Nine Mile Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
About Nine Mile Falls
Nine Mile Falls sits along the Spokane River about nine miles from downtown Spokane, anchoring the small unincorporated community that straddles Spokane and Stevens counties (ZIP 99026). The site is historically significant—the original natural falls were replaced when Nine Mile Dam was built in 1908—so hiking here mixes riverside scenery with a touch of regional history. Expect scenic river views, shaded riparian forest, and plenty of spots for photography, fishing, or a riverside picnic. The trail network around Nine Mile Falls is popular with locals and day-trippers looking for a short but rewarding outing. Trails and viewpoints wind above the river and toward the dam, making this a pleasant half-day excursion whether you’re after landscape shots, a brisk walk, or a relaxing break beside the Spokane River.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The length and gain make for a brisk, manageable hike that includes some uphill stretches; plan on moderate exertion rather than a flat stroll. Trail tread and official class/grade details are not specified in the provided data, but the route provides a mix of riverside viewpoints and elevated overlooks of the Spokane River and Nine Mile Dam. The out-and-back format makes navigation straightforward—follow the main route to the viewpoints and return the same way—so it’s well suited to hikers comfortable with a moderate climb and varied terrain.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Nine Mile Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Nine Mile Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the river flow is typically higher, enhancing the beauty of the falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, especially during high flow seasons. Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the dam. Watch for slippery rocks and uneven terrain.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Spokane River, 0.4 miles away, not on Nine Mile Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
2,190 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 12 years of record
6.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SPOKANE RIVER BELOW NINE MILE DAM AT SPOKANE, WA (1 km away).
Today
Moderate
2365 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
2255 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
2147 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
2427 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
2564 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
2644 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
2477 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, light rain (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early June, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Suncrest hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Nine Mile Falls Frozen?
Updated about 7 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately big river, rarely freezes solid
Nine Mile Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 54°F to 36°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 2400 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Washington.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 92 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,544 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 104 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 71 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,544 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 92 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Nine Mile Falls is located approximately 15 miles northwest of Spokane, Washington. Visitors can access the area via WA-291. The falls are near the Nine Mile Recreation Area and can be reached by car.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Nine Mile Recreation Area, which provides access to the falls and surrounding trails.
Elevation
1,542 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.775167° N, -117.544113° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends or peak seasons to secure parking. Bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes. Be cautious near the water, especially during high flow seasons.
Where to Stay
Spokane Tribe Resort and Casino
Ruby River Hotel
Ramada by Wyndham Spokane Airport
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Spokane Downtown
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Riverside State Park, Bowl and Pitcher area, and the Spokane River Centennial Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small mammals. Visitors may also spot fish in the river.
Cities near Nine Mile Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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