The best walks and hikes in Spokane County

Spokane County is a year-round hiking destination. Spring is fantastic for seeing wildflowers and waterfalls, like the one on the Liberty Creek Trail loop. Summer offers long days perfect for exploring higher elevations. Autumn brings beautiful fall colors to the forests, and winter transforms the landscape, making many trails ideal for snowshoeing, especially in Mount Spokane State Park.

Yes, many trails in Spokane County are dog-friendly, but policies can vary by park. For example, Riverside State Park is a popular choice for dog walkers. Always keep your dog on a leash and check the specific regulations for the park or conservation area you plan to visit before you go.

For a gentle and scenic walk, the Spokane Falls loop in Riverfront Park is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat, 3.3-mile (5.3 km) path with great views of the falls. Another easy option is the Trail 25 loop in Riverside State Park, which is a shorter walk along the river.

For a rewarding challenge with significant elevation gain, consider the Mount Spokane Trail from Selkirk. This 8.3-mile (13.3 km) route climbs over 1,500 feet (460 m) to the summit, offering expansive views from the top.

The Antoine Peak Summit Trail loop is well-known for its sweeping vistas of the Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake. For a different perspective, the hike to the Rocks of Sharon within the Iller Creek Conservation Area provides stunning 360-degree views of the Palouse.

Riverside State Park offers a diverse trail system along the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers. You'll find everything from gentle riverside strolls to more moderate hikes through ponderosa pine forests. A highlight is the area around the Bowl and Pitcher, known for its dramatic basalt rock formations and a scenic suspension bridge. The Painted Rocks Nature Trail to Knotted Trail loop is a great way to experience the park's varied landscape.

Yes, many of the best hikes in Spokane County are loops, allowing you to enjoy different scenery on your return journey. Popular circular routes include the Mount Kit Carson loop in Mount Spokane State Park and the Iller Creek Loop to Big Rock.

The Dishman Hills area showcases the region's unique geology. The trails wind through a dramatic landscape of basalt cliffs, canyons, and large granite boulders like the Rocks of Sharon. This protected natural area offers a rugged hiking experience with excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting just outside the city.

Absolutely. While some higher-elevation trails may be inaccessible, many lower-elevation paths remain open for winter hiking. Mount Spokane State Park is a premier destination for winter recreation, with over 100 miles of trails perfect for snowshoeing, such as the Quartz Mountain Trail.

There are over 130 hiking routes in Spokane County mapped on komoot, ranging from easy riverside walks to difficult mountain ascents. This extensive network covers state parks, conservation areas, and local parks, ensuring there's a trail for every skill level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the region's diverse scenery, from the dramatic basalt formations at the Bowl and Pitcher to the serene pine forests of Mount Spokane. The well-maintained and clearly marked trail systems in places like Dishman Hills Natural Area are also frequently mentioned.

Yes, the Spokane River Centennial Trail is a fantastic paved trail that stretches for miles. It's perfect for walking, running, and biking. A pleasant section for a walk is the Riverfront Trails to People’s Park, which follows the Spokane River.