Tubbs Hill is a 165-acre natural peninsula that extends into beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene. It is known for its scenic views, beaches, and hiking trails.
The main trail at Tubbs Hill is a 2.2-mile loop that passes scenic vantage points, woodland habitats, and historic focal points. The trail is easy for hikers of all ages and abilities. Read on to know more.
Hiking Trails
The main loop trail at Tubbs Hill follows the shoreline of Lake Coeur d’Alene and offers exceptional vistas. During the summer, you’ll find plenty of alluring rock pools along the water’s edge that are perfect for swimming or lounging.
The trail itself is a mix of Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir with a variety of other conifers scattered throughout the park as well. The differences between the two tree types are evident in the different habitats on the hill; the wetter areas of the park are densely covered in foliage while the drier forests are more open and sparse.
The park is a great place to experience the natural splendor of northern Idaho no matter what season it is; Spring flowers bloom, animals run and play in the Summer sun, red and gold leaves fill the air in Autumn, and the winter ice and snow draw eagles and osprey to the area. The hill is located on a peninsula so it is especially beautiful during sunset.
Caves
There are multiple caves to explore and the kids love it. It’s also a good opportunity to teach the little ones about volcanic activity and how these rocks were formed.
This park is a favorite for locals for its beautiful natural scenery and hiking trails. A 2-mile loop trail offers scenic views of Coeur d’Alene Lake and pine forests throughout the park. It’s also home to various plants and wildlife, including a large population of bald eagles.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can test your courage by cliff jumping off Diamond Head, which is one of the best spots for cliff diving in Coeur d’Alene. Just be sure to check water levels and take frequent breaks to make it a safe and enjoyable experience.
The trail is mostly paved, but it does switch to single-track on the eastern portion of the park. It’s important to keep an eye out for the dotted white lines on the pavement, which mark the trail, and ignore any other paved roads that may dissect the trail. Check it out here.
Beaches
One of the most popular activities around the area is swimming in the beautiful waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Whether you swim at Sanders Beach or City Beach, both of which can be found right near Tubbs Hill, you’ll enjoy a day in the sun and sand with views that will leave you in awe.
Cliff jumping is also a popular activity on Tubbs Hill and is done at your own risk. There are several spots to jump off, but the most famous is Diamond Head, which is the biggest spot and a favorite for young bucks trying to show off.
The hiking trail at Tubbs Hill spans a peninsula that extends into Lake Coeur d’Alene, meaning there is no shortage of sights to see during your visit. This area is a natural wonderland with so much to experience, no matter the season. Enjoy the gorgeous spring flowers, the vibrant red and gold of Autumn, or the crisp winter that brings out the eagles and osprey.
History
In the late 1800’s Tony Tubbs, a German immigrant and local businessman purchased land on Coeur d’Alene Lake’s southern peninsula. Tubbs had a hotel on the lake and was also a prominent land salesman and justice of the peace. His method of selling property to unfamiliar settlers was to plot the land and peddle it as shovel-ready plots to build homes.
His property was not an ideal spot for home construction due to the solid rock formation and a steep grade from the hill’s base to its peak of over 375 feet with 8-30 degrees between each section. Tubbs had limited success with his sales with the Washington Water Power Co. purchasing sections of the south shore and east face for a lake water reservoir in 1903, and the CDA Lumber Co. buying waterfront areas to operate a lumber mill that closed during the Depression era.
The city later acquired the hill for public use and in 1969 it became a 165-acre natural park with beautiful views of Coeur d’Alene Lake and many hiking trails. Today, the park is maintained by members of Friends of Tubbs Hill who clear trails and dig new ones as well as saw fallen logs to keep the area in great condition for visitors. Up next is McEuen Park.
Driving directions from Double Diamond Window Cleaning to Tubbs Hill
Driving directions from Tubbs Hill to McEuen Park