Rock Climbing
One of the Northwest’s Top Rock Climbing Destinations
Post Falls is known as one of the top fingertip-friendly rock-climbing regions in the Northwest. Situated next to the Spokane River and surrounded by forestland, over 100 well-maintained rock-climbing routes are waiting for you. These rock walls are perfect for everyone; advanced climbers and incredible fun for anyone interested in climbing outdoors for the first time.
North Idaho is one of the best kept secrets for rock climbs in the Northwest, offering top quality adventure close to home for all skill levels. Q’emiln Park (ka mee lin) in Post Falls has been named the best 5.10 and below cragging area in the Inland Northwest. From I-90 Exit 5, Spokane Street, south across the Spokane River bridge to the park entrance. From parking to climbing is just .25 miles round trip making Q’emiln the easiest to access in the region. Parking pay station is open seasonally or park on the street and walk in. Q’emiln Park Trail System signage is just inside the park.
North Idaho’s top climbing destination is located in Q’emiln Park (pronounced “Ka-Mee-Lin”) in the heart of Post Falls along the Spokane River. The Q’emiln Walls are some of the most ideal crag spots in the entire Northwest. They offer a variety of sport routes with a short approach from historic hiking trails where a tribal village stood until the late 1870’s.
Q’emiln Park boasts 78 acres with over 140 moderate climbs. With a beautiful scenic approach and moments from I-90, these fingertip friendly crags offer a variety of the region’s best climbing and bouldering opportunities.
When you arrive, follow the trail for just a few short minutes from the parking area to reach an accessible rock-climbing haven. Whether you’re new to rock climbing or a seasoned veteran, this diverse geography offers a playground of traditional, sport, top-rope and bouldering for all levels and ages. The cliffs are mostly hidden under the tree canopy near the rushing Spokane River, so it remains cool and shady throughout the summer. Though it’s gained popularity in recent years, it is not yet crowded and remains true to its quiet, breathtaking environment. A majority of the vertical routes are within 50-70 feet, which means you can check off several in an afternoon and still have time for a celebratory beverage.
North Idaho’s top climbing destination is in Post Falls along the Spokane River. Q’emilin Park (pronounced “Ka-Mee-Lin”) is one of the most ideal crag spots in the entire Northwest and offers a variety of sport routes with an easy approach from hiking trails throughout the park. While the verticals are not enormous, most routes are within 50-70 feet, meaning you can check off several in an afternoon and still have time for happy hour.
Ready for a rock-climbing road trip? Post Falls, Idaho is where you will find the region’s easiest access to over 100 moderate climbs. Q’emiln Park boasts 78 acres with several rock routes ranging from 50-70 feet that can be easily conquered in an afternoon. With a beautiful scenic approach and minutes from I-90, these fingertip friendly crags offer a variety of the region’s best climbing and bouldering opportunities. Follow the trail for just a few short minutes to reach an accessible rock-climbing haven. Whether you’re new to rock climbing or a seasoned veteran, Post Falls diverse geography offers a playground of traditional, sport, top-rope and bouldering for all levels and ages. The cliffs are mostly hidden under the tree canopy near the rushing Spokane River, so it remains cool and shady throughout the summer. Though it’s gained popularity in recent years, it is not yet crowded and remains true to its quiet, breathtaking environment. With future plans to put up several more challenging climbing routes, Post Falls is developing a 518-acre multi-use natural area called the Post Falls Community Forest. This area will include 2 miles of river frontage, hiking, mountain biking trails, native trees and shrubs, wildlife and amazing granite cliffs and rock outcroppings.
Post Falls rock-climbing offers an easy, scenic approach to family friendly crags with climbing for all ages.
Post Falls Climbing History: In 2007, a couple of local rock climbing enthusiasts, Rusty Baillie and Richard LeFrancis, dedicated thousands of hours to improving the safety and quality of rock climbing on the Q’emiln Walls. Not only did they focus on the rock faces, but they cleaned up trails and protected the native plant life, exposing one of the most beautiful approaches in the Northwest. As improvements were made, the two men published THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE: A guidebook to the rock climbs of Q’emiln Park. This climbing guide is chock full of information on climbing traditions, natural history, the native environment and offers climbing route maps. Today, maintained hiking trails and lush vegetation surround the Q’emiln Walls. Additional walls are being scouted to expand the climbing experience into the Post Falls Community Forest, adjacent to Q’emiln, and potentially doubling the climbing routes. The vision of two climbers is now a reality for all who visit the walls every year. Their impact will be enjoyed for generations to come.
Grab a cup of coffee, then head out to one of the Northwest’s top rock climbing destinations – Q’emiln Walls (pronounced kah-Mee-lin). Situated next to the Spokane River and surrounded by forestland, are 140 well-maintained, fingertip-friendly, rock-climbing routes waiting for you. Perfect for advanced climbers and newbies alike.