The best walks and hikes in Spokane County

The Carlson Hill Loop offers a delightful mix of terrain, starting on wider paths before narrowing into singletrack that winds through open forests. You'll encounter switchbacks on the ascent, leading to rewarding vistas from Pine Bluff where you can gaze across rolling hills and even spot Spokane's skyline. The trail then descends through scree fields and "rock gardens," offering a varied and engaging experience for its 3.3 miles (5.4 km) distance.

This easy hiking route, with 588 feet (179 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. Parking is generally available at the trailhead off Carlson Road, making it an accessible option. Benches are strategically placed at viewpoints and near the Spokane River, providing ideal spots for a break.

Situated within the Saltese Uplands Conservation Area, the Carlson Hill Loop showcases a unique blend of natural beauty and urban proximity. It's a great choice for those seeking a quick, rewarding hike near Spokane, offering diverse ecosystems and geological formations. The trail also connects to other routes, like the Centennial Trail, for longer adventures.

Embark on the Deep Creek Loop, a moderate hiking route that winds through the varied landscape of Riverside State Park. You will cover 7.2 miles (11.5 km) and gain 667 feet (203 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 3 hours and 17 minutes to complete. The trail offers scenic viewpoints, including the Deep Creek Canyon Overlook, where you can enjoy expansive views of the area. You will also cross the distinctive Deep Creek Bridge, adding a unique feature to your journey through the park's natural terrain.

The trailhead for the Deep Creek Loop is easily accessible, with convenient parking available right at the starting point. To make the most of your hike, plan your visit during favorable weather conditions. It is always a good idea to check local park information for any updates or specific advisories before you head out. This ensures you are prepared for the moderate challenge and can fully enjoy the scenic beauty of the route.

This loop is a rewarding outdoor experience within Riverside State Park, showcasing its diverse natural beauty. The route's varied landscape and distinct landmarks like the Deep Creek Canyon Overlook make it a notable option for hikers exploring the region. It provides a good opportunity to immerse yourself in the park's environment and enjoy its unique features.

If you're seeking a diverse and engaging hike close to Spokane County, the Canfield Gulch Loop delivers a rewarding experience. This route takes you through dense forests of pine and fir, offering a mix of old logging roads and newer singletrack. You'll enjoy panoramic views of the Spokane Valley and distant mountains, with the chance to spot wildlife around LeLand Pond. The trail's varied terrain, including some steep sections, makes it a great choice for a moderately strenuous outing.

To plan your trip, know that the Canfield Gulch Loop is accessible throughout the year, making it versatile for different activities. While popular for hiking in warmer months, it also welcomes snowshoers and skiers in winter. The trailhead is easy to find within the Antoine Peak Conservation Area, and parking is generally available. Arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) loop, with 636 feet (194 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. It's nestled within a diverse ecosystem known for critical wildlife habitat, offering a sense of solitude despite its proximity to urban areas. The trail system has seen improvements, with new singletrack sections enhancing the experience beyond the older logging roads.

The Pinecliff Loop Trail offers a delightful journey through the varied landscapes of the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area. You'll wander beneath towering Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs, emerging into sun-dappled meadows that burst with wildflowers in spring. The path itself is a mostly smooth singletrack, guiding you past intriguing rock formations and through the geological wonder of Enchanted Ravine. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and various bird species as you explore.

This easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike with a gentle 210 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain is perfect for a quick outing, taking only about 40 minutes to complete. The trail begins and ends at Camp Caro Community Park, which provides convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. While generally easy, some sections have a bit more incline, and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially in colder months when icy patches can occur.

Particularly noted for its family-friendly nature, the Pinecliff Loop Trail is a fantastic choice for beginner hikers or those looking for a relaxed walk. You can even pick up an interpretive brochure to learn more about the unique natural features along the way. From a bench at the top, you might catch views of Mount Spokane, adding another layer to this accessible and engaging trail.

Embark on the Spokane River: Centennial and South Gorge Trail Loop for a moderate hike that blends urban exploration with natural beauty. This route spans 7.7 miles (12.4 km) and features an elevation gain of 305 feet (93 metres), offering diverse scenery as you follow the Spokane River. You will walk through dense forests and along exposed basalt canyons, enjoying views of the river and the iconic Spokane Falls from Riverfront Park. The trail combines paved sections with some gravel paths, providing a varied experience that takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Centennial Trail offers numerous access points, making it easy to join or leave the route. The South Gorge Trail connects directly to the Centennial Trail in downtown Spokane, forming a continuous loop. A recent project has improved accessibility, allowing pedestrians to walk safely under the Monroe Street Bridge. Consider starting your hike from Riverfront Park for convenient access to the loop's main attractions.

