Spokane and Coeur d’Alene Fall Activities

The Inland Northwest has a lot to offer during fall. Get out into the community and find some festive fun for you and your family. We broke the recommendations up into two lists, one for Spokane and one for Coeur d’Alane to make it more convenient to plan your fall fun. 

Spokane

Spokane, Washington, bursts with fun fall activities that embrace the season’s crisp air, vibrant colors, and festive spirit. Here’s a curated list of some of the best things to do in Spokane during autumn 2025, perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers:

1. Visit Green Bluff for Pumpkin Picking and Harvest Fun Head to Green Bluff, a growers’ association just north of Spokane with over 30 family farms. Pick pumpkins, navigate corn mazes, sip fresh apple cider, and indulge in pumpkin donuts. Farms like Hidden Acres Orchards (solar-powered, kid-friendly with animals) and Walter’s Fruit Ranch (featuring a cafe, caramel apples, and train rides) are highlights. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and check farm websites for hours and events. The Green Bluff Harvest Festival runs from late September to October, offering hayrides, u-pick apples, and festive treats.
2. Admire Fall Foliage at Finch Arboretum Finch Arboretum, a 65-acre park with over 2,000 trees, is a must for leaf peepers. Stroll through vibrant red, orange, and yellow foliage, perfect for family photos. It’s free to visit, but dogs aren’t allowed. For a similar experience, explore Manito Park, especially the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, where Japanese maples glow in autumn hues. Both parks offer serene walks and stunning seasonal views.
3. Hike or Bike Scenic Trails Spokane’s mild fall weather is ideal for outdoor adventures. Try the Centennial Trail for a 37-mile bike ride or walk through Riverfront Park, showcasing deciduous trees in full color. For hiking, explore Rocks of Sharon in Dishman Hills for panoramic views or the Waikiki Springs Trail for a quieter nature escape. Riverside State Park offers 55 miles of trails, including Bowl & Pitcher, with vibrant fall scenery.
4. Attend Fall Festivals Spokane hosts vibrant festivals in 2025:
   • Valleyfest (Sep 20–22, Mirabeau Point Park): Features a parade, car show, live music, and kid-friendly Totfest.
   • Spokane County Interstate Fair (Sep 6–15): Enjoy rodeos, carnival rides, fair food, and live entertainment.
   • Spokane Fall Folk Festival (Nov 9–10, Spokane Community College): Free event with folk music, dance, and kids’ crafts.
   • WSECU Fall Fest (October 4, Riverfront Park): Free family fun with community activities and seasonal vibes.

Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, offers a vibrant array of fall activities that showcase its stunning natural beauty and lively community spirit. The region’s crisp air, colorful foliage, and diverse events make it an ideal destination for autumn adventures. Below is a curated list of activities to enjoy in Coeur d’Alene during the fall, based on current and reliable information:

Outdoor Activities

1. Hiking at Tubbs Hill
   • Explore the 165-acre Tubbs Hill, a natural peninsula with a 2-mile main loop trail offering panoramic views of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Fall brings vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a perfect time for a scenic hike. The trails are accessible from downtown and suitable for all skill levels.
   • Tip: Bring water, wear layers, and consider hiking in October for peak foliage. Dogs are welcome, with off-leash areas available.
2. Biking the North Idaho Centennial Trail 
   • Cycle along the 23-mile North Idaho Centennial Trail, which hugs Lake Coeur d’Alene’s eastern shore. The trail offers stunning fall views with colorful leaves and opportunities to spot wildlife like moose or bald eagles.
   • Tip: Rent bikes from local outfitters like North Idaho Recreation for a hassle-free experience.
3. Coeur d’Fondo Bike Ride 
   • Join the Coeur d’Fondo in September, a scenic bike ride along Lake Coeur d’Alene and Idaho’s Scenic Byway (Highway 97). The route passes through Harrison and St. Maries, ending at the downtown Oktoberfest. Various distances cater to different skill levels.
   • Details: Visit www.cdagranfondo.com for registration and event information.
4. Mineral Ridge Scenic Hike 
   • Tackle the 3.3-mile Mineral Ridge trail, a moderately challenging loop with 700 feet of elevation gain. It offers breathtaking views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding mountains, especially vibrant in fall. Best from April to November.
   • Tip: Budget 1.5–2 hours and wear sturdy shoes for steep sections.
5. Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway Drive 
   • Drive the Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway through hills and forests to Harrison for a leaf-peeping adventure. The route showcases vibrant fall colors and potential wildlife sightings, including elk or deer.
   • Tip: Combine with a stop at a local brewery or café in Harrison for a cozy fall experience.
6. Bald Eagle Watching 
   • Starting in November, migrating bald eagles arrive to feed on spawning kokanee salmon in Lake Coeur d’Alene and Wolf Lodge Bay. In 2024, a record 409 eagles were spotted. Tubbs Hill or the lake’s eastern shore are prime viewing spots.
   • Tip: Bring binoculars and check local wildlife reports for optimal viewing times.

Community Events

7. Oktoberfest in Downtown Coeur d’Alene 
   • Celebrate fall at the downtown Oktoberfest, typically held in September. Enjoy seasonal beers, local food, music, and vendors. The event coincides with the Coeur d’Fondo finish line, adding to the festive atmosphere.
   • Details: Check www.coeurdalene.org for exact dates and schedules.
8. Farmers’ Market and Apple Palooza 
   • Visit the final Kootenai County Farmers’ Market in October at 5th St. and Sherman Avenue. Enjoy harvest produce, hayrides, and the Apple Palooza apple-tasting event. Pick up pumpkins, winter squash, and local crafts. The market also runs on Saturdays in Hayden (Prairie Ave & Hwy 95) through the fall.
   • Tip: Arrive early for the best selection and free hayrides.
9. Downtown Art Walk 
   • On the second Friday of each month from April to December, explore the Art Walk in downtown Coeur d’Alene. Local businesses turn into concert venues and art galleries, showcasing regional artists and live music (jazz, rock, classical, or pop) from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Free street parking for 2 hours.
   • Details: Visit www.coeurdalene.org for participating businesses and artists.
10. Fall Harvest Carnival 
    • Attend the Fall Harvest Carnival on September 20 at the Idaho State Veterans Home. Enjoy family-friendly activities, music, and seasonal treats.
    • Details: Check www.cdainsider.com for updates on timing and activities.