The best city hikes and walks in Riverside State Park
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537
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30
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Urban hiking trails in Riverside State Park offer a diverse range of landscapes within close proximity to Spokane. The park is defined by its extensive river corridors along the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers, featuring basaltic rock formations and Ponderosa pine forests. Hikers can explore varied terrain that includes wetlands, oxbow lakes, and sections of the Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail. The elevation changes are generally gentle, making many routes accessible for urban exploration.
Best urban hiking trails in Riverside State Park
- The most popular urban hiking route is Riverfront Park – Upper Spokane Falls loop from Spokane Falls Community College, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 55 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the Spokane River, offering views of the falls and urban park features.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Garbage Goat Sculpture – Riverfront Park Clock Tower loop from Spokane, an easy 2.9 miles (4.7 km) path. This route explores downtown Spokane's Riverfront Park, passing by notable sculptures and landmarks.
- Local hikers also love the Hiking loop from Spokane Falls Community College, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) trail leading through urban green spaces and along the river, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking in Riverside State Park is defined by riverine environments, basalt formations, and urban parkland. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate urban explorations.
- The routes in Riverside State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Riverside State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.46km
01:10
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
13.7km
03:40
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.69km
00:43
30m
20m
The Spokane Falls Trail offers a refreshing urban hike, immersing you in the natural beauty of the Spokane River and its powerful falls. This easy 1.7-mile (2.7 km) loop, with a minimal 89 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 42 minutes, making it a perfect short escape. You'll walk along well-maintained paths, enjoying stunning views of the falls from multiple vantage points, including two footbridges, and passing by the historic Great Northern Clocktower.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is located within Riverfront Park, making it highly accessible from downtown Spokane. Parking is available in the surrounding area, and public transport options are plentiful. This trail is ideal for a casual walk any time of day, and no permits are required, making it a hassle-free option for families or anyone looking for a quick outdoor break.
The Spokane Falls hold significant historical and cultural importance, having been a vital gathering place for Native American tribes and playing a key role in the city's industrial development. As the second-largest urban waterfall in the United States, they offer a unique blend of natural wonder and urban landscape. Consider taking the Spokane Falls Skyride for an aerial perspective of this remarkable natural feature.
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Tips from the Community
Stop and get a picture on the giant wagon or ride the carousel.
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The Clock Tower is what is left of the railroad station in what is now Riverfront Park. It is located along the Centennial Trial on the North bank of the Spokane River in downtown Spokane.
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Riverfront Park is located in downtown Spokane, WA, and is a 100-acre urban park along the Spokane River. The park features the Upper Spokane Falls, which the second-largest urban waterfall in the U.S. There are scenic paths for walkers and runners, and paved trails for cyclists, all with beautiful river views and historic features such as the Great Northern clock tower and Looff Carrousel. The park, established post-Expo '74, is a popular place with over three million annual visitors, and includes the U.S. Pavilion, Spokane Convention Center, and First Interstate Center for the Arts, along with nearby attractions like the River Park Square mall and Mobius Science Center.
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A copper and brass goat statue that has a button activated vacuum to allow it to “eat” small pieces of garbage
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People's Park, also known as High Bridge Park peninsula, has a storied past. It was once a free campsite designated by the city for visitors of the World's Fair Expo in 1974. It also has a history of being a nude beach and for nude sunbathers.
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Over 40,000 people came to Spokane on Armistice in 1930 to see this statue of Abraham Lincoln when Herbert Hoover sent the telegram to unveil it. This bronze statue is 12 feet high and has a base of 10 feet.
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The Upper Spokane Falls, along the Spokane River, are located in downtown Spokane. These cascades are the second-largest urban falls in the United States. Along the trail on the riverfront, you can find informational signs about the importance of the river and the cultural influence of the falls on the local population.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Riverside State Park?
There are over 25 urban hiking trails in Riverside State Park, with the majority being easy to moderate in difficulty. This guide focuses specifically on routes that offer a blend of natural beauty and proximity to urban areas.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families in Riverside State Park?
Yes, Riverside State Park offers many easy urban hikes. For instance, the Hiking loop from Spokane Falls Community College is a great option, covering about 4.5 km with minimal elevation gain. The park also features 1 mile of ADA-accessible trails near the Bowl and Pitcher parking area, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see along the urban trails?
Urban trails in Riverside State Park often feature stunning natural and historical landmarks. You can explore the iconic Bowl and Pitcher rock formations, cross the historic Swinging Bridge, or enjoy views of the Spokane River. The Riverfront Park – Upper Spokane Falls loop takes you past the impressive Spokane Falls.
Are dogs allowed on the urban hiking trails in Riverside State Park?
Yes, many trails in Riverside State Park are dog-friendly, provided your canine companion is on a leash. The popular Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail, which is an easy 2 to 2.3-mile loop, is a great option for hikers with dogs.
Are there any urban loop trails in Riverside State Park?
Absolutely. Many of the urban hikes in Riverside State Park are designed as loops for convenience. For example, the Garbage Goat Sculpture – Riverfront Park Clock Tower loop from Spokane is a pleasant 4.7 km urban loop that takes you through Riverfront Park.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Riverside State Park?
The komoot community highly rates the urban hiking experience in Riverside State Park, with an average score of 4.65 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of trails from the city, the beautiful river views, and the variety of landscapes that blend urban convenience with natural serenity.
Can I access these urban trails using public transport?
Given Riverside State Park's proximity to downtown Spokane (just nine miles northwest), many urban trails, especially those connecting to the Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail, are accessible via public transport routes that serve the Spokane area. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most direct access points.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Spokane River or other water features?
Many urban trails in Riverside State Park follow the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers, offering picturesque riverine environments. The Upper Spokane Falls – The Lincoln Statue loop provides excellent views of the Spokane Falls, while the Nine Mile Falls Overlook offers a vantage point of the Spokane River as it approaches a dam.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Riverside State Park?
Riverside State Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Even in winter, trails can be used for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, making it a versatile destination for urban hikers.
Are there any longer, more challenging urban hikes available?
While many urban trails are easy, there are options for those seeking a moderate challenge. The Upper Spokane Falls – The Lincoln Statue loop from Spokane is a moderate 13.7 km route with over 160 meters of elevation gain, offering a more extended urban hiking experience.
Where can I find parking for urban hikes in Riverside State Park?
Riverside State Park has various parking areas, including near the Bowl and Pitcher, Nine Mile Recreation Area, and along sections of the Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail. For urban routes starting closer to Spokane, parking is often available near Riverfront Park or Spokane Falls Community College, depending on your chosen starting point.
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