Get the family ready for some fun, healthy activity by hitting the trail! The Centennial Trail, that is. This picturesque hike and bike trail begins in Idaho and runs all the way through the bike-friendly city of Spokane and then continues on to Riverside State Park. Don't worry if all of your family members aren't bicycle-equipped, as the trail is an excellent place for a brisk walk that will not only allow you to get some great aerobic exercise, but you'll enjoy the unforgettable scenery along the way.
When you venture out to the Dishman Hills Natural Area, not only are you destined to see one of Spokane's most beautiful natural scenes, you will be visiting one of its most historic. Named after A.T. Dishman who extracted tons of granite from the site to help rebuild Spokane after the Great Fire of 1889, the area offers several desirable activities for nature lovers. There is a two and a half-mile hike that traverses Eastwood Pond which is available seasonally from March to November. In addition, there are several excellent spots for picnics, family fun and running around. Or, if you prefer, you can just sit and take in the amazing outdoor beauty.
Manito Park is situated in one of the residential areas south of downtown Spokane, but its location doesn't seem to deter nature enthusiasts who enjoy its many amenities. Some of the more popular attractions at Manito Park are the lush, green areas, tennis courts, play areas for the kids, and even a duck pond. There are also several specialized gardens that are quite popular, like the Japanese Garden, the Lilac Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Duncan Garden, that all offer something special to be appreciated by everyone from the casual visitor to even the most discerning nature lover. You'll enjoy time spent in the great outdoors here.