Have you ever dreamed of visiting the beautiful, nature-filled Spokane, Washington? Or better yet, are you one of the 212,000 people who live in this city, the state’s second largest?
Spokane’s population will do nothing but grow, with a 22% increase expected by 2030. And that’s not by accident. Spokane offers artisan craft breweries, wilderness sightings, and some eclectic restaurants.
And even cooler than all that? The wonderous peak of Mt. Spokane, the highest peak in the County. Reaching almost 5,900 feet high, it is a sight to behold.
If you’re visiting the area anytime soon, take it from the locals: you need to make time for this stop. And maybe lots of time. From skiing to hiking to camping, the options are there.
Feeling adventurous? Keep reading to gather some inspiration for your next trip!
The Tall and Mighty Mt. Spokane
Mt. Spokane, once known as “Baldy,” towers over the surrounding towns at 5,883 feet. On the spread of the mountain lies Washington’s largest state park. Almost 14,000 acres are available for residents and tourists to explore on.
And while you’re here, you have to visit the Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park, a local and tourist favorite. This park offers almost 1,500 acres of land with 2,000 vertical feet to send down.
Mt. Spokane State Park
Are you visiting in the summer? Fall? Winter?
When it comes to Mt. Spokane State Park, it doesn’t matter what time of year you decide to come. It offers something for every season. You’ve got Nordic cross-country skiing trails or a huge plot of land to explore on in the summer.
Are the daytimes cool and the nights breezy? Then it’s the perfect time to pitch a tent in one of the park’s 13,000 acres. Or hike one of the acclaimed, rigorous trails.
Here’s how to go about these awesome activities.
Camping
The State Park has 13, 919 acres of camping land to offer. You’ll be right in the trees of the Selkirk Mountain range. If you’re camping on a clear day, you may be able to see Washington, Idaho, and Montana.
Hiking
Mt. Spokane State Park has so many trails that one could never get bored. Offering at least 90 miles of hiking trails and 100 miles of biking trails, the options are endless.
What trails offer some of the best views, according to the locals?
- Eagle Crest
- Quartz Mountain
- Shadow Mountain
While you’re hiking these trails, keep an eye out for huckleberries! The locals like to keep these spots a secret.
Wilderness Sighting
Your chances of seeing some awesome wildlife are good. There are many critters that could cross your path while camping or hiking:
- Bobcats
- Bears
- Coyotes
- Deer and elk
- Eagles
And that’s only naming a few of many! Keep your eyes peeled.
Skiing and Snowboarding the Mountain
This one’s deserving of its own category.
Too cold to camp? Then ski instead, and warm your toes by the fireplace in your heated cabin at the end of the night.
Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park has 60% intermediate routes. The remaining 40% is for the adventurous, advanced types.
Although Steven’s Cowboy Mountain is a similar height, Mt. Spokane is less crowded. Because it’s surrounding metro area is smaller, fewer people come there for skiing. Beginners especially should consider the freedom of space at Mt. Spokane.
And if you’re a local whose already experienced all the skiing Mt. Spokane has to offer, you’re in luck.
By 2019, A $2.5 trillion chairlift is being installed on the Northwest side, adding a whopping 279 acres and 7 runs for skiers. Not only will these runs be exciting and fresh, they’ll be the longest ones on the mountain yet.
50 miles of Nordic trails are great for those who want to enhance their workout. It’s the perfect combination of cross-country skiing and a walk in the woods.
Liquids and Solids
Want to have a night out with the locals? Then The Garland Theater is your place. Offering a romantic, 40s-era vibe, this theater maintains the sacred history of Spokane.
Take your spouse on a date here and enjoy pre-movie cocktails at their bar. Or bring the whole family, because you can actually afford it! Ticket prices are as old-school as the theater itself, ringing up at $5.00.
Are you a fan of craft beer? You’re in luck, too. Spokane has more than half a dozen local breweries, offering anything from Belgian sours to traditional lagers.
As for food? If you’re in a hurry, you can always check out Dick’s Hamburgers. They’re known around town for a great meal with a quick turnout.
And if you’re not in a rush, slow down and enjoy one of the many eclectic restaurants around town that derives their ingredients from local sources.
And One Last Reason to Visit Mt. Spokane?
You mean, other than to say that you did?
Because things are changing every day. The climate is changing. Politics are changing.
And you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity to see Mt. Spokane in its current state. This mountain, and all the world’s others, deserve our care, attention, and adventure. These beauties are worth the look.
If you’ve got a fearless spirit, Mt. Spokane is your region to be in. It’s got much to offer to meet your comfort level, and get you outside of your comfort zone. Few places can do both things in the same space.
If you need more tips on how to make the most of your trip, check out our Spokane blog!
