Hog Lake Loop

Leaving Spokane and driving west down Interstate 90 isn’t usually where one might envision pretty nature existing. Yes, the farms and desert are pretty in their own way, but most people don’t want to go hiking on a farm. This area has some real hidden treasures though.

To get to Hog Lake from Spokane, drive west on Interstate 90 and take exit 254 for Fishtrap/Sprague Highway and turn left. Less than a mile from I-90, turn left onto the first gravel road, which is across from a sign that reads, “Lake Valley Loop”. If the gate is closed, park here and you’ve got a 1.2 mile hike to the trailhead. If the gate is open, you can drive up the gravel road right to the trailhead parking lot.

The trail starts off in a beautiful forest that almost seems out of place given the surrounding farms. As you walk, listen to the variety of bird calls that fill the air. If you fancy yourself a bird-watcher, get out your binoculars and have a field day. This area is teeming with a wide variety of song birds. Follow the well-marked trail, and less than half a mile in, you will encounter a beautiful waterfall.

The waterfall itself is on private land, please respect the local landowners and don't hike past the posted signs. You'll still have great views of the falls, Hog Lake, and the surrounding hills from the main trail. This is a great place to take some scenic pictures. If you’re lucky, you might see some water birds enjoying the lake and while hawks circle above.

After hanging out by the falls/lake for a while, make your way back up to the main trail. The 1.3 mile loop trail goes along cliffs that overlook the lake. This area is less forest-y and more rolling hills and cliffs. If you're hiking in the spring, you will be amazed at the expanses of beautiful wildflowers. Across the lake, you will see even more beautiful pine forest. Since a lot of this hike is not shaded, be sure to pack plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun.

Highlights of this hike include: wildflowers, lots of birds, beautiful overlooks, a WATERFALL, lots of green rolling hills, and it’s not too crowded…in the morning. More people (lots of families with kids) tend to show up as the day gets later, so keep that in mind if that’s an issue for you.