Ultimate Idaho Golf Getaway: Coeur d’Alene Resort, Floating Green & Fall Views
Chilly Fairways and Warm Memories: Golfing at Coeur d’Alene Resort, Idaho
It was one of those perfect fall mornings—crisp, clear, with just a hint of frost lingering on the grass, and blanketing the landscape in serene stillness. Autumn golf in Idaho has a way of painting every scene with golden hues, and as we arrived at The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, we felt as though we’d slipped into a painter’s masterpiece.
Flying into Spokane & The Scenic Drive to CDA
Our journey began with a flight into Spokane, Washington, where we picked up a rental car and hit the road toward Coeur d’Alene—affectionately known as CDA. The drive was just under an hour and beautifully scenic, especially with the changing fall foliage lining the route. That peaceful drive gave us time to relax, recharge, and gear up for another bucket list golf course in our 50 states journey.
(Spoiler alert: we also played golf in Washington—State #12—right after this stop, but more on that in the next blog post!)
Idaho Golf First Impressions: A Warm Welcome in the Cold
Despite the chill in the air, the moment we stepped out of the car, the staff greeted us with warm smiles and efficient, cheerful service. From the bag drop to the pro shop, every team member was friendly and accommodating. Our caddy that day was nothing short of amazing—knowledgeable, encouraging, and genuinely invested in making our round memorable.
Tee Time and Caddie Wisdom
Bundled up but brimming with excitement, we headed to the first tee under a crystal-blue sky. Our forecaddie, Dylan, had played the course countless times and offered insights at every hole—from slope grades to wind readings. His advice was always spot‑on, especially as we neared the lake, “That breeze off Lake Coeur d’Alene will shift your ball—trust me.” And, of course, he was right—but more on that later!
Conquering the Floating Green: A Par to Remember
Not every day do you play a hole that’s been called one of golf’s most iconic feats. Hole 14—The Floating Green—hovers on a man-made island in the heart of the lake, a vision of engineering brilliance against a backdrop of pine-covered hills and shimmering water. A modest breeze could easily push your ball off target, and the green itself is punishingly precise.
But guess what? Mr Golf walked away with a par. To watch the ball float just long enough, drop with grace, and roll to rest in the heart of that stunning green? Unforgettable. It felt like a triumph, a moment that’ll sparkle in our golfing memories for years to come.
Vault Coffee: A Lakeside Pick‑Me‑Up
After an exhilarating round, it was time for a caffeine recharge. We headed straight for Vault Coffee, a cozy café just moments from the resort. With steaming cups in hand and warm pastries, we soaked in the lakeside views. From the moment we stepped inside, the aroma of fresh roasts and chatter of fellow patrons made it the perfect pit‑stop.
If you ever find yourself in Coeur d’Alene, check them out here:
- ☕ Vault Coffee website
- 📸 Or catch their vibe on Instagram.
Great coffee, friendly service, and a serene deck overlooking the water—it’s exactly what you need in the autumn chill.
Lakeside Views From Tubbs Hill
Coffee sipped and spirits high, we opted for a short hike on Tubbs Hill, a rugged, natural park that hugs the lake’s shoreline. The trail is modest—just a couple of miles round‑trip—but the payoff is gorgeous vistas of Lake Coeur d’Alene, the resort, and even the Floating Green from above.
The trail winds through fragrant pines and larch trees radiating fiery gold, with occasional benches and views perfect for stretching, filming, or simply breathing in the crisp air. Halfway up, we paused to let the calm of the lake wash over us, reminding ourselves that the day wasn’t just about golf—it was about this moment in nature.
Resort Hospitality & Room With a View
Back at the resort, we found our room featured the kind of lakeside panorama you see on postcards. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows looked out onto glassy water dotted with boats and kayaks, framed by evergreens and amber autumn leaves. We sank into soft chairs, took a deep breath, and let that peaceful scene soak into our souls. That perfect view made a brief afternoon nap feel indulgent, then a little cocktail for happy hour at Dockside at The COA Resort to toast the day before heading off to dinner at The Cedars Floating Restaurant.
Gooey Ice Cream Sundaes: The Grand Finale
No trip to Coeur d’Alene would be complete without something sweet—and for us, that meant a stop at Gooey, the resort’s famous ice cream parlor. Massive sundaes dripping with chocolate, marshmallows, fudge, sprinkles—you name it, they piled it on.
If you’re hungry for more scoops of indulgence, check out their story here: Gooey Crazy: Inside the Famous Confection One giant sundae shared between us was just right for rounding off the day—with chocolate dripping on our fingers, we toasted the sun dipping below the lake’s horizon.
Final Thoughts
That cold, crisp autumn day in Idaho gifted us more than just great golf—it offered camaraderie, scenic adventures, gourmet refreshments, and resort hospitality at its finest. The staff—on the course, in the clubhouse, at the coffee shop—were genuinely exceptional, turning a chilly day into something warm and memorable.
If you ever get the chance to play Idaho golf at The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, whether you’re gunning for that dreamy floating green or just want to walk with crisp leaves underfoot, do it. Pack warmly, book a caddy, treat yourself to coffee and pastry at Vault, and lace up for a post‑round hike at Tubbs Hill. Don’t forget to reward yourself with a gigantic sundae at Gooey before you leave (trust us).
Idaho in the autumn—golden, clear‑sky, treadmill-neutral temperatures—might just be my new favorite retreat. Hope you find your perfect tee‑time there, too.
Next up: Golf in State #12 – Washington 🏌️♂️⛰️
But Idaho, you’ve officially earned a top spot in our hearts (and scorecards).
Artwork Of Your Favorite Golf Course
SAVE 10% at Golf Course Prints with coupon code MRMRSGOLF
One of the this things we do commemorate some of the most memorable rounds and courses is through Golf Course Prints. This unique, watercolor-style golf course maps are collectable pieces of art, perfect for any golfer or golf fan. It’s a keepsake and personal memento that you can proudly display on the wall of your home or office.
