The Spokane River Centennial Trail is just one example of what there is to see and do in the area, and it can provide day after day of outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer more urban activities or want to hike your way through gorgeous topography, the trail has something for everyone. Nearly 2 million people visit the trail each year, a testament to its popularity and the gorgeous scenery it offers.

Our real estate agents share what you need to know about exploring Spokane's Centennial Trail:

History of the Trail

Spokane River Centennial Trail is 40 miles long, starting at a recreation area on Lake Spokane before winding its way to the Idaho border and beyond. It generally follows the contours of the Spokane River as it makes its way through many diverse areas of both states.

Construction for the trail began between 1989-1991 in celebration of the Washington State Centennial. All of the trail's miles are completely paved, with many stretches separated from vehicular traffic.

The trail takes you through areas ranging from basalt canyons to hip urban centers. 

For example, you may want to spend time in historic downtown Spokane and the more urban areas of the trail before heading out to explore more rural areas and their spectacular views. You can traverse the trail's entire length on a long bike ride, or take several days to hike your way through.

Or, if you'd rather, break your route into smaller sections to explore by using its 18 marked trailheads and access points. The most convenient access point is in downtown Spokane between miles 20 and 23 by most north or southbound streets between Mission Park and Kendall Yards.

Historical Sites

You'll find more than 40 historically significant sites along the trail, including the following:

• Site of 1974 World's Fair - Riverfront Park in Spokane was the location for the 1974 World's Fair. It's marked by a pavilion with a large metal frame and wire shell that was used during their fair.
• Great Northern Railroad Depot Clock Tower - Constructed in 1902 and located on Havermale Island in Spokane's Riverfront Park, the clock tower was built by Burlington Northern Railroad. It's a monument to the importance of the railroad industry to the area.
• Fossil beds - The fossil beds can be accessed via the Carlson Trailhead near mile marker 36, which you can follow to Deep Creek Canyon. They're estimated to be almost 11,000 years old.

Other Activities

The Centennial Trail is open from 6:30 a.m. - dusk throughout the year and offers an array of activities that any outdoor enthusiast will love. Spokane's Centennial Trail also offers the following activities:

• Events such as bike races and marathons
• Horseback riding in the Riverside State Park section
• Hiking
• Cycling
• Inline skating
• Canoeing
• Fishing
• Kayaking
• Camping
• Geocaching
• Rafting
• Swimming
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Bird and wildlife viewing

Ready to start your own Spokane adventure? Contact us to see Spokane homes for sale and to find out more about the area's abundant recreational opportunities and natural beauty.