In Spokane County, 30 miles northeast of Spokane on Mount Spokane by way of U.S. Highway 2 and State Route 206.

Acreage

13,643 acres.

Acquired

The park was acquired in 60 parcels primarily through donations; the first in 1927 and the last in 1977, for a total cost of $6,156.

Historical Background

The mountain was formerly known as Mount Carlton or Old Baldy. The road to the top was constructed in 1912 by Francis H. Cook. The area became the first state park east of the Cascades and the CCC accomplished the initial development. By 1950, the mountain had become popular as a skiing area. Shortly before the dedication of the new $250,000 wing to the ski lodge on January 23, 1952, fire demolished the structure and caused the death of one person. Between 1958-1970, new skiing areas, facilities, and condominiums were constructed. The park, as well as the city, river, and many other features of the area, derives its name from an indian word which most experts agree means "sun".

Facilities

85 picnic sites, 3 picnic shelters, group camping area for 90 people, 12 standard sites, parking for 1,588 vehicles, 2 pay phones, 2 horse feeding stations, 2 comfort stations, 16 vault toilets, 50 miles of hiking/equestrian trails, 77.6 miles of road, 3 residences, 2-bay shops, sand shed, 3 cabins, original ski lodge foundation, and Vista House.

The Commission owns the following ski facilities: 2 rope tows, 32 ski runs, 1 ski lodge, and 2 ski tow buildings.

Private residential facilities on adjacent private lands use park roads for primary access. These facilities consist of: 1) 7 condominium complexes with 150 units, restaurant, tennis court, and swimming pool and 2) a private residential/vacation cabin.

The Commission has a concession agreement with the Mt. Spokane Ski Corporation for the operation of a winter sports complex.

Activities

Camping, hiking, horseback riding, huckleberry picking, picnicking, viewing, mountain bike riding, downhill and cross country skiing, sledding, and snowmobiling.