Whispers of history linger in High Bridge Park. High Bridge Park isn’t just a park. It’s a living timeline. Its land held human life for over 8000 years. Think about that. Eight thousand years of stories buried beneath the soil.
High Bridge Park in Spokane Washington boasts a rich history. It was annexed into the city in 1891. Two years after the Sunset Boulevard Bridge’s completion it was officially named High Bridge Park in 1913. Another bridge a 100-foot-high steel trestle followed in 1914.
High Bridge Park’s past is diverse. It has served as a tuberculosis sanitarium. It housed federal military housing. It was even a campground and a garbage dump. Can you imagine? A garbage dump in what is now a beautiful city park?
During World War II the park transformed. It became temporary housing for families and veterans from nearby military bases. After the war the park resumed its role as a tourist camp. This lasted until around 1955.
The 1970s brought changes to the Spokane railroad system. The 1914 trestle was demolished in 1978. During Expo ’74 the park’s campgrounds reopened. They accommodated visitors to the fair. After Expo ’74 the park fell into disrepair. A railroad car on display became a vandal’s target. It was removed for safekeeping in 1985.
The 1990s brought a different kind of challenge. High Bridge Park unfortunately gained a reputation for illicit activities. In response the city invested in improvements. A disc golf course and a bike trail were built.
Since the 21st century High Bridge Park has seen continued investment. The Sandifur Memorial Bridge was completed in 2004. This connects People’s Park to the north bank of the river. The High Bridge Dog Park Spokane’s first opened in 2011. In 2023 the city approved an American Indian Community Center. It will be built on two undeveloped acres in the park.
High Bridge Park is more than just bridges and trees. It’s a testament to Spokane’s resilience and its commitment to preserving history. It’s a place where past and present intertwine offering a unique experience for everyone who visits High Bridge Park.