The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Spokane

Spokane offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hiking opportunities. This guide features nearly 50 routes, with 38 of them rated as easy and 10 as moderate, ensuring there's something for every family's comfort level.

Yes, several areas are great for families with strollers or toddlers. The Spokane River Centennial Trail is largely paved and offers scenic, flat sections. Within Dishman Hills Natural Area, the Pond Loop Trail is an easier option known for wildlife spotting. The Painted Rocks Trail in the Little Spokane River Natural Area also provides an easy walk along the river.

For impressive water features, the Spokane Falls Trail takes you close to the magnificent Upper Spokane Falls. The Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail in Riverside State Park is famous for its picturesque suspension bridge and unique basalt formations along the Spokane River. The Liberty Lake Loop also features flowing waterfalls, especially beautiful in spring.

Absolutely! Many trails are designed as loops, perfect for a family outing. The Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail in Riverside State Park is a popular moderate option. Another great choice is the Spokane River: Centennial and South Gorge Trail Loop, offering diverse scenery along the river.

Spokane's trails boast many stunning views. The Iller Creek Conservation Area Trail (Rocks of Sharon) within Dishman Hills offers 360-degree views from impressive rock formations. For panoramic vistas of Spokane Valley and the Selkirk Mountains, explore Antoine Peak Conservation Area. Beacon Hill also provides beautiful views, especially at sunset.

Many trails in the Spokane area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most conservation areas and state parks. The Centennial Trail is a popular choice for walking with dogs.

Spokane offers great hiking year-round. Spring brings flowing waterfalls and lush greenery, while summer provides warm, sunny days perfect for exploring, with higher altitudes like Mount Spokane offering cooler temperatures. Fall showcases beautiful foliage, and winter allows for snowshoeing on trails like Mount Kit Carson. Always check trail conditions, especially during shoulder seasons.

While popular spots can get busy, areas like Saltese Uplands Conservation Area offer trails through grassy hills and shrub-steppe habitats that can be less crowded, providing a peaceful experience and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Exploring trails during off-peak hours or weekdays can also help avoid crowds.

The family-friendly trails around Spokane are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from river canyons to pine forests, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of trails for all ages and skill levels. The scenic beauty and opportunities for wildlife spotting are frequently highlighted.

For families looking for a bit more challenge, the Trail 25 and Centennial Loop offers moderate elevation changes and a longer distance. The Indian Painted Rock and Knothead Valley Loop in Riverside State Park also provides a moderate hike with switchbacks and rewarding views, suitable for active older children.

Spokane's diverse natural areas are home to a variety of wildlife. Hikers often spot deer, elk, and numerous bird species. Keep an eye out for smaller mammals like rabbits and squirrels. Areas like Dishman Hills Natural Area and Saltese Uplands Conservation Area are particularly good for wildlife viewing.

Absolutely! After your hike, you can visit Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane, which offers various activities and is home to the Upper Spokane Falls. The Swinging Bridge in Riverside State Park is also a fun spot to explore.