Spokane Bike Routes
Explore the best Spokane mountain bike routes for epic singletrack adventures, scenic river rides, and challenging mountain climbs. Use this guide and the route planner to find rides that match your goals and riding style.
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Best Spokane Bike Routes for Different Ride Goals
Best Spokane Bike Routes for Different Ride Goals
Best for a Quick Workout
Short on time? The Centennial Trail from Riverfront Park to the Spokane Valley offers 10 miles of flat, fast riding in under an hour. For climbing intervals, High Drive on the South Hill delivers 700 feet of vertical in 2 miles — a perfect lunch-break sufferfest.
Best for Scenic Adventure
The Little Spokane River Natural Area ride takes you along turquoise water and limestone cliffs — 5 miles of pure scenic beauty. For a longer adventure, the Liberty Lake Loop combines lakeside cruising with forest climbing for a half-day of exploration.
Best for Mountain Bike Thrills
Beacon Hill's trail network is the go-to for quick singletrack laps, while Mount Spokane offers full-day alpine riding with 1,500 feet of descent. Riverside State Park's Bowl and Pitcher delivers technical rock-garden challenges close to town.
Best for Family Rides
The Centennial Trail through Riverfront Park is perfect for families — flat, paved, and packed with places to stop. Liberty Lake's lower loop is another family favorite with a swimming beach for a post-ride cool-down.
Types of Bike Routes in Spokane
Beginner-Friendly Bike Routes in Spokane
Beginner-Friendly Routes
Spokane is a great place to start cycling. The Centennial Trail offers 37 miles of flat, paved path — ride as much or as little as you want. The Little Spokane River Natural Area is a gentle 5-mile out-and-back on a natural surface. Liberty Lake's lower loop is flat, scenic, and ends at a swimming beach. These routes build confidence and fitness without technical challenges.
Scenic Bike Routes in Spokane
Scenic Adventure Routes
For riders who want views with their miles, Spokane delivers. The Centennial Trail riverside segments pass through pine forests and river canyons. The Palisades Park bluff trail offers panoramic city and valley views. The Little Spokane River ride is one of the most photogenic in the region with turquoise water and limestone walls. Mount Spokane's summit ride delivers three-state alpine panoramas.
Custom Bike Routes with the Spokane Route Planner
Custom Route Planning
Spokane's trail networks connect, letting you build custom loops that match exactly what you want. Combine High Drive with the Palisades rim trail for a South Hill climbing-and-views loop. Link Centennial Trail segments with Beacon Hill singletrack for a mixed-surface adventure. Use our AI route planner to generate a custom route based on your start point, time, and preferences.
How to Choose the Right Spokane Bike Route
How to Choose the Right Spokane Bike Route
Choosing your route comes down to what you're riding, how much time you have, and what kind of experience you're after. Here's a simple framework:
Match Your Bike to the Surface
Road bikes belong on the Centennial Trail and paved roads. Gravel and cross bikes handle High Drive, Saltese Uplands, and mixed-surface adventures. Mountain bikes are essential for Beacon Hill, Riverside State Park, and Mount Spokane singletrack.
Consider Your Time Budget
Got 45 minutes? Hit High Drive for a quick climb or Beacon Hill for a fast lap. Have a full day? Mount Spokane or a Centennial Trail out-and-back to Coeur d'Alene will fill it. Match your route to the time you actually have.
Check Conditions Before You Go
Spokane trails change fast with weather. After rain, forested trails like Beacon Hill and Mount Spokane need 1-2 dry days. In August, watch for wildfire smoke advisories. Check trail condition reports and weather before committing to a route.
What to Know Before Riding in Spokane
What to Know Before You Ride Routes in Spokane
Plan Your Hydration
Spokane's dry climate means you'll dehydrate faster than you expect, especially in summer. Carry more water than you think you need, especially on Mount Spokane and longer routes where resupply isn't available. A hydration pack is a good investment for trail riding.
Share Your Route Plan
Many Spokane routes — especially backcountry trails on Mount Spokane and in Riverside State Park — have limited cell service. Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back. Ride with a partner when possible.
Respect Trail Closures
Trails close for mud season, wildlife, and maintenance. Riding closed trails damages the surface and can close them longer. Check the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance Spokane chapter or our trail conditions page before heading out.
Explore Spokane's Bike Trails
Check out our guide to the best bike trails in Spokane with detailed descriptions and ratings.
Find Local Shops
Discover bike shops in Spokane for gear, repairs, and refreshments along your route.
Join Group Rides
Connect with Spokane bike group rides and explore these routes with other cyclists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most scenic bike route in Spokane?
The Little Spokane River Natural Area ride is widely considered the most scenic — turquoise water, limestone cliffs, and cottonwood forest. For panoramic views, the Palisades Park bluff trail and Mount Spokane summit ride are the top picks.
How long is the Centennial Trail?
The Centennial Trail is 37 miles long, running from Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. You can ride the entire length or use one of many trailheads to ride a shorter segment. The Spokane Valley segment is the most popular for recreational riding.
Can I plan a custom bike route in Spokane?
Yes! Use our AI Route Planner on this page to generate a custom route based on your starting location, desired duration, difficulty, and ride style. The planner uses local trail data to suggest routes that match your preferences.
What is the best gravel riding route near Spokane?
High Drive on the South Hill is a classic Spokane gravel climb — 700 feet of climbing on a pine-lined gravel road. Saltese Uplands offers rolling gravel and dirt loops with open hillside views. For longer gravel adventures, the roads around Mount Spokane and the Palouse offer endless options.
Are Spokane bike routes safe for solo riders?
Yes, most Spokane routes are safe for solo riders. Stick to well-traveled routes like the Centennial Trail during busy hours, carry a phone, and let someone know your plan. For backcountry routes on Mount Spokane and Riverside State Park, riding with a partner is recommended due to limited cell service.