Do you know what’s so amazing about living in Idaho? The fact that one minute you can be traversing city streets and the next you can be surrounded by nature and wildlife. An outdoor adventure is always just a short walk or drive away, and that’s why nature enthusiasts love the Gem State. A great example of this is the little-known nature preserve featured below. Strolling through this preserve, you’d never guess that the city of Coeur d’Alene is just minutes away. Boasting tons of wildlife and pristine natural beauty, this place is an oasis that you need to visit.
Hiding out just south of downtown Coeur d'Alene is a little-known haven known as Cougar Bay Nature Preserve. Full of wildlife and idyllic scenery, it's the perfect place to go and lose yourself in nature for a day.
Cougar Bay is a preserve managed by both The Nature Conservancy and the BLM. It's easily accessible, yet few people know it even exists. Comprised of towering forests and lush meadows, it's a destination that belongs on any nature lover's bucket list.
The 240-acre preserve is believed to be home to around 34 rare animal species, including 27 species of birds. Its rich wetland habitat makes it ideal for wildlife watching, and the preserve even contains platforms which give visitors the perfect vantage point.
The preserve also contains around two miles of walking trails, so it's a great place to get out and stretch your legs for a bit. The trails start near the marsh area and will take you alongside it before climbing up into the forests of fir trees.
Be sure to take your time as your traverse the preserve's trails. As you stroll through the heavenly landscape, you'll hear the callings of various songbirds and you'll take in the scents of various wildflowers and plants. It's a tranquil experience that will make you feel far away from "the real world".
The great thing about this specific preserve is the fact that recreation is wholly encouraged. The hiking trails are regularly maintained, birdwatching opportunities are fantastic, and visitors are even allowed to paddle around the marshlands in a canoe or kayak.
Osprey, bald eagles, and various birds of prey are regularly spotted here. The sight of beavers, otters, and moose are also a common occurrence, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.
Make visiting this little-known gem a priority this year! Cougar Bay is open year-round and it's free to explore. Trail maps are usually found at the parking area, but keep in mind that there are no restrooms. The entrance to the preserve is accessed from Highway 95.
Have you had the pleasure of visiting Cougar Bay Nature Preserve? We love discovering little-known gems like this one! For more destinations like this one, check out our list of 7 Overlooked Idaho Attractions And Scenic Destinations.
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