The best road cycling routes around Spokane Valley

Spokane Valley offers a diverse selection of over 19 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. You'll find a mix of easy and moderate trails to explore.

Yes, Spokane Valley is very welcoming for beginners and families, with 8 easy routes available. A great option is the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Spokane Iron Bridge loop from Spokane Valley Mall, which follows the paved, traffic-free Centennial Trail, offering a smooth and enjoyable ride.

For scenic rides, the Spokane River Centennial Trail is a highlight, offering picturesque views along the river. Routes like the Gateway Conservation Area – Spokane River loop from Millwood provide beautiful vistas of conservation areas and the river. The region's blend of urban and natural landscapes ensures a visually engaging experience.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Riverfront Park loop from Millwood cover over 40 miles, extending further along the Centennial Trail and into Riverfront Park. The region's expansive terrain, including the Palouse, offers opportunities for extended exploration.

The Spokane River Centennial Trail is the premier paved bike path in Spokane Valley, offering a continuous, traffic-free surface for road cyclists. Many routes, such as the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Spokane Iron Bridge loop from Spokane Valley Mall, utilize sections of this well-maintained trail.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking in Spokane Valley, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Many of the road cycling routes in Spokane Valley are designed as loops, providing a convenient start and end point. Examples include the Spokane River loop from Greenacres and the Falls Park and Dam – Gateway Conservation Area loop from Opportunity, allowing you to return to your starting location without retracing your path.

Along your rides, you can encounter various natural and man-made attractions. The Spokane River is a constant companion on many routes, and you might pass by highlights such as the Upper Spokane Falls or the Waterfall at Mirabeau Pond. The region also features conservation areas and parks offering diverse scenery.

Parking is generally accessible at various points along the Spokane River Centennial Trail, particularly at parks and trailheads within Spokane Valley, such as Mirabeau Park. When planning your route on komoot, you can often find information about suitable parking locations near the starting points.

The road cycling routes in Spokane Valley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved paths, the scenic views along the Spokane River, and the variety of terrain that caters to different skill levels, from flat stretches to gentle rolling hills.

While the Spokane River Centennial Trail is popular, especially on weekends, you can often find less crowded sections or explore routes that venture into the quieter, rural areas surrounding Spokane Valley. The Saltese Flats Loop, for instance, offers scenic views and a good chance of spotting wildlife away from more bustling areas.

Many routes that pass through or near urban centers and towns along the Spokane River Centennial Trail will have access to cafes and other refreshment stops. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify points of interest, including eateries, along your chosen path.