High Bridge Park

A Hidden Urban Retreat

Situated in Spokane's Latah/Hangman area, High Bridge Park spans 200 acres of natural beauty near Riverside Avenue and A Street. Open daily from 5AM to 11PM with no admission fee, this expansive green space offers a refreshing escape from city life without actually leaving the city.

The park stretches lazily along Latah Creek's lower reaches, extending all the way to where it meets the Spokane River. Much of the terrain involves steep hillsides cascading down to the waterways, with elevations ranging from about 1,900 feet above sea level to 1,720 feet at the creek-river junction.

Where Nature Meets Neighborhoods

What makes High Bridge Park special is its diverse landscape. Of its 200 acres, 137 acres remain deliberately undeveloped - preserving natural habitats and offering wildlife viewing opportunities.

The park uniquely bridges multiple neighborhoods, including Latah/Hangman, Browne's Addition, Peaceful Valley, West Central, and West Hills. Despite being just a stone's throw from downtown Spokane, you'll feel miles away from urban life once you're surrounded by the flowing creek, towering trees, and expansive green spaces.

Play and Recreation

Disc golf enthusiasts will find a challenging 18-hole course winding through beautiful natural surroundings. If you're a seasoned player or just learning the ropes, the course offers an engaging experience for all skill levels.

If disc golf isn't your thing, the network of trails across the park provides perfect opportunities for peaceful walks or more vigorous hikes. The park connects to the Centennial Trail, making it an ideal jumping-off point for longer adventures on foot or bike.

Dog owners will appreciate that The High Bridge Dog Park gives your four-legged friends a dedicated space to run, play, and socialize. Your pups are welcome throughout the rest of the park too, just remember to keep them leashed outside the designated dog area.

Comfort and Convenience

For families, the park features a playground nestled near a grassy area and covered pavilion - excellent for keeping an eye on the kids while preparing a picnic lunch at one of the several available tables.

Restrooms are available during summer months, however they may be closed during other seasons, so plan accordingly. There's a parking lot for convenience, but note that occasionally the main gate might be closed, requiring a short walk in from the street.

The covered pavilion provides welcome shelter for gatherings, whether you're escaping a surprise summer shower or seeking shade on a sunny day.

Growing and Evolving

The park has seen thoughtful improvements since the early 2000s. The completion of the Sandifur Memorial Bridge in 2004 connected People's Park to the north bank of the river, creating a more integrated trail and bike route network.

Around the same time, the now-popular disc golf course was constructed. In 2011, High Bridge Dog Park made history as Spokane's first dedicated dog park.

What's New

More recent upgrades include the 2020 renovation of the People's Park parking lot, now featuring public art and informative signage that adds context to your visit.

Looking forward, 2021 saw approval for plans to connect the Fish Lake Trail with the Centennial Trail through the park. And in 2023, the city approved the American Indian Community Center's plans to build a facility on two undeveloped acres within the park boundaries.

Natural Splendor

Perhaps the park's greatest asset is its natural beauty. Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings and breathtaking vistas. The backdrop of Latah Creek, the Spokane River, and the picturesque bridges at the park's south end create scenes worth capturing.

Thankfully, mature trees provide generous shade throughout much of the park, making it a comfortable destination even on hot summer days. Each season brings its own charm to High Bridge Park - from delicate spring wildflowers to the rich tapestry of autumn foliage.