Spokane Bike Trails
Explore the best Spokane mountain bike trails for epic singletrack adventures, scenic river rides, family outings, and challenging descents. Use this guide to find where to ride in Spokane and discover the trails that match your style.
Why Spokane Is the Inland Northwest's Best-Kept Mountain Biking Secret
Spokane sits at the crossroads of the Columbia Plateau and the Selkirk Mountains, giving riders access to one of the most diverse trail networks in the Pacific Northwest. Within a 30-minute drive of downtown you'll find everything from the paved, river-hugging Centennial Trail to the steep alpine descents on Mount Spokane. The city's trail system spans over 120 miles of mapped routes, from flowy beginner loops to expert-only gnar.
What makes Spokane special is the terrain variety packed into such a compact area. The same afternoon you can ride buffed singletrack through ponderosa pine forests on Beacon Hill, descend volcanic basalt formations at Riverside State Park's Bowl and Pitcher, and finish with a riverside cruise through downtown. Add in a riding season that stretches from April through October, a passionate local cycling community, and trail networks maintained by dedicated volunteers — and it's clear why Spokane is earning a reputation as a must-ride mountain biking destination.
Best Bike Trails in Spokane
Best Bike Trails in Spokane for Every Ride Style
Best Spokane Trails for Every Ride Style
Best for Flow and Speed
Beacon Hill's trail network is Spokane's flow-trail paradise. With machine-built berms, rollers, and jump lines, it's the go-to for riders who want to carry speed and catch air. The "Queens Gate" and "Gusto" trails are local favorites.
Best for Climbing and Descents
Mount Spokane State Park delivers the biggest vertical in the region. The climb up "Snowmobile Trail" to the summit rewards you with alpine singletrack descents that drop over 1,500 vertical feet through wildflowers and subalpine forest.
Best for Families and Cruising
The Centennial Trail is Spokane's crown jewel for family riding — 37 miles of paved path along the Spokane River, connecting Riverfront Park to Coeur d'Alene. Flat, scenic, and packed with places to stop for ice cream or a swim.
Best for Technical Challenge
Riverside State Park's Bowl and Pitcher area offers chunky basalt rock gardens, steep drops, and technical climbs that test your skills. The "Rim Rock" trail is a must-ride for experienced mountain bikers who love a challenge.
Best for Gravel and Adventure
High Drive and the Palisades trail system offer long gravel climbs with sweeping views of the Spokane Valley. Pair it with a descent into Latah Valley for a proper adventure loop.
Types of Spokane Bike Trails to Explore
Safety Tips
Always wear a helmet and ride within your skill level. Spokane trails can feature sudden drops, rock gardens, and blind corners. Carry a basic repair kit, extra water, and a charged phone. Let someone know your route plan, especially for backcountry rides on Mount Spokane or Liberty Lake where cell service is spotty.
Weather Considerations
Spokane has four distinct seasons. Summer (June–September) is prime riding with temps in the 70s–90s and dry trails — but watch for wildfire smoke in August. Spring brings snowmelt mud — wait 1–2 days after rain before riding forested trails. Winter riding is limited to paved and gravel routes. Always check trail condition reports before heading out.
Terrain Type
Spokane offers remarkable terrain diversity: paved river paths (Centennial Trail), buffed forest singletrack (Beacon Hill), chunky basalt rock gardens (Riverside State Park), alpine descents (Mount Spokane), and gravel climbs (High Drive). Trail surfaces range from smooth pavement to loose volcanic rock — match your bike and tire choice to the terrain.
What to Know Before Riding in Spokane
What to Know Before You Ride in Spokane
Trail Conditions Change With the Seasons
Spokane's trails shift dramatically through the year. Spring (March–May) brings snowmelt and mud — many forested trails like Beacon Hill and Mount Spokane need a few dry days before they're rideable. Summer (June–September) is prime season with dry, fast trails. Fall offers crisp conditions and stunning larch golden colors. Winter riding is limited to lower-elevation paved and gravel routes.
Wildlife and Trail Etiquette
Spokane trails share habitat with deer, black bears, and occasionally moose. Ride with awareness, especially at dawn and dusk. Always yield to hikers and equestrians, announce yourself with a friendly "on your left," and never ride muddy trails — it damages the surface and creates ruts that last all season.
Hydration and Cell Service
Spokane's dry climate and summer temperatures in the 80s–90s mean you'll need more water than you think. Many backcountry trails on Mount Spokane and in Riverside State Park have limited cell service, so ride with a partner or share your route plan. Pack a basic repair kit — the nearest bike shop may be miles away.
How to Choose the Right Spokane Bike Trail
How to Choose the Right Spokane Bike Trail
Finding your perfect trail in Spokane comes down to three things: your skill level, your bike type, and the kind of ride you're after. Here's how to narrow it down:
Match Your Skill Level
Beginners should start on the Centennial Trail or the Little Spokane River Natural Area — both are flat, scenic, and forgiving. Intermediate riders will love the flow trails on Beacon Hill and the loops at Dishman Hills. Advanced and expert riders should head straight for Mount Spokane's alpine descents or the technical features at Riverside State Park.
Consider Your Bike
A gravel or cross bike is perfect for the Centennial Trail and High Drive climbs. A trail hardtail handles Beacon Hill and Dishman Hills beautifully. For Mount Spokane's steep, rocky descents, a full-suspension trail bike gives you the confidence to push harder.
Think About the Experience
Want a social cruise? The Centennial Trail connects breweries and parks. Craving solitude? Liberty Lake and Antoine Peak offer quiet forest riding. Looking for a workout? The climb up Mount Spokane or Browne's Mountain will leave your legs burning in the best way.
Other Spokane.Bike Resources
Find Bike Shops Near Trails
Need to rent a mountain bike, get a quick repair, or grab gear? Check out our guide to the best bike shops in Spokane.
Join a Group Ride
Want to explore trails with other cyclists? Connect with local riders through our Spokane mountain bike group rides directory.
Plan Your Next Route
Use our AI-powered Route Planner to map your perfect ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to ride mountain bike trails in Spokane?
The prime riding season runs from June through September when trails are dry and weather is warm. Spring (April–May) can be excellent but check for mud — forested trails like Beacon Hill and Mount Spokane need 1–2 dry days after rain. Fall (October) offers crisp conditions and fall colors. Winter riding is limited to lower-elevation paved and gravel routes.
Are Spokane bike trails free to ride?
Yes, most Spokane-area trails are free to access. Riverside State Park requires a Washington State Discover Pass ($30/year or $10/day). Mount Spokane State Park also requires a Discover Pass. City and county trails like the Centennial Trail, Beacon Hill, and Dishman Hills are completely free.
What is the best beginner mountain bike trail in Spokane?
The Centennial Trail is the best choice for beginners — it's flat, paved, scenic, and connects downtown Spokane to Riverfront Park. For beginner singletrack, try the green loops at Beacon Hill or the gentle trails in the Little Spokane River Natural Area. Both offer smooth surfaces and minimal technical features.
Can I rent a mountain bike in Spokane?
Yes! Several local bike shops offer mountain bike rentals, including Bicycle House, The Wheel Sport, and Spoke House. Rates typically run $40–80/day. Call ahead in summer — rentals sell out on weekends. See our guide to Spokane bike shops for rental locations near the trails you want to ride.
Are dogs allowed on Spokane mountain bike trails?
Most Spokane-area trails are dog-friendly. Dogs must be leashed in Riverside State Park and Mount Spokane State Park. On city trails like Beacon Hill and the Centennial Trail, leashes are required in developed areas but dogs can be off-leash in designated zones. Always clean up after your dog and yield to other trail users.