Best Hiking Trails in Spokane, WA for Engaged Couples & Wedding Guests At Lavender Manor
Spring is here, and Spokane, WA, is bursting with lush greenery, fragrant blossoms, and hiking trails waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a couple looking for the perfect engagement photo backdrop, or a Lavender Manor wedding guest wanting to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Spokane has it all. Here’s a handpicked list of the best Spokane hiking trails for engaged couples & wedding guests in and around Spokane to add to your must-visit list. Plus, we’ll share tips to capture picture-perfect engagement shots while you’re out exploring! Things To Do In Spokane: Hiking Trails, if you find this Spokane blog helpful, please leave us a comment.
Why Spokane Hiking Trails?
Spokane is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its expansive network of trails, ranging from serene riverside walks to challenging mountainous paths, there’s something for everyone. This time of year brings blooming wildflowers, mild weather, and the chance to enjoy breathtaking views without the summer crowds.
Grab your boots, pack some snacks, and carry your camera (or selfie stick)—here’s where you should be heading.
Best Hiking Spots in and Around Spokane
We’ve broken down our list into categories to help you plan your perfect spring adventures.
Easy & Family-Friendly Trails
Perfect for leisurely walks or beginner hikers, these trails make for a peaceful day out.
- Manito Park
- Riverfront Park
- Dishman Hills Natural Area (Iller Creek Trailhead)
- South Hill Bluff Trails
- Moran Prairie Reserve
- Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge
- Fish Lake Trail
- Spokane River Centennial Trail
- Little Spokane River Natural Area
- Howard Street River Walk
Moderate Difficulty Trails
Challenge yourself with these trails that offer just the right balance of effort and reward.
- Mount Spokane State Park (Trail 140)
- Tubbs Hill (Coeur d’Alene)
- Saltese Uplands Conservation Area
- Liberty Lake Loop Trail
- Beacon Hill Trail System
- Nine Mile Falls Recreation Area
- James T. Slavin Conservation Area
- Palouse Falls Trails
- Hidden Lake Trail
- Indian Painted Rocks Trail
More Trails to Explore
In addition to the top 10 hiking trails listed above, there are many more beautiful and exciting trails waiting to be explored in eastern Washington. Here are a few more recommendations for your next outdoor adventure:
Mount Spokane State Park (Trail 140)
Located just a short drive from Spokane, this state park offers stunning views of the surrounding area and an expansive network of hiking trails. Trail 140 is a popular choice for its diverse terrain and scenic vistas.
Tubbs Hill (Coeur d’Alene)
Nestled along the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Tubbs Hill offers a variety of easy to moderate hiking trails with breathtaking
- Mount Spokane State Park (Trail 140): This popular trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a favorite among hikers and nature photographers alike. The moderate difficulty level makes it accessible for all skill levels, and the well-maintained path leads to the summit of Mount Spokane where hikers can enjoy panoramic views from the lookout tower.
- Tubbs Hill (Coeur d’Alene): Located in the heart of Coeur d’Alene, Tubbs Hill is a scenic city park with over 2 miles of trails that wind through lush forests and along rocky shorelines. Hikers can take in breathtaking views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding mountains while exploring this popular trail. The park also offers access to swimming areas and picnic spots, making it a perfect destination for a day out with family or friends.
- Mineral Ridge (Coeur d’Alene): Another popular hiking spot in Coeur d’Alene is Mineral Ridge, known for its picturesque views of Wolf Lodge Bay on Lake Coeur d’Alene. The 3-mile round-trip trail leads hikers through dense forests and up to the summit where they can catch stunning views of the lake and surrounding area. Along the way, hikers may even spot local wildlife such as deer or bald eagles.
Located within the Mineral Ridge Scenic Area, this trail is maintained by the Bureau of Land Management and offers interpretive signs to educate hikers about the area’s natural history. The trail also features picnic tables and benches for a scenic break or lunch spot.
In addition to hiking, visitors can also enjoy fishing in Wolf Lodge Bay or exploring nearby camping areas. This makes Mineral Ridge a great destination for an outdoor adventure day with various activities for all ages.
- Canfield Mountain: Canfield Mountain is a popular destination for avid mountain bikers and hikers alike. The extensive trail system covers over 30 miles and includes a variety of difficulty levels, from easy rolling trails to challenging
How to Capture Stunning Engagement Photos While Hiking
Hiking doesn’t just nourish the body and mind; in Spokane’s picturesque wilderness, it can also provide a stunning backdrop for engagement photos or couples’ selfies. Here’s how to make your outdoor photo session truly unforgettable:
1. Choose the Perfect Trail
Opt for trails with scenic backdrops like waterfalls, mountain vistas, or blooming meadows. Favorites include Manito Park for its floral gardens and Liberty Lake Loop Trail for its wooded pathways and lake views.
