Spokane Falls

It’s the sound that gets you first - a low rumble in the distance, a siren song, calling out to first-time visitors and locals alike. The Spokane Falls build to a deafening crescendo the closer you get. Especially in May when the mountain snow runoff is at its peak. It’s pure, unadulterated power and it’s so moving, you begin to understand why the Native American tribes considered the place sacred. Winding for miles through thick basalt formations, the Spokane River carves out a gorge dividing the bustle of the city with spectacular natural beauty. From the tribes who made it their annual meeting place to the present day, the Falls serve as a centerpiece for Spokane.

Finding the perfect vantage point is easy. There’s no shortage of spots. The country’s second largest urban waterfall, the Spokane Falls comes in two parts, upper and lower. Make sure you see both to get the full effect. Start in Riverfront Park, 100 acres of peaceful beauty in the middle of downtown, once the site of the 1974 World’s Fair.

Spokane Falls from above.

The upper falls are easy to find on the north side of the park. Walking through, you’ll come upon two suspension bridges next to the stately white Washington Water Power building. Delight in the soft mist on your face as you cross the first of the two bridges. Don’t be alarmed at the swaying, they are, after all, suspended by cables. When you’re done gazing at the upper falls, head to the lower falls. You’ll find ideal spots on the Post Street Bridge just north of the giant brick building with the iconic green Washington Water Power sign. Walk across it, and you’ll find yourself on the Centennial Trail, heading down as it takes you to prime viewing under the Monroe Street Bridge. Perhaps the most spectacular place to go is Huntington Park, which sits just west of Riverfront Park between Mobius Science Center and City Hall. Stop at the Tribal Gathering Place, the plaza surrounded by soothing water features and basalt stonework. Walk straight ahead to the viewing areas and take in the panorama of the lower falls below, framed above by the historic Monroe Street Bridge. In the distance, you’ll see Spokane’s newest neighborhood, Kendall Yards. Walk down the stairs and make sure you read the plaques outlining the history of water power in Spokane as you go. Once you’re down in the park, you’ll see meandering gravel paths. These paths take you right up close to the lower falls—raw power and literally moving. You might find yourself breathless from the water’s energy and excitement. If you want to skip all the walking and would rather sit in comfort, the Numerica SkyRide offers a 20-minute fly over for a bird’s eye view. Considered one of the best cable car rides in the world, you’ll gradually descend 200 feet for some great vantage points. The iconic lilac gondolas seat up to six people and are ADA compliant. The cabin windows open so you can capture that perfect photo. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to catch a rainbow. Ticket prices are reasonable, $7.75 for adults, $5.75 for children 2-12, free for children under 2. Military, seniors, students and AAA members get a 10% discount. Make sure you check the hours of operation before you go.

Spokane Falls from under the Monroe Street Bridge.

For eons, the steady thrum of undulating, pounding water has set the beat for Spokane. The river gorge transitions smoothly into urban life. The unlikely juxtaposition of modern city life and natural beauty make Spokane an unparalleled experience. There’s something about the raw beauty of raging water over prehistoric layers of basalt that make you feel small, but not powerless. Instead, you walk away feeling refreshed, energized and as though you’ve just had a spiritual experience.