Spokane Valley, Washington: 10 Short Day Trips to Explore
10 Easy Road Trips from Spokane Valley, Washington for a Fun Day Out
|
| Trade your routine for waterfall overlooks, lakefront strolls, mountain air, and a playful stop at Silverwood on these easy day trips from Spokane Valley. |
Need a quick escape from Spokane Valley, Washington? You are in a great spot for it. With scenic lakes, small towns, college charm, mountain views, and a few truly memorable stops just outside Spokane County, it is easy to plan a road trip without spending all day in the car.
This guide rounds up 10 short day trips near Spokane Valley, WA that take you into nearby counties in Washington and Idaho. So if you are craving a relaxing drive, a family outing, or a simple nearby getaway, these ideas can help you make the most of a free day.
I always think the best day trips feel a little like hitting the reset button. You leave home, see something new, eat somewhere local, and come back feeling like you had a mini vacation without the stress of a long haul.
1. Coeur d'Alene Lakefront Fun in Kootenai County, Idaho
If you want one of the most classic day trips from Spokane Valley, head east to Coeur d'Alene. It is about a 30-minute drive, depending on traffic, and it delivers big on lake views and easygoing vacation vibes.
The star here is the Coeur d'Alene lakefront. You can stroll the shoreline, enjoy City Park, watch boats drift by, and grab lunch downtown. It is one of those places that feels polished but still relaxed.
- Drive time: About 25 to 35 minutes
- Best for: Couples, families, and first-time visitors
- Don’t miss: Sherman Avenue shops and waterfront views
If you ask me, this is the easiest nearby getaway when you want that “I got out of town” feeling fast.
2. Silverwood Theme Park in Kootenai County, Idaho
Want something with more energy? Head to Silverwood Theme Park in Athol. This is a great pick for families, groups of friends, or anyone who thinks a good weekend trip should come with roller coasters.
Silverwood is the biggest theme park in the Northwest, and it is a fun choice when you want more than a scenic drive. Between thrill rides, kid-friendly attractions, and the Boulder Beach water park in season, you can easily spend a full day here.
- Drive time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Best for: Families and thrill seekers
- Tip: Go early in summer to beat long lines
Some day trips are calm and quiet. This one is the opposite, in the best way.
3. Farragut State Park in Kootenai County, Idaho
For a mix of nature and history, Farragut State Park is a solid choice. Set near the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille, this large park gives you trails, open spaces, lake access, and a peaceful break from city noise.
It is a great spot to hike, bike, picnic, or just enjoy the scenery. If you like road trips that let you move at your own pace, this one works well. Think of it like an all-in-one outdoor sampler platter.
- Drive time: Around 1 hour
- Best for: Hikers, bikers, and families
- Look for: Scenic trails and views toward Lake Pend Oreille
4. Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille in Bonner County, Idaho
Sandpoint is one of the prettiest small-city escapes within easy reach of Spokane Valley. The downtown area is walkable and welcoming, and the setting along Lake Pend Oreille makes the whole place shine.
You can spend the day browsing local shops, grabbing coffee, relaxing at City Beach, or just taking in the mountain-and-water views. It has a laid-back feel that makes it perfect for an easy day trip or a simple weekend plan.
- Drive time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
- Best for: Scenic drives, couples, and slow travel lovers
- Try: A beach walk followed by lunch downtown
If Coeur d'Alene feels lively, Sandpoint feels softer and a little artsier.
5. Schweitzer Mountain in Bonner County, Idaho
If you are up for more mountain scenery, head to Schweitzer near Sandpoint. In winter, it is known for skiing and snowboarding. In warmer months, it is great for chairlift views, hiking, and fresh mountain air.
This is one of the best road trips near Spokane Valley, Washington when you want big views without a huge drive. On a clear day, the scenery feels almost too good to be real.
