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Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail

Easy

4.6

(4491)

13,804

hikers

Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail

Q: Is the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, this trail is generally considered easy and is a great option for beginners and families. It offers an accessible way to experience the natural beauty of Riverside State Park. While mostly easy, some sections might have short climbs or descents, and sturdy shoes are recommended due to potentially slippery basalt rocks, especially after rain.

Q: Where can I park to access the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

The trail is located within Riverside State Park. You can find parking areas near the main entrance to the Bowl and Pitcher area, which provides direct access to the trailhead and the iconic Swinging Bridge .

Q: Do I need a permit or pass to hike the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

Yes, a Discover Pass is required for vehicular entrance to Riverside State Park, where the trail is located. This pass allows you to park and access the park's facilities.

Q: Is the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail is accessible year-round, offering different scenic experiences with each season. Spring brings lush greenery, summer is great for river views, fall showcases vibrant foliage, and winter offers a serene, snow-dusted landscape. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

Q: What natural features and landmarks can I see along the trail?

Hikers are treated to several notable features. You'll cross the historic Swinging Bridge , which offers spectacular views of the Spokane River. The trail also winds past the unique Bowl and Pitcher rock formations , ancient basalt structures carved by Ice Age floods. You'll also get a great View of the Spokane River from Trail 25 .

Q: What is the terrain like on the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

The trail features a diverse mix of terrain, including partially paved sections and natural forest paths. You'll walk along riverside pathways and through peaceful, wooded areas. Be aware that some sections may have basalt rocks that can be slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trail?

Riverside State Park is a haven for wildlife. Along the trail, you might spot deer, various bird species like eagles and herons, and other small mammals. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Q: Does the trail connect with other hiking paths?

Yes, the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail intersects with several other paths within Riverside State Park. The route covers 100% of the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail itself, but also passes through sections of the Spokane River Centennial Trail, Trail 25, and Trail 211, offering opportunities to extend your hike.

Q: Are there any specific tips for hiking the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

To fully enjoy your hike, wear sturdy shoes, especially if it has rained recently, as the basalt rocks can be slippery. Starting your hike by crossing the Swinging Bridge offers an immediate and memorable experience with great views of the river and canyon walls.

01:00

3.73km

40m

Hiking

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.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Riverside State Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

216 m

Swinging Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

This swinging bridge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during its creation of Riverside State Park. The bridge crosses the Spokane River and allows access to the bulk of the park's trails across the river from the Visitors Center.

Tip by

326 m

Bowl and Pitcher rock formations

Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument

This area of the trail is known as "Bowl and Pitcher" because of basaltic rock formations that can be seen along the banks of the Spokane River that imaginative visitors have said resemble a bowl on its side in one area and a pitcher in another.

Tip by

802 m

View of the Spokane River from Trail 25

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

The trail winds its way alongside the Spokane River, offering breathtaking views and the soothing sound of flowing water. Be mindful that the trail can be rocky in certain areas, so it's important to wear appropriate footwear and pay attention to your footing.

Tip by

3.73 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.04 km

602 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

2.86 km

389 m

349 m

134 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Tuesday 14 July

31°C

16°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, this trail is generally considered easy and is a great option for beginners and families. It offers an accessible way to experience the natural beauty of Riverside State Park. While mostly easy, some sections might have short climbs or descents, and sturdy shoes are recommended due to potentially slippery basalt rocks, especially after rain.

Where can I park to access the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

The trail is located within Riverside State Park. You can find parking areas near the main entrance to the Bowl and Pitcher area, which provides direct access to the trailhead and the iconic Swinging Bridge.

Do I need a permit or pass to hike the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

Yes, a Discover Pass is required for vehicular entrance to Riverside State Park, where the trail is located. This pass allows you to park and access the park's facilities.

Is the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail is accessible year-round, offering different scenic experiences with each season. Spring brings lush greenery, summer is great for river views, fall showcases vibrant foliage, and winter offers a serene, snow-dusted landscape. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

What natural features and landmarks can I see along the trail?

Hikers are treated to several notable features. You'll cross the historic Swinging Bridge, which offers spectacular views of the Spokane River. The trail also winds past the unique Bowl and Pitcher rock formations, ancient basalt structures carved by Ice Age floods. You'll also get a great View of the Spokane River from Trail 25.

What is the terrain like on the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

The trail features a diverse mix of terrain, including partially paved sections and natural forest paths. You'll walk along riverside pathways and through peaceful, wooded areas. Be aware that some sections may have basalt rocks that can be slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trail?

Riverside State Park is a haven for wildlife. Along the trail, you might spot deer, various bird species like eagles and herons, and other small mammals. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Does the trail connect with other hiking paths?

Yes, the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail intersects with several other paths within Riverside State Park. The route covers 100% of the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail itself, but also passes through sections of the Spokane River Centennial Trail, Trail 25, and Trail 211, offering opportunities to extend your hike.

Are there any specific tips for hiking the Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail?

To fully enjoy your hike, wear sturdy shoes, especially if it has rained recently, as the basalt rocks can be slippery. Starting your hike by crossing the Swinging Bridge offers an immediate and memorable experience with great views of the river and canyon walls.