routes ranging from approximately 17 miles (28 km), like The Chatcolet Bridge – Heyburn State Park loop from Plummer, which takes about 1 hour 40 minutes, up to about 32 miles (51 km), such as Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Plummer, typically completed in around 3 hours.

Yes, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which defines touring cycling in Plummer, is very family-friendly. Its smooth, paved surface and mostly flat terrain make it suitable for cyclists of various ages and abilities. The Heyburn State Park – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Heyburn State Park, at about 19 miles, is a great option for families looking for a shorter, scenic ride through Heyburn State Park.

All four touring cycling routes listed for Plummer are circular (loop) routes. This means you can start and end your ride at the same point, making logistics easier. Examples include Harrison – The Chatcolet Bridge loop from Harrison and The Chatcolet Bridge – Heyburn State Park loop from Plummer.

The Plummer Trailhead, located just north of Plummer on US-95, is an excellent and well-equipped starting point for touring cyclists. It offers ample parking, along with other amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and even a bike fix-it station.

The best time for touring cycling in Plummer is typically from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is fully accessible. While winter cycling is possible, some sections might be affected by snow or ice, and amenities may be limited.

Plummer's touring cycling routes offer a diverse range of scenic views. You'll experience forested areas, glimpses of rolling farmlands, and follow the tranquil Coeur d'Alene River. A highlight is crossing the impressive 3,100-foot Chatcolet Bridge, which spans the southern end of Lake Coeur d'Alene and leads into Heyburn State Park.

The forested sections and river valleys along the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes offer opportunities to spot various wildlife. Cyclists might encounter deer, osprey, and beaver, especially in the quieter areas between Heyburn and Plummer.

The touring cycling experience in Plummer is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the smooth, paved surface of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, the diverse scenery ranging from forests to lake views, and the accessibility of the routes for various skill levels. The convenience of amenities at the Plummer Trailhead is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, several points of interest enhance the touring cycling experience. The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes itself is a major attraction. You'll cross the iconic Chatcolet Bridge and pass through Heyburn State Park, Idaho's oldest state park, which offers additional recreational activities. At the Plummer Trailhead, you can also see the Warriors and Veterans of the Coeur d'Alenes Monument, a tribute to the Coeur d'Alene Tribe members who served.

For touring cyclists looking for a slightly more challenging section, the 'Plummer Grade' is notable. This is an uphill section on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes when heading westbound towards Plummer. While it requires some effort, its manageable 3% grade, a legacy of its former life as a railway, makes it achievable for most cyclists.