Knothead Trail Loop
7.0 mi
Distance
3 hrs 52 min
Time
terrain
919 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a moderate loop trail in Van Horn Edburg-Bass Conservation Area. This hike offers huge views of the Little Spokane River Valley below. Wildlife is abundant here, with many deer, woodpeckers, waterfowl, and chipmunks.
Getting Started
Park in the Indian Painted Rocks Trailhead parking lot. A Discover Pass is required and facilities are available. Note: it is posted that dog are not allowed on this trail. Starting the trail in the clockwise direction will start you off walking by the Little Spokane River for a nice warm up. This direction also allows for a more moderate ascent.
Taking Children
This is a difficult hike for younger children. The viewpoints are on cliffs and may be dangerous if not careful.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Public Tracks
stars
Little Spokane Knothead Trail
Beautiful overcast morning featuring frosted trees and grasses along the Little Spokane River. Wildlife was abundant, I saw in total 11 deer, 3 species of woodpecker, chickadees, quail, juncos and many chipmunks. I made my way up the Knothead trail and found my way to the first lookout over the Little Spokane. I stopped and made coffee and enjoyed coffee cake from a local bakery. After two cups, I packed my bag and continued the trail. I climbed another 300-400 feet from where I took the coffee break and then descended into the Knothead Valley below. This valley was a little claustrophobic with very little visibility. I made an effort to be noisy in this area. I did see what looked like mountain lion tracks on the trail. I am impressed with the amount of views on this hike. Beautiful scenery. 7 miles and just above 1000ft elevation, this trail is challenging to the novice hiker, but totally doable.
