Easy hikes and walks in Spokane County

The Carlson Hill Loop provides an easy hiking experience, covering 3.3 miles (5.4 km) with an elevation gain of 588 feet (179 metres). You can expect varied terrain, starting on a doubletrack before transitioning to singletrack trails that climb through switchbacks. From Pine Bluff, you will discover expansive views of the park's rolling hillsides to the northeast, even catching a glimpse of downtown Spokane's skyline. The route also winds through open forest and down to the Spokane River, offering a pleasant spot to relax by the water. This hike typically takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete.

To access the Carlson Hill Loop, head to Riverside State Park and look for the trailhead off Carlson Road. Parking is generally available there, making it convenient to start your adventure. Benches are thoughtfully placed at various overlooks and near the river, providing comfortable spots to rest and enjoy the scenery during your hike. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views.

This route is situated within the Saltese Uplands Conservation Area, an important natural space. The trail's journey through open forest and along the Spokane River highlights the diverse ecosystems present in the region. The views from Pine Bluff, extending across the park and towards Spokane, showcase the area's unique blend of natural beauty and urban proximity. It is a great way to experience the local landscape.

Embark on an easy hike along the Pinecliff Loop Trail, a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) route that offers a pleasant outdoor experience. You will navigate varied terrain, moving from dense forests of Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs into open meadows. The trail features a gentle elevation gain of 210 feet (64 metres), making it suitable for a quick 40-minute walk. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Pinecliff Rock Formations, which are believed to be ancient volcanic remnants. In spring, you can enjoy vibrant wildflowers and might even spot local wildlife like deer or various bird species.

The Pinecliff Loop Trail conveniently begins and ends at Camp Caro Community Park, where you will find useful amenities like picnic areas and restrooms. This makes it an ideal spot for a family outing or a quick escape into nature. While the trail is generally accessible year-round, be aware that colder months can introduce slippery, icy patches. For your safety and comfort, sturdy shoes are highly recommended, especially during these times. Remember that this route is exclusively for foot traffic, so please leave your mountain bike at home.

This loop is nestled within the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area, offering a diverse natural setting close to Spokane Valley. The unique Pinecliff Rock Formations are a highlight, adding a geological point of interest to your walk. You might also catch occasional glimpses of Mount Spokane, providing a scenic backdrop to your adventure. The area's ecosystem supports a variety of flora and fauna, making each visit a chance to connect with nature.

Embark on the Canfield Gulch Loop, an easy hiking route that immerses you in the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest. As you hike this 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail, you will gain 636 feet (194 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. The path winds through dense forests of pine and fir, eventually opening up to reveal panoramic views of the Spokane Valley and distant mountains. A highlight of the route is Leland Pond, a tranquil spot where you might even catch a glimpse of the Conservation Area's moose population.

The Canfield Gulch Loop is accessible throughout the year, making it a versatile option for your outdoor adventures. You can enjoy hiking, running, or mountain biking during the warmer seasons, and it transforms into a great spot for snowshoeing or skiing in winter. Parking is usually available right at the trailhead, offering convenient access to the start of your journey. While the trail is generally well-maintained, remember to watch your step for occasional loose rocks or roots that can appear on certain sections of the path.

This loop offers a rewarding outdoor experience situated near Spokane County, Washington, within the Antoine Peak Conservation Area. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, and Leland Pond serves as a prime location for observing the local moose population in their natural habitat. The trail's year-round accessibility and varied activities make it a popular choice for those looking to connect with nature close to the city.

Embark on the Iller Creek and Upper Valley Loop for an easy hiking experience that takes you through varied landscapes. This route covers 3.4 miles (5.5 km) and involves a manageable elevation gain of 974 feet (297 metres), making it a great choice for a quick outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 47 minutes, enjoying both shaded forest paths and open ridgeline sections. The trail offers a rewarding journey with diverse scenery, perfect for a refreshing hike.

Planning your visit to the Iller Creek and Upper Valley Loop is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and clearly signed for easy navigation. You will find parking generally available at the trailhead, providing convenient access to start your adventure. This area is popular among hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, so you can anticipate sharing the path with others. It is a great option for a morning or afternoon excursion, offering a pleasant outdoor escape.

