Spokane Travel Information

Spokane is the metropolitan hub of eastern Washington. The Spokane River runs through town, garnished with 100 acres of park in the center, an easy escape from the bustle of city life. Many historic buildings downtown have been recently renovated, preserving a sense of old Spokane. In May thousands of runners flock to the area for the famous Lilac Bloomsday Run and flowers fill the city long after the racers have gone home.

Locals escape six miles out of the city proper to Riverside State Park. At nearly 8,000 acres, the park is big enough to support campers, hikers, bird-watchers and kayakers on the Spokane River. Or, peddle your way along the river for a better look at the length of Spokane's waterway. Rent bikes in town and follow the Centennial Trail all the way to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, 60 miles east.

If that is still too close to civilization for comfort, drive 30 miles northeast to Mt. Spokane State Park. Twice the size of Riverside, you can climb both Mt. Kit Carson and Mt. Spokane during summer months. In winter, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park turns on their five lifts during the day, then switches on the lights at night for some après-work skiing. Snowmobiles are available for rent in the area, and there are nearly 20 miles of cross-country ski trails close to the downhill area. Get permits in town before heading into the woods.

Spokane is 230 miles east of Seattle and 289 miles northeast of Portland, Oregon.