Crisp mornings, golden leaves, and that first sip of fresh, hot cider straight from the farm… fall in the Inland Northwest is pure magic! Spokane and Coeur d’Alene come alive this time of year with cozy traditions, scenic adventures, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Whether you’re in the mood for a leaf-peeping hike, a pumpkin-patch outing, or a festive fall event, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the season. To help you make the most of it, we’ve rounded up the ultimate fall bucket list for Spokane and Coeur d’Alene.
🍂 Fall Bucket List
Hike for fall colors
- Tubbs Hill Loop — about 2-2.5 miles, lovely views over the lake.
- Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail — steeper, but you get panoramic views of Beauty Bay and the fall foliage.
- Fernan Lake Trail, Higgins Point, or the trails at Q’emiln Park in Post Falls for more mellow hikes
- Riverside State Park — trails like Bowl and Pitcher, Nine Mile Falls.
- Iller Creek Trail (Dishman Hills) for a moderate hike and panoramic views.
- Mount Spokane State Park — especially trails like Mount Kit Carson for that high-elevation look.
Harvest & farm fun
• Green Bluff Growers: pumpkin patches, apple picking, fresh donuts, corn mazes.
Fall Festivals & local shopping
- WSECU Fall Fest downtown — enjoy an urban pumpkin patch, live music, art, food, etc.
- Oktoberfest / seasonal beer tastings at Spokane breweries.
- Market in the Mountains
- The Farmhouse at Green Bluff Sunday Markets
- Harvest Festival at the Museum of North Idaho
Cozy food & drinks
• Try seasonal drinks like pumpkin spice latte or hot apple cider at locally loved cafés like Indaba, Muggies, Bru, The Kitchen Engine, and so many more!
Evening / spooky season fun
• Haunted history walking tours (Browne’s Addition, The Davenport Hotel, etc.).
Photography & relaxing
• Take photos during the golden hour at Finch Arboretum
Local sports & performances
• Catch a Spokane Symphony concert or other indoor shows as evenings get chillier.
• Go to a local college or high school football game.
- Cheer on our Women’s USL team – the Zephyr!
Enjoy a chilly Fall walk
- Manito Park — the gardens are especially beautiful in autumn.
- Gonzaga University Campus — walk among maples and other trees turning color.
- Riverfront Park — stroll the paths, enjoy the river views, especially near the Spokane Falls.
Fall in Spokane and Coeur d’Alene offers something for everyone! This season is all about slowing down, savoring the little things, and creating lasting memories. So, grab your favorite sweater, gather your people, and start checking off your bucket list. However you spend it, you’ll find that autumn in the Inland Northwest feels a little extra special!
XO
