Spokane is so lucky to have this park at its doorstep. We enjoyed the dramatic basalt formations rising from the Spokane River, the deep scent of pine forest and the gentle sounds of whitewater. In May, when the balsamroot is in bloom, this place would be spectacular.

The Bowl & Pitcher area is probably the most popular attraction in Riverside State Park, but even on this summer Sunday there was plenty of room for all hikers. We were, however, one of the only groups wearing masks, which we pulled up every time we encountered another party.

We walked across the suspension bridge and headed downriver until we reached the Devil's Toenail. I wish we would have had time to explore more of the vast network of trails in this state park. Next time!

Enjoyed some lovely lookputs over the Spokane River. There wasnt one definitive trail but lots of paths around the area. We went from the marked viewpoint, down across the bridge, and upriver to some more lookouts. There is lots of jasmine in bloom, making the trail smell wonderful.

We enjoyed this as a choose-your-own-adventure network of paths; starting at the bowl and pitcher lookout point, going down to cross the suspension bridge, and then up again and heading upriver to find some lookouts. We would have liked to hike up to a ridge on the west side of the river, but the paths up it seemed to be covered in rubble. On the plus side though, there was a lot of really fragrant jasmine growing by the trails and some swifts flying overhead. We certainly weren't the only ones enjoying an evening at the park, but it didn't feel overly crowded. (I do wish there was more mask-wearing though.) Also enjoyed a funny moment on the suspension bridge cheering on a family of ducks fighting the current to cross to the opposing river bank.

Beautiful 2 mile walk along the river with fantastic rock formations. There is a lot of shade so don’t hesitate to visit during summer. 

Took the kids for a hike and a picnic at the river. Trails are in great shape and river is running high, we even saw kayakers. Kids had a lot of fun playing frisbee at the river and following the trails around giant rock formation.