Easy hikes and walks around Spokane

Spokane offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 40 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails provide diverse experiences, from urban park strolls to scenic riverfront paths and tranquil conservation areas.

Yes, Spokane has many excellent options for families. Parks like Riverside State Park, Manito Park, Riverfront Park, and Finch Arboretum offer gentle, accessible paths suitable for all ages. The Lincoln Park Loop is a popular choice, winding through a pleasant urban park setting.

You can find beautiful waterfalls on several easy trails. The Spokane Falls Trail offers iconic views of the city's waterfalls. Additionally, Palisades Park has a Waterfall Loop, and the Liberty Lake Loop features a waterfall that is particularly impressive in spring. Don't miss the Waterfall at Mirabeau Pond for another scenic spot.

Absolutely. The Lincoln Park Loop is a well-loved easy circular route. The Liberty Lake Loop is another great option, especially beautiful in spring. For a slightly more challenging but rewarding loop with panoramic views, consider the Iller Creek | Rocks of Sharon Trail in Dishman Hills.

Spokane's easy trails offer stunning vistas. The Rimrock Conservation Area within Palisades Park provides sweeping views of downtown Spokane. Antoine Peak Conservation Area offers panoramic views of the Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake. For unique geological formations and river views, the Bowl and Pitcher area in Riverside State Park is a must-see, accessible via routes like the Northwest Boulevard Parkway to Bowl and Pitcher Viewpoint.

Spokane offers great hiking year-round. Spring is ideal for wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, while autumn brings vibrant fall foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours for extended walks, and many lower-elevation trails remain accessible for pleasant winter strolls, with some higher trails suitable for snowshoeing.

Many easy trails and parks in Spokane are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Areas like Dishman Hills Conservation Area and Antoine Peak Conservation Area are generally welcoming to leashed dogs, offering plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore.

Beyond the trails themselves, Spokane's natural areas are rich with attractions. You can visit the Riverfront Park, see the iconic Upper Spokane Falls, or cross the picturesque Swinging Bridge in Riverside State Park. The 9 Mile Recreation Area is also a popular spot near the Little Spokane River.

For a quieter experience, consider Antoine Peak Conservation Area or Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, which offers the serene Pine Lakes Loop. The Saltese Uplands Conservation Area also provides peaceful trails with views of Liberty Lake, often with fewer visitors than more central locations.

The easy trails in Spokane are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil riverfront paths to wooded conservation areas, and the well-maintained trail systems that make exploring accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

While many trailheads are best reached by car, some urban parks and sections of the Spokane River Centennial Trail are accessible via Spokane Transit Authority (STA) routes. For specific routes, it's recommended to check the STA website for bus schedules and stops near your desired trailhead.

Yes, spring is an excellent time to spot wildflowers on Spokane's easy trails. Areas like Dishman Hills Conservation Area, Antoine Peak, and the Saltese Uplands are known for their diverse plant communities, offering beautiful displays of native wildflowers as the weather warms.

For wheelchair accessibility, Riverfront Park and Manito Park offer paved and well-maintained paths that are generally accessible. The Spokane River Centennial Trail, a 64-mile paved path, also provides extensive accessible sections for a leisurely stroll along the river.