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Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Mineral Ridge boat launch and associated facilities will temporarily close in January for upgrades to improve boater access to Lake Coeur d’Alene. The popular launch site is one of few public launches on the east side of the lake used year-round by both anglers and recreational boaters. Over the years, use of the existing ramp during low water months has caused the concrete ramp to crack and break apart in areas. 

The BLM will take advantage of typical winter low water levels to replace the existing boat ramp with a concrete ramp that will extend 40 feet further into the lake. The longer ramp will help reduce issues with launching in low water conditions.  

Beginning Jan. 15, 2021, the boat ramp, parking area and restroom will be temporarily closed to provide for public safety while construction is underway. Boat ramp renovations are expected to be completed by mid-March. 

National Native American Construction, Inc. (NNAC), headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, was awarded the $170,000 contract. The NNAC will also replace the picnic pavilion shelter roof at the Mineral Ridge recreation site, approximately .5 miles from the boat launch. The picnic pavilion will be unavailable for use, but the BLM does not plan any closures to the Mineral Ridge trailhead or parking area while roof repairs are underway.  

During the boat ramp replacement, the BLM recommends anglers and boaters use the State of Idaho’s Higgins Point launch off Lake Coeur d’Alene Drive or the City of Coeur d’Alene’s Third Street boat launch.