Easy hikes and walks in Riverside State Park

Riverside State Park offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 60 routes suitable for a relaxed outing. These trails traverse diverse landscapes, from riverine paths along the Spokane River to areas featuring basalt lava flows and Ponderosa pine forests.

For a quick and easy walk, consider the Deep Creek Overlook trail, which is less than a mile long. Another short option is the Spokane House and Nine Mile Dam Loop, offering a pleasant 1.3-mile (2.1 km) walk.

Easy trails in Riverside State Park generally feature gentle gradients and well-maintained paths. You'll encounter varied terrain, including paths alongside the Spokane River, areas with unique basalt lava flows, and sections winding through Ponderosa pine forests. The park's diverse landscape ensures scenic views without challenging ascents.

Yes, there are several easy loop trails. A popular choice is the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail, which is about 2.3 miles (3.7 km) long and crosses a historic swinging bridge, offering scenic river views. Another option is the Spokane House and Nine Mile Dam Loop, a shorter 1.3-mile (2.1 km) loop.

Many easy hikes offer views of the park's iconic features. You can see the distinctive Bowl and Pitcher rock formations and cross the historic Swinging Bridge. The Spokane River is a central feature, and you'll find trails exploring its canyon and basaltic walls. The Spokane River Centennial Trail also runs through the park, offering accessible sections.

Absolutely. Many of the easy trails are ideal for families, offering gentle paths and interesting sights without being overly strenuous. The Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail, with its swinging bridge and unique rock formations, is a particular favorite for families. The historical context of the Spokane House trail also adds an educational element.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on most trails in Riverside State Park, provided they are kept on a leash. However, it's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations before heading out, especially in sensitive natural areas like the Little Spokane River Natural Area where restrictions may apply. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

Riverside State Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. In winter, some trails are suitable for snowshoeing, providing a different kind of outdoor experience. Always check current conditions before your visit.

Yes, Riverside State Park has multiple access points and parking areas throughout its various sections. Popular trailheads like the Bowl and Pitcher area and those near the Spokane House Interpretive Center typically have designated parking. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington State Parks. You can find more information about passes on the official Washington State Parks website.

The easy hikes in Riverside State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's diverse scenery, the accessibility of its trails, and the unique natural features like the Bowl and Pitcher formations and the historic swinging bridge. Many appreciate the peaceful river views and the opportunity to explore nature close to Spokane.

Yes, the park has significant historical value. The Spokane House trail explores an area related to the fur trade and Indigenous culture, with an interpretive center nearby. The iconic Swinging Bridge in the Bowl and Pitcher area was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), adding another layer of history to your hike.