Spokane, WA

Last Saturday morning while I was busy sleeping in, my cell phone buzzed its way off of my bedside table onto the floor. Luckily, there was a pile of laundry there to cushion the landing, which I had obviously left there just for that purpose. It was my writer friend Luke, a classmate of mine from Wyoming, calling to see if I would like to play disc golf. Though I live close to Downriver Disc Golf Course, most of my friends from school live in Browne’s Addition, so Highbridge Park is decidedly closer for them.

“Meet Ben and I there at eleven,” Luke said. A look outside confirmed another perfect Spokane summer day, so I agreed, though I’d throw discs with Luke and Ben in almost any weather.

I drove past Spokane Falls Community college on TJ Meenach, and took a left onto Government Way toward downtown. After passing the cemetery and heading up the hill, I took a left onto W Riverside Ave, and then a right onto A St. I parked my car next to Highbridge Park on my left, and saw that Luke and Ben were warming up next to the 11th tee box. I was late.

I apologized, and we agreed that the loser for the round would buy the other two a beverage next time. High stakes disc golf is the norm for writing students in Spokane, and this game would be no exception. However, as we began playing, the game itself was upstaged by Luke’s recounting the story of his recent trip to Wyoming for his friend’s wedding, which included a lot of colorful characters, brushes with the law, and near brawls with some unappreciative locals. Because of Luke’s storytelling, we found it hard to concentrate on throwing discs toward the metal and chain baskets that serve as “holes.” Even so, we all played pretty well, though when it was all said and done, I found that I will be bringing the sodas next time.

Highbridge Park is a great little secret nestled just west of Browne’s Addition, underneath the high train bridges (hence the name). The course is quite challenging and fun, and includes some great hiking. It isn’t the most well-marked progression of holes, so if you want to play disc golf, go with someone who knows the trail, or just show up and you’re sure to find some friendly disc golfers who will show you the way, or even let you join their group. Also, Highbridge Park doesn’t have the best reputation for safety after dark, so go in groups and keep it confined to daytime. Other than that, this place is a gem for disc golfers, picnickers, and families looking to enjoy a great summer day near downtown Spokane.