Medicine Lake

The Chatcolet Bridge – Bull Run Lake loop from Cataldo offers a fantastic road cycling adventure along the famed Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes. You'll glide over smooth asphalt through the Coeur d'Alene River Valley, where wetlands teem with birdlife and moose sightings are possible, before reaching the spectacular Chatcolet Bridge. This historic trestle provides breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Coeur d'Alene and the St. Joe River Valley, making the ride a true highlight of northern Idaho cycling. The route is a moderate 72.9-mile (117.4 km) journey with 1090 feet (332 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 32 minutes.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail features numerous amenities. Trailheads like Cataldo and Bull Run offer convenient parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. While the trail is generally easy, the climb onto the Chatcolet Bridge presents a moderately challenging but rewarding incline. This route is family-friendly and best enjoyed during the milder seasons of spring and fall for comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery.

This route is part of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, a celebrated rails-to-trails project recognized in the Rails to Trails Conservancy's Hall of Fame. Beyond its recreational value, the trail is also a testament to environmental remediation efforts, transforming a former railroad corridor into a scenic pathway. The Chatcolet Bridge itself, a converted Union Pacific Railroad trestle built in 1921, is a major landmark, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.