Overview of the Spokane River
The Spokane River, a vibrant 111-mile-long tributary of the Columbia River, winds through the scenic landscapes of northern Idaho and eastern Washington. Originating in the crystal waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene, it carves a path through lush valleys, urban hubs, and serene prairies before merging with the Columbia at Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake. The river’s dramatic Spokane Falls, cascading through downtown Spokane, stand as a symbol of its enduring power and beauty, drawing visitors to its banks.
Spanning a watershed of over 6,000 square miles, the Spokane River supports thriving ecosystems and communities, including Spokane (population 228,989) and Coeur d’Alene (population 170,628). It feeds the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, a critical water source for hundreds of thousands. Home to rainbow trout and other aquatic life, the river remains a vital thread in the region’s natural and cultural tapestry, inviting exploration and reverence.
History and Native American Legacy
For over 11,000 years, the Spokane River has been a sacred lifeline for the Spokane Tribe and other Native American communities of the Columbia Plateau. Known as “Stl’pul” in the Salish language, meaning “swift water,” the river was central to tribal life. Its abundant salmon runs, including Chinook, Coho, and sockeye, provided sustenance, with Spokane Falls serving as a prime fishing ground. The falls were also a spiritual and social hub, where tribes like the Coeur d’Alene, Nez Perce, and Palouse gathered for ceremonies, trade, and storytelling, fostering deep cultural connections.
The Spokane Tribe relied on the river for more than food. Its banks offered materials for tools, such as basalt for grinding stones, and willows for basket weaving. Seasonal camps along the river supported hunting and gathering, with tribes harvesting camas roots and huckleberries from nearby meadows. The river’s steady flow guided travel routes, connecting communities across the region. Stories and oral traditions passed down through generations celebrated the river as a living entity, a provider, and a spiritual guide.
With the arrival of European explorers in the early 19th century, the river’s role evolved. In 1810, David Thompson, a fur trader, established the Spokane House near the confluence of the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers, one of the first European outposts in the region. This marked the beginning of the fur trade era, with the river serving as a vital transportation route for pelts and goods. By the 1830s, missionaries arrived, drawn to the river’s fertile banks to establish settlements and engage with Native communities.
The late 19th century brought significant change as the Northern Pacific Railway reached Spokane in 1882, transforming the area into a bustling hub. The river’s power was harnessed for industry, with waterwheels and early hydroelectric dams, like the Upper Falls Dam, driving sawmills and gristmills. These developments supported the growth of Spokane as a commercial center, with the river’s energy fueling the region’s economy. Despite these changes, the Spokane Tribe maintained their connection to the river, fishing and gathering along its banks well into the modern era.
Today, the Spokane River remains a cultural touchstone for the Spokane Tribe, who continue to honor its legacy through storytelling, art, and advocacy for its preservation. Annual gatherings, such as salmon ceremonies, reflect the tribe’s enduring bond with the river, celebrating its role as a provider and a sacred space.
Experiencing the Spokane River
The Spokane River beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. The 40-mile Centennial Trail, stretching from Idaho to Spokane’s Riverside State Park, offers breathtaking views for hikers and cyclists. Kayakers navigate thrilling rapids like Bowl and Pitcher, while anglers cast for rainbow trout near the iconic Spokane Falls. For a peaceful escape, the river’s calmer stretches invite leisurely floats, allowing visitors to soak in its serene beauty and connect with its storied past.
Spokane River Levels
View the Spokane River Levels
Contact
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