Beauty Mountain via Trail 110

Starting your hike near Spokane County, Washington, the Beauty Mountain via Trail 110 offers an invigorating 9 km (approximately 5.6 miles) out-and-back journey with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (about 1,312 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the nearest known address, which is the Riverside State Park, located at 9711 W Charles Rd, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026. From there, follow the signs to the trailhead. For those using public transport, you can take a bus to the Nine Mile Falls area and then a short taxi ride to the park entrance.

Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a dense forest of pine and fir trees. The initial 1.5 km (0.9 miles) is relatively easy, with a gradual elevation gain of about 100 meters (328 feet). As you progress, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

Significant Landmarks and Nature Around the 3 km (1.9 miles) mark, you'll encounter a small, serene creek. This is a great spot to take a short break and enjoy the sounds of flowing water. Continuing on, the trail opens up to a series of switchbacks that lead you up the mountain. These switchbacks offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of the Spokane River.

At approximately 4.5 km (2.8 miles), you'll reach a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Spokane Valley and the distant Cascade Mountains. This is one of the highlights of the trail and a perfect spot for photos.

Wildlife and Flora The area is rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for deer, elk, and various bird species. The flora is equally diverse, with wildflowers blooming in the spring and summer months. You might also spot some unique rock formations along the way, which add to the trail's natural beauty.

Historical Significance The region around Beauty Mountain has a rich history. It was originally inhabited by the Spokane Tribe, who used the area for hunting and gathering. In the late 1800s, settlers moved in, and the area became known for its logging industry. Remnants of old logging roads can still be seen along the trail, adding a historical dimension to your hike.

Navigation and Safety For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool ensures you stay on track.

As you make your way back down, take your time to enjoy the descent. The return journey offers a different perspective of the landscape, and the changing light can make familiar sights look entirely new.

Final Stretch The last 1.5 km (0.9 miles) of the trail is a gentle descent back through the forest, bringing you full circle to the trailhead. This section is a great opportunity to reflect on the hike and enjoy the tranquility of the forest one last time before concluding your adventure.