Spokane River Park Areas
The Spokane River itself offers many opportunities to hike, bike, picnic and take a dip in the cool waters (summertime only!)
Bowl & Pitcher in Riverside State Park
A popular Spokane River site for picnicking, hiking and river watching. The geological phenomenon of lava rock eroded by water creates the appearance of a giant pitcher just ready to pour. Someone misplaced the bowl but we’re sure it will turn up by the time you get there!
A swinging bridge crosses the Spokane River and is a highlight for young and old alike. Standing above the rushing water offers a natural thrill and during spring run off, a chill of spray besides!
This is the most scenic natural attraction along the Spokane River. A great place to picnic and hike the miles of trails leading north and south along the river. Camping is also offered here. For information (click)
For more information on the whole park see the River Side State park site (click)
Spokane Gorge
“Nothing is so firmly impressed on the mind of the visitor to Spokane… as the great gorge into which the river falls near the center of the city."
- Olmsted Report, 1908
Cities grown and change but our river still flows through the center of town and right under the Monroe Street Bridge creates one of the largest urban waterfalls in the United States! A proposed new River Gorge Park is in the making that will feature white water kayaking, picnic areas, close water trails and one of the biggest natural “water features” in the nation. More info and great river pictures (click)
Be sure to view the falls from several viewing areas on either side of Monroe Street.
Plantes Ferry Park
Located east of town in the Spokane Valley, Plantes Ferry is a popular sports complex for soccer teams, baseball leagues and cross country events. For the visitor it offers a nice picnic area and access to a small beach in a shallow bend of the river. Right on the river bank, look for the life sized statue of pioneer Antoine Plante, known for ferrying people across this point of the river.
Sullivan Landing
Another popular river valley park offers picnic areas and access to a stretch of boulder strewn river bank (steep trail to waters edge). A popular park for sports teams after some hard fought soccer games at Plantes Ferry fields!
Life vests are recommended on all stretches of the Spokane River and required on the river between the Idaho State line and Plantes Ferry (you don’t want that $77 fine!).
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