The best road cycling routes in Riverside State Park

Riverside State Park offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 60 different tours to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging options.

The terrain in Riverside State Park is quite varied, encompassing river valleys, plateaus, and Ponderosa Pine forests. You'll find well-paved surfaces, particularly along sections of the Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail, offering a mix of scenic river views and more open landscapes. Routes can range from relatively flat to those with moderate elevation changes, providing diverse experiences.

Yes, Riverside State Park has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Bowl and Pitcher Overlook loop from Plese Flats is an easy 10-mile path that allows you to experience the park's beauty without significant climbs. The park features 25 easy routes in total, many of which utilize the paved Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail.

Road cycling routes in Riverside State Park offer access to several iconic landmarks and natural features. You can ride past the dramatic Bowl and Pitcher rock formations, known for their unique basalt structures, and the historic Swinging Bridge. Other points of interest include the Deep Creek Bridge and scenic sections of the Spokane River Centennial Trail.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Riverside State Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate loop is the Bowl and Pitcher Overlook loop from Spokane Falls Community College, which covers 34.5 miles. Another option is the View of Queens Lake loop from Spokane Falls Community College, offering a 27-mile ride.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Riverside State Park, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, including river views and Ponderosa Pine forests, as well as the well-maintained paved sections of the Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail. The variety of routes, from easy to challenging, is also a common highlight.

Road biking in Riverside State Park is enjoyable through much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers abundant in summer. While winter can bring snow, the park also transforms into a hub for winter activities, so trail conditions for road biking may vary. It's always a good idea to check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

As a Washington State Park, a Discover Pass is generally required for vehicle access to Riverside State Park. This pass supports the maintenance of state recreation lands. For detailed information on passes and any specific regulations, you can visit the official Washington State Parks website: parks.wa.gov.

Riverside State Park offers various parking areas that provide access to road cycling routes. Popular starting points often include trailheads like Carlson Trailhead or areas near Spokane Falls Community College. The Nine Mile Recreation Area also provides facilities, including parking, for park visitors. Always check park maps for designated parking locations.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Riverside State Park connects to the extensive Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail, which is 40 miles long, with 13 miles within the park itself. A notable long-distance loop is the Silver Lake – Riverfront Park loop from Romine Conservation Area, which spans nearly 62 miles and takes approximately 4.5 hours to complete, leading through riverine landscapes and past Silver Lake.

While most routes in Riverside State Park are easy to moderate, there are a few that offer a greater challenge for experienced road cyclists. The park features 2 difficult routes out of its 61 total. These routes typically involve more significant elevation gains and longer distances, providing a good workout amidst the park's scenic beauty.