Even though exact numbers are hard to come by, it is estimated that there are at least 35 natural lakes within 50 miles of Spokane. These include popular spots like Fish Lake, Newman Lake, Badger Lake, and Liberty Lake, as well as smaller seasonal wetlands like Elk Lake and Loon Lake.
Though the majority are located in Stevens County, small pockets are also found in Spokane and Pend Oreille counties. Many of these lakes draw in anglers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts, with fish ranging from bass and catfish to trout and salmon.
In addition to the many natural lakes, several man-made reservoirs are found in the area, such as Long Lake and Lake Spokane. These reservoirs provide drinking water and recreation for nearby communities, as well as places to camp and fish.
Does Spokane have a lake?
Yes, Spokane does have a lake! The lake is called Lake Coeur d’Alene and is located about 2 hours north of Spokane. It is a natural 35-mile long, 3-mile wide lake shaped like an inverted Y and is renowned for its crystal clear water and stunning beauty.
It is the largest natural freshwater lake in the northwest with over 100 miles of shoreline, and it is a popular destination for swimming, boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. The lake is also a great spot to explore nature and even wildlife viewing where you can take in the area’s stunning natural landscape.
Lake Coeur d’Alene is truly a gem of the Inland Northwest and a great place to visit any time of year!.
Where does Spokane get its water?
Spokane gets its water from several sources. The City of Spokane gets its water from two impounded reservoirs: the Upper Spokane River Reservoir and the Lake Spokane Reservoir. The Upper Spokane River Reservoir is fed by the Spokane River, while the Lake Spokane Reservoir is fed by the Little Spokane River.
Both reservoirs are maintained by Spokane City Water and are regulated by the Washington State Department of Ecology.
In addition, the City of Spokane also operates the Spokane Waster Treatment Center, which uses water from both reservoirs to treat and deliver clean drinking water to its citizens. The treatment center is also regulated by the Washington State Department of Ecology.
There are also several wells located throughout the region that are owned and operated by Spokane City Water.
Aside from the city-operated reservoirs, wells, and wastewater treatment plant, Spokane also gets its water from multiple rivers and lakes in the area. These rivers and lakes are regulated by the Spokane-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer Board and provide drinking water to Spokane residents.
Currently, the Board is working to protect and preserve the aquifer due to increasing levels of pollutants that threaten the quality of its water.
Is Spokane water hard or soft?
The water quality in Spokane is considered moderately hard. According to a 2011 water quality report , the city’s average water hardness is around 91 ppm (parts per million), which is classified as moderately hard.
This means that the water contains an above-average level of dissolved minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and other compounds. Compared to the U. S. national average of 85 ppm, it is considered harder.
The hardness of Spokane’s water can actually be a benefit – it can protect the pipes and other plumbing fixtures in the house from corrosion, which is often caused by soft water. On the other hand, hard water can also make it more difficult to lather soap and shampoo, which might require more detergent.
A water softener is a great way to reduce the hardness of water, and is something to consider if you have hard water in Spokane.
How Clean Is Spokane tap water?
Spokane’s tap water is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS), and it meets all federal and state Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) standards.
The Spokane River is the main source of drinking water for the city, and it is regularly monitored for water quality. The Spokane Valley – Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer is the city’s primary backup water source.
The Spokane River is fed by many smaller rivers and streams, some of which may be contaminated with pollutants. However, the Spokane River itself is generally clean and safe for drinking. The city has an advanced water treatment system that removes contaminants from the water before it is delivered to homes and businesses.
The water treatment process begins with screening, which removes large objects like sticks and stones from the water. Next, coagulation and flocculation help to remove small particles from the water.
Then, the water is filtered to remove even smaller particles. Finally, the water is disinfected with chlorine to kill any harmful bacteria or viruses.
Spokane’s water treatment system is effective at removing contaminants, and the city’s tap water is safe to drink. However, some residents may prefer to use filtered or bottled water if they have concerns about the quality of their tap water.
Is the Spokane River polluted?
The Spokane River is a river in the northwestern United States, approximately 115 miles (185 km) long, emptying into the northeastern end of Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho. It drains an area of about 1,800 square miles (4,700 km2) in eastern Washington and northern Idaho, centered on the city of Spokane.
