First time visiting the Bowl & Pitcher and I was impressed! There are a lot of trails and side trails to wander around on, but for me the biggest attraction was the gigantic basalt formations. I found some well worn scramble routes up some of them, and spied some roads less traveled up others that I'll have to come back and give a go. Much much more to discover at this gem right in my backyard! There is a lot of rather thick and slippery ice in place on the main trail, but overall I wouldn't say traction is required.

This six-mile loop starts from the dayuse area of the Bowl & Pitcher campground in Riverside State Park (Discover Pass required). I started by crossing the bridge over the Spokane River, and then heading downstream on trail 25. Just a little past the picnic shelter I left trail 25 and the riverside by heading uphill on trail 210. This trail intersects and crosses Centennial Trail within the first mile, and then climbs its only major hill immediately after the crossing. At the top, park visitors are rewarded with an outstanding view of the burn area and the river. From here, the trail descends one steep/rocky section before intersecting Centennial Trail again. Turn left (downstream) on Centennial for about 100' and watch for the trail to the right (just before the mile 32 marker on Centennial Trail). Return to the river, intersect another segment of trail 25, and then return to Bowl and Pitcher by following trail 25 upstream. (Trail 25 is an excellent long route in the park: follow the whole loop to cover twenty-five miles!).

We did a five mile round trip hike along the Spokane River after crossing the bridge and heading right. Bugs moderate, less than expected fellow hikers. The Balsam Leaf Arrowroot flowers were finishing blooming, other wildflowers moderate. Trail dry, clean and an easy hike. Plenty more here to see.

About 10 families parked at the Day Use area on a Discovery Pass free day. We walked across the swinging bridge just north of Bowl and Pitcher. We then turned left and walked north, going parallel to the Spokane River. The kids were ages 6-14 and it was perfect for all. The trail was easy to follow, easy for all hiking abilities, and the views of the river were spectacular. We went on a day that seemed windy at first but once on the trail amidst the trees, there was no bitter cold wind. The hawk circling above the river was exciting to watch and the birds floating on the river were wonderful.