Duck
ParkWashington, US
Nine Mile Dam
Nine Mile Dam is a historic hydroelectric landmark and a gateway to the scenic Spokane River, perfect for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
About
Nine Mile Dam is a historic hydroelectric landmark and a gateway to the scenic Spokane River, perfect for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Nestled in Washington, this site combines early 20th-century industrial heritage with abundant natural recreation, earning its place on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitors can marvel at the impressive 1908 cyclopean masonry dam and its original powerhouse, which once powered Spokane's interurban railway system. The site also features ten beautifully preserved Craftsman and English Cottage-style brick homes, built in the late 1920s to house the dam's employees, offering a unique glimpse into the past. Adjacent to the dam, the Nine Mile Reservoir provides a tranquil setting for paddling, fishing, and enjoying the river's serene waters.
A visit to Nine Mile Dam promises a memorable experience, whether you're exploring the architectural marvels, picnicking by the river, or casting a line for trout. It's a place where history and nature converge, offering picturesque views and a peaceful escape into Washington's rich heritage and stunning landscapes. The Nine Mile Overlook and Picnic Area provides interpretive signs and scenic viewing. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.
The Nine Mile Dam was completed in 1908, initially constructed by J.P. Graves' Spokane Power Development Co. to generate electricity for the Spokane & Inland Empire Railroad's extensive interurban trolley lines. This groundbreaking project provided power for over 130 miles of electric railway, significantly contributing to the region's development. In 1925, Washington Water Power (now Avista) acquired the facility, and between 1928 and 1929, they built ten distinctive brick cottages in Craftsman and English Cottage styles to house dam personnel in what was then a remote location. The entire complex, including the dam, powerhouse, and cottages, was recognized for its historical significance and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, making it one of the best-preserved hydroelectric plants in the state.
What to do here
Take in the views of the historic dam, photograph the unique worker cottages, enjoy a picnic at the overlook, kayak or paddleboard on the Five Mile stretch of Nine Mile Reservoir, fish for smallmouth bass, northern pike, and rainbow trout, and observe local wildlife.
Seasonal info
The Spokane River upstream of Nine Mile Dam is typically closed to trout fishing from March 16th to the Saturday before Memorial Day to protect spawning redband trout. During summer, the Nine Mile Recreation Area serves as a hub for water activities, though motorized boat traffic can be present.
Accessibility
The Nine Mile Overlook and Picnic Area features a paved parking area, trail, and scenic viewing area of the dam. Access points for smaller boats and rafts are available for launching onto the Nine Mile Reservoir.
Don't miss
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The historic Nine Mile Dam and Powerhouse, the charming 1920s Craftsman and English Cottage style worker homes, the Nine Mile Overlook and Picnic Area, and the tranquil Nine Mile Reservoir.
Wildlife you might spot
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Good to know before you go
Bring a camera to capture the historic architecture of the dam, powerhouse, and worker cottages, as well as the scenic beauty of the Spokane River.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the Nine Mile Overlook and Picnic Area, which offers excellent views of the dam.
If planning water activities, check current water levels and conditions for the Nine Mile Reservoir, especially during spring runoff or high winds.
Always observe posted safety warnings and cables near the dam, as currents can be strong and dangerous.
Consider acquiring a Washington State Parks Discover Pass if you plan to use boat launch facilities or park in certain areas within Riverside State Park.
For fishing, review current Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife regulations, especially regarding trout seasons and catch-and-release rules for native redband trout.
Frequently asked questions
- While the Nine Mile Dam and its associated structures are a historic district, general public tours of the powerhouse interior are typically not available. However, visitors can view the dam, powerhouse exterior, and historic cottages from designated scenic viewpoints and picnic areas. Interpretive signs at the Nine Mile Overlook provide historical context.
- Nine Mile Dam offers a variety of recreational activities, particularly on the Nine Mile Reservoir, a 5-mile flatwater section of the Spokane River. Popular activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing for species like smallmouth bass, northern pike, and rainbow trout. There are also picnic areas and scenic viewpoints.
- Yes, the Nine Mile Dam area is closely associated with Riverside State Park and the Nine Mile Recreation Area. The Nine Mile Recreation Area, located about 3 miles from the dam, offers overnight camping, boat ramps, and day-use activities such as picnicking, volleyball, and swimming.
Recent snaps at this place
May 21, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) rociojgo, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 21, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) rociojgo, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 21, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) rociojgo, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 17, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) rociojgo, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 16, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) rociojgo, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
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