While on vacation last week in North Idaho, we visited Q'emiln Park in Post Falls. This park includes a beach area, playground, boat launch, picnic area, and 40 acres of hiking trails along the Spokane River.
We went there to hike of course. There are 12 little hikes that make up 4 miles of trails. So, you can decide which way you want to go. Be careful though, the park skirts private property so watch out for the signs.
What these trails are really known for is rock climbing. Each separate trail goes to a rock climbing area and there were plenty of climbers when we were there. Next time we go we will be taking a climbing class.
There were blue metal signs at each off-shoot trail/climbing area that looked like this.
It's kind of hard to tell but there was a climber up at the top.
This was really fun to watch as we trekked through the forest. We made our way around most of the trails which were pretty easy.
Some were better maintained than others. This was a very kid friendly area if you stayed on the main paths. Some of the off-shoots were steep.
There were many beautiful viewpoints that overlooked the Spokane River and some amazing rock ledges.
We went off the beaten path a bit to make it down to the river. The water was crystal clear and there were 3 people on the entire river. We practically had the place all to ourselves. We put our feet in the water for a bit to cool off.
It was pretty hot while we were there and yes the boys had on their Camelbaks. I didn't have to listen to complaints of thirst the entire hike!
On the way back we went through a grassy area. Be sure to be loud with your footsteps to warn animals such as snakes. You want them to know you are there rather than surprise or scare them.
We enjoyed this hike and will bring our swimsuits next time to stay for a while at the river. I am used to a more out and back approach so this hike was a bit like a maze. Sometimes it was hard to remember if we went on a certain path already. Overall the views were nice and the river was peaceful. If you have children it is nice because you can do a hike and then head over to the park to play if you want.
The address is 12201 W. Parkway Dr., in Post Falls Idaho at S. end of Spokane St. bridge.
You do have to pay to park at the kiosk at the entrance. It is $3.50 per car, but there are quite a few free spaces right outside the park entrance along the road. This is where we parked. There are also bathroom facilities at the park as well as a port-a-potty at the trailhead.
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