You don’t have to like pickles to play pickleball, but you do have to be willing to have fun
You already know what PICKLEBALL is and you’re a fan? Skip ahead to the next paragraph. Although only 55 years old, this sport has become wildly popular with all ages, featuring back-and-forth action similar to badminton yet less impactful on the body compared to tennis, so you can play longer. Instead of a racquet, you use a paddle similar to pingpong, and because the court is smaller than those used in tennis, the game tends to be quite social and fast-paced. It’s easy to learn, easy to score, and so much fun to play! Another advantage of this mashup of tennis, pingpong and badminton: You don’t have to schedule matches and find partners or opponents to play. You can just show up, put your paddle down next to the court, and play in.Â
So where can you play in and around Coeur d’Alene? So many places! OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL COURTS, all free, are located at Cherry Hill Park (1718 N. 15th St.), Northshire Park (3889 W. Nez Perce Rd.) and downtown at McEuen Park (420 E. Front Ave.). The pickup pickleball scene is particularly vibrant at downtown’s New Memorial Field Area (501 Fort Ground Dr.), which boasts four dedicated pickleball courts lighted for after-hours play and within an easy walk to the lake, carousel and City Park. Ask your opponents where they are from, and chances are they are a blend of locals and tourists vacationing from far-flung locations. Also, try Spokane Street Sports Mans Park (19th and 21st avenues) in Post Falls.
Additional courts available to interested players yet requiring a membership or a small fee include ones at the Stoneridge Golf Community, which boasts six outdoor dedicated courts. Hayden Lake Country Club’s courts also see a lot of action (2362 E. Bozanta Dr.). Find INDOOR COURTS for members at Rathdrum Fitness Center, KROC Center, and CDA Boys & Girls Club, which all convert their gyms into courts. Peak Hayden not only features dedicated courts with tennis surfaces, but also boasts certified pickleball pros, leagues and clinics.Â
Want to learn but not sure where to start? Check out the Inland Northwest Pickleball Club website, which regularly hosts social events and tournaments.
Once you know how to play and where to play, you’re ready to get the necessary gear, namely a good quality paddle. And you’re in luck because a premier paddle maker is based in Hayden. Reach out to SELKIRK, a premier pickleball paddle and gear manufacturer at selkirk.com for more information about what might work best for your level of play.Â
UPCOMING EVENTS
JULY 17
Every Friday in July and August enjoy a scenic gondola ride, live music, and a savory mountain top barbecue at Silver Mountain. Your gondola ticket is included in the price. The menu usually consists of Huckleberry BBQ Ribs or blackened salmon, with sides of mashed potatoes, salad, beans and toast. Better yet, earn your feast with an afternoon of mountain biking. Visit cda4.fun for package pricing and details.
JULY 19-20
How does yoga in the sand, followed by a mimosa in your hand sound? Now add on a luxurious stay at the Coeur d’Alene Resort, a spa treatment of your choice and a hike and you’ve got the Resort’s latest Live Well Retreat. Packages start at $175 per person, based on double occupancy.
THROUGH AUG. 8
The esteemed Art Spirit Gallery is unveiling a July exhibit, New Western Vibe showcasing artists Shelle Lindholm, James Tingey, Travis Walker and Chase Halland. This multimedia show features paintings, ceramics and some amazing trophy mounts wrapped in Pendleton wool. Art Spirit Gallery; daily 11 am-6 pm.
