Alfieri
Toews
The West is filled with spectacular destinations, but the natural beauty of Coeur d’Alene Lake stands out from the crowd. The Idaho lake is big (26 miles long, 135 miles of shoreline, more than 200 feet deep in spots) and surrounded by scenic mountains carved during the Ice Age. Fed by the Coeur d’Alene and St. Joe rivers, the natural lake is the source of the Spokane River.
The area’s name is taken from a descriptive that French traders and trappers gave to the tribe in the late 18th or early 19th century. Until then, tribal member had called themselves “Schitsu’umsh,” meaning “The Discovered People” or “Those Who Are Found Here.” The translation of the name conferred by the French, “Heart of the Awl,” referred to the sharpness of the tribal members’ trading skills.
Logging and the pursuit of precious metals provided early business opportunities. But it wasn’t long before the city incorporated in 1887 on the upper end of the lake became a tourist destination, many visitors coming for the chance to see the lake aboard one of its many steamboats. How many? It’s said that by 1910, there were more steamboats on Coeur d’Alene Lake than on any other body of water west of the Mississippi River.
Today, much of the “work” in the city, which serves as the seat of Kootenai County, is done by visitors looking for the best possible ways to enjoy themselves. We spoke with Sen. Ben Toews (R) and Rep. Joe Alfieri (R), whose districts include the stunning lake and charming city.
Can you tell me a little bit about your district, from the geography it includes to the constituents you represent?
Alfieri: The city began as a logging town, with nearby mining, but as those industries declined, it transformed into a resort community. We’re known for the beautiful alpine lake, world-famous golf courses, resorts and fine dining. During the winter, eagle watching draws many to the shores of the lake, where hundreds of eagles can be seen feasting on kokanee salmon.
Toews: My district is almost exclusively comprised of the city of Coeur d’Alene. My constituents cross a wide swath of socioeconomic groups but are commonly characterized by their love for the friendly hometown feel of the community along with the beauty of the surrounding mountains and the lake that they all recognize as a local treasure.
Were you born in Coeur d’Alene? What makes the area special?
Toews: My family lived about 45 minutes east of Coeur d’Alene in my younger years, so we all looked forward to excursions to the lake. My earliest memories include trips to the playground by the city beach, which had a twisty slide and merry-go-round. In my middle and high school years, I lived a few blocks away from Tubbs Hill and spent most of my summer jumping off the rocks or swimming in the area. I met my future wife while attending North Idaho College (in Coeur d’ Alene). We spent a lot of time playing volleyball at the college beach and obtained our scuba certification with our first open-water dive exploring a sunken ship in the depths of the lake.
Alfieri: Like many others, I moved to Idaho after discovering it about 15 years ago. My wife is from the area. … We love the small-town charm, the friendliness and courtesy of the people, and the traditional American values that are so evident.
I’m guessing you have had a chance to visit the lake many times over the years. Do you have your own boat?
Alfieri: My wife and I like to get out on kayaks, in the many bays and other outlets that are part of the lake. It’s a very relaxing experience—if you can stay out of the wake of the powerboats!
Toews: Our family has enjoyed the lake from various boats and jet skis over the years. We’ve also explored in kayaks, canoes and paddleboards and have snorkeled on most of the shorelines. There are some wonderful parks around the lake with boat access that are great for a change of scenery or a barbecue.
Imagine I am a first-time visitor to Coeur d’Alene. What should I see first?
Toews: A walk west along the shoreline from the world-class Coeur d’Alene Resort, past Independence Point and along City Beach, is a fantastic way to start. Along with a glimpse of the lake, the stroll reveals activities such as lake cruises, paddleboard rentals and scenic seaplane tours. A hike around Tubbs Hill is a great way to explore the natural beauty while getting exercise. My wife and I said our wedding vows at a scenic overlook on Tubbs. Other great activities in the area include the Hiawatha Bike Trail that features tunnels and trestles through the mountains and numerous nearby ski resorts for winter fun.
Alfieri: So much of the city centers around the beautiful lake, so I would begin with a lake cruise, perhaps with brunch. Then a walk along the lakeshore, near the NIC campus, and perhaps an hour or two at the beach. Next, stroll along Sherman Avenue. … You’ll notice that there are no chain stores or eateries; it’s all local small-town entrepreneurship on display. For a nature outing, a hike on Tubbs Hill is a real treat.
I am betting that the lake has an enormous economic impact on the area. Can you share an experience with that impact?
Toews: I worked my way through college working at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course as a forecaddie. The volume of people that travelled to the area to play that course always amazed me.
The lake is beautiful, but so is the surrounding area. What other nearby destinations should I experience?
Alfieri: Other attractions such as the Silverwood Theme Park, or skiing at Schweitzer or other nearby resorts, keep the activity going year-round. There’s also the Coeur d’Alene National Forest, Farragut and Heyburn state parks, and many other natural attractions.
Rep. Elaine Price (R) also represents the area.
“My District” gives NCSL members a chance to talk about life in the places they represent, from high-profile events and destinations to the fun facts only the locals know.
The interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Joe Rassenfoss is a Denver-based freelance writer.