Biking the Centennial Trail: A Ride Through Spokane’s Wild and Urban Heart

Biking the Centennial Trail: A Ride Through Spokane’s Wild and Urban Heart

The Centennial Trail doesn’t just invite you to ride—it urges you to chase the horizon. Spanning 37 miles from Spokane to Coeur d’Alene, this paved path weaves together the Inland Northwest’s soul in asphalt and scenery. Every stretch offers something new: roaring rivers, quiet parks, and glimpses of history etched into the land. On two wheels, it’s a journey of motion and discovery.

The adventure begins at Riverfront Park, where Spokane Falls churns with relentless energy, sending mist skyward as the historic clocktower watches over your first pedal strokes. Heading east, the city fades behind, replaced by the soft murmur of the Spokane River. Meadows of amber grass unfurl under skies as vast as dreams, and basalt cliffs rise like sentinels guarding the waterway.

The trail carries you past Mirabeau Point Park, where tree canopies offer a cool sanctuary, and later, Liberty Lake welcomes you with its shimmering shores. The miles seem to flow effortlessly, each one pulling you closer to Idaho. Crossing the border, the scenery shifts: rolling hills and glassy lakes greet your arrival in Coeur d’Alene, where the trail delivers you to the lake’s shimmering expanse. Its surface glimmers like liquid glass, its edges kissed by pine-clad silhouettes.

The Centennial Trail isn’t just a bike ride—it’s a conversation with the land. Each pedal stroke carries you further into a world that feels both immense and intimate, where the rhythm of your wheels harmonizes with the heartbeat of the region. It’s freedom, discovery, and the quiet joy of the journey itself.

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Practical Guide to the Centennial Trail

Overview:
The Centennial Trail is a 37-mile paved path perfect for cyclists of all levels. It connects downtown Spokane to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, showcasing riverside beauty, lush parks, and breathtaking lake views.

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Key Highlights:

• Riverfront Park: Start your ride by Spokane Falls, where urban energy meets natural power.
• Mirabeau Point Park: Rest in shaded oases with river views and picnic tables.
• Post Falls: Experience the raw energy of the Spokane River as it surges through rugged terrain.
• Lake Coeur d’Alene: Finish your journey at one of the Northwest’s crown jewels, with stunning water and mountain vistas.

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Trail Tips:

• Bring plenty of water and sunscreen; summer rides can be warm.
• Plan your stops to enjoy scenic areas like Liberty Lake or Mirabeau Point.
• Consider wind conditions, especially on open stretches near the river.
• Respect other trail users by keeping right and signaling when passing.

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Accessibility:
The trail accommodates all skill levels, with flat sections for beginners and enough distance for serious riders. E-bikes are welcome, making it accessible to a wider range of cyclists.

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Insider’s Note:
For an unforgettable experience, ride the trail during golden hour. The Spokane River and Lake Coeur d’Alene glow in the evening light, offering a fitting finale to a perfect day on the trail.