The Palouse isn't the Cascades or the Bitterroots, but it has its own kind of beauty — rolling hills, wide skies, and trails that let you disappear into it. Whether you're looking for a quick walk after work or a full-day mountain bike adventure, here's where to go.
Bill Chipman Palouse Trail
This is the marquee trail of the region. The paved path runs about 7 miles between Moscow and Pullman, following the old railroad grade through the rolling hills. It's flat, well-maintained, and beautiful in every season. Walkers, runners, cyclists, and dog-walkers share the path. In fall, the wheat fields on either side turn gold. In winter, you might have the whole trail to yourself.
Access: Trailheads in Moscow (near the Eastside Marketplace) and Pullman (at Bishop Boulevard). Multiple access points in between.
Moscow Mountain
Moscow Mountain is the big outdoor playground north of town. The trails range from easy forest walks to challenging mountain bike loops. The Moscow Mountain area has a network of trails maintained by the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute (PCEI) and local volunteers.
- East Moscow Mountain Road offers access to several trailheads
- The Ridge Trail is a local favorite for mountain biking — flowy singletrack through the forest
- Spring and fall are prime seasons — summer can be hot and dusty, and winter brings snow (which means cross-country skiing)
Note: Some trails cross private land with public access agreements. Respect signage and stay on marked trails.
Idler's Rest Nature Preserve
Just 3 miles north of Moscow, Idler's Rest is a 42-acre preserve with easy walking trails through old-growth forest. It's managed by the Palouse Land Trust and is one of the last remnants of the old-growth Western red cedar forest that once covered this area. The loop trail is about a mile — perfect for a quick nature break. Dogs are allowed on leash.
PCEI Nature Center
The Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute runs a nature center at 1040 Rodeo Drive in Moscow. They have short interpretive trails through wetlands and riparian areas, plus regular guided walks, bird counts, and volunteer restoration events. It's a great resource, especially for families and kids.
Kamiak Butte County Park
About 15 miles south of Pullman, Kamiak Butte rises 3,360 feet out of the surrounding wheat fields. The 3.5-mile Pine Ridge Trail loops around the butte through a pocket forest of Ponderosa pine — it feels like you've been teleported to a mountain range. The views from the top are some of the best on the Palouse. There's also a picnic area and a small campground.
Steptoe Butte
Not a hike per se — you drive to the top — but Steptoe Butte State Park deserves mention. The 360-degree view from the summit is the iconic Palouse landscape: quilted wheat fields stretching to the horizon in every direction. Sunrise and sunset are spectacular. Bring a camera.
Lawson's Aerodrome Loop (Pullman)
A popular walking and running loop in Pullman that follows pathways near the airport and through residential areas. It's flat, easy, and a good option when you want pavement under your feet.
Tips
- Trail conditions change fast. Moscow Mountain trails can go from dry to muddy in a single rainstorm. Check conditions before heading out.
- Tick season is real. Spring through early summer, check yourself after any hike in tall grass or forest.
- Water is scarce on trails. Carry what you need — there are no water fountains on Moscow Mountain or at Kamiak Butte.
- Join a group. PCEI, the Palouse Road Runners, and the local mountain bike community organize regular group outings. Check The Palouse Calendar for upcoming outdoor events.