Ferry County Rail Trail

A relatively new feature to northeast Washington’s extensive recreational repertoire, the Ferry County Rail Trail is a 25+-mile long, multi-use, non-motorized rail trail.

This family-friendly trail highlights the area’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, offering a fun and safe community connector as well as a first-rate recreational experience. Hike, walk, run or bike with the whole family and choose from a multitude of environments.

This former railroad-turned-public trail connects four charming towns and provides miles of waterfront access to Curlew Lake and the Kettle River from the town of Curlew. For 12.5 miles of the former Burlington Northern railroad has been surfaced with crushed rock and compacted, creating a flat, smooth surface. The trail is ADA compliant in higher use areas.

The 770-foot trestle over the north end of Curlew Lake is easily accessed from the Kiwanis trailhead. From there you can cross the trestle and travel along the entire 6 mile length of the trail as it meanders south past cute cabins, resorts and loads of riparian waterfront on Curlew Lake.

At the south end of the lake, there is a smaller lake called Lake Roberta and a large wetland to the south. This is a thriving bird habitat easily accessed from the Herron Creek trailhead. For a less populated and wilder riparian experience, visit the 8-mile section of the trail that parallels the majestic Kettle River. This segment is by far the trail’s sweet spot as it provides a near-wilderness experience from a flat, easy path. 

WTA Pro Tip: Go to Tug Boats in Curlew and get the fish n’ beer battered chips – made with beer from Republic Brewing Company, just down the road in Republic!