The best gravel rides in Spokane County

Spokane County offers a diverse range of terrain for gravel biking, from paved sections to challenging gravel roads. You'll find routes through urban parks, sprawling state parks like Riverside State Park and Mount Spokane State Park, and conservation areas such as Antoine Peak. Expect varied landscapes including river gorges, rolling hills, and forested areas. Some routes, like portions of the Spokane River Centennial Trail, offer hard gravel riding experiences, while areas like Antoine Peak and Mica Peak Conservation Area provide tougher gravel adventures.

Yes, Spokane County has options for less experienced gravel riders. While many routes offer a challenge, some sections are more accessible. For example, the Riverfront Park – Views of Spokane River loop from Spokane is a moderate route that offers scenic views of the Spokane River and is suitable for a good gravel ride experience. The Liberty Lake Loop is also noted as an easier option for gravel riders.

Spokane County is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer stunning views of the Spokane River, especially around the Bowl and Pitcher area within Riverside State Park, known for its basaltic rock formations. You can also experience the scenic Palouse Prairie views on routes like the Palouse Gravel Loop. For panoramic vistas, consider trails that offer views from Beacon Hill or the Rocks of Sharon. The region also features the stunning Spokane Falls in downtown Spokane, which are the second-largest urban falls in the United States.

Yes, you can find beautiful waterfalls in Spokane County. The Spokane Falls are a prominent feature in downtown Spokane, and you can view them from various points, including the Lower Spokane Falls Viewing Platform and near the Monroe Street Dam Waterfall view. Additionally, Indian Canyon Mystic Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall located just a few miles from downtown, accessible via hikable trails.

Absolutely, many gravel biking routes in Spokane County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. Examples include the Riverfront Park – Views of Spokane River loop from Spokane, the challenging Bowl and Pitcher Overlook – View of Spokane River Rapids loop from Romine Conservation Area, and the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Wilbur Trailhead. The Mount Spokane – Mt Spokane State Park loop also provides a significant challenge with considerable elevation gain.

The gravel biking experience in Spokane County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 4 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to state park networks and conservation areas, which offer options for various ability levels. The scenic views of the Spokane River and the challenging climbs in areas like Mount Spokane are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.

Yes, Spokane County offers several routes that provide a good long-distance challenge. For instance, the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Wilbur Trailhead covers over 40 miles (64.5 km). Other routes like the Palouse Gravel Loop and the West Plains Gravel Loop are known for their challenging and scenic long-distance experiences, often combining gravel and pavement.

While Spokane County offers year-round outdoor activities, the warmer months are generally ideal for gravel biking to fully enjoy the diverse terrain and natural beauty. Spring and fall often provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. However, some areas like Mount Spokane State Park are also popular for winter recreation, so conditions can vary significantly by season and elevation.

Yes, many popular gravel biking areas in Spokane County offer designated parking. For example, the Spokane River Centennial Trail has trailheads like the Wilbur Trailhead. Riverside State Park, a major hub for outdoor activities, also provides extensive parking facilities. When planning your ride, it's always a good idea to check the specific route details for trailhead information and parking availability.

Yes, Spokane County features several beautiful lakes that can be incorporated into or viewed from gravel biking routes. While not all routes directly hug the shorelines, areas like Liberty Lake offer easier gravel riding options. You might also find routes that provide views or access to other bodies of water such as 9 Mile Recreation Area or Hog Canyon Lake, enhancing the scenic experience.

For those seeking a significant challenge, Spokane County delivers. Routes like the Mount Spokane – Mt Spokane State Park loop from Peone feature substantial elevation gain, often exceeding 3,000 feet. The Antoine Peak and Mica Peak Conservation Area also offer tougher gravel adventures with considerable climbs. These routes are ideal for experienced riders looking for a demanding workout and rewarding views.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations can vary, routes with less technical terrain and moderate distances are generally suitable. The Riverfront Park area offers a more accessible experience, and portions of the Spokane River Centennial Trail that are less challenging could also be enjoyed by families. Always check the difficulty and length of a route to ensure it matches your family's skill level and endurance.