Centennial Trail Spokane Washington
A 30-mile paved path along the Spokane River, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying scenic views and art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Centennial Trail Spokane Washington
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 30-mile paved path along the Spokane River, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying scenic views and art.
"Ranked nationally, this trail offers stunning river views and urban access, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts."
Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes for a scenic 40-mile ride along the river. Many sections are paved and suitable for cycling. :bike:
Pack Water & Snacks
The trail is long! Carry essentials, especially if you plan to go beyond the main urban areas. :water_pistol:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spokane River Views
Throughout the trail
Winding along the Spokane River, offering dramatic cliffside overlooks and lush greenery.
+1Bowl and Pitcher
Riverside State Park section
Iconic rock formations and a picturesque bridge, perfect for a scenic stop or short hike.
Kendall Yards
Downtown Spokane section
A trendy urban neighborhood with great restaurants and coffee shops, directly accessible from the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes for a scenic 40-mile ride along the river. Many sections are paved and suitable for cycling.
Pack Water & Snacks
The trail is long! Carry essentials, especially if you plan to go beyond the main urban areas. :water_pistol:
Explore Riverside State Park
Don't miss the Bowl and Pitcher area for stunning rock formations and river access.
Check Trail Conditions
While mostly paved, be aware of potential closures or maintenance, especially after inclement weather. :construction_worker:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes for a scenic 40-mile ride along the river. Many sections are paved and suitable for cycling.
Pack Water & Snacks
The trail is long! Carry essentials, especially if you plan to go beyond the main urban areas. :water_pistol:
Explore Riverside State Park
Don't miss the Bowl and Pitcher area for stunning rock formations and river access.
Check Trail Conditions
While mostly paved, be aware of potential closures or maintenance, especially after inclement weather. :construction_worker:
Art Installations
Keep an eye out for various art installations scattered along the trail, adding a unique cultural element. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Centennial Trail is widely praised for its stunning river views, paved surface, and accessibility, making it a top recreational spot in Spokane. Visitors love the diverse scenery, from natural landscapes to urban neighborhoods, and the opportunities for biking, running, and walking. Some users note that nighttime lighting can be limited in certain sections, and recommend being aware of surroundings after dark.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Centennial Trail is accessible from numerous points throughout Spokane and beyond. Popular access points include Riverfront Park, Kendall Yards, and various trailheads within Riverside State Park. Many sections are easily reachable by car with parking available, and some urban sections are accessible via public transport.
Yes, parking is available at various access points, including Riverfront Park, Riverside State Park, and designated trailheads. Parking availability can vary, especially on weekends and during events.
While direct bus routes to every section might be limited, some parts of the trail, particularly those near downtown Spokane and Riverfront Park, are accessible via Spokane Transit Authority (STA) buses. Check the STA website for routes and schedules.
The Centennial Trail is approximately 30 miles long, stretching from Nine Mile Recreation Area to the Idaho border.
The majority of the Centennial Trail is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers in many sections. However, some natural surface trails branching off may not be.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Centennial Trail is a public recreational trail and does not require an admission ticket or fee for general use.
While the trail itself is free, some areas like Riverside State Park may have day-use fees for parking or specific facilities. It's always a good idea to check the park's official website for current fees.
The Centennial Trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific park areas may have their own hours.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Centennial Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Always clean up after your pet.
While some sections are lit near Gonzaga University, many parts of the trail have limited lighting at night. It's advisable to use a headlamp and be aware of your surroundings, as some users have reported concerns about nighttime safety.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Centennial Trail is perfect for cycling, running, walking, and horseback riding. You can also enjoy birdwatching, photography, and picnicking along the river.
Restroom facilities are available at various access points and parks along the trail, particularly in more developed areas like Riverfront Park and Riverside State Park.
Expect diverse scenery including the Spokane River, volcanic cliffside overlooks, lush forests, wild apple trees, and urban park areas.
Yes, the Centennial Trail features various art installations, adding a unique cultural dimension to your experience.
Many visitors love the section through Riverside State Park for its natural beauty and the Bowl and Pitcher area. The Kendall Yards section offers a vibrant urban experience, and the Riverfront Park section provides iconic city views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The Kendall Yards neighborhood, which the trail runs through, boasts trendy restaurants and coffee shops. Riverfront Park also has dining options.
Yes, there are many scenic spots along the trail perfect for a picnic. Pack your own food and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
You'll find a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, particularly in the Kendall Yards area. Some TikToks even highlight specific restaurants with great views.
📸 📸 Photography
The river overlooks, the Bowl and Pitcher rock formations, and the bridges offer stunning photographic opportunities. The urban sections in Kendall Yards and Riverfront Park also provide unique backdrops.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
Look out for the art installations and the dramatic natural landscapes, especially along the Spokane River. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic potential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Bowl and Pitcher area in Riverside State Park offers a bit of adventure with its unique rock formations, and kids often enjoy exploring the bridges. Consider starting your journey in Riverfront Park, which has playgrounds and other family-friendly attractions.
While the full 30 miles might be ambitious, shorter out-and-back trips from various access points are perfect for a family outing. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of other trail users. 🚴 Cyclists
+1 You can rent bikes in the city and embark on an adventure that takes you through diverse scenery, from urban neighborhoods like Kendall Yards to the natural beauty of Riverside State Park. +1Pay attention to the elevation changes, as some sections offer gentle climbs.
The trail is well-maintained, making for a smooth ride. Plan your stops to enjoy the river views, explore the Bowl and Pitcher, or grab a bite in one of the trailside cafes. 🚶♀️ Runners & Walkers
You can choose shorter loops or tackle longer distances depending on your fitness level. Be aware of shared usage, especially during peak hours, and yield to faster-moving cyclists.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Centennial Trail by Bike
+1 The trail winds through diverse landscapes, from urban parks to natural riverside settings, making it an engaging journey. You can find bike rentals in Spokane, allowing you to easily hop on and explore. Consider planning your route based on what you want to see. Sections near Kendall Yards offer a trendy urban vibe with access to cafes and shops, while the Riverside State Park portion provides stunning natural scenery, including the famous Bowl and Pitcher formations.
Remember to bring water and snacks, as some stretches are more remote. Key takeaway: Biking the Centennial Trail is a highly recommended way to experience its length and variety. It's a well-maintained, paved path suitable for all skill levels.
+1Natural Beauty and Recreation
+1 The trail is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering ample opportunities for hiking, running, and even horseback riding. A standout natural feature is the Bowl and Pitcher area within Riverside State Park. This section is known for its unique rock formations and picturesque bridge, making it a popular spot for photos and a refreshing break.
The presence of wild apple trees along parts of the trail adds to its charm, with opportunities for foraging in season. Beyond the visual appeal, the trail provides a vital corridor for wildlife and offers a peaceful escape from urban life. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike or a gentle stroll, the natural splendor of the Centennial Trail is a major draw.
+1Urban Access and Amenities
This makes it easy to combine a recreational outing with a culinary stop or a bit of urban exploration. Riverfront Park, another key urban hub, is also connected to the Centennial Trail. This iconic park offers its own attractions and amenities, further enhancing the trail experience.
The trail's path through these urban areas means you're never too far from facilities like restrooms, dining, and public transport options. This blend of natural beauty and urban convenience is a significant factor in the Centennial Trail's popularity. It allows visitors to enjoy the outdoors while still having easy access to the conveniences and attractions of Spokane.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit