The best traffic-free bike rides in Riverside State Park

Riverside State Park offers a good selection of routes for gravel biking. This guide features 8 distinct no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a suitable option for various skill levels.

The park is generally excellent for gravel biking from spring through fall. The trails wind through Ponderosa forests and meadows, offering pleasant conditions. While winter biking is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice, especially in shaded areas.

You can expect a diverse mix of terrain, predominantly dirt paths, doubletrack, and some singletrack. The trails feature mellow rolling terrain, often with gravel surfaces, and occasional basalt and rounded river rocks. Areas like Deep Creek offer more challenging, steeper, and chunkier sections.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Riverside State Park are designed as loops. For example, the Gravel loop from Riverside State Park is a moderate 30 km option, perfect for exploring the park's varied landscapes.

Riverside State Park is rich in natural and historical attractions. You can encounter the striking basaltic rock formations at Bowl and Pitcher, cross the historic Swinging Bridge, or visit the 9 Mile Recreation Area on Lake Spokane. The Spokane River Centennial Trail also connects many of these points.

While many routes in the park are rated moderate to difficult, there are sections and shorter loops that can be more approachable. The western side of the river generally offers easier to moderate trails. Always check the route details on komoot for specific difficulty ratings and elevation profiles to match your skill level.

Yes, Riverside State Park has multiple access points and parking areas. You can find parking at various trailheads such as the Romine Conservation Area or Wilbur Trailhead, which are starting points for routes like the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop.

Dogs are generally welcome in Riverside State Park but must be kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations and signage, especially in sensitive natural areas like the Little Spokane River Natural Area, to ensure compliance and protect wildlife.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Riverside State Park, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive trail system, the diverse landscapes, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from traffic. The unique geological features, like the basalt formations, are also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Bowl and Pitcher Overlook loop from Romine Conservation Area offer over 60 km of riding with significant elevation gain. The Deep Creek area also provides steeper and more technical sections for those looking to test their skills.

Yes, Riverside State Park is home to diverse wildlife. The Little Spokane River Natural Area, in particular, is a protected zone offering excellent opportunities for observing wildlife and wildflowers. Keep an eye out for various bird species, deer, and other local fauna, especially during quieter times of day.

While the park itself is primarily natural, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the nearby city of Spokane. Depending on your starting point or route, you can plan a stop in Spokane for refreshments before or after your ride. The Riverfront Park loop from Spokane starts directly from the city, making it convenient for pre- or post-ride amenities.