In the Riverside State Park Management Plan an area at the south end of the park was designated as an Equestrian Area. This has been used as a trailhead and a concessionaire provided rental horses. Since the equestrian rental concession left the area several years ago thoughts have been directed toward further development of the Equestrian Area. The Equestrian Area provides a trailhead for the 25 Mile Loop Trail that ties into other trails throughout the Riverside State Park trail system. In addition, there is good gentle riding through the trees in close proximity to the trailhead.

Last year a survey was distributed to interested equestrians to address what type of development is beneficial. Since then several meetings have been held to review the survey, further identify desired features and to start determining how all of this will fit together. Suggested features include, day use equestrian parking, overnight equestrian camping, restroom facilities, picnic area, and an arena with support facilities. A major part of the project will be to develop the intra-structure of roads, electrical, water and sewer service to support the area. This will also improve the equestrian trailhead and access to trails in the park.

State Parks Planner Bill Fraser is now developing a grant request for preparation of a formal plan to guide the long term development of the Equestrian Area. As the planning proceeds we will finalize a general layout of the area and start identifying specific features within the plan. Of course, this will not happen all at once and we must establish priorities, or phases, to the project. We will also be looking for financing and volunteer labor.

We continue to look for additional input from people interested in the area. René Wiley, Park Manager, maintains a database of people interested in the project. If you would like to be contacted about future activities please call René at 465-5064.

Junior Ranger Programs

Come join us in the park this season! Junior Ranger Programs are activities for children 6 to 12 years of age that incorporate education and activities to promote stewardships of our parks and our environment. Programs will be every other Saturday morning at the Bowl and Pitcher. Pre-registration is encouraged to ensure we have enough materials for your child to participate. You can register by contacting the park at 327-2635.

It’s All Around Us – Ecosystems
June 14th

Leave No Trace
June 28th

Not Just Beneath Us – Aquifer and Water Cycle
July 12th

Reduce Reuse Recycle
July 26th

Renewable Resources
Aug 9th

Bio Energy
Aug 23rd

Ranger’s Log
By MacArthur Mikkelsen,
Head Park Ranger, Little Spokane River Natural Area and Nine Mile Recreation Area
little.spokane@parks.wa.gov

The Nine Mile Recreation Area (formally Nine Mile Resort) will open for the 2008 season on May 15th and remain open until September 30th.  What that means to most of you is yet another wonderful place within Riverside State Park to recreate.

If you have never visited the area it’s about time you did.  Located about 2 miles west of Hwy 291 off Charles and Hedin Rd. the Nine Mile Recreation Area offers 15 acres of pure recreational enjoyment along the banks of Lake Spokane.  There are 24 campsites, 3 picnic shelters, boat launch and boating, fishing, swimming, access to hiking and biking trails, and a large day use area. 

The park has teamed up with Mug Shots (a private concessionaire) which will be offering espresso, snacks, beverages, and other vend items for visitors convenience.  The park also sells ice, firewood, and has canoes and kayaks available for rent. 

Here are some things to consider if you plan on a visit to the Nine Mile Recreation Area. 

Finally please be patient with us, as we are steadily making improvements to the area.

I invite all of you to visit the Nine Mile Recreation Area and enjoy your park.  Please have a safe and fun summer.