One of Spokane’s branding mottos was ‘Near Nature, Near Perfect’. With so many outdoor activities in Spokane and within an hour or two, it is easy to understand why this saying defined Spokane. For starters, few cities are host to a great waterfall right in the center of the city at Riverfront Park! Spokane river, miles of trails, tons of city parks, two state parks, a mountain and great topographical variety make this city a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. As a Spokane photographer for seniors, college grads and couples; I have loved searching and finding the best places for photo sessions. Through my explorations I have found some outdoor activities that you may enjoy too. In this article, you can expect to find some of the top outdoor activities in Spokane especially for teens and young adults.
Exploring Parks in Spokane
- Riverfront Park – Riverfront is home to one of the few city center waterfalls in the USA. Be sure to check out the falls during springs high flows. At Riverfront you’ll find several trails along and over the river. Be sure to find the suspension bridge with one of the best views of the falls. Other adventures await with ice or roller skating, a carousel, sky ride over the falls, food trucks, and seasonal outdoor concerts.
- Manito Park – Manito Park is packed with beautiful gardens, ponds and walking paths. Like Central Park in New York City, Manito Park was designed by the Olmstead Brothers. Walk around ponds, a rose hill, lilac gardens, a Japanese garden, and a French Classic garden crowned with a conservatory. Manito Park is a great place for a special date or a picnic adventure with friends.
Centennial Trail in Spokane
The most notable trail within Spokane is the Centennial trail. It is a must-visit attraction for both walkers and bikers. The trail starts in the Nine Mile Falls Recreation area. From there, it continues with 40 miles of paved trails to Idaho. Passing through a state park, riverfront park, and Gonzaga, this well maintained trails has beautiful views of the Spokane river, nature and city.
Hiking Adventures in Spokane
- Mt Spokane State Park – This is the best place to find new trails, crisp mountain air and epic views. Explore 100+ miles of trails. My three favorites are Quartz Mountain Fire Lookout, Mt Kit Carson loop and the Vista House at the mountains peak. Hike to the Vista House by starting at the Upper Kit Carson parking lot.
- Iller Creek Conservation Area – Accessed from the north or south, hiking to the Rocks of Sharon is sure to take your breath away. There are panoramic views of the Palouse and awesome rock formations. The Rocks of Sharon are often used for rock climbing or bouldering.
- Riverside State Park – Along the Spokane river, this park has a vast trail system. The most popular trails start by crossing the Spokane river on a beautiful suspended bridge. From the bridge you can see the famous Bowl and Pitcher formation.
Outdoor Activities on the Water for Teens & Young Adults
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding – For kayakers and paddleboarders, you’ll find the winding Little Spokane River to be a special treat of nature and wildlife. Many easy access lakes can also be enjoyed just outside of Spokane. Liberty Lake, Fish Lake, Deer Lake, Loon Lake, Bear Lake and Medical Lake are all great places to explore on the water.
- Fishing – Popular fishing locations are Badger Lake, West Medical Lake, Sprague Lake, Downs Lake, Liberty Lake, Newman Lake and Long Lake.
- Whitewater Rafting – For adventure seekers, local rafting companies offer trips down the Spokane river over two thrilling class III rapids. Looking for something more calm, check out tubing options on the calmer stretches of river.
Camping and Outdoor Stays
- Campgrounds – For super close camping nothing beats Riverside State Park. Outside of town you will find great camping adventures anywhere you look.
- Backpacking Adventures
- For the closest backpacking trip, Mica Peak is a 15.6 mile out and back hike. Try Mica Peak in a day or split it into two days. The trail starts out of Liberty Lake County Park.
- At Mt Spokane you can rent the Quartz Mountain Fire Lookout. The lookout is a great starter trip in backpacking. With a short 2-1/4 mile trip, this hike is quite easy.
- CDA, Sandpoint, Kettle Falls and Colville National Forest are all great starting points for backpacking adventures.
- Want to go extreme? Try the 1200 mile Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT). Similar to the Pacific Crest Trail but runs east west from the Rocky Mountains in Montana to Washingtons pacific coast.
Winter Outdoor Fun in Spokane
- Mt Spokane State Park – Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is host for both thrill seekers or those trying out the sport for the first time. Snowshoer’s and cross country skiers will find many groomed trails and warming cabins. Lastly, a tubing run with lift is also available.
- Riverfront Park Ice Skating – For a downtown winter date, try the Ice ribbon at Riverfront Park. The ice ribbon skating is open November through February.
Conclusion
Spokane lives up to its motto, “Near Nature, Near Perfect,” with an abundance of outdoor activities for every season. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just getting some sun, there’s no shortage of adventure. So, grab your gear, step outside, and start exploring all that Spokane has to offer!
- If you are a high school junior or senior, I would love to take your senior pictures in natural and urban locations that stand out as much as you will in your photos. I am excited to share many more photo locations I have found that are not listed in this article and may suit you best. Let’s chat!
- Are you a soon to be college graduate? Lets get those college grad pics right on your campus!
- Newly engaged? That’s right – lets get your engagement photos for announcements, invitations or just to remember this time of life!
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