TOP HIKING SPOTS IN SPOKANE
Iller Creek Conservation Area
Trail Length: 5 miles (loop)
About: This trail is located in the Dishman Hills Conservation Area and provides a moderately challenging hike with stunning views of Spokane Valley and the Palouse. The trail leads hikers through lush forests, meadows, and eventually to the “Rocks of Sharon,” large rock formations that offer panoramic vistas. It’s a popular trail for both hikers and rock climbers, especially in the summer and fall.
Dishman Hills Natural Area
Trail Length: Various (2-8 miles)
About: Dishman Hills offers multiple trails for hikers of all levels. The natural area consists of diverse terrain, including wetlands, forests, and rocky outcrops. Popular routes like the Pine Cliff Loop or Eagle Peak offer serene environments and occasional wildlife sightings. The area is great for both short walks and longer hikes, with plenty of options to explore.
Centennial Trail
Trail Length: 37 miles
About: The Centennial Trail is a paved multi-use trail that stretches from Nine Mile Falls to the Idaho state border. While much of it is ideal for biking, several sections offer great hiking opportunities, particularly near downtown Spokane along the Spokane River. Riverside State Park and Mirabeau Park are popular spots for hiking along the trail, offering scenic river views and forested landscapes.
Rocks of Sharon (South Side)
Trail Length: 4.5 miles (out and back)
About: This moderately difficult trail leads to the impressive Rocks of Sharon, part of the Iller Creek Conservation Area. The hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and Spokane Valley. It's a perfect trail for those looking to combine a good workout with picturesque scenery, and the rock formations are popular among local climbers.
Mount Spokane State Park
Trail Length: Various (up to 13 miles)
About: As one of Washington’s largest state parks, Mount Spokane features numerous hiking trails that wind through old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and up to the summit of Mount Spokane itself. Trails like the Trail 140 (to the summit) or Trail 130 (along the mountain's ridge) provide both easy and challenging options, making the park a year-round hiking destination.
Riverside State Park
Trail Length: Various
About: This sprawling 14,000-acre park along the Spokane River offers numerous trails for hikers of all skill levels. The Bowl and Pitcher area is especially popular, with its scenic river crossings, basalt rock formations, and forested trails. Other parts of the park offer access to off-the-beaten-path trails with wildlife viewing opportunities and beautiful riverfront scenery.
Liberty Lake Loop Trail
Trail Length: 8.5 miles (loop)
About: Located southeast of Spokane, this trail provides a moderately difficult hike with a variety of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and waterfalls. The trail features a steady climb that rewards hikers with expansive views of Liberty Lake and the surrounding areas. It’s a great spot for an all-day hike or a peaceful nature walk.
Beacon Hill
Trail Length: Various
About: Beacon Hill offers numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, just minutes from downtown Spokane. It provides sweeping views of the city, and there are several options for both easy and more challenging hikes. The terrain is a mix of forested areas and rocky outcrops, making it a versatile spot for outdoor recreation.
Saltese Uplands Conservation Area
Trail Length: 7 miles
About: Located southeast of Spokane near Liberty Lake, Saltese Uplands offers a peaceful hiking experience with rolling hills, grasslands, and panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The trails are suitable for all levels, providing a mix of moderate climbs and gentle slopes. The area is great for wildlife observation, with frequent sightings of deer, birds, and other wildlife.
Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail
Trail Length: 3.3 miles
About: Although located just across the state line in Idaho, this popular trail is a short drive from Spokane. The trail offers a moderately easy hike with beautiful views of Lake Coeur d'Alene. Along the trail, hikers can explore interpretive signs detailing the area’s natural history, making it a great educational hike for families.
High Drive Bluff Park
Trail Length: Various
About: High Drive Bluff Park is a sprawling natural area in Spokane’s South Hill neighborhood, featuring miles of interconnected trails. The bluff offers panoramic views of the Latah Creek Valley and downtown Spokane, and the trails range from easy to moderate. It’s popular for both hiking and mountain biking, with access points throughout the neighborhood.
