The best cycling routes around Spokane

The Spokane River Centennial Trail offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, guiding you along the river through a fascinating blend of urban and natural settings. You'll pedal past the iconic Spokane Falls in Riverfront Park, then transition into areas featuring high desert ponderosa pine forests and striking basalt canyons, with continuous river views accompanying much of your ride. The trail's predominantly paved surface makes for a smooth journey, though some segments present a moderate challenge with their elevation changes.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is highly accessible with 18 marked trailheads, many offering parking and restrooms. While the full 20.2-mile (32.5 km) route with 575 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 1 hour and 53 minutes, you can easily choose shorter sections to suit your fitness and time. The trail is suitable for most touring cyclists, and its ADA-accessible nature ensures a wide range of users can enjoy it.

What truly sets this trail apart is its seamless connection to the North Idaho Centennial Trail, creating a continuous paved path stretching approximately 64 miles to Coeur d'Alene. Beyond cycling, it's a multi-use pathway popular for walking and inline skating, and it passes through culturally significant sites like the 1974 World's Fair location in downtown Spokane, offering a unique blend of recreation and history.

The North Crestline Street to East Peone Road & Moffat Road loop offers a fantastic touring cycling experience, winding through a mix of Spokane's urban and rural landscapes. You'll enjoy varied scenery, from riverfront paths near the Spokane Iron Bridge to the tranquil, open stretches of Moffat Road, a local favorite. This 30.3-mile (48.8 km) route provides a longer, engaging ride for those who appreciate diverse views and a good workout.

Planning your ride on this popular loop is straightforward, though it's always wise to carry enough water and snacks for the nearly 3-hour duration. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, the route's popularity suggests accessible starting points. Spring and autumn are often the best seasons to tackle this moderate route, offering comfortable temperatures for the 1228 feet (374 metres) of elevation gain.

This loop is highly rated by the Spokane cycling community, known for its length and the variety it offers compared to shorter local trails. It's a great option if you're looking to explore more of the region's cycling routes, moving beyond purely paved paths to experience rolling hills and open plains. The inclusion of Moffat Road specifically adds to its appeal as a quiet and scenic stretch.

The South Dishman Mica Road & East Elder Road gravel loop offers a substantial touring cycling experience through Spokane's varied rural landscapes. You'll navigate rolling hills and diverse terrain, from forested sections near the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area to open plains, with a notable View of Latah Valley and River along the way. The gravel surfaces can range from packed to loose, providing a true test for your bike handling skills and fitness.

This difficult 37.1-mile (59.6 km) route, with its 2475 feet (754 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete. It's a demanding ride that requires good fitness and preparation for challenging segments. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the route is well-regarded among local cyclists looking for advanced gravel cycling routes in the Spokane area.

Connecting to the broader Palouse region, this loop is a prime example of the extensive network of gravel roads available for exploration. It's a favorite among touring cyclists for its rural character and the opportunity to experience the region's unique agricultural scenery and natural beauty, making it one of the best gravel cycling loops near Spokane WA.

This challenging touring bicycle route, the Riverfront Park – Views of Spokane River loop, offers a diverse and scenic experience along the Spokane River. You'll pedal past the impressive Upper Spokane Falls, the largest urban waterfall in the United States, and through sections that blend urban parkland with natural Ponderosa pine forests and basalt canyons. It's a demanding 31.9-mile (51.3 km) ride with 1979 feet (603 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 3 hours and 16 minutes, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a substantial workout with rewarding views.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as Riverfront Park is centrally located and easily accessible in downtown Spokane. The route primarily utilizes the well-maintained, paved Spokane River Centennial Trail, which is suitable for touring cyclists. Spokane is a bike-friendly city, so you'll find good infrastructure to support your ride. Consider starting early to make the most of the day and enjoy the various viewpoints along the way.

The Riverfront Park area is a significant access point to the 40-mile Spokane River Centennial Trail, a nationally recognized recreation path that sees over 2.5 million users annually. Beyond the natural beauty of the Spokane River and Falls, you'll encounter historic features like the Great Northern Clock Tower and the U.S. Pavilion, remnants of Expo '74. This blend of natural spectacle and historical significance makes the Spokane River loop a truly unique cycling destination.