The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Kootenai County

The English Point Red Loop Trail offers a delightful and easy escape into the woods, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll wander through peaceful forested areas on a wide, well-maintained path, enjoying the tranquility and occasional filtered views of Hayden Lake. The route is an easy 1.9 miles (3.1 km) with a modest 145 feet (44 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 50 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is conveniently located near Hayden and is open year-round, even suitable for winter activities like snowshoeing. It's specifically designated for hikers, ensuring a quiet experience free from mountain bikes or motorized vehicles. Parking is readily available at the trailhead, and the path is well-marked, so you won't need to worry about navigation.

This National Recreation Trail is part of the larger Idaho Panhandle National Forest system, known for its accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere. It's a popular choice for those seeking a convenient outdoor experience, complete with benches, a viewing platform, and even a boardwalk over a small pond. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like squirrels as you enjoy this charming loop.

If you're seeking a diverse and engaging hike close to Spokane County, the Canfield Gulch Loop delivers a rewarding experience. This route takes you through dense forests of pine and fir, offering a mix of old logging roads and newer singletrack. You'll enjoy panoramic views of the Spokane Valley and distant mountains, with the chance to spot wildlife around LeLand Pond. The trail's varied terrain, including some steep sections, makes it a great choice for a moderately strenuous outing.

To plan your trip, know that the Canfield Gulch Loop is accessible throughout the year, making it versatile for different activities. While popular for hiking in warmer months, it also welcomes snowshoers and skiers in winter. The trailhead is easy to find within the Antoine Peak Conservation Area, and parking is generally available. Arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) loop, with 636 feet (194 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. It's nestled within a diverse ecosystem known for critical wildlife habitat, offering a sense of solitude despite its proximity to urban areas. The trail system has seen improvements, with new singletrack sections enhancing the experience beyond the older logging roads.

Step into the serene, multi-use English Point Yellow Loop, an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) hiking trail near Hayden Lake that winds through a lush forest of ponderosa pines and firs. You'll enjoy gentle terrain with only 136 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect, low-effort outing that takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes. Keep an eye out for occasional filtered views of Hayden Lake and the distant Canfield Range, especially from the southern sections, and enjoy the charming boardwalk over a small pond.

This popular local resource is open year-round, even for winter activities like snowshoeing, though it can get muddy in spring and fall. Parking is readily available at the trailhead, and the route is well-marked, ensuring easy navigation for all visitors. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for a family-friendly or dog-friendly trail close to town.

The English Point trail system holds the distinction of being a National Recreation Trail, reflecting its quality and importance. Thanks to recent improvements, you'll find benches, an amphitheater, and a picnic table along the way, enhancing your experience on this cherished community asset. It's a great spot for a peaceful walk or a quick outdoor escape.

The LeLand Pond loop offers a tranquil escape around the clear waters of Upper and Lower Leland Ponds, primarily known for their excellent fishing and boating. While not a traditional, rugged hiking trail, you'll discover informal paths that provide a pleasant, moderate 6.7-mile (10.8 km) walk with 1207 feet (368 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes. It's a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful day out, combining nature appreciation with the chance to cast a line.

Planning your visit is easy, with parking available at Upper Leland Pond, which features a concrete launch ramp and space for about 10 vehicles and trailers. Lower Leland Pond's access is just across the road, offering an undeveloped hand launch. Since the paths are more informal, be ready for general walking around the pond edges rather than clearly defined hiking routes. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed outing, especially if you enjoy fishing or a quiet stroll.

These glacial kettle ponds, deepened in the 1830s to support the Chenango and Erie Canals, are now a haven for aquatic life, including brown trout, largemouth bass, and tiger muskellunge. The surrounding area showcases typical New York State flora and fauna, making it a great spot for wildlife observation. This route is particularly appealing for families and dog-friendly trails near LeLand Pond, offering a gentle introduction to the region's natural beauty.