Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail

Spokane’s Centennial Trail started as a pedestrian- and bike-friendly route along the Spokane River, coinciding with the Washington State Centennial celebration, hence the name. Now, users can follow the Spokane River from Riverside State Park west of Spokane all the way to the Idaho border.

With numerous access points along its 37-mile length (WA & ID), there is plenty to see along this casual route created by the combination of converted roadway, former timber company lands and old railway routes. Start by exploring the first two miles of trail (I-90 at exit 299) and the darker history of the region at the Horse Slaughter Camp monument, site of the 1858 slaying of more than 700 Native American horses along the banks of the river.

Next, pick up the Centennial Trail at the trailhead for the Denny Ashlock Bridge along Upriver Drive in the Spokane Valley. Cross the bridge and explore the trail east, with views upstream of Antoine Peak. The mansion at the top of the cliff is the former Royal Newton Riblet Mansion, now the Arbor Crest Winery. A mile upstream from the bridge, look for the statue of Antoine Plante on the far bank; this is the location where Plante operated his ferry across the Spokane River from the 1850s until the 1870s, and where the historic Mullan Trail crossed the Spokane River.

The best of the Centennial Trail can be found at the western end where it crosses into Riverside State Park. Create loops by connecting the Centennial Trail to the Riverside State Park trail system. From the Wilbur Trailhead, follow the Centennial Trail upstream to the former camp of the Civilian Conservation Corps, now an interpretive site. Or continue on the highway to Nine Mile Bridge to access the Carlson Road Trailhead near milepost 36, and follow the trail a mile upstream to the impressive rock formations of Deep Creek Canyon. And no trip to the Centennial Trail is complete without exploring its urban core. Explore the site of the 1974 World’s Fair. The prominent park clock tower was built in 1902 and was originally part of the Great Northern Railroad Depot.