Adventure brief
4 Hour Public Investigation- St. Ignatius
Step inside the vast St. Ignatius Hospital in Colfax, WA, for a 4-hour paranormal investigation using cutting-edge ghost-hunting gear. Limited to small groups, this experience offers a rare indoor adventure that blends history and mystery.
In the quiet town of Colfax, Washington, an extraordinary adventure awaits inside the imposing 50,000 square foot St. Ignatius Hospital. This sprawling structure offers more than just history and architecture—it’s the setting for a gripping 4-hour public investigation organized by St.
Ignatius Hospital itself. Designed for small groups of 10 to 15 participants, these investigations combine hands-on technology with the thrill of uncovering the unexplained. This experience stands apart in the region’s outdoor and adventure offerings by diving into the eerie and enigmatic world of paranormal investigation within a contained, historic indoor environment.
While the Palouse region is known for its rolling wheat fields and outdoor recreation, St. Ignatius Hospital draws visitors looking for an intense, unique experience sheltered from the natural elements yet connected to the local history. Participants are equipped with advanced ghost-hunting devices such as SLS (Structured Light Sensor) cameras, K2 meters, spirit boxes, Rem pods, and phasma boxes.
For investigators both novice and seasoned, this gear reveals unseen dimensions and captures subtle electromagnetic shifts—tools that turn a simple walk through the hospital into an almost scientific examination of supernatural phenomena. For those who prefer assistance, volunteer guides are available to join, lending context and expertise. The hospital itself, a relic from earlier 20th-century healthcare, offers long, dim hallways and rooms steeped in stories that fuel speculation.
The eerie ambiance is palpable, making each investigation a suspenseful blend of history, technology, and adrenaline. Whether you’re a local curious about the building’s mysteries or a traveler seeking an adventure unlike any hiking trail or river run, the St. Ignatius public investigation tour delivers.
It’s a standout in the Colfax outdoor activity scene—an indoor dive into the unknown that complements the region’s natural allure with a pulse-quickening twist.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring a reliable flashlightessential
Essential for navigating the hospital’s dark hallways during your investigation.
- 02Limit group sizeinfo
Tours cap at 15 participants to keep the experience intimate and manageable.
- 03Dress in comfortable layersinfo
The building’s temperature can vary; breathable layers keep you comfortable throughout the investigation.
- 04Book early to secure a spotwarning
Limited availability means tours fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Flashlight
Illuminates dark corridors to safely navigate during the investigation.
EssentialComfortable walking shoes
Provide support and comfort for standing and walking on hard indoor floors.
EssentialLayered clothing
Adapt to varying temperatures inside the hospital.
EssentialNotebook and pen
Useful for jotting down observations or paranormal activity during the tour.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Palouse Falls State Park – a dramatic waterfall 40 minutes from Colfax, Lower Mill Street Historic District – a quiet stroll past early town architecture
Local fauna
Red-tailed Hawks, White-tailed Deer
Historic heritage
St. Ignatius Hospital has been part of Colfax’s community since the early 1900s, originally serving as a key medical facility before closing and reopening for unique uses like paranormal events.
Mindful exploration
The hospital’s adaptive reuse for investigations supports cultural preservation while limiting environmental impact from new construction.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Hospital main entrance, Nearby downtown Colfax street scenes, Palouse rolling hills (nearby)
- Subjects
- Historic building exterior, Investigation equipment in use, Participants in action
- Best times
- Evening (before dark), Golden hour, Midday for exterior shots
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is prior ghost hunting experience required?
No experience is necessary; equipment briefings and volunteer guides help first-timers participate comfortably.
What safety measures are in place during the investigation?
Tours are limited in size, guided when requested, and conducted in a secure, supervised environment.
Can I use my own ghost-hunting equipment?
Personal devices are generally allowed, but check with staff in advance to ensure compatibility and safety.
Are children allowed on the investigation?
Due to the nature of the activity and equipment, participants must be at least 12 years old.
What should I bring to the investigation?
Bring a flashlight, comfortable shoes, layers for temperature changes, and a willingness to engage with the paranormal experience.
Can I reschedule if I can’t attend my booked date?
Tickets are non-refundable but can often be rescheduled or transferred with advance notice.