The small city of Post Falls, situated on the Spokane River just east of the state line, has added another recreation amenity, furthering its growing reputation as an outdoor recreation and active lifestyle town. Last summer the grand opening of the Coeur Climbing Company indoor climbing gym attracted a swarm of climbers from across the Inland Northwest. The event was more than a grand opening of the region’s latest, most modern climbing gym—it also highlighted the many reasons why Post Falls has become both an adventure destination and new home for a growing number of outdoor enthusiasts.
Even before Coeur Climbing opened its doors in the city of 50,000 residents, Post Falls offered an impressive list of outdoor recreation amenities. The Spokane River runs through the town, offering boating, paddling and swimming opportunities in the lake-like waters above Post Falls Dam and whitewater kayaking, river surfing, tubing and fishing opportunities below the dam. At the idyllic 78-acre Q’emiln Park and the adjacent community forest (500 acres) right across the river from downtown Post Falls, a beautiful swimming beach accompanies miles of hiking and biking trails. The park’s outdoor rock-climbing crags also offer extensive adventure potential for locals and visitors alike.
The real linchpin in the Post Falls outdoor community is the North Idaho Centennial Trail. Connecting Coeur d’Alene to Spokane via Post Falls and Liberty Lake, this ribbon of asphalt, created over 30 years ago, provides a beloved connection for runners, bikers, stroller pushers and walkers. For trails users, Post Falls has become a welcome hub for a coffee, meal or local brew on outings along the 23-mile, river-hugging North Idaho pathway.
Back at the grand opening for Coeur Climbing, the weather proved perfect for games, some climbing competitions, food and coffee trucks, raffle prizes, yoga demos and—the highlight—a meet and greet with the climbing legend Alan Watts. Many climbers pressed Watts to keep the stories coming from his climbing exploits at Smith Rocks and across the Northwest. He answered loads of questions with style and panache, and his presence made the grand opening an event to remember.
Coeur Climbing has a great location right off I-90 (764 Clearwater Loop Suite 101), just around the corner from Buck Knives headquarters, and offers climbing and yoga classes for all abilities and ages. The gym features classes for beginner climbers, women-only, and programs for kids. It offers bouldering, top rope, lead and auto belay climbing, as well as a designated kids’ climbing area. Take a virtual tour of the gym and learn more at Coeurclimbing.com.
Cover photo courtesy Angus Meredith
