By Shallan Knowles
Cover photo courtesy of Shallan Knowles
The put-in for the Little Spokane River and surrounding trails are accessible from trailheads about 10 miles north of downtown Spokane. Make sure you have a Discover Pass for all trailhead parking.
The float has two take-out options. Launch your craft at the Saint George’s put-in. The short float take-out is at Indian Painted Rocks Trailhead and can take up to two hours. The longer float takes you to the Nine Mile take-out and can take 3 to 4 hours. It is also possible to float from Painted Rocks to State Route 291.
Read the signs at all trailheads and at the put-in and know the rules before you head out on a hike or float in the natural area: On the trails, pets, bikes, horses and motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Tubes or other floaties are not allowed on the river (this rule is enforced) and always wear a lifejacket. Swimming and alcohol are also not allowed. Dogs are prohibited anywhere in the natural area, and hikers must stay on designated trails. This area has a dedicated ranger, and violations are ticketed at $99 each. During the high season, there can be more than one ranger assigned to the area.
A great way to float the Little Spokane is with the Spokane Parks and Recreation shuttle service. The shuttle provides transport of you and your canoe, kayak or paddleboard from the Nine Mile take-out back to the river put-in. The shuttle typically runs mid-July through August on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pre-register or pay with a card on site. (My.spokanecity.org/recreation/outdoor/river-shuttle)
