A place like no other near Coeur d'Alene in Idaho
Tubbs Hill is a glacial hillside that extends dramatically into Lake Coeur d’Alene, creating one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in the Idaho Panhandle. Located just steps from downtown Coeur d’Alene, this 165-acre preserve offers visitors an accessible wilderness experience without venturing far from the city center. The hill rises approximately 200 feet above the lake surface, with its granite and basalt formations carved by ancient glaciers during the last ice age.
The 2.5-mile loop trail that encircles Tubbs Hill ranks among the most popular hikes in northern Idaho, rewarding visitors with sweeping panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail descends to a small sandy beach cove on the lake’s edge, providing a perfect spot for swimming, wading, or simply relaxing while taking in the scenery. Wildlife is abundant throughout the area, with chances to spot deer, eagles, osprey, and occasionally black bears along the forested slopes.
Tubbs Hill carries a legacy tied to Coeur d’Alene’s development as a resort destination. The hill was named after Thomas Tubbs, an early settler who acquired land in the area during the late 1800s. During the city’s formative years, the hill served as a source of granite that was quarried for local construction projects, including portions of the downtown area’s historic buildings. The City of Coeur d’Alene acquired Tubbs Hill through a series of land purchases beginning in the 1920s, recognizing its value as a public natural area. The Tubbs Hill Foundation, established in 1986, has worked diligently to preserve and maintain the trail system, remove invasive plant species, and protect wildlife habitat.
The main loop trail begins at the trailhead near the Coeur d’Alene Resort and progresses clockwise around the hill’s perimeter. The well-maintained path alternates between forested sections with shade and open rocky outcrops with expansive lake views. Most hikers complete the loop in 60 to 90 minutes, though many choose to linger at the beach cove or along scenic overlooks. Swimming is popular at the small sandy beach accessible via a short spur trail that descends to the lake. The water temperature in Lake Coeur d’Alene remains cool even in summer, typically ranging from the upper 60s to low 70s. A small dock provides access for swimmers and sunbathers.
The panoramic views from the hill’s western-facing slopes rank as the primary attraction for most visitors. On clear days, the Bitterroot Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop across the lake, while the city skyline and surrounding residential areas offer contrasting glimpses of civilization against the natural beauty. Sunset views from Tubbs Hill are particularly spectacular, with the sky painting the water in shades of orange, pink, and purple. The beach cove represents a hidden gem along the trail, accessible via a short descent to the water’s edge. The small sandy beach is shaded by surrounding trees, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch or a refreshing swim away from the busier main beach areas along the lake shore.
Trail running has grown in popularity on Tubbs Hill, with the loop providing a challenging workout thanks to elevation changes and uneven terrain. Early morning and evening hours typically see trail runners alongside hikers enjoying the cooler temperatures. Fishing from the rocky shoreline yields catches including bass, perch, and occasionally kokanee salmon during seasonal runs. The submerged structure around Tubbs Hill’s base attracts fish, making it a productive spot for anglers willing to cast from the boulders along the water’s edge. Birdwatching opportunities abound along the trail, with species including bald eagles, osprey, great blue herons, and a variety of songbirds inhabiting the diverse habitats.
Summer months bring the heaviest use to Tubbs Hill, with early mornings and late afternoons offering the best opportunities for solitude. The beach cove fills quickly on hot summer days, and weekend parking near the trailhead can be difficult to find. Spring delivers wildflower blooms along the trail, with lupine, arrowleaf balsamroot, and various wildflowers carpeting the meadow sections. Fall brings autumn foliage to the surrounding forest, with deciduous trees lining the trail turning shades of gold and orange. The cooler temperatures and departed summer visitors make September and October particularly pleasant for hiking. Winter transforms Tubbs Hill into a quiet retreat, with the loop trail remaining passable during most conditions and the trailhead parking area accessible year-round.