Adventures,  Places to Explore,  Things to Do,  Washington

Bowl & Pitcher Loop Trail

Looking for a family-friendly hike complete with spectacular water views? What about crossing over the Spokane river by way of a gigantic, and it bears mentioning very sturdy, wooden bridge? Need plenty of little stops along the way?

Yes? Then look no further, Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail in Riverside State Park is the hike for your crew. Offering a fairly level 2-mile well-groomed loop trail, it is a great option for all ages and skill levels. There are quite a few stairs so pack a child carrier and skip the stroller option for the littlest ones on this adventure. Grab a water bottle, a couple of snacks, or even a coffee and get going!

Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail is located North West of downtown Spokane in Riverside State Park. I used the All Trails directions on my Google maps to find my way. The directions led me directly to the trailhead, easy peasy lemon squeezy.

You either need a Discover Pass or simply pay for parking at the trailhead. Learn more about Discover passes here. We personally have the pass. It was $30 and gives you access to Washington State parks and recreational areas for an entire year. If you opt to just pay for the day, I believe parking is $10.

We have been able to hike this trail twice. Once during the week on a cloudy day, and another time on a beautiful Spring Sunday afternoon. Both times there was a place to park close to the trailhead and space on the path to enjoy being in nature as a family. The trail was clearly busier on the weekend, but not overwhelming with people everywhere. The main walking path is wide, so you have the ability to pass others and allow space. If there were people down a little side trail or lookout we just kept going. There are plenty of great spots along the way, so we just hit up the next one. They all offer an amazing view to stop and enjoy the moment.

The hike starts out strong, grabbing the kiddos’ attention and excitement by crossing a large wooden bridge over the Spokane River, which by the way, is roaring this Spring. There is a great little waterfront spot down to the right directly after the bridge, complete with a picnic gazebo above. Continue up the stairs and turn right to begin the loop. Now be warned, the trail is not clearly marked or if it is, I was not able to tell. I guessed on which path to take when coming upon any split in the trail, always choosing to go towards the river.

It is a loop trail, which I love because it offers different scenery on the way back to the car. As you near the end of the path along the river the trail goes up and to the left slightly over a little hill. You end up on what I thought looked like an old road, not paved but super wide. Am I the only one that thinks the way back is always faster? This hike is no exception. Although not alongside the river with the spectacular views of the water on the backside of the loop, it’s still a nice walk.

Aside from the views, my little guy spotted marmots, geese, squirrels, ducks, butterflies, and more ladybugs than I have ever seen in one place. But for real, check out the video, the ladybugs were CRAZY!

I would 100% recommend this hike for anyone wanting a leisurely stroll with the family enjoying the wonderful water views. Have you been on more family-friendly hikes in the Spokane area? Which one is your fave?

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