Drumheller Springs Park

Drumheller Springs Park is a 12-acre natural area located in Spokane, Washington. Tucked within the city's urban landscape, this park holds significant historical and ecological value. The site was once an important encampment for Native American tribes and later became the location of Chief Spokane Garry's school in the 1830s, marking it as the first school in what was then the Oregon Territory.

The park features a diverse ecosystem, home to approximately 175 distinct plant species. Visitors can explore the park's unique landscape, which includes dry scabland, lush pockets of trees, and vernal pools that appear through basalt bedrock. These seasonal pools provide habitat for various wildlife, including Pacific tree frogs and water fowl, though some species like the long-toed salamander have become increasingly rare.

Drumheller Springs Park offers a network of trails winding through its terrain, suitable for activities such as early morning jogs, evening strolls, or nature observation. The park's rocky expanse and meandering gravel paths invite a slower, more contemplative pace of recreation rather than high-speed pursuits.

In recent years, the park has undergone restoration efforts led by the Upper Columbia United Tribes, aiming to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. The site also includes a freshwater spring, which some visitors believe has restorative properties.

While the park provides a serene natural setting within the city, it faces ongoing challenges related to urban development and the preservation of its unique ecosystem. The park serves as an important educational resource, with school groups often visiting to study its diverse plant life and learn about the area's rich history.