Get Active: Explore Moscow and the Outdoors
There is so much to do around Moscow in North Idaho, Eastern Washington and beyond. No matter the season, there are opportunities for walking, hiking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing and more. We know you’re an explorer. So, tell us: How far do you want to go?
Palouse Trails — The combination of the Bill Chipman Trail, Paradise Path and Latah Trail can take you all the way from Pullman to Troy, but it's also great for short, scenic travels through town. Open to any non-motorized form of transportation.
Arboreta — Take a stroll through one of U of I’s two arboretums. Explore over 63 acres and 17,000 plants. The Shattuck Arboretum or "Old Arb" is on the north side of Nez Perce Drive, and the newer section is to the south.
PCEI Nature Center — the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute has a multitude of trails around their headquarters including wetlands, outdoor art, a bike track, play areas and more.
Downtown — Stretch your legs with a stroll down Main Street. You might find something you need at one of the many small shops, many of which are owned by Vandal alumni.
Farmers Market — Held Saturdays from May through October. You can get your healthy food fix and some fresh air at the same time. A great place to pick up lunch before heading to other outdoor adventures.
Defy Moscow — If the weather isn't cooperating for outdoor adventures, head to this indoor trampoline park to spend some time bouncing off the walls.
Palouse Ice Rink — Open from mid-October through early April. Strap on some skates (available for rent) and go to an open skate session or try out hockey or curling.
Spring Valley Reservoir - Hike, fish or relax. Rainbow trout are stocked in the spring and fall, and the reservoir contains a healthy population of smallmouth bass, crappie and sunfish. Walk on a trail that winds around the lake or camp near the water.
Idler's Rest - This is a small cedar grove at the foot of Moscow Mountain. There a variety of short and long hiking trails, adding up to five miles of footpaths. The short drive and beautiful scenery make this a perfect afternoon destination.
Moscow Mountain - A substantial biking/hiking trail system exists on Moscow Mountain. Most of the trails are on private land, so motorized uses are prohibited. Some of the best access sites from Moscow are off Foothill Road and Moscow Mountain Road. Outdoor Program in the Rec Center has maps of the trail system and more information.
Virgil Philips Farm Park – A historic farm and orchard turned county park. Explore habitats from forests to wetlands to open fields. Two picnic shelters are available. An annual fall festival is held at the park with fresh cider, crafts and raptors on display.
Scenic 6 Park - This campground in Potlatch has exhibits highlighting area history. The campground is near hiking trails in McCroskey State Park and Giant White Pine National Recreation Trail.
Kamiak Butte - This park is a National Natural Landmark located just north of Pullman, Washington. A picnic area and campground are situated at the base of the butte, and trails wind up to the summit with great views of the Palouse.
Laird Park - This campground is in the Clearwater National Forest. It has 31 sites and is open typically from mid-May to mid-September. Enjoy a picnic area, swimming beach on the Palouse River, and abundant hiking and fishing opportunities.
Steptoe Butte - This day-use park has picnic areas and an interpretive exhibit at the summit of the butte explaining the history of the area. Drive up to the summit for expansive views of the Palouse region.
Hell's Gate State Park - Located just south of Lewiston on the banks of the Snake River, recreational opportunities are abundant and include hiking, biking, fishing and swimming. Campsites and cabins are available for overnight use. A visitor center highlights the history of the area.
Wawawai County Park - The park is a popular place to picnic and camp in the scenic Snake River valley. It has restrooms, a bird viewing platform and a half-mile interpretive hiking trail. A small bay off the Snake River offers recreational opportunities for non-motorized boating and fishing.
Palouse Divide Ski Area - Visit this Nordic ski area located on Highway 6 north of Potlatch for 20 miles of marked trails — many groomed by snowmobile.
Heyburn State Park - Located on area Chatcolet Lake, this is one of the oldest state parks in the Pacific Northwest. Hiking, fishing, camping and boating opportunities abound, along with great views of the lake, St. Joe River and Bitterroot Mountains. Also, a great place to bike the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes.
Rock Lake - This is the largest natural lake in eastern Washington and boasts a variety of fishing opportunities. Fish species include brown and rainbow trout along with both largemouth and smallmouth bass. A private boat launch on the lake is operated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, open for public use.
Palouse Falls - Palouse Falls is a 200-foot waterfall located in southeastern Washington. Besides the waterfall, the state park offers camping, picnicking and bird watching. Learn about the unique geologic history of this region.
Elk Creek Falls - Hike to the tallest waterfall in the state of Idaho, with three falls totaling 140 feet. The bottom of the upper falls can be reached by a short spur trail, and two lower falls are best seen from viewing platforms along the trail.
Buffalo Eddy - Take a scenic drive along the Snake River to see petroglyphs estimated to be 4,500 years old. There is also a short walking trail with information about the Nez Perce people.
Hobo Cedar Grove Botanical Area - Ramble along an interpretive trail through this 240-acre grove of western red cedar in the St. Joe National Forest. For longer hikes in the area, try the Marble Creek Trail system.
Winchester Lake State Park - This is a small state park surrounding Winchester Lake. It is open for year-round day use. Activities include camping, fishing and hiking. Yurts and canoes are available for rent as well. The park has a cross-country ski trail in the winter.