IDAHO ESCAPES - Great Northwest Getaways
 
 
Post Falls: Passport to Adventure
 
 
(from the print edition, May 2012)
 
Post Falls is a place to be when you’re on the highway to outdoor adventure in North Idaho.  Just off I-90, between Spokane and Coeur d’Alene, you’ll be surprised at what awaits you. The spacious new Post Falls Chamber of Commerce visitor center, just off the Spokane Street exit in the center of the city, is a great place to start. From there you’re just two blocks from Falls Park, a family and handicap friendly city park with picnic areas, paved trails and accessible overlook platform for viewing the roaring falls. The kids can fish in the stocked pond, so bring your poles! Just a few blocks away is the beautiful 78-acre Q’emiln Park on the Spokane River, featuring summer lifeguards at the public beach from June through August, and lots of space for picnics under the pine trees. There’s a seasonal boat launch, BBQ pits, horseshoe pits, playground and sand volleyball courts. On the west side of the park is the Q’emiln Trail System - including 12 connected trails winding along the riverbanks. The park also includes regionally -renowned natural rock climbing walls and features 100+ routes with a variety of climbs; top rope, traditional and mixed. The fun starts less than 300 yards from the parking lot and yes, just a few blocks from the Interstate! 
 
More fun can be found aboard authentic paddlewheeler cruises on the Spokane River Queen, debarking from the marina at Red Lion Templins in the city center.The scenic beauty of the river, wildlife, and fabulous views of the “Gold Coast” private waterfront residences make for a great afternoon outing.  Stock car racing enthusiasts love the action at Stateline Speedway, or head over to Center Target Sports - where families can learn personal safety and test their skills. For a taste of native culture, don’t miss the annual Julyamsh Pow Wow at the Greyhound Park Event Center in July, with over 1000 native dancers and drummers. This gathering is a colorful and spectacular look at the traditions and history of our community’s first people, taking place on their ancestral homeland.  Looking to stay a while? Most lodging properties in Post Falls, which include hotels, motels, B&B’s and RV parks, have special Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach packages available to make your vacation fun-filled for the whole family. Discover Post Falls – you’ll come back year after year!  Info and travel resources: postfallschamber.com.