Mount Kit Carson (e. 5,249ft) is due west of its more well-known sister peak - Mount Spokane (e. 5,889ft). It is an often overlooked summit in the area, yet is a far more enjoyable peak than nearby Mount Spokane for the simple reason that a road goes all the way to the top of the latter and it can be crowded and noisy there where Kit Carson possesses the quiet and peace deserving of a mountain top.

We decided to start the climb at the beginning of Trail 110 near the park entrance. This well market trailhead features good maps (scores of trail criss-cross the area), "facilities", and ample parking. Following Trail 110 will take you on a steep but serene journey up the side of the mountain. Numerous creeks, lush meadows, and beautiful forests surround you the entire journey to the terminus of 110 on a saddle between Kit Carson and Mt. Spokane.

At this point, we turned left up the well-market trail to Kit Carson, but other trails lead to Mt. Spokane peak, a loop around the the flanks of Mt. Spokane, and others. A brief hike on this trail (#170 on the map) ends at a rocky-outcrop that provides super views stretching from the Idaho state-line, downtown Spokane and into the Palouse. On clear days (like today) - you are afforded glimpses of Steptoe Butte far to the south and the Kettle Range to the north.

The only potential concern with the hike is that these trails are popular with the mountain biker crowd - which means occasionally leaping into the brush alongside the trail to avoid the often aggressively fast riders. It does require that you keep your wits about you both climbing and ESPECIALLY descending.

This is a great day-hike that provides a solid challenge and good reward. Take advantage of your backyard playground in Spokane and hit these trails!