ROCKET GULCH STAIRS
Project Overview
Just south of the Rocket Market and north of the golf course gated community called Manito Place (near 43rd St and Hatch Rd) there is a 30-foot public right-of-way. This access point is easy to miss, but the trail itself quickly connects you to all of the Bluff's main trails and is the closest public access to Hangman Creek and the southern portion of the trail network.
When Friends of the Bluff first approached the city about using this location as a trail access point there was a tall fence blocking passage. This fence was removed in 2017 and some adventurous hikers willing to navigate loose rock and gravel with no firm footing are now traversing down a steep slope to the trails. Friends of the Bluff wants to see this trail improved so it can be used as a safe access for all users of average walking abilities.
PROJECT SCOPE
A set of steps is needed on the steepest section of the embankment, so Friends of the Bluff is working with AHBL (an engineering and landscape architecture firm) and WTA (Washington Trails Association) on a Spokane Parks-approved design to guide next steps for implementation as we make progress toward construction.
We are working closely with the Spokane Parks Department and our partners AHBL and WTA for an outcome that will provide safe trail access, erosion control, and minimal impact to the neighbors.
The mockups below are intended to give you an idea of what the project will look like, but are not exact representations of the final result.
Now that we have a Spokane Parks-approved design and authorization to conduct project-specific fundraising, we are in the critical stage of finding financial support for the project. We are actively exploring funding strategies including private donations and public funding.
Many details are still being finalized, but a preliminary estimate for this project as currently designed is close to $100,000 for materials and professional installation. We are evaluating options for reducing costs, and Friends of the Bluff will spend the money raised on a safe, Spokane Parks-approved plan given the available financial resources we are able to secure. With the community's support, we are aiming to start construction as soon as the snow thaws in 2025.
WHY ROCKET GULCH?
Although there are more than a dozen access points and parking areas along the border of the bluff, Rocket Gulch is the only public access South of 40th Ave. For those who live near the Rocket Gulch, this project offers unbeatable access to the Bluff's trail network.
Your donation will help us ensure that this trail is safe for recreationists who enjoy the Bluff and wish to explore the southern trail network, while creating an access within walking distance of home for hundreds of residents who are currently without one.