Centennial Trail | Spokane

The Centennial Trail is a prominent multi-use trail that spans approximately 40 miles through Spokane County, Washington, with an extension into northern Idaho as the North Idaho Centennial Trail. This paved trail serves as a scenic corridor connecting urban areas, natural landscapes, parks, and cultural sites, offering both recreational opportunities and a means to explore the diverse environment of the Inland Northwest.

Location and Scope

The Washington portion of the Centennial Trail runs from the Idaho state line at the Spokane River westward to the outskirts of Nine Mile Falls. On crossing the state border, the trail seamlessly connects with the North Idaho Centennial Trail, which extends about 20 miles north to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. This combined route totals over 60 miles, making it one of the longest paved recreational trails in the region. The trail is designated as a National Recreation Trail, reflecting its importance for outdoor activities and public enjoyment.

Trail Surface and Accessibility

The Centennial Trail is fully paved with asphalt, designed to accommodate a wide range of users including walkers, joggers, cyclists, rollerbladers, and wheelchair users. The trail is predominantly separated from road traffic, providing a safe and uninterrupted experience through both natural and urban environments. Accessibility is a key feature, and many trailheads and sections are ADA-compliant. The trail is open year-round, and during winter months, certain sections are groomed to support cross-country skiing and fat tire biking, making it a versatile outdoor resource in all seasons.

Key Sections and Highlights

Riverside State Park: The western terminus of the trail lies within Riverside State Park, one of Washington’s largest state parks. Here, the trail traverses rugged landscapes, deep forested areas, basalt cliffs, and offers spectacular views of the Spokane River. This section is particularly popular for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

Downtown Spokane: As the trail passes through Spokane’s urban core, it offers scenic riverfront views and easy access to major city attractions such as Riverfront Park, the Spokane Falls, and landmarks like the Numerica SkyRide gondola. This urban stretch integrates natural beauty with cultural amenities, making it a favorite route for locals and tourists alike.

Historic and Cultural Sites: Along the route, interpretive signs and markers highlight the rich history of the Spokane region, including indigenous heritage, early settlement, and industrial development. This educational aspect adds depth to the recreational experience.

Natural Environments: The trail winds through a variety of ecosystems, including riparian zones along the Spokane River, wooded hillsides, and open meadows. Seasonal wildflowers, native trees, and abundant wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals can often be observed.

Recreational Activities and Amenities

The Centennial Trail supports an array of outdoor activities. Walking, running, and cycling are the most common uses, but the trail also accommodates rollerblading, skateboarding, and in winter, cross-country skiing and fat tire biking. Several access points provide amenities such as parking, restrooms, picnic shelters, and water fountains. Fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities are accessible via various river access points along the trail.

Popular trailheads include Sontag Park, Harvard Road, Kendall Yards, and the Spokane River Centennial State Park, among others. These points offer convenient entry and serve as hubs for longer excursions or shorter, leisurely outings.

Community and Environmental Impact

The Centennial Trail is more than a recreational path; it is a vital community asset fostering healthy lifestyles, environmental stewardship, and connectivity between neighborhoods, parks, and cultural venues. Managed by local parks departments and supported by organizations like Friends of the Centennial Trail, ongoing maintenance, improvements, and outreach ensure the trail remains safe, accessible, and environmentally sustainable.

Planning a Visit

Visitors can plan their trip using detailed maps and guides available through local parks services and the Friends of the Centennial Trail organization. The trail’s design allows users to customize their experience, whether seeking a brief urban walk or a full-day adventure into Spokane’s scenic natural areas.

In summary, the Centennial Trail is a well-maintained, versatile, and picturesque pathway that encapsulates the natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational spirit of the Spokane region. Its extensive reach, excellent accessibility, and blend of urban and wilderness settings make it a treasured destination for residents and visitors seeking to connect with the Inland Northwest’s landscape and community.