As you ascend to higher elevations on the loop, you will be treated to expansive panoramic views of the Spokane Valley, the Palouse, and the distant Selkirk Mountains. A significant highlight of this trail is the impressive Rocks of Sharon, also known as Big Rock, which provides stunning vistas and is a favorite spot for climbers. This distinctive landmark adds a unique character to the Dishman Hills Conservation Area, making the Iller Creek and Upper Valley Loop a memorable hike.

Embark on the Lincoln Park Loop for an easy hike through a pleasant urban park setting. This route offers a refreshing break from city life, allowing you to enjoy nature within Spokane's limits. You will cover 1.6 miles (2.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 145 feet (44 metres), making it a straightforward outdoor activity that takes about 43 minutes to complete.

Accessing the trailhead is convenient, as parking is generally available near Lincoln Park. Since this is an urban park trail, you can typically enjoy it year-round without needing special permits or worrying about seasonal closures. Before your visit, it is always a good idea to check local park signs for any temporary advisories that might be in place.

The Lincoln Park Loop is ideal if you are looking for a quick escape into a natural environment without leaving the city. It provides a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk, surrounded by the park's natural features. This trail stands out as a readily accessible option for a dose of outdoor activity whenever you need it.

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.

Embark on the Iller Creek and Tower Mountain Loop for an easy hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will begin in shaded ponderosa pine forests, gradually transitioning to open ridgelines offering expansive views. The trail covers 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with an elevation gain of 839 feet (256 metres), making it a rewarding journey without being overly strenuous. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 26 minutes exploring this route. A key highlight is the "Rocks of Sharon," also known as "Big Rock," where you can pause to take in sweeping 360-degree panoramas of the Spokane Valley, the Selkirk Mountains, and the vast Palouse.

Before you set out, be aware that while the trail ascends towards Tower Mountain, the actual summit is located on private property. It is important to respect all "No Trespassing" signs and avoid attempting to access the summit directly. The best accessible high point for enjoying the scenic views remains the Rocks of Sharon. Consider hiking this route from late March through mid-July to catch glimpses of seasonal creeks and vibrant wildflowers.

This loop is nestled within the Dishman Hills Conservation Area, a unique natural space near Spokane. The area is known for its distinctive geological features and diverse ecosystems, providing a valuable habitat for local wildlife. The transition from dense forest to open ridgelines showcases the varied natural beauty of the region. This trail offers a perfect opportunity for a quick outdoor escape, allowing you to connect with nature close to the city.

Start your hike on the Knothead Trail, an easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. You will gain 666 feet (203 metres) in elevation as you explore. The path winds through dense Ponderosa pine forests and opens into meadows, which are particularly colorful with wildflowers in spring and summer. From the Knothead Overlook, you can enjoy wide views of the Spokane River and the valley below. This trail offers a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.

To access the Knothead Trail, you will need a Discover Pass for parking, as it is located within Riverside State Park. You can hike this route throughout the year, but be prepared for winter conditions. Snow, mud, and icy viewpoints are possible, so consider bringing traction devices for your footwear during colder months. While the trail is well-marked, it is always a good idea to carry a map or use a GPS device for navigation.

The Knothead Trail is situated in the Little Spokane Natural Area, a place known for its diverse ecosystems. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, hawks, and even moose. The area also holds historical significance, with ancient Native American petroglyphs visible at Painted Rocks. This route provides a great opportunity to connect with nature and history in one outing.

Embark on the Deep Ravine Loop Trail for an easy hike through a green oasis. This family-friendly route covers 1.5 miles (2.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 238 feet (73 metres), taking about 40 minutes to complete. As you descend into the ravine, you will discover a moisture-rich environment where lush mosses and lichens thrive, particularly vibrant in spring and summer. The trail features natural rock formations and outcroppings, including carefully crafted rock steps that highlight the unique geology of the Spokane Valley.

To begin your hike, head to Camp Caro, where parking is generally available and offers convenient access to the Dishman Hills Natural Area. This makes it easy to start your adventure on the Deep Ravine Loop Trail. Consider visiting in spring or early summer if you wish to see Goldback Spring with running water, as it often dries up by mid-summer.

The Deep Ravine Loop Trail is part of a larger network within the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area. It connects to other trails near Goldback Spring, providing options if you wish to extend your journey beyond the loop. The route's unique geology, with its natural rock features and steps, showcases the distinct character of the Spokane Valley.