The river is the centerpiece of the Inland Northwest, with more than 20 lakes, reservoirs, and ponds channeled off it. The Spokane River watershed cuts across five mountain ranges, three Forested regions, and two distinct climatic zones.
The Spokane River watershed includes parts of nine counties in Washington and two in Idaho.
The Spokane River has been polluted for years from a variety of sources. These sources include stormwater runoff, agricultural runoff, failing septic systems, and sanitary sewer overflows. The primary contaminants in the river are bacteria, sediment, phosphorus, and Nitrogen.
The bacteria in the Spokane River come from a variety of sources, including sanitary sewer overflows, animal waste, and failing septic systems. The most common type of bacteria found in the river is E. coli.
The sediment in the river comes from a variety of sources, including stormwater runoff, agricultural runoff, and bank erosion. The sediment can contain a variety of pollutants, including heavy metals, pesticides, and herbicides.
The phosphorus in the river comes from a variety of sources, including stormwater runoff, agricultural runoff, and sanitary sewer overflows. Phosphorus is a nutrient that can cause excessive growth of aquatic plants and algae.
The Nitrogen in the river comes from a variety of sources, including agricultural runoff, stormwater runoff, and sanitary sewer overflows. Nitrogen is a nutrient that can cause excessive growth of aquatic plants and algae.
What type of food is Spokane known for?
Spokane is known to serve some of the best regional American food in the country. Many of Spokane’s most popular dishes have mild flavors and often feature ingredients sourced from the local area. One of Spokane’s signature dishes is the huckleberry pie, which is a unique dessert made with huckleberries that grow in the local area.
The city also has a vibrant local beer and wine scene, thanks to the abundance of hops and grapes in the area. Spokane’s signature beer is Barley Brothers, a smooth and drinkable pilsner. Other local eats include Spokanimal Stew, which is a traditional stew made with wild game and vegetables, and Potsurprise, which is a rich creamy casserole made with French toast and smoked bacon.
Spokane is also known for its world-class seafood, especially Dungeness crab, and it is an excellent place to find some of the best wild-caught Pacific salmon in the country.
Is Spokane humid or dry?
The climate in Spokane is classified as humid continental. It has four distinct seasons with cold, wet winters, warm, dry summers, and relatively mild springs and falls. The average rainfall for the year is 11.
5 inches and the average snowfall is 33.7 inches. While the amount of precipitation tends to be slightly higher during the winter months, the relative humidity is generally lower during that time. The humidity is highest in the summer, with an average around 60-80% throughout the season.
In general, Spokane is a fairly dry climate compared to other cities in the Pacific Northwest.
Can you swim in Long Lake?
Yes, you can swim in Long Lake. The lake is one of the most popular summer destinations due to its extensive shoreline, providing plenty of room to enjoy a refreshing swim on a hot day. The water quality is monitored regularly and consistently surpasses Health Canada guidelines for recreational water quality.
Additionally, the depth of Long Lake is relatively consistent at a maximum of 8 feet. Long Lake makes for a great swimming experience as there are no sudden drops and the bottom of the lake remains surprisingly soft and composed of sand.
Furthermore, the smooth rocks and pebbles in the shoreline make for a great spot for a sunbathing or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery of the lake. With lifeguards and staff on-site, it’s a safe and enjoyable experience for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
Can you swim in the river in Spokane?
Yes, it is possible to swim in the river in Spokane. The Spokane River flows through the city and is a scenic and beautiful location to spend a day swimming in the summer months. While swimming in the Spokane River may be enjoyable, it is important to remember that the river can be quite dangerous if not respected.
The water is cold and can be deceptively deep in some places. In addition, the Spokane River is known to have strong currents and can rise quickly after a heavy rain-fall. Therefore, swimming in the Spokane River should only be done with caution and with the help of a lifejacket.
Additionally, it’s important to consider local regulations regarding water recreation such as swimming, fishing, and boating.
How Big Is Long Lake Spokane?
Long Lake Spokane is approximately 10 miles long and a half-mile wide, covering an area of roughly 5,400 acres. The depth of the lake also varies, with an average achievable depth of 20 feet. The deepest parts of the lake can reach up to 67 feet.
