The best cycling routes in Spokane County

The "Drive to the Top of Mount Spokane" offers a challenging touring cycling experience, starting in the peaceful, heavily forested lower slopes alongside Bear Creek. As you ascend, the scenery transforms, with trees giving way to exposed sections and eventually rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Mount Spokane, stretching across the Spokane Valley and into Idaho.

This difficult 12.7-mile (20.4 km) climb, gaining 3735 feet (1138 metres) over approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes, is best tackled by cyclists with good fitness. The paved North Summit Road is generally in good condition, though the final miles can be rougher, and you'll share the road with mild traffic. The full route to the summit is typically open from mid-June to mid-October, so plan your trip accordingly.

This route is renowned as one of Washington state's most demanding road bike climbs, making it a significant achievement for any touring cyclist. It traverses Mount Spokane State Park, the largest state park in Washington, which adds to its appeal with diverse landscapes and historical significance dating back to road construction in 1909.

The Spokane River Centennial Trail offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, guiding you along the river through a fascinating blend of urban and natural settings. You'll pedal past the iconic Spokane Falls in Riverfront Park, then transition into areas featuring high desert ponderosa pine forests and striking basalt canyons, with continuous river views accompanying much of your ride. The trail's predominantly paved surface makes for a smooth journey, though some segments present a moderate challenge with their elevation changes.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is highly accessible with 18 marked trailheads, many offering parking and restrooms. While the full 20.2-mile (32.5 km) route with 575 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 1 hour and 53 minutes, you can easily choose shorter sections to suit your fitness and time. The trail is suitable for most touring cyclists, and its ADA-accessible nature ensures a wide range of users can enjoy it.

What truly sets this trail apart is its seamless connection to the North Idaho Centennial Trail, creating a continuous paved path stretching approximately 64 miles to Coeur d'Alene. Beyond cycling, it's a multi-use pathway popular for walking and inline skating, and it passes through culturally significant sites like the 1974 World's Fair location in downtown Spokane, offering a unique blend of recreation and history.

The North Crestline Street to East Peone Road & Moffat Road loop offers a fantastic touring cycling experience, winding through a mix of Spokane's urban and rural landscapes. You'll enjoy varied scenery, from riverfront paths near the Spokane Iron Bridge to the tranquil, open stretches of Moffat Road, a local favorite. This 30.3-mile (48.8 km) route provides a longer, engaging ride for those who appreciate diverse views and a good workout.

Planning your ride on this popular loop is straightforward, though it's always wise to carry enough water and snacks for the nearly 3-hour duration. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, the route's popularity suggests accessible starting points. Spring and autumn are often the best seasons to tackle this moderate route, offering comfortable temperatures for the 1228 feet (374 metres) of elevation gain.

This loop is highly rated by the Spokane cycling community, known for its length and the variety it offers compared to shorter local trails. It's a great option if you're looking to explore more of the region's cycling routes, moving beyond purely paved paths to experience rolling hills and open plains. The inclusion of Moffat Road specifically adds to its appeal as a quiet and scenic stretch.

The South Dishman Mica Road & East Elder Road gravel loop offers a substantial touring cycling experience through Spokane's varied rural landscapes. You'll navigate rolling hills and diverse terrain, from forested sections near the Dishman Hills Natural Resources Conservation Area to open plains, with a notable View of Latah Valley and River along the way. The gravel surfaces can range from packed to loose, providing a true test for your bike handling skills and fitness.

This difficult 37.1-mile (59.6 km) route, with its 2475 feet (754 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete. It's a demanding ride that requires good fitness and preparation for challenging segments. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the route is well-regarded among local cyclists looking for advanced gravel cycling routes in the Spokane area.

Connecting to the broader Palouse region, this loop is a prime example of the extensive network of gravel roads available for exploration. It's a favorite among touring cyclists for its rural character and the opportunity to experience the region's unique agricultural scenery and natural beauty, making it one of the best gravel cycling loops near Spokane WA.

The Greenbluff Meadows Airport loop via Children of the Sun Trail & North Bruce Road offers a dynamic touring cycling adventure, blending the smooth, paved Children of the Sun Trail with the scenic, hilly roads of the Green Bluff agricultural region. You'll experience varied landscapes, from open spaces along the trail to the picturesque rolling farms of Green Bluff, making for a truly engaging ride. This difficult 42.7-mile (68.7 km) route, with its 2207 feet (673 metres) of elevation gain, is a substantial undertaking, typically requiring around 4 hours and 18 minutes to complete. It's best suited for experienced cyclists seeking a challenging workout and diverse scenery.

