Eastern Washington is most popular for its numerous hiking trails. The region is geologically fascinating, with incredible mountains and a variety of peculiar rock appearances. Spokane, also found in this region, is home to many tumbling waterfalls, amazing rivers, several state parks, and nature preservation areas. The city is surrounded by several places to hike. If you decide to take a ride to Washington, you can try one of the following hiking trails near Spokane.
Bowl and Pitcher Loop
- Elevation gain: 166 feet
- Distance: 2 miles
Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail is an excellent option for first-timers and kids. It is considered to be one of the best hikes trails in Spokane. At about 2.1 miles long, the trail features a river and is suitable for all skills levels. You can enjoy a tranquil moment at the Riverside State Park that is accessible via the swinging bridge along this trail. The trail also features basalt extensions that also form rocky supports across the river.
You can also follow this trail to a Civilian Conservation Corps within the deep pine forest where you can end your day by resting and having a meal. The camp features restrooms, picnic tables, and a beach area.
Riverside Hills Loop
- Elevation gain: 251 feet
- Distance: 3.3 miles
If you are coming from downtown Spokane, the Riverside Hills is the nearest trail. The trail leads to both Water Tower Hill and Boat Hill through a smooth graded path. You can find the loop in Riverside State Park. It goes through the forest and up the hills that are slightly above the Spokane River.
From the peak of the hills, you have an incredible view of the landscape below and the rusty water tower on one of the nearby hills.
Antoine Peak Conservation Area
- Elevation gain: 600 feet
- Distance: 3.7 miles
Antoine Peak Conservation is a two-track trail that offers a scenic view of the city. The first track leads to the summit, where you have a mesmerizing view of Spokane, Liberty Lake and Spokane Valley. At about 700 feet up, this trail allows for a steady and moderate climb.
There is also the Emerald Necklace Trail that leads you around the entire mountain. The trail is about five miles total. You can also find a variety of brightly colored wildflowers lining the trail. The Antoine Peak Conservation is a habitat for wildlife and is popular among many people interested in the outdoors. Some of the most popular activities in this conservation area are hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking.
Waterfall Loop Trail
- Elevation gain: 125 feet
- Distance: 1.1 miles
The Waterfall Loop offers hikers the chance to walk on trafficked trails and traverse deeper into the woods. The loop is only one mile, but it’s long enough to let you unleash your inner adventurous self as you cross the Indian Canyon Creek multiple times. This area is wet most of the year. However, you can carefully navigate through the creek by using strategically placed rocks and logs.
Parking is available along the road near the trailhead along Trail 102. Head off the main trail down the creek from the 0.4-mile mark.
Painted Rocks Trail
- Elevation gain: 72 feet
- Distance: 3.5 miles
The painted rocks are above the Little Spokane River Marshland. The trail features a collection of rocks marked with native carvings that are fascinating to view in person. You can also find everglade animals and nomadic beasts like moose and deer in the marsh. Usually, the trail remains dry, but you will want to put on some sturdy boots after a recent snowfall or rain.
You can choose to end your day after spending some time at the rocks, admiring the stone carvings, and return the same way you came. Alternatively, you can choose to climb the Knothead Trail for some more adventure. The extended 8-mile loop towers up several twists, offering a grand view of Spokane. You can head back to where you parked via this trail.
Indian Canyon Mystic Falls
- Elevation gain: 104 feet
- Distance: 0.8 miles
Located just three miles west of downtown Spokane in Indian Canyon Park, the Mystic Falls offers an ideal hiking location for the entire family. The site is part of the larger Palisades Park and is close to the Canyon Golf Course.
You will be able to hear the waterfall from the parking area, even in mid-summer when the water flow is less powerful. You can get to Mystic Falls via multiple descents, but the easiest way is by following the wide trail which curves around the Canyon for about a quarter of a mile. There, you’ll find a well-maintained trail to the right which leads down into the falls.
McKenzie Conservation Area
- Elevation gain: 378 feet
- Distance: 1.8 miles
The McKenzie Conservation Area offers a small network of natural trails that lead to the bank of Newman Lake. The Turtle Rock is the main popular attraction in this conservation area. It consists of a large outcrop and can easily be reached in less than 1.5 miles.
Most of the route to the Turtle Rock is shaded by the area’s dense forest, which opens up upon reaching the lake. The view across the water is spectacular and can tempt you to take a few minutes to relax. Mount Spokane comes into view 10 miles away, making the view even more scenic.
Apart from the lake view, you can also enjoy watching the wildlife found in this area. You will spot many birds, like bald eagles, soaring through the sky. Getting to and from Turtle Rock is quite easy as the network of trails offers you a variety of routes. There you have it: top hiking trails near Spokane as recommended by our team of experts. Do you think we have left any interesting trails out? You can leave a comment below or even tell us your favorite among the ones listed here. Any time you are in Spokane, Washington, you can try one of these trails and enjoy the moment. Our friendly team at Wendle Ford is happy to help you find the perfect car to get you to your new favorite trail.
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