- Drive time: Around 1 hour 40 minutes
- Best for: Outdoor lovers and mountain fans
- Good to know: Check seasonal hours before heading out
6. St. Maries in Benewah County, Idaho
For a quieter outing, consider a drive to St. Maries. This small town sits where the St. Joe and St. Maries rivers meet, and it has a calm, old-school feel that many travelers end up loving.
It is ideal if you want a low-key nearby getaway with river views, a historic downtown feel, and a slower pace. Sometimes the best road trip is not about checking off big attractions. It is about finding a place that helps you breathe a little deeper.
- Drive time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
- Best for: Quiet drives and small-town charm
- Enjoy: Scenic river scenery and local dining stops
7. Heyburn State Park in Benewah County, Idaho
Heyburn State Park is a lovely spot for anyone who wants to be outdoors without tackling anything too extreme. It sits near the southern end of Lake Coeur d'Alene and offers trails, water access, and beautiful natural views.
This park is especially nice for walking, biking, and picnics. If you enjoy a day trip where you can keep things simple, this is a great pick. Pack snacks, bring a camera, and let the day unfold.
- Drive time: Around 1 hour
- Best for: Nature lovers and easy outdoor fun
- Tip: The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes nearby adds extra appeal
8. Palouse Falls State Park in Whitman County, Washington
If you are willing to drive a bit farther for a dramatic payoff, Palouse Falls State Park is absolutely worth it. The waterfall drops about 200 feet and creates one of the most striking landscapes in the state.
This is a great choice when you want a more memorable weekend trip feel packed into one day. The scenery is bold, rugged, and unforgettable. It is the kind of place that makes everyone stop talking for a second and just stare.
- Drive time: About 2 hours
- Best for: Photographers and scenic adventurers
- Important: Bring water and check conditions before you go
9. Mount Spokane State Park in Stevens County, Washington
Even though many visitors think of it as a winter destination, Mount Spokane State Park is a wonderful day trip in more than one season. You will find hiking trails, forest roads, beautiful overlooks, and cool mountain air.
It is a smart pick if you want to trade suburban streets for tall trees and wider skies. Whether you hike a little or a lot, the setting does most of the work for you.
- Drive time: About 1 hour
- Best for: Hikers, leaf peepers, and snow lovers in season
- Bring: Layers, since mountain weather can change fast
10. Pend Oreille County’s Newport Area, Washington
For a relaxed northern drive, head to the Newport area in Pend Oreille County. This region is rich in natural beauty, with rivers, forests, and a small-town atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind.
Newport works well for people who like to keep plans flexible. You can enjoy a scenic drive, stop for lunch, and explore riverside views without rushing from one tourist attraction to the next. Sometimes that kind of freedom is the whole point of a good road trip.
- Drive time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes
- Best for: Scenic cruising and a slower day out
- Nice bonus: Great seasonal color in fall
Quick Tips for Planning Day Trips from Spokane Valley, WA
Before you hit the road, here are a few easy tips:
- Start early if you are going on a summer weekend
- Pack water, snacks, and a phone charger
- Double-check hours for parks, attractions, and seasonal stops
- Wear layers, especially for mountain or lakeside destinations
- Leave room in your plan for unplanned stops
That last tip matters more than people think. Some of the best travel moments happen when you notice a view, a small diner, or a roadside shop and decide to pull over.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Spokane Valley
One of the best things about living in or visiting Spokane Valley, Washington is how many fun escapes are within reach. From lake towns and waterfalls to mountain views and family attractions, these day trips near Spokane Valley give you plenty of ways to change up your routine.
So, which one will you try first? A lake day in Coeur d'Alene, a mountain outing at Schweitzer, or a scenic drive to Palouse Falls?
If this list helped you plan your next road trip, share it with a friend or family member who loves a good day out. And if you have a favorite nearby getaway from Spokane Valley, leave a comment and tell us about it. I would love to hear which stop you think deserves a spot on the list.
Comments
Post a Comment