Northport: Waterfront and Local History

Northport brings together the Columbia River shoreline and a local history reflected in its bridges, a monument, and historic buildings. If you’re looking for a hotel in Northport, you can first decide whether the riverfront or local history will be the main focus of your stay.

Columbia River, Waterfront, and Trails

Northport City Park is a waterfront park with a boat launch. The Northport Waterfront includes shoreline and beach areas along the Columbia River, some of which are exposed year-round and others seasonally; they are next to Northport City Park and around the boat launch. A boat launch on Upper Lake Roosevelt in Northport is not part of the National Park Service. Since lake levels fluctuate, check current ramp conditions before your visit.

The path from the Northport Waterfront parking lot to the shore has been improved with wooden steps. Following the waterfront restoration in fall 2025, two new benches and a covered picnic area were available for recreational use at the Northport Waterfront. Since facilities can change, check their current condition before visiting. A sturgeon sculpture was created for the Northport Waterfront in honor of John Roland, a longtime employee of the Department of Ecology.

The Flat Creek Loop runs along Northport Flat Creek Road, following the steep slopes and the Columbia River shoreline. At the Northport Waterfront, the focus is on the shoreline and beach areas; along the Flat Creek Loop, the road, steep slopes, and riverbank are the specific landmarks.

Bridges, Monument, and Local History

The Smelter Monument commemorates the beginnings of Northport. Built in 1903, Northport School is significant for its connection to the town’s development and to early education in Stevens County. The monument and school offer different points of connection: Northport’s beginnings, and the region’s educational and local history.

The Columbia and Red Mountain Railroad Bridge in Northport is among the first bridges across the Columbia River in the United States. The Red Mountain Railroad Bridge in Northport is an abandoned Howe truss bridge over Little Sheep Creek; its wooden deck has deteriorated.

The Northport Historical Society restored the Fire Hose House in 2009 and 2010. The restored building houses Northport’s 1935 fire engine. The society also operates a small museum in the former town hall at 318 Columbia Street. Check visitor and appointment arrangements before visiting the museum.

Practical Information for Your Stay

Between Kettle Falls and Trail, British Columbia, the Columbia River Bridge in Northport provides the only access to the west side of the Columbia River. An overview dated January 22, 2025, lists food, lodging, fuel, and boat and fishing equipment rentals in Northport. Check which of these services are currently available before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Loon Lake, Kettle Falls, Valley

Go to the main travel overview: Stevens County.