2. Plan for Golden Hour
If you’re looking to capture soft, dreamy lighting in your photos, hike during the golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset). This timing will add gorgeous, warm tones to your shots.
3. Keep Poses Natural
The key to beautiful hiking photos is to stay relaxed. Walk hand-in-hand on a trail, admire the view together, or go in for a laugh. Candid moments often make the best shots.
4. Include Props and Accessories
Bring along a lightweight blanket for a picnic pose or a thermos of coffee for that cozy vibe. Don’t forget a tripod or selfie stick with a remote to snap pictures independently.
5. Dress the Part
Coordinate your outfits with the season and setting. Earthy tones or muted colors work beautifully against Spokane’s natural backdrops. Wear sturdy footwear, but feel free to bring clean shoes for photos if you want dressier looks!
6. Use the Tasting Notes of Nature
Don’t overlook small details. Posing near wildflowers, kneeling by flowing streams, or standing against tall cedar trees adds depth and storytelling to your photos.
7. Hire a Spokane Photographer
For professional results, work with a local photographer who knows these trails. They can guide you to hidden gems and help you capture moments effortlessly.
Quick Tips for Spokane Couples & wedding guests Beginners
- Trail Safety: Always check trail conditions ahead of time, especially during spring since paths can still be muddy or slick.
- Pack Smart: Bring water, snacks, a small first-aid kit, and your photo gear.
- Leave No Trace: Respect nature by taking trash with you and staying on designated paths.
Spokane’s abundance of trails makes it a treasure trove of springtime adventures. Whether your goal is to take in quiet scenic vistas, enjoy a heart-pumping uphill trek, or find the ideal spot for engagement photos, this list of hikes has got you covered.
Looking for more personalized recommendations? Share your favorite hiking sessions in Spokane below. Who knows, you might just inspire someone else’s next outdoor adventure!
And if you’re planning an engagement photo session while hiking, connect with our network of local photographers who specialize in combining romance with the wild beauty of this region.
Happy Hiking! 🌲
Unique Spring Escapes
11. Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge
- A serene getaway where you can spot wildlife while exploring the Pine Lakes Loop.
- Distance: 5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
12. Hauser Conservation Forest
- Offers a quiet hike surrounded by towering pines and gentle breezes.
- Distance: 4 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
13. Beacon Hill
- Popular with trail runners and mountain bikers, this area provides stellar views of Spokane.
- Distance: Customizable loops
- Difficulty: Moderate
14. High Drive Bluff Park
- Perfect for wildflower lovers in spring, this area has winding trails with Spokane River views.
15. Steptoe Butte State Park
- Take a short but steep hike for unparalleled 360-degree views of the Palouse region.
- Distance: 1 mile
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day Trips & Scenic Adventures
16. Tubbs Hill Nature Area (Coeur d’Alene, ID)
- Located just 40 minutes from Spokane, this coastal trail overlooks Lake Coeur d’Alene.
- Distance: 2-ish miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
17. Liberty Creek Waterfall Trail
- A hidden gem featuring serene forests and small waterfalls.
- Distance: 8.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
18. Selkirk Pine Lakes Trail
- A bit farther away but worth every step for its peaceful mountain lakes and lush pines.
- Distance: 7 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
19. Hawk Creek Falls
- A picturesque escape with beautiful creekside scenery.
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
20. Mineral Ridge Scenic Area
- This short hike offers incredible views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and educational plaques along the way.
- Distance: 3.3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Why Spokane is a Hiker’s Paradise
With its abundance of trails, beautiful landscapes, and diverse options for all skill levels, Spokane truly is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for quick, family-friendly outings or challenging day-long hikes, this area has something for everyone.
Pro Tip: Spring is an ideal time for hiking! Trails are blooming with life, and the weather is mild. Always pack layers, plenty of water, and check trail conditions before heading out.
Have you explored any of these Spokane trails? Share your favorite hiking stories in the comments below!
And if this list has inspired you, grab your hiking boots and explore the Great Outdoors around Spokane. For a more personalized adventure guide featuring trail maps, insider tips, or little-known local hikes, be sure to follow us for regular updates.
Start your Spokane wedding-planning adventure today and explore all the possibilities Lavender Manor has to offer. Schedule a tour, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram & Pinterest. We can’t wait to learn more about your wedding priorities, hopes and vision! Let’s make your dream wedding a reality!
(509) 550-7526 [email protected] 5552 S. Wallbridge Rd. Deer Park, WA 99006
Happy hiking!
