Easy hikes and walks in Spokane County

The Carlson Hill Loop offers a delightful mix of terrain, starting on wider paths before narrowing into singletrack that winds through open forests. You'll encounter switchbacks on the ascent, leading to rewarding vistas from Pine Bluff where you can gaze across rolling hills and even spot Spokane's skyline. The trail then descends through scree fields and "rock gardens," offering a varied and engaging experience for its 3.3 miles (5.4 km) distance.

This easy hiking route, with 588 feet (179 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. Parking is generally available at the trailhead off Carlson Road, making it an accessible option. Benches are strategically placed at viewpoints and near the Spokane River, providing ideal spots for a break.

Situated within the Saltese Uplands Conservation Area, the Carlson Hill Loop showcases a unique blend of natural beauty and urban proximity. It's a great choice for those seeking a quick, rewarding hike near Spokane, offering diverse ecosystems and geological formations. The trail also connects to other routes, like the Centennial Trail, for longer adventures.

If you're seeking a diverse and engaging hike close to Spokane County, the Canfield Gulch Loop delivers a rewarding experience. This route takes you through dense forests of pine and fir, offering a mix of old logging roads and newer singletrack. You'll enjoy panoramic views of the Spokane Valley and distant mountains, with the chance to spot wildlife around LeLand Pond. The trail's varied terrain, including some steep sections, makes it a great choice for a moderately strenuous outing.

To plan your trip, know that the Canfield Gulch Loop is accessible throughout the year, making it versatile for different activities. While popular for hiking in warmer months, it also welcomes snowshoers and skiers in winter. The trailhead is easy to find within the Antoine Peak Conservation Area, and parking is generally available. Arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) loop, with 636 feet (194 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. It's nestled within a diverse ecosystem known for critical wildlife habitat, offering a sense of solitude despite its proximity to urban areas. The trail system has seen improvements, with new singletrack sections enhancing the experience beyond the older logging roads.

The Pinecliff Loop Trail offers a delightful journey through the varied landscapes of the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area. You'll wander beneath towering Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs, emerging into sun-dappled meadows that burst with wildflowers in spring. The path itself is a mostly smooth singletrack, guiding you past intriguing rock formations and through the geological wonder of Enchanted Ravine. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and various bird species as you explore.

This easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike with a gentle 210 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain is perfect for a quick outing, taking only about 40 minutes to complete. The trail begins and ends at Camp Caro Community Park, which provides convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. While generally easy, some sections have a bit more incline, and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially in colder months when icy patches can occur.

Particularly noted for its family-friendly nature, the Pinecliff Loop Trail is a fantastic choice for beginner hikers or those looking for a relaxed walk. You can even pick up an interpretive brochure to learn more about the unique natural features along the way. From a bench at the top, you might catch views of Mount Spokane, adding another layer to this accessible and engaging trail.

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 Iller Creek and Tower Mountain Loop for an easy hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will begin in shaded ponderosa pine forests, gradually transitioning to open ridgelines offering expansive views. The trail covers 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with an elevation gain of 839 feet (256 metres), making it a rewarding journey without being overly strenuous. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 26 minutes exploring this route. A key highlight is the "Rocks of Sharon," also known as "Big Rock," where you can pause to take in sweeping 360-degree panoramas of the Spokane Valley, the Selkirk Mountains, and the vast Palouse.

Before you set out, be aware that while the trail ascends towards Tower Mountain, the actual summit is located on private property. It is important to respect all "No Trespassing" signs and avoid attempting to access the summit directly. The best accessible high point for enjoying the scenic views remains the Rocks of Sharon. Consider hiking this route from late March through mid-July to catch glimpses of seasonal creeks and vibrant wildflowers.

This loop is nestled within the Dishman Hills Conservation Area, a unique natural space near Spokane. The area is known for its distinctive geological features and diverse ecosystems, providing a valuable habitat for local wildlife. The transition from dense forest to open ridgelines showcases the varied natural beauty of the region. This trail offers a perfect opportunity for a quick outdoor escape, allowing you to connect with nature close to the city.

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.

The Knothead Trail offers a dynamic journey through the Little Spokane River Natural Area, weaving from shaded Ponderosa pine forests into sun-drenched meadows. You'll find yourself overlooking the picturesque Little Spokane River valley, with glimpses of Lake Spokane from higher points, and the trail itself is a mix of old road and singletrack. This easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hike, with 666 feet (203 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete.

Before you head out, remember that a Discover Pass is essential for parking at the trailhead. This trail is exclusively for hikers and trail runners; mountain bikes and dogs are not allowed. While you can hike it year-round, spring is particularly vibrant with wildflowers, but be aware that conditions can be snowy and muddy from November through March.

What truly sets this route apart are the ancient Indian Painted Rocks, offering a unique glimpse into the region's cultural history. Beyond the historical intrigue, the trail is known for frequent wildlife sightings, including deer, various bird species, and even moose, making it a fantastic option for nature enthusiasts.

The Deep Ravine Loop Trail offers a delightful escape into a unique "green oasis" within Spokane Valley's Dishman Hills Natural Area. This easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike, typically completed in about 40 minutes, immerses you in a world of lush mosses, lichens, and distinctive natural rock formations. As you navigate the 238 feet (73 metres) of elevation gain, you'll experience a canyon-like topography that feels far removed from the high desert climate, especially vibrant around Goldback Spring in the wetter months.

To plan your visit, head to Camp Caro, which provides convenient parking and serves as the primary trailhead for this popular route. While the trail is generally considered easy and family-friendly, some sections are rocky and rutted, with a few steep inclines, so sturdy footwear is recommended. For the most vibrant scenery and flowing spring, aim to hike during the spring or early summer.

This trail is a fantastic example of Spokane Valley's unique geology, attracting not only hikers but also rock climbers to its impressive formations. It offers a distinct contrast to other local trails and is part of a larger network, providing options to extend your adventure if you wish to explore more of the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area.