5 Best Day Trips From Spokane, Washington

1. Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Located 21.2 mi (13.17 km) away from Spokane, Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is a lovely destination for tourists seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Lush forestry and wetlands welcome you. An abundance of wildlife, more than 200 species of birds and more or less 45 species of mammals, live here in the park.

In addition to wildlife-watching, many visitors enjoy scenic hikes, hunting, and a day of camping in Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge’s 16,000 ac ( 6474.97 ha) of diverse landscape. Guided walks and volunteer programs are offered to visitors.

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Address: 26010 S Smith Rd, Cheney, WA 99004, United States

Website: Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 3 USD per family

2. Mount Spokane

An hour of driving from Spokane can take you to the majestic Mount Spokane, which is a slice of heaven on Earth for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers scenic trails filled with beautiful wildflowers and an observation deck where you can best enjoy the sceneries. Besides, hiking, road biking, and scenic drives are doable on Mount Spokane.

During the winters, Mount Spokane becomes a popular ski destination with exceptional ski runs. Check out Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park, offering more than 50 trails and 6 chairs.

Mount Spokane

Address: Washington 99021, United States

3. Riverside State Park

Washington boasts many dreamy natural wonders, and one that you should not miss is Riverside State Park. 9 mi (14.48 km) away from the charming city of Spokane, it is an easy drive for adventure seekers wishing to reconnect with nature. It is home to 11,162 ac (4517.10 ha) of forests, 55 mi (88.51 km) of scenic trails, campsites at Riverside and Nine Mile Recreation Area, and picnic areas.

Off-roading is also a popular activity to do in the park. Watersports, such as fishing and white-water kayaking, are doable in the state park, too. Riverside State Park is pet-friendly, making it an ideal destination for the family.

Riverside State Park

Address: 9711 W Charles Rd, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026, United States

Website: Riverside State Park

4. Post Falls, Idaho

Post Falls is only a 26-minute drive from Spokane, making it a perfect day trip destination. There, you can spoil your family, especially the kids, with the much-deserved bonding escapades. Plan a day at Q'emiln Park, and enjoy swimming, hiking, rock climbing, and other exciting activities. Stunning river views and idyllic pathways await in Black Bay Park.

Fancy a game of golf? Corbin Park is the destination for you - you can indulge in some barbecue and a game of frisbee too.

Post Falls

Address: Kootenai County, Idaho

Website: Post Falls

5. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Done indulging in all the exciting offerings Spokane has in store for its visitors? Why not take the adventure to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, which is only 33.4 mi (53.75 km) away from the city? Coeur d’Alene is a beautiful city worth visiting. Here, you can enjoy watersports at Lake Coeur d’Alene, camping at Coeur d'Alene National Forest, and hiking at the tranquil lakefront Tubbs Hill.

If you are more into cultural attractions, you can add the Museum of North Idaho and The Art Spirit Gallery to your Coeur d’Alene visit itinerary.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Address: Kootenal, Idaho

Website: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Enjoy some side trips on your Spokane holiday

Spokane is a lovely city with diverse offerings, catering to families, friends, couples, and even solo wanderers on a soul-searching adventure. If you are an adventurer, you may want to check out nearby attractions, not just Spokane. This list of the best day trips from Spokane will come in handy when curating your next holiday.