This trail is notable for showcasing both the historic downtown Spokane and the region's rugged natural areas. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might even spot bald eagles soaring overhead or river otters playing in the water. The route provides a unique opportunity to experience the city's vibrant core alongside the serene beauty of the river gorge, highlighting the natural and urban tapestry of Spokane.

Embark on the Iller Creek and Upper Valley Loop for an easy hiking experience that takes you through varied landscapes. This route covers 3.4 miles (5.5 km) and involves a manageable elevation gain of 974 feet (297 metres), making it a great choice for a quick outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 47 minutes, enjoying both shaded forest paths and open ridgeline sections. The trail offers a rewarding journey with diverse scenery, perfect for a refreshing hike.

Planning your visit to the Iller Creek and Upper Valley Loop is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and clearly signed for easy navigation. You will find parking generally available at the trailhead, providing convenient access to start your adventure. This area is popular among hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, so you can anticipate sharing the path with others. It is a great option for a morning or afternoon excursion, offering a pleasant outdoor escape.

As you ascend to higher elevations on the loop, you will be treated to expansive panoramic views of the Spokane Valley, the Palouse, and the distant Selkirk Mountains. A significant highlight of this trail is the impressive Rocks of Sharon, also known as Big Rock, which provides stunning vistas and is a favorite spot for climbers. This distinctive landmark adds a unique character to the Dishman Hills Conservation Area, making the Iller Creek and Upper Valley Loop a memorable hike.

Embark on the Lincoln Park Loop for an easy hike through a pleasant urban park setting. This route offers a refreshing break from city life, allowing you to enjoy nature within Spokane's limits. You will cover 1.6 miles (2.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 145 feet (44 metres), making it a straightforward outdoor activity that takes about 43 minutes to complete.

Accessing the trailhead is convenient, as parking is generally available near Lincoln Park. Since this is an urban park trail, you can typically enjoy it year-round without needing special permits or worrying about seasonal closures. Before your visit, it is always a good idea to check local park signs for any temporary advisories that might be in place.

The Lincoln Park Loop is ideal if you are looking for a quick escape into a natural environment without leaving the city. It provides a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk, surrounded by the park's natural features. This trail stands out as a readily accessible option for a dose of outdoor activity whenever you need it.

The Palisades Park Outer Loop offers a truly varied hiking experience, winding through diverse terrain from gravel paths to rocky, narrow sections. You'll traverse packed dirt and old fire roads, passing through meadows and lightly forested areas, all while enjoying the unique basalt rock formations that define the park. Keep an eye out for the stunning Indian Canyon Mystic Falls and the expansive views of Spokane on Trail 120, which make the effort of this moderate route incredibly rewarding. It's a journey through changing scenery that feels much further from the city than it is.

Planning your visit means being ready for anything, especially if you're considering a spring hike; the trail can become quite challenging with significant flooding and saturated ground, sometimes resembling brooks with foot-deep water. Even in drier seasons, some boggy spots attract mosquitoes, and summer can bring overgrowth. The park is open year-round and welcomes hikers, leashed dogs, horses, and mountain bikers, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.

This 6.2-mile (9.9 km) loop, with its 564 feet (172 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and geological features of Spokane, including panoramic city views and the chance to spot wildlife like moose in the park's extensive acreage. The trail's moderate difficulty and varied landscape make it a great option for those seeking a substantial hike close to urban amenities.

Embark on the Iller Creek and Tower Mountain Loop for an easy hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will begin in shaded ponderosa pine forests, gradually transitioning to open ridgelines offering expansive views. The trail covers 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with an elevation gain of 839 feet (256 metres), making it a rewarding journey without being overly strenuous. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 26 minutes exploring this route. A key highlight is the "Rocks of Sharon," also known as "Big Rock," where you can pause to take in sweeping 360-degree panoramas of the Spokane Valley, the Selkirk Mountains, and the vast Palouse.

Before you set out, be aware that while the trail ascends towards Tower Mountain, the actual summit is located on private property. It is important to respect all "No Trespassing" signs and avoid attempting to access the summit directly. The best accessible high point for enjoying the scenic views remains the Rocks of Sharon. Consider hiking this route from late March through mid-July to catch glimpses of seasonal creeks and vibrant wildflowers.

This loop is nestled within the Dishman Hills Conservation Area, a unique natural space near Spokane. The area is known for its distinctive geological features and diverse ecosystems, providing a valuable habitat for local wildlife. The transition from dense forest to open ridgelines showcases the varied natural beauty of the region. This trail offers a perfect opportunity for a quick outdoor escape, allowing you to connect with nature close to the city.