South Hill Bluffs: South Hill, nestled in south Spokane, is a spaghetti system of interconnecting trails that can provide a different, fun ride each time out. The trails are sandy in places and, especially toward the near-barren top of the hill, are prone to erosion, but trail surface is mostly a good hardpack. The trail leading you down into the network is uneven, and there is little to catch you if you fall. You’ll put out some hearty efforts as you end the ride, after the initial 500-foot descent to the base, and as much climbing as you want to do in between. Great riding for intermediate to advanced riders — make your own route!
Driving Distance: 14min (8.7mi)
Trail Distance: 8.6 mi
Elevation Gain: 520ft
Difficulty (1-5): 3-4
Permit(s) Required: None
Description: South Hill, nestled in south Spokane, is a spaghetti system of interconnecting trails that can provide a different, fun ride each time out. The trails are sandy in places and, especially toward the near-barren top of the hill, are prone to erosion, but trail surface is mostly a good hardpack. The trail leading you down into the network is uneven, and there is little to catch you if you fall. You’ll put out some hearty efforts as you end the ride, after the initial 500-foot descent to the base, and as much climbing as you want to do in between. Great riding for intermediate to advanced riders — make your own route! Scenery: Views to the south at the ride’s start, which overlooks Qualchan Golf Course and Us 195; ponderosa pines, sparse vegetation down the hill.
Guide Review: A quick 10-minute ride from campus to the start of the trailhead, South Hill Bluffs might be my favorite single track in all of Spokane. At the start of this trail you are always on your toes, due to the cliff on your right side and the steep hill on your left. The rolling trail allows you to get your workout on the uphill and then you receive an adrenaline rush on the downs. About 3 miles into the amazing hill adventure you take a left and begin to ride in and out of trees. The best part of South Hill Bluffs is that the whole trail is well kept and the single track is in good condition! I hope that all of you mountain bike enthusiasts do attempt this ride.
Gear List:
- Waterbottle (bring lots, in the summer this is can be dry and hot)
- Small First Aid Kit
- Rain Jacket (October-May)
- Patch Kit
- Travel pump
Check out the forecast here!
*Gonzaga Outdoors recommended trips are intended to give you ideas about some awesome places you should check out in Spokane. However, these reviews may not be 100% accurate or 100% current. We recommend that you do your own additional research about the area and current conditions before you go on your trip. You go the trip at your own risk. Have fun out there!*
Leave a Reply