The best walks and hikes around Airway Heights

The Palisades Park Outer Loop offers a truly varied hiking experience, winding through diverse terrain from gravel paths to rocky, narrow sections. You'll traverse packed dirt and old fire roads, passing through meadows and lightly forested areas, all while enjoying the unique basalt rock formations that define the park. Keep an eye out for the stunning Indian Canyon Mystic Falls and the expansive views of Spokane on Trail 120, which make the effort of this moderate route incredibly rewarding. It's a journey through changing scenery that feels much further from the city than it is.

Planning your visit means being ready for anything, especially if you're considering a spring hike; the trail can become quite challenging with significant flooding and saturated ground, sometimes resembling brooks with foot-deep water. Even in drier seasons, some boggy spots attract mosquitoes, and summer can bring overgrowth. The park is open year-round and welcomes hikers, leashed dogs, horses, and mountain bikers, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.

This 6.2-mile (9.9 km) loop, with its 564 feet (172 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and geological features of Spokane, including panoramic city views and the chance to spot wildlife like moose in the park's extensive acreage. The trail's moderate difficulty and varied landscape make it a great option for those seeking a substantial hike close to urban amenities.

The Trail 25 and Centennial Loop offers a delightful mix of river views, forested paths, and open meadows near Spokane. You'll traverse varied terrain, from packed dirt to rocky sections, passing through groves of ponderosa pines and Douglas firs. Keep an eye out for wildflowers like lupines and Indian paintbrushes in spring and summer, and enjoy the serene flow of the Spokane River as you hike.

This moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) hiking route involves 527 feet (161 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available near the Spokane Valley Mall area or at Riverside State Park's Bowl and Pitcher, and public transport via Spokane Transit Authority (STA) bus routes also serves the area. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to the varied surfaces.

Beyond the natural beauty, the trail is rich in history, incorporating sections of the Spokane River Centennial Trail and passing through Riverside State Park, which dates back to the 1930s. The striking basalt rock pillars of the Bowl and Pitcher, a significant landmark for Native American tribes and early settlers, are a highlight, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

The Rimrock Drive trail offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, winding along a smooth gravel path through diverse scenery. You'll encounter impressive cliffs of pillow basalt on one side, providing stunning panoramic views of downtown Spokane, Mica Peak, and Mount Spokane. The route then transitions into lightly forested areas with expansive meadows that come alive with wildflowers in late spring and early summer, making this 2.3-mile (3.6 km), 118-foot (36 metres) elevation gain hike a scenic journey that takes about 57 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is conveniently located just four miles from downtown Spokane in Palisades Park. Parking is available, but be sure to secure your valuables in your vehicle, as there have been reports of car prowlers in the area. The trail is accessible year-round, welcoming hikers, runners, and bikers in warmer months, and even cross-country skiers or snowshoers when snow falls.

What makes Rimrock Drive particularly notable is its transformation from an old vehicle road into a multi-use recreational path, offering an urban escape with a rich history. The substantial basalt cliffs not only provide dramatic views but also present opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering. This easy route is a fantastic way to experience some of the best views of downtown Spokane and the Spokane River Valley, providing a convenient natural retreat close to the city.

The Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible hike through unique geological formations and lush forest right outside Spokane. You'll traverse a path winding past towering ponderosa pines and moss-covered rocks, with frequent glimpses of the Spokane River. The highlight is undoubtedly the iconic "Bowl and Pitcher" rock formations and the chance to cross the historic "Swinging Bridge," making this 2.3-mile (3.7 km) easy loop a scenic adventure.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is just minutes from downtown Spokane within Riverside State Park. The route is family-friendly and welcomes leashed dogs, making it a great option for nearly everyone. While the 132 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain is minimal, some sections can be rocky, and the basalt formations may be slippery after rain, so wear appropriate footwear. You can complete this hike in about 59 minutes, making it perfect for a quick escape.

This trail is notable for its distinctive basalt rock formations, sculpted by ancient floods, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's natural history. Beyond the geological wonders, keep an eye out for local wildlife like geese, marmots, and deer. Its combination of unique natural features, accessibility, and suitability for all skill levels makes it one of the most popular trails in the Spokane area.

The Trail 102 Loop in Spokane, Washington, is a delightful and accessible hike that winds through varied terrain, from singletrack with loose basalt and roots to more open areas with large pines. You'll enjoy the tranquil sound of running water near Indian Canyon Mystic Falls and catch glimpses of Spokane from Trail 120, making it a rewarding experience for its easy difficulty.

This 1.7-mile (2.7 km) route, with a modest 215 feet (66 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 46 minutes to complete. It's a multi-use trail where dogs are welcome, and it's particularly lovely in spring when wildflowers like camas and balsam root are in bloom, offering a vibrant display.

Located within Palisades Park, this loop is an excellent choice for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a quick nature fix without a strenuous climb. While you're enjoying the scenery, you might also spot low-flying airplanes, adding a unique touch to your outdoor adventure.