Knothead Trail

Starting near Spokane County, Washington, the Knothead Trail is a captivating loop trail that spans approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) with an elevation gain of around 300 meters (984 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a moderately challenging hike.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the vicinity of Riverside State Park, which is the nearest significant landmark. For those using public transport, the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) provides bus services that can get you relatively close to the park. From there, a short taxi or rideshare trip will bring you to the trailhead.

### Trail Navigation For navigation, HiiKER is an excellent tool to use. It provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track throughout your hike.

### Trail Highlights As you embark on the Knothead Trail, you'll find yourself immersed in a diverse landscape that includes dense forests, open meadows, and rocky outcrops. The trail is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER.

#### First Section: Forested Pathways The initial part of the trail takes you through a lush forest, predominantly composed of Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs. This section is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging parts ahead. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll start to notice a gradual incline.

#### Midway Point: Elevation Gain and Scenic Views Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll encounter the most significant elevation gain. This section can be a bit strenuous, but the effort is well worth it. As you ascend, the forest begins to thin out, offering stunning panoramic views of the Spokane River and the surrounding valley. This is an excellent spot for a short break and some photography.

#### Historical Significance The area around the Knothead Trail is rich in history. Riverside State Park, where the trail is located, was established in the early 20th century and has been a popular recreational area ever since. The park itself is named after the Spokane River, which played a crucial role in the development of the region. Native American tribes, particularly the Spokane people, have inhabited this area for thousands of years, and their influence is still evident in various parts of the park.

### Final Stretch: Looping Back As you begin your descent, the trail loops back towards the starting point. This section is less steep but still offers some beautiful scenery, including wildflower meadows and small streams. The final 3 km (1.9 miles) are relatively easy, allowing you to cool down as you make your way back to the trailhead.

### Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of flora and fauna. In addition to the Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs, look out for wildflowers such as lupines and Indian paintbrushes, especially in the spring and early summer. Wildlife sightings can include deer, coyotes, and a variety of bird species, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts.

### Preparation Tips Given the moderate difficulty of the Knothead Trail, it's advisable to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months. The trail can be rocky and uneven in places, so trekking poles might also be beneficial. Weather can change rapidly, so dressing in layers is recommended.

By following these guidelines and using HiiKER for navigation, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy the Knothead Trail and all the natural and historical wonders it has to offer.