The lake’s length measures at 10 miles long, stretching 5 miles north and 5 miles south. Its width varies but typically is no more than 0.5 miles or 1000 feet wide. The lake is located in Spokane County Washington and its shorelines are primarily composed of residential properties.
This makes it an ideal location for anglers wanting to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peaceful waters. The lake is also a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, such as boaters, swimmers, and paddle boarders.
Long Lake Spokane is routinely stocked with fish by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, making it a great fishing destination.
Is Long Lake WA Open?
Yes, Long Lake WA is open. Located in Grand Coulee, Washington, Long Lake is a popular recreational area for visitors and locals alike. During the summer months, guests can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, camping, and even waterskiing.
In addition, the lake is surrounded by several trails, providing hikers with plenty of scenic views. As the weather starts to cool off in autumn, the lake is often busiest with hunters, campers and other outdoor enthusiasts.
During the winter months, the lake remains open for ice fishing and snowmobiling. No matter what the season, Long Lake WA has something for everyone!.
Are dogs allowed at Long Lake WA?
No, dogs are not allowed at Long Lake WA. Long Lake WA is a state wildlife refuge managed by Washington State Parks, and dogs are not permitted on the property due to safety and wildlife considerations.
Visitors are instead encouraged to explore other nearby parks and trails where pets are welcome, such as the North Beach Park, Fort Ebey State Park, or West Beach Park.
Is Long Lake good for fishing?
Yes, Long Lake is a great destination for fishing. The lake is known for its diverse range of species, including large and smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and panfish. Anglers from all corners of the region often congregate to this lake for a day of fishing.
The crystal clear waters of Long Lake make it the perfect spot to sight fish from the shoreline or in a boat. In addition, the smallmouth bass fishing here is some of the best in the region. With plenty of access points and boat ramps available, it’s easy to get out on the lake and start fishing.
If you’re looking for a peaceful setting with plenty of fish to target, Long Lake is a great choice.
How long is long lake in Port Orchard?
The length of Long Lake in Port Orchard is approximately 2.51 miles long. The lake is roughly kidney-shaped and quite deep, with a maximum depth of 92 feet. It also has a shoreline of 2.47 miles and an area of 843 acres.
Long Lake is believed to have been formed from a huge boulder blocking a subsurface stream, creating a natural dam and forming what is now Long Lake. It is tucked in the wooded hills on the western edge of the Port Orchard Valley, surrounded by hiking and biking trails and natural beauty.
The lake is known for its excellent fishing, including a number of fish species such as bass, trout, and perch. Long Lake is also a popular recreation spot, offering excellent swimming, tubing, boating and sailing opportunities.
How many acres is Long Lake WA?
Long Lake in Washington is estimated to be around 37 acres in size, although this figure varies depending on the source. The lake is located in the city of Snoqualmie, and it is one of the primary recreational areas in the region.
This small body of water is popular among anglers, as it is home to a variety of fish, including Rainbow Trout and both Coastal Cutthroat and Coastal Bull Trout. While the lake is mostly overshadowed by Snoqualmie’s larger lakes, it is nevertheless a beautiful and unique natural space.
What is the water temperature of Long Lake Washington?
The water temperature of Long Lake Washington varies depending on the season and can range from the high 50s to mid-70s (°F). In the summer months when the sun is shining, the surface temperature of the lake can get quite warm and reach as high as 75-80°F near the shoreline.
During the cold winter months however, the lake water temperature will drop to around 50-55°F, or lower in some of the deeper areas.
How many acres is Riverside State Park?
Riverside State Park is a 2,700-acre park located in the Spokane River Valley in Washington State. It includes 9,000 feet of shoreline on the Spokane River, numerous lakes, and over 32 miles of trails for recreational activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and biking.
The size of the park has also grown over the years and now also includes Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, a 9,000-acre wildlife sanctuary. It is managed by both Washington State Parks and the U. S.
Fish and Wildlife Service. In addition to trails, Riverside State Park has several fishing docks, a beach, an amphitheater, and several camp sites. It is popular for its beautiful views and is considered one of the state’s finest outdoor recreation areas.
In total, Riverside State Park covers 2,700 acres of land and 9,000 feet of river and lake shoreline.
