Mount Spokane State Park - Quartz Mountain

Located within the Nordic ski trail system, Quartz Mountain is the third highest summit within Mount Spokane State Park (5,129 feet, to be precise) but is among the easiest hikes in the area in summertime.

In winter all of the trails within the Nordic ski trail system are wide and well maintained for ease of winter grooming. They are also well marked, with trail signage and permanent maps located at each junction on the trail system. Winter access is slightly more difficult for Quartz Mountain, as the trail from the J4-Bypass (near Nova Hut) to the summit of Quartz Mountain is ungroomed. Backcountry-style Nordic ski equipment is advised. Snowshoes are not permitted within the Nordic ski area.

In summertime, the relocated fire lookout at the summit can be used as a rentable cabin for overnight use during the summer months. The lookout books several months in advance, so plan ahead in order to reserve a stay.  Two consecutive nights are required, and spending the night does require walking in on the trail system.

The views from the top of Quartz are excellent. A complete panorama of the Spokane Valley and north Idaho stretches out at your feet, including several lakes and prominent peaks from the Selkirk Range. It makes for a great short trip of just under five miles as a loop or an out-and-back.  Dogs are permitted on-leash during the summer.  Dogs are not permitted on the Nordic ski trails during the winter.