The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes passes by mine tailings in Kellog, Idaho
Warning sign along Trail
Throughout the West communities are trying to build new, recreation-based economies over the old ones based on mining. The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a literal example. This new bike trail in North Idaho converts an old mining-era rail line to recreational use. It's one of the longest Rails to Trails projects in America.
But beneath the miles of fresh asphalt there's also toxic mining debris strewn the length of the line. Indeed, some call it a recreational Superfund site, a trail for bikers, hikers and skaters built to contain contaminants and promote tourism. Producer Guy Hand cycled the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes to see if this exploited piece of the American west can bury its past and pave the way to a brighter future.
