Spokane, Washington, is known for its stunning landscape, allowing locals and visitors to explore its beautiful mountains, lakes, rivers, and valleys. Plenty of great hikes are available if you are looking for an outdoor adventure during your visit to Spokane. From easy trails with sweeping vistas to challenging routes reaching mountain peaks high above the city – hiking in Spokane provides something for everyone.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker – we can help you find the right trail to make your next trip memorable! In this guide, find detailed descriptions of our favorite hikes, including the Indian Painted Rocks Loop Trail, Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail on the Little Spokane Riverfront Preservation, and Rimrock Drive near Dishman Hills Natural Area. Read on for tips about where to go and what sights await each path!
Indian Painted Rocks
If you’re looking for a beautiful and refreshing hike, the Painted Rocks nature trail near 5626 W Rutter Parkway in Spokane is an excellent spot to explore this season. This popular 3.3-mile trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural environment. It’s a great way to get out and enjoy some fresh air while getting some exercise!
There is a river and some easy, flat hiking trails at the trailhead. A Discover Pass will be required to park at the parking lot.
If the route is too long, you don’t have to complete the 3.3-mile loop – you can turn back whenever. The path contains some steep sections, but when you reach the summit, it’s worth it for the stunning views that await.
Hiking in North Spokane is ideal for those who want an easygoing experience. It is the perfect trail for older people and young children, though it may be more crowded than other trails. If you feel a bit stiff after the winter season, this is the best choice to get back into shape! Native Americans along the Little Spokane River created rock art at Indian Painted Rocks over 250 years ago!
Bowl And Pitcher Loop Trail
Located at 4427 N Aubrey L White Parkway in Spokane, Bowl, and Pitcher Loop Trail is the perfect hike for newbies, families, children, and seniors. It’s renowned as one of the best hikes in Washington State and offers a variety of features to enjoy!
This loop trail, spanning 2 miles and boasting a river, is great for any skill level. It’s open all year round to people of all ages and furry friends (on leash). It is an ideal spot for the whole family to explore.
To park near the trailhead, you need to have a Discover Pass. You can begin your loop trail at Riverside State Park or by Bowl and Pitcher. A paved road for running and biking also goes alongside the river and a hiking path.
Trail 25 is highly suggested by many as it trails along the river and gives stunning outlooks. With its abundance of shade, this route is particularly popular in the summertime and remains one of Spokane’s greatest hikes.
Rimrock Drive & Palisades Park
Rimrock Drive is an ideal destination for those looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its easy hike and incredible views of downtown Spokane, this trail provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy nature and the great outdoors without having to commit too much time or effort.
The panoramic vistas make it worth the visit. This provides an amazing break from everyday life. Take a walk down Trail 121, roughly one mile long, and you’ll find yourself at an incredible secret waterfall. Dogs are permitted on this trail; ensure they stay on their leash.
Dishman Hills Natural Area
Dishman Hills Natural Area, located just south of I-90, is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city living. Its interior trails are surrounded by trees and shady spots. This makes it easy to forget you’re close to the urban center. You can enjoy a relaxing stroll through nature with all the amenities of city life conveniently nearby.
As you ascend the winding trails, you’ll eventually come across the majestic Eagle Peak. From its lofty perch, you will be treated to a breathtaking vista of Spokane, the Valley, and even beyond into the distant Idaho Panhandle west of liberty lake regional park. This picturesque scene will take your breath away and remain etched in your memory forever.
Mirabeau Springs/Mirabeau Point Loop
Mirabeau Point Loop in Spokane Valley has exactly what you need if you’re searching for a straightforward, speedy hike! Even though this is a hiking trail in Spokane Valley, it’s certainly worth the journey. This particular loop is only 0.9 miles long, making it a short and easy route with stunning mountain views. It also has an adequate amount of traffic.
The park has many trails to choose from if you’re seeking an extended hike. The Point Loop trail is a great option for short hikes, while plenty of well-marked paths are available for those wanting a more extensive adventure.
If you plan to stay for a while, don’t forget to pack some snacks – plenty of shady areas are ideal for picnicking. Please note that dogs must be kept on leashes, and all trail users must remain on the designated paths.
Waterfall Loop Trail-Palisades Park
Hikers enthusiastic about their outdoor experience can take advantage of the waterfall loop. This will allow them to explore paths beyond the well-trodden trails and venture further into the forest. Traverse Indian Canyon Creek multiple times in the 1.1-mile loop and discover a small waterfall at the end! Stay dry by navigating across the creek using logs and rocks strategically placed along your path.
If you are looking for parking, you can find it close to the Trail 102 trailhead. To begin your loop, take a left turn onto the path. Be on the lookout for the .4 mile marker when you depart from the main path and go down to the creek. When hikers reach their car after going through the creek bed, there is a slight climb in elevation.
Deep Creek Canyon, Riverside State Park
A short hike will take you through various landscapes and vegetation. Deep Creek Canyon is a magnificent natural wonder. Visitors come to explore its creek bed and ascend through basalt outcroppings. For those looking for mountain biking or even a more spectacular experience, there is a higher overlook with ample potential for large bird sightings. It’s an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers who want to take in the beauty of this scenic canyon.
Conclusion
After reading this guide, you should know the best hiking trails in Spokane county. These trails offer something for everyone, whether looking for a challenging hike or an easy walk in the woods. So get out there and explore! And if you’re looking for more ideas on things to do in Spokane, be sure to check out our other blog posts. Thanks for reading!