The best walks and hikes in Spokane County

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.

The Carlson Hill Loop provides an easy hiking experience, covering 3.3 miles (5.4 km) with an elevation gain of 588 feet (179 metres). You can expect varied terrain, starting on a doubletrack before transitioning to singletrack trails that climb through switchbacks. From Pine Bluff, you will discover expansive views of the park's rolling hillsides to the northeast, even catching a glimpse of downtown Spokane's skyline. The route also winds through open forest and down to the Spokane River, offering a pleasant spot to relax by the water. This hike typically takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete.

To access the Carlson Hill Loop, head to Riverside State Park and look for the trailhead off Carlson Road. Parking is generally available there, making it convenient to start your adventure. Benches are thoughtfully placed at various overlooks and near the river, providing comfortable spots to rest and enjoy the scenery during your hike. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views.

This route is situated within the Saltese Uplands Conservation Area, an important natural space. The trail's journey through open forest and along the Spokane River highlights the diverse ecosystems present in the region. The views from Pine Bluff, extending across the park and towards Spokane, showcase the area's unique blend of natural beauty and urban proximity. It is a great way to experience the local landscape.

Embark on an easy hike along the Pinecliff Loop Trail, a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) route that offers a pleasant outdoor experience. You will navigate varied terrain, moving from dense forests of Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs into open meadows. The trail features a gentle elevation gain of 210 feet (64 metres), making it suitable for a quick 40-minute walk. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Pinecliff Rock Formations, which are believed to be ancient volcanic remnants. In spring, you can enjoy vibrant wildflowers and might even spot local wildlife like deer or various bird species.

The Pinecliff Loop Trail conveniently begins and ends at Camp Caro Community Park, where you will find useful amenities like picnic areas and restrooms. This makes it an ideal spot for a family outing or a quick escape into nature. While the trail is generally accessible year-round, be aware that colder months can introduce slippery, icy patches. For your safety and comfort, sturdy shoes are highly recommended, especially during these times. Remember that this route is exclusively for foot traffic, so please leave your mountain bike at home.

This loop is nestled within the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area, offering a diverse natural setting close to Spokane Valley. The unique Pinecliff Rock Formations are a highlight, adding a geological point of interest to your walk. You might also catch occasional glimpses of Mount Spokane, providing a scenic backdrop to your adventure. The area's ecosystem supports a variety of flora and fauna, making each visit a chance to connect with nature.

Embark on the Canfield Gulch Loop, an easy hiking route that immerses you in the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest. As you hike this 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail, you will gain 636 feet (194 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. The path winds through dense forests of pine and fir, eventually opening up to reveal panoramic views of the Spokane Valley and distant mountains. A highlight of the route is Leland Pond, a tranquil spot where you might even catch a glimpse of the Conservation Area's moose population.

The Canfield Gulch Loop is accessible throughout the year, making it a versatile option for your outdoor adventures. You can enjoy hiking, running, or mountain biking during the warmer seasons, and it transforms into a great spot for snowshoeing or skiing in winter. Parking is usually available right at the trailhead, offering convenient access to the start of your journey. While the trail is generally well-maintained, remember to watch your step for occasional loose rocks or roots that can appear on certain sections of the path.

This loop offers a rewarding outdoor experience situated near Spokane County, Washington, within the Antoine Peak Conservation Area. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, and Leland Pond serves as a prime location for observing the local moose population in their natural habitat. The trail's year-round accessibility and varied activities make it a popular choice for those looking to connect with nature close to the city.

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.

Embark on the Palisades Park Outer Loop, a moderate hiking route that spans 6.2 miles (9.9 km) and features an elevation gain of 564 feet (172 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 41 minutes. As you hike, you will discover a varied landscape, moving through areas with striking basalt rock formations and peaceful ponderosa pine forests. The trail also opens up to expansive meadows, offering wide views of downtown Spokane and the Spokane River.

Before you head out, be aware that spring conditions can sometimes lead to significant flooding and boggy sections on the trail. The Palisades Park Outer Loop is a multi-use trail, so you will share it with other hikers, dogs on leash, horses, and mountain bikers. Parking is generally accessible at several points around the park, making it convenient to start your adventure.

This trail is particularly known for its vibrant wildflowers, especially during the spring months, which add a splash of color to the natural surroundings. A notable seasonal feature is the Indian Canyon Mystic Falls, which becomes a highlight when water levels are sufficient. The diverse terrain and scenic overlooks make this a rewarding outdoor experience close to Spokane, Washington.

The Misty Mountain Trail offers an easy hiking experience through varied terrain within the MacKenzie Natural Area. You will cover 3.1 miles (4.9 km) with a gentle ascent of 568 feet (173 metres), which most hikers complete in about 1 hour and 29 minutes. As you make your way up, you can enjoy glimpses of Liberty Lake, especially from the higher sections of the route. The path is well-maintained, often reported to have cut-back tall grass and dry conditions, making for a pleasant and straightforward walk. This trail provides a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local natural surroundings.

When planning your visit, remember that this is a four-season trail, but it is best to avoid hiking when the ground is soft and muddy to help preserve the path. The route is two-way, so you will share it with mountain bikers and horseback riders; however, hikers always have the right of way. Dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a good choice for a family outing.

This family-friendly route is a great way to experience the local nature of the MacKenzie Natural Area. It provides a consistent, gradual climb through its varied landscape, offering a pleasant outdoor adventure. The trail's accessibility and well-kept conditions make it a notable option for those looking for an enjoyable and uncomplicated hike in the region.