
Most Scenic Road Trips in Spokane, Washington, United States
1. Spokane River Centennial Trail
A scenic bike and walking trail that follows the Spokane River, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding nature.
- Natural Beauty: Provides a peaceful escape from urban life with lush forests, wildlife sightings, and river views.
- Flexibility: Allows for easy exploration as it is accessible from various points throughout the city.
- Activity Options: Perfect for biking, walking, jogging, or simply enjoying a picnic along the way.
2. Mount Spokane State Park
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Spokane from its summit, featuring hiking trails and a historic fire lookout.
- Scenic Vistas: Features stunning mountain vistas, wildflower meadows, and clear views of the city below.
- Outdoor Adventure: Provides opportunities for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife observation.
- Historic Attraction: Includes a historic fire lookout tower that offers a glimpse into the area's past.
3. Lake Coeur d'Alene Scenic Byway
A picturesque drive through northern Idaho that offers stunning views of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the surrounding mountains.
- Waterfront Views: Features beautiful lake vistas, marinas, and beaches along its route.
- Natural Wonders: Passes through the Coeur d'Alene National Forest and offers glimpses of waterfalls and wildlife.
- Historical Sites: Includes stops at historic sites like Cataldo Mission, a National Historic Landmark.
4. Davenport District
A charming neighborhood in Spokane that boasts beautiful homes and gardens, as well as unique shops and restaurants.
- Architectural Beauty: Features stunningly preserved turn-of-the-century architecture.
- Local Flavor: Home to unique boutiques, art galleries, and eateries that showcase local talent.
- Quaint Atmosphere: Offers a peaceful, slower-paced environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Indian Canyon Loop
A scenic drive through Spokane's Palisades area that showcases stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and lush vegetation.
- Natural Wonders: Features dramatic rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Spokane's indigenous history with petroglyphs and archaeological sites.
- Photography Opportunities: Provides endless photo opportunities, making it an ideal spot for landscape photographers.
6. Northern Pacific Railroad Dining Car Museum
A unique museum that showcases historic dining cars from the Northern Pacific Railway, offering a glimpse into luxury train travel of the past.
- Historic Preservation: Preserves and showcases a piece of Spokane's railroad history.
- Luxury Travel Experience: Offers visitors the opportunity to experience the luxurious dining cars that once served affluent travelers.
- Educational Value: Provides insight into the evolution of railroad dining cars and their impact on American culture.
7. Manito Park and Botanic Gardens
A beautiful park that showcases various gardens, ponds, and a conservatory, offering a tranquil escape from the city.
- Botanical Variety: Features a wide variety of plants and flowers, including roses, irises, and tulips.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Provides a peaceful, serene environment for relaxation and reflection.
- Seasonal Beauty: Offers stunning seasonal displays of blooming flowers and autumn colors.
8. Rockwood Wildlife Habitat Area
A wildlife sanctuary that offers beautiful nature trails, wetlands, and opportunities for birdwatching.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides visitors with the opportunity to observe local wildlife, including birds, deer, and raccoons.
- Natural Wonders: Features beautiful wetlands, streams, and forests that showcase Spokane's natural beauty.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
9. Mirabeau Parkway
A scenic road that winds through the hills of Spokane, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.
- Panoramic Vistas: Features stunning vistas of Spokane, the Spokane Valley, and the rolling hills beyond.
- Natural Beauty: Passes through lush forests, open meadows, and rocky bluffs.
- Outdoor Adventure: Offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
10. Fairmount Park
A beautiful park that features a historic mansion, walking trails, and stunning gardens.
- Historic Preservation: Preserves the Fairmount Historic Mansion and its surrounding estate.
- Natural Beauty: Features beautiful gardens, ponds, and walking trails that showcase Spokane's natural beauty.
- Scenic Vistas: Offers stunning views of the city and surrounding hills from various points within the park.
11. Bridal Falls
A picturesque waterfall located in a scenic park that offers hiking trails and opportunities for picnicking.
- Natural Wonders: Features a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forests.
- Scenic Hikes: Offers short and easy hiking trails that lead to the waterfall.
- Outdoor Fun: Provides opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation.
12. Dishman Hills Natural Area
A natural area that offers hiking trails, stunning views of Spokane, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Natural Beauty: Features beautiful forests, meadows, and rock formations.
- Scenic Vistas: Offers stunning views of Spokane, the Spokane Valley, and surrounding mountains.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and various bird species.
13. Liberty Lake State Park
A scenic state park that offers beautiful lake views, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
- Waterfront Views: Features stunning views of Liberty Lake and the surrounding hills.
- Outdoor Fun: Offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking.
- Scenic Vistas: Provides stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains from various points within the park.
14. Nine Mile Falls
A scenic waterfall located near the Spokane River that offers hiking trails and picnic areas.
- Natural Wonders: Features a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forests.
- Scenic Hikes: Offers short and easy hiking trails that lead to the waterfall.
- Outdoor Fun: Provides opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation.
15. Camp Sekani Scenic Byway
A scenic drive that winds through the Selkirk Mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and forests.
- Mountain Vistas: Features stunning views of snow-capped mountains and alpine lakes.
- Natural Beauty: Passes through dense forests, open meadows, and rugged terrain.
- Outdoor Adventure: Offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife observation.