As someone who grew up in Moscow, I have heard the phrases “Moscow is so boring” and “there’s nothing to do here” more than a few times. I admit, I’ve said those things more than a few times myself, but when you live here for long enough, you start to discover that there’s always something to do, especially in such a scenic area like the Palouse. I compiled a list of my favorite places to go when I feel like being outdoors. I’d suggest checking these places out sooner rather than later, because if this isn’t your first year in Moscow, you’ll know that winter hits like a mf train.
1. Moscow Mountain
Whether you like hiking, mountain biking, running,
horseback riding, or just seeing some cool views, Moscow Mountain offers a lot
of outdoorsy fun. The mountain was closed for a while as a result of all the
forest fires, but it recently opened back up! The drive is only about eight miles
from campus and there are tons of different trails available, ranging from
beginner to advanced. If you’re feeling really adventurous, there is a 13.2
mile loop trail called “Moscow Mountain Majesty” to try to tackle. To take a
look at all the different trails available, visit http://bikemoscow.org/trails/index.asp.
2. Idler's Rest Nature Preserve
Idler’s Rest became a nature preserve in 1966 with a
goal to protect and preserve plants, provide an opportunity for scientific
research, and educate the public, which would ultimately improve attitudes
towards nature. It is 35 acres and home to four distinct plant communities, as
well as hiking trails and a creek running through the whole place. It’s quiet,
peaceful, shady, and a great place to go if you feel like escaping campus for a
little while.
3. Kamiak Butte County Park
Located 12 miles away in Palouse, Washington, this
park has over five miles of forested hiking trails. The Pine Ridge Trail, which
is 3.5 miles long, reaches an elevation of 3,641 feet, making it the second
highest point in Whitman County. From the top, there is a beautiful panoramic
view of the Palouse region. There are also over 150 bird, mammal, and
vegetation species to keep an eye out for.
4. Robinson Park
About a five mile drive from campus, this 54 acre park
is equipped with barbeque grills, swing sets, fire rings, a short hiking trail,
and a ton of wide open field space for any sort of outdoor activity. It’s a
perfect place to go with a group of friends to have a good day outside.
5. Paradise Path & Bill Chipman Palouse Trail
Paradise Path is a 2.2 mile paved trail that runs all
the way through Moscow, starting on the east side of town and ending where the
Bill Chipman Palouse Trail starts. You may have used this trail before and not
even known it, as it runs right through campus. The Bill Chipman Trail is a 7
mile paved trail starts on campus and runs all the way to Pullman along Paradise
Creek. Either trail would offer a casual leisurely bike ride or run.
There you have it! I encourage you to try at least one of these before it gets too cold outside and experience all the neatness that nature has to offer.
