The best cycling routes around Spokane

Spokane offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 40 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging rides.

Spokane experiences four distinct seasons and boasts approximately 260 sunny days a year, making it a great destination for cycling for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides warm, sunny conditions ideal for long rides. Even winter can be enjoyable on milder days, especially on paved, maintained trails.

Yes, Spokane has 10 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. A great option is the Spokane River Centennial Trail, a paved, traffic-free path offering continuous scenic river views. The Fish Lake Trail is another nearly 15-mile off-street rail-trail known for its smooth and shaded path with a gentle grade.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Spokane offers 11 difficult routes. One such route is the South Dishman Mica Road & East Elder Road gravel loop, which covers nearly 37 miles through rural areas. The Riverfront Park – Views of Spokane River loop from Spokane also presents a difficult, longer loop experience.

Yes, Spokane has several excellent circular touring cycling routes. The North Crestline Street to East Peone Road & Moffat Road loop is a popular moderate option, providing a longer loop through varied landscapes. Another challenging loop is the Abandoned car – Camp Sekani Conservation Area loop from Spokane Community College.

Spokane's touring cycling routes often feature stunning natural attractions. You can encounter the impressive Upper Spokane Falls, the unique Bowl and Pitcher rock formations, and the scenic Indian Canyon Mystic Falls. Many routes also offer panoramic views from spots like Beacon Hill or Eagle Peak Viewpoint in Dishman Hills.

Yes, Spokane is known for its extensive network of off-street paths. The Spokane River Centennial Trail is a prime example, offering a paved, traffic-free experience. Other notable paths include the Fish Lake Trail, the Ben Burr Trail, and the Children of the Sun Trail (CoST), all providing low-stress cycling away from vehicle traffic.

The touring cycling routes in Spokane are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from continuous river views along the Spokane River to forested areas with ponderosa pines and expansive rolling hills. The well-maintained trails and variety of options for all skill levels are also frequently highlighted.

Beyond dedicated trails, Spokane's location at the edge of the Palouse and Columbia River Plateau provides excellent opportunities for road cycling. You can find expansive flat terrain alongside rolling hills, with popular routes like the South Spokane—Valley Chapel Loop and the Saltese Flats Loop offering scenic rides through wheat fields and picturesque landscapes.

Spokane's cycling landscape is incredibly diverse. You'll encounter the prominent Spokane River carving through basalt canyons, extensive forested sections with ponderosa pines and Douglas-firs, and open plains with rolling hills. Riverside State Park, for instance, offers stunning views of the Spokane River amidst impressive basalt formations.

For broader information on outdoor recreation and activities in the Spokane area, you can visit the official tourism website: visitspokane.com.