While specific parking information for the entire loop isn't detailed, the Children of the Sun Trail is designed for accessibility, offering multiple entry points. Given the route's length and significant climbing, plan to carry ample water and nutrition. The Green Bluff area is particularly beautiful in spring and fall, offering comfortable temperatures and stunning agricultural vistas, so consider these seasons for your visit. Always check local conditions before you set out to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The Children of the Sun Trail is a significant active transportation corridor, part of an expanding network connecting Spokane County. Its integration with the rural roads of Green Bluff, including North Bruce Road, creates a unique loop that combines modern trail infrastructure with traditional road cycling challenges. This route stands out for its blend of dedicated cycling path and the quiet, scenic beauty of an agricultural region, offering a distinct experience compared to other Spokane bike trails.

This challenging touring bicycle route, the Riverfront Park – Views of Spokane River loop, offers a diverse and scenic experience along the Spokane River. You'll pedal past the impressive Upper Spokane Falls, the largest urban waterfall in the United States, and through sections that blend urban parkland with natural Ponderosa pine forests and basalt canyons. It's a demanding 31.9-mile (51.3 km) ride with 1979 feet (603 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 3 hours and 16 minutes, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a substantial workout with rewarding views.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as Riverfront Park is centrally located and easily accessible in downtown Spokane. The route primarily utilizes the well-maintained, paved Spokane River Centennial Trail, which is suitable for touring cyclists. Spokane is a bike-friendly city, so you'll find good infrastructure to support your ride. Consider starting early to make the most of the day and enjoy the various viewpoints along the way.

The Riverfront Park area is a significant access point to the 40-mile Spokane River Centennial Trail, a nationally recognized recreation path that sees over 2.5 million users annually. Beyond the natural beauty of the Spokane River and Falls, you'll encounter historic features like the Great Northern Clock Tower and the U.S. Pavilion, remnants of Expo '74. This blend of natural spectacle and historical significance makes the Spokane River loop a truly unique cycling destination.

The Spokane Iron Bridge – Riverfront Park loop from Veradale offers a varied touring cycling experience, taking you from suburban paths to the heart of Spokane's urban oasis. You'll follow the scenic Spokane River Centennial Trail, enjoying continuous river views and passing through areas with ponderosa pines and impressive basalt formations. The route's highlight is cycling through Riverfront Park, where you can take in the powerful Upper Spokane Falls and historic landmarks like the Great Northern Clock Tower.

This moderate 29.5-mile (47.4 km) ride, with 655 feet (200 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 46 minutes. While mostly paved, the distance and gradual inclines require a good level of fitness. Starting from Veradale, the route is generally accessible, but it's wise to plan for parking and carry sufficient water for the duration of your ride.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience Spokane's unique blend of natural beauty and urban development. The historic Spokane Iron Bridge, built in 1911, is a key feature, connecting you to the Centennial Trail State Park and offering a glimpse into the region's past. The route showcases the extensive network of cycling paths that make Spokane a great destination for touring cyclists.

The Riverfront Park – Upper Spokane Falls loop offers a unique urban touring cycling experience, winding through a beautiful park setting with impressive natural features. You'll pedal along paved paths, enjoying continuous views of the Spokane River and the powerful Upper Spokane Falls, which stands out as the largest urban waterfall in the U.S. The route is a moderate 10.0-mile (16.1 km) loop with a manageable 595 feet (181 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just over an hour, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely ride.

Planning your visit to this accessible route is simple, as the park features well-maintained paved trails suitable for all skill levels. You'll find plenty of amenities like restrooms and bike racks within Riverfront Park. While no specific permits are needed for this loop, arriving earlier in the day can help you avoid peak crowds, especially during warmer months, ensuring a more peaceful ride.

This loop is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, having been revitalized for Expo '74. Beyond the stunning waterfall, you'll pass landmarks like the Great Northern Clock Tower and the U.S. Pavilion, and see public art installations. The route also connects to the extensive Spokane River Centennial Trail, offering opportunities to explore further into the region's diverse landscapes.