Local Drive Guide: Coeur d’Alene & Beyond
Local Drive Guide: Coeur d’Alene & Beyond

Local Drive Guide: Coeur d’Alene & Beyond

Explore North Idaho’s Scenic Routes in Your Next Ride

At Full On Pro Auto, we don’t just sell cars—we help you find the right vehicle for your lifestyle. And in a place like Coeur d’Alene, that lifestyle usually involves a lot of open road, mountain air, and spontaneous road trips.

Whether you’re cruising the lakefront or heading out for a weekend adventure, here are a few of our favorite local drives—and the types of vehicles that are perfect for them.


1. Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway

Distance: ~35 miles | Best for: Midsize SUV, comfortable sedan
This drive follows the eastern shoreline of Lake Coeur d’Alene and offers postcard-worthy views, especially around Beauty Bay and Wolf Lodge Bay.
Perfect Vehicle: Something with great visibility and comfort—like a Toyota RAV4 or a well-equipped Hyundai Tucson.


2. Panhandle Historic Rivers Passage (to Sandpoint)

Distance: ~50 miles one way | Best for: All-wheel-drive vehicles
Drive along the Pend Oreille River and pass through charming towns like Rathdrum and Priest River before landing in Sandpoint.
Perfect Vehicle: Subaru Outback or similar AWD wagon/SUV—especially great if you plan to do some winter trips later in the year.


3. Fernan Lake to Forest Roads Loop

Distance: ~20-40 miles | Best for: Off-road capable trucks or SUVs
For the adventurers: Head past Fernan Lake and into the national forest area for some light off-roading, picnics, and hiking access.
Perfect Vehicle: A lifted Toyota Tacoma or Jeep Grand Cherokee for trail clearance and utility.


4. Harrison via the Scenic Route (HWY 97)

Distance: ~30 miles | Best for: Leisure vehicles or convertibles
Enjoy winding turns and amazing lake views all the way to the little town of Harrison, perfect for a day of ice cream, boating, and chill time.
Perfect Vehicle: Something stylish and fun—like a convertible Mustang or a comfortable crossover.


Why It Matters

Living in the Inland Northwest means having access to some of the most beautiful drives in the country. When you’re buying a vehicle, think beyond just errands and work—think about where your weekends could take you.

At Full On Pro Auto, we stock a wide range of vehicles that are road trip ready, including AWD models, fuel-efficient cruisers, and family-friendly SUVs.


Ready for Adventure?

Browse our current inventory at www.fullonproauto.com/, or swing by to find your next road trip companion.
Let the summer adventures begin—starting with the perfect ride.

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