The best walks and hikes in the Selkirk Mountains

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.

Embark on the Deep Creek Loop, a moderate hiking route that winds through the varied landscape of Riverside State Park. You will cover 7.2 miles (11.5 km) and gain 667 feet (203 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 3 hours and 17 minutes to complete. The trail offers scenic viewpoints, including the Deep Creek Canyon Overlook, where you can enjoy expansive views of the area. You will also cross the distinctive Deep Creek Bridge, adding a unique feature to your journey through the park's natural terrain.

The trailhead for the Deep Creek Loop is easily accessible, with convenient parking available right at the starting point. To make the most of your hike, plan your visit during favorable weather conditions. It is always a good idea to check local park information for any updates or specific advisories before you head out. This ensures you are prepared for the moderate challenge and can fully enjoy the scenic beauty of the route.

This loop is a rewarding outdoor experience within Riverside State Park, showcasing its diverse natural beauty. The route's varied landscape and distinct landmarks like the Deep Creek Canyon Overlook make it a notable option for hikers exploring the region. It provides a good opportunity to immerse yourself in the park's environment and enjoy its unique features.

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.

Hiking the Upper Falls Loop in Post Falls Community Forest offers a 2.5-mile easy route with river views and wooded paths.

Hike the moderate 4.0-mile Pyramid and Ball Lakes Trail in Idaho's Panhandle National Forest, featuring two beautiful alpine lakes and sceni

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 Crooked Tree, Meadow, and Butterfly Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, weaving through varied landscapes that include serene alpine meadows and lush forests. This easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hike, with a modest 526 feet (160 metres) of elevation gain, provides stunning vistas of the Cabinet Mountains and Lake Pend Oreille. Keep an eye out for the Crooked Tree segment, which boasts a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the Pend Oreille River and Mt. Baldy, and the Butterfly section, known for its scenic beauty and seasonal wildflowers.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this publicly accessible trail in Pine Street Woods requires no permits or entrance fees. The estimated duration for this hike is around 1 hour and 35 minutes, making it a great option for a shorter outing. Dogs are permitted, but remember to keep them on a leash to ensure the safety of local wildlife. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, and the trail is enjoyable across multiple seasons.

This loop is notable for integrating sections of several named trails, including Butterfly, Meadow Loop, Crooked Tree, Momentum, and Homestead trails, creating a diverse experience within a single route. Its easy difficulty and moderate length make it an excellent choice for families or anyone seeking a rewarding hike without an intense physical challenge. The trail's blend of forest, meadow, and panoramic views makes it one of the best hikes for experiencing the natural beauty of the Sandpoint, Idaho area.

The Creekside Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, following the meandering path of a creek or river. You'll find yourself immersed in a serene environment, with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna along the way. The trail's character can vary, from smooth, hard-surfaced sections to more natural, unpaved paths, all while keeping you close to the water's edge. It’s a great option for those seeking a tranquil experience without significant physical challenge.

Planning your visit to the Creekside Trail is generally straightforward, though specific trailhead and parking information should be confirmed locally. This trail is particularly enjoyable during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, making for comfortable hiking conditions. While the trail is considered moderate, its minimal elevation gain means it's more about covering distance than tackling steep climbs, making it accessible for many.

Many Creekside Trail locations are known for their family-friendly atmosphere, providing a safe and enjoyable outing for all ages. The consistent presence of water makes it a refreshing hike, and depending on the specific location, you might even encounter unique geological formations or historical landmarks. This particular Creekside Trail covers 5.9 miles (9.5 km) with a gentle 110 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete.

Embark on the Mount Kit Carson Loop Road, Trail 140 and Trail 110 Loop, a challenging hike spanning 13.5 miles (21.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2049 feet (624 metres). You can expect to spend around 6 hours and 35 minutes navigating this difficult route, which winds through varied terrain. As you ascend, you will pass through dense forests of Douglas fir and western red cedar, eventually reaching rocky alpine meadows. From the summit of Mount Kit Carson, you are rewarded with expansive 360-degree views, including Mount Spokane and the Selkirk Range. This trail offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a demanding outdoor adventure.

This route is accessible year-round, offering distinct experiences with each changing season. During the colder months, the area transforms into a popular destination for snowshoeing and snowmobiling, with a warming hut available at Smith Gap. Be aware that the trails are multi-use, so you will share the path with mountain bikers and equestrians, and in winter, with snowshoers and snowmobilers. Plan your visit accordingly, considering the seasonal conditions and potential for shared use.

Located within Mount Spokane State Park, this loop provides a deep dive into the region's natural beauty. The trail is notable for its diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to high-altitude meadows, showcasing vibrant wildflowers in spring and summer. Keep an eye out for spectacular bear grass, especially in August, adding to the scenic appeal. The panoramic vistas from the top of Mount Kit Carson highlight the unique geological features and vastness of the surrounding landscape, making it a standout experience in the area.