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Overview
Mount Spokane State Park sits roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown Spokane, Washington, rising to a summit of approximately 5,883 feet. It is the largest developed state park in Washington by acreage and offers a notable range of conditions across four distinct seasons. The mountain is part of the Selkirk Range foothills and is forested predominantly with subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, and western larch.
The park's dual identity — as a winter ski area and a summer trail destination — makes it unusually versatile. Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park operates on the mountain under a permit from Washington State Parks, providing lift-served skiing separate from the state park's non-motorized trail network. Visitors should be aware that the ski area and the state park are managed differently and have separate fee structures.
Because the park is so close to Spokane, it functions as the city's primary mountain escape. Weekends during ski season and peak summer hiking months can be busy, particularly on the roads leading to the summit. Planning around shoulder periods or arriving early in the day helps avoid congestion.
Before You Go
Washington Discover Pass
Access to Washington State Parks requires a Discover Pass for most vehicles. This annual or day-use pass is available online through the Washington State Parks website, at sporting goods retailers, and at self-service kiosks near park entrances. Verify current pricing and purchase options on the official Washington State Parks site before your visit, as fees are subject to change.
Seasonal Road Access
The summit road (Mount Spokane Park Drive) is typically closed to vehicles in winter beyond a certain point due to snow. Check road conditions with Washington State Parks or the park's official channels before driving up during late fall, winter, or early spring. The ski area maintains separate access for lift operations.
What to Pack
- Layers are essential year-round; summit temperatures can be significantly cooler than Spokane
- Traction devices for boots are useful for shoulder-season hiking when ice lingers
- Plenty of water, as potable sources on trail are limited
- A paper or downloaded trail map — cell service is unreliable in parts of the park
- Sun protection; open ridge terrain reflects UV at elevation
Winter Visitors
If you are coming for skiing or snowboarding, confirm current operating days, hours, and lift ticket prices directly with Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park, as these vary by season and conditions.
Getting There
By Car
The most practical way to reach Mount Spokane State Park is by private vehicle. From downtown Spokane, take US-2 east, then follow WA-206 north toward the park. The drive is roughly 30–35 miles and typically takes 45–60 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions. GPS navigation generally works well for this route, though you should download an offline map as backup for the upper sections.
Public Transit
There is no scheduled public transit service to Mount Spokane State Park. Visitors without a vehicle should look into carpooling arrangements or rideshare services from Spokane; verify current rideshare availability, as service to the summit area may not be reliable.
Parking
Parking areas are located at the base of the ski area and at several trailheads lower on the mountain. Lots can fill quickly on winter weekends and during summer peak periods. Arriving before mid-morning improves your chances of finding a space near your intended trailhead.
Where to Stay
Camping in the Park
Mount Spokane State Park has a campground with standard and utility sites. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends and can be made through the Washington State Parks reservation system. Verify current site types, amenities, and availability on the official state parks site, as campground infrastructure is subject to updates.
Lodging in Spokane
Most visitors base themselves in Spokane, roughly 30–35 miles away, where a full range of hotels, motels, and short-term rentals is available across multiple price points. The cities of Spokane and Spokane Valley both offer convenient access to WA-206. Verify current options and pricing through standard booking platforms.
Things to See & Do
Skiing and Snowboarding
Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is a mid-sized ski area with a vertical drop of approximately 2,000 feet. It has terrain suited to beginner through advanced skiers, with a mix of groomed runs and some tree skiing. The area is popular with Spokane-area families and is generally less crowded than larger resorts in the region. Check the ski area's website for current lift status, pricing, and rental information.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Washington State Parks grooms a network of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails on the mountain separate from the alpine ski area. These trails wind through old-growth-like forest and offer a quieter experience than the downhill runs. Trail conditions and grooming reports are typically posted on the Washington State Parks website or at the park's information boards.
Hiking
The park maintains over 100 miles of trails for summer and fall hiking. The summit trail is one of the most popular routes, rewarding hikers with panoramic views extending toward the Selkirks, Cascades on clear days, and the Spokane Valley below. Trail distances and difficulty ratings are marked at trailheads; pick up a current map at the park entrance or download one from the official site before you go.
Mountain Biking
Several trails in the park are designated for mountain biking in summer. Terrain ranges from moderate flow trails to more technical singletrack. Confirm which trails currently allow bikes, as designations can change seasonally. Bikers should yield to hikers and be prepared for variable trail conditions.
Summit Views and Nature Observation
Even visitors who are not hiking the full summit route can drive to viewpoints when the road is open, making the panoramic views accessible to a wider range of visitors. Wildflower blooms in early summer and fall foliage from western larch — one of the few deciduous conifers — are noteworthy seasonal highlights.
Food & Drink
On the Mountain
The ski area's base lodge operates food and beverage service during the ski season; expect standard mountain fare such as hot drinks, soups, burgers, and snacks. Hours and menus vary — confirm with the ski area directly. Outside of ski season, on-mountain food service is limited to nonexistent, so plan accordingly.
Bringing Your Own Food
For hikers, mountain bikers, and campers, bringing your own food and drinks is the most reliable approach. Pack enough water, as potable water sources on trail are not abundant. Leave No Trace principles apply: pack out all waste.
Dining in Spokane
Spokane has a well-developed restaurant scene for a city of its size, covering a wide range of cuisines and budgets. The South Perry and Kendall Yards neighborhoods are frequently cited by locals as dining destinations. If you are day-tripping from the city, stopping for a meal before or after your park visit is easy to arrange.
Practical Information
Cell Service and Connectivity
Cell service is patchy throughout much of the park and unreliable at the summit. Download maps, trail guides, and emergency contacts before leaving Spokane.
Restrooms and Facilities
Restrooms are available at the ski area base and at some trailheads, but facilities are limited deeper in the park. The campground has restroom facilities when open.
Emergency Contacts
In a genuine emergency, call 911. Cell service limitations mean this may not always be possible from within the park. Washington State Parks rangers patrol the area, and the ski patrol operates during ski season. Inform someone of your itinerary before heading into the backcountry sections of the park.
Pet Policy
Leashed dogs are generally permitted on trails in Washington State Parks. They are typically not allowed in the ski area's lift-served terrain or in certain designated areas. Verify current pet rules on the Washington State Parks website before bringing animals.
Leave No Trace
The park's ecosystems at elevation are sensitive. Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and respect fire regulations, which can include seasonal burn bans during dry summer months.
Safety
Weather Awareness
Conditions on Mount Spokane can change rapidly, particularly in spring and fall. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in summer. Check the National Weather Service forecast for the Spokane area and specifically for higher elevations before setting out, and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate.
Winter Travel Hazards
Snow and ice on the park drive and upper trails create slip-and-fall risks for unprepared visitors. Use proper footwear and consider traction devices during shoulder seasons. Avalanche terrain exists in some backcountry portions of the mountain; consult the Northwest Avalanche Center for current conditions if venturing off designated trails in winter.
Wildlife
The park is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, mountain lions, and various smaller mammals. Practice standard wildlife safety: store food securely at camp, do not approach or feed wildlife, and make noise on trail to avoid surprising animals.
