Biking the Hiawatha Trail

Wow, what a day. We knew we were going to have a chilly day but didn’t expect it to be ⅔ of the time wet and 10-15 degrees colder than expected. But this route is phenomenal even in 45 degree weather with the last 5 miles being poured on. Breathtaking views as you descended what used to be a rail line.

You start by biking through the St Paul’s tunnel. This 1.7 mile long tunnel took 750 men 2.5 years to complete. It goes from Montana to Idaho and stays at 46 degrees year round. We didn’t even notice the temperature since it was about 45 degrees our entire ride 🥶 On the way out we took the rangers advice to go slow through the tunnel so we wouldn’t get muddy. It’s pitch black inside so front and rear lights are a must.

Once out of the tunnel (which took about 30 min on the way out) you’re greeted by a beautiful waterfall. Then the cliff falls off the side of the trail as you round the bend and so begins the sweeping vistas. You start to see glimpses of the trellises you’ll eventually ride over. These can be up to 230 ft from the ground but felt incredibly stable. Overall there are 10 tunnels and 7 trellises. We had light rain the first 5 miles, then clear but cold weather for the middle third, then steady to pouring rain the last third. Once at the bottom of the trail, you’re met by shuttle buses to take you to the west portal (where the first tunnel ends). Then we had to bike back through the 1.7 mile long tunnel to our truck. Everyone was over being wet and cold, so no one was going slow. Which ended with all of us being absolutely covered in mud. No one was spared, not even those with fenders (although I’m sure it would have helped a little).

We then relaxed a bit with the pups and headed into Coeur d’alene for dinner. Delicious halibut and steak were a great way to refuel after a long, cold day.Read more