HOW TO EXPLORE THE LITTLE SPOKANE RIVER.
Perhaps the best way to experience the rare freshwater marsh environment is by quietly paddling a canoe or kayak down the river. Stealthy observers may see a wide variety of songbirds, woodpeckers, raptors, and waterfowl.
A great blue heron rookery can be found in the tall cottonwoods by the river. Please travel quietly because these birds are sensitive to disturbance. This area is closely monitored and may be closed during the critical nesting season, which runs from March to mid-May.
Beaver, muskrat, porcupines, raccoons, coyotes, marmots, white-tailed deer, and others -- even moose -- call this place home. Remember to stay away from wildlife, such as bear,cougar, and moose, particularly during calf season. Any wild animal will take extreme measures to protect its young ones. Rattlesnakes also inhabit this area, although they are seldom seen, so walk with awareness. We are guests in their home. Please respect them.
Wonder at the ancient Indian rock pictographs and about the people who painted them. Hike along some or all of the six miles of trails (Riverside Park area) to re-discover a sense of solitude and sensitivity.
A blanket of white may encourage a cross-country ski trek. More hearty voyagers will take to paddle.
Helpful Hints
• Parking and canoe launch sites* are right in front of our house; or, at Pine River Park for pick-up or launch.
* In the Riverside Park area at the upstream launch off St. George's School Road and at the Indian Painted Rocks. Both are reached off Rutter Parkway. You must carry your watercraft a short distance at both launches
• There is a takeout at PineRiver Park; or, on the boat launch road off Highway 291, north of Nine Mile Falls.
• Anyone paddling the Little Spokane should know the basics of maneuvering their craft around sharp turns and brushy banks.
Enjoy your visit, and remember to "leave no trace".