Saltese Uplands

View of Liberty Lake from the Saltese Uplands

     The Saltese Uplands Conservation Area is a great place to go for the hiking and mountain biking enthusiast.  Parking for the area is located along S Henry Rd. in Greenacres, Washington and the fun starts there.  Google Maps shows the best directions here.  Over 7 miles of trails are well cut and easy to follow, although it is a very sunny area with little shade.  There is minimal tree cover across the areas topography, so it might be a good idea to keep sun protection in mind.  The conservation area encompasses just over 550 acres, and trails take you from canyons to ridge tops.  The views are pretty breathtaking, and the area can quickly become a photographer's paradise.  Wildlife is said to be abundant, although I saw only landscapes during my first trip out there.

Panorama overlooking the flats around the Saltese Uplands

     According to The MTBProject, the main uplands loop has a great layout for bikers to hone their skills, although some areas will require riders to push uphill a bit.  The overall track is just over 5 miles, and slopes range from 5 to 12 percent grades.  The loop is also considered multi-purpose, meaning foot traffic and even some equestrian traffic is to be expected.  The altitude changes right around 660 feet from the lowest point to the highest, so it certainly provides a good workout.  

Rock stack along a trail

Two Rock stacks marking a trail

Throughout the trip a person may find one of several rock stacks that are placed around the area, which adds to the photographic value in my simple opinion.  They are also typically placed along the trails to help mark them possibly.
   

      Liberty Lake is one of a few great views, as people will be able to look back over Spokane Valley and Spokane off in the distance.  Mt. Spokane is also clearly visible when looking north, but the views of Liberty Lake and the Saltese Flats are something to behold in person.

 

James T. Slavin Conservation Area

   

     This short day trip takes us to James T. Slavin Conservation area.  Found at 12900 S Keeney Rd, Spokane, WA 99224, this little area has quite a bit to offer visitors.  It is a great hiking area with over 5 miles of trails to explore, and folks can also ride horses along some of the trails.  The trails are not very difficult, with minimal elevation gain.  This makes it a great place for people of all levels, and the total area is over 620 acres.  After a decent hike, you come upon a good size pond and marsh area.  This pond houses an abundance of ducks, geese, and other water fowl. 

  

     It is a good idea to keep in mind that insects frequent the area as well, so it might be a good idea to pack some spray and dress accordingly.  Dogs are allowed as long as they remain on a leash, but ticks can be pretty heavy, so make sure to check for them upon leaving the area.  It may be one of the more hidden area parks, as it is a few miles down U.S. 195.

      This conservation area is also included as part of local birding trails, as it ties in with the Palouse to Pines birding trail loop.  Local watchers and photographers will not be disappointed with the abundance of local birds.  Birds of prey and raptors can be found hovering up in the sky trying to find field mice and other rodents to eat.

      This park may be one of the little explored areas, and is extremely quiet and serene.  An individual may be able to become distracted by the orchestra of swans, geese, ducks, and other small tweeters.  It is the kind of place that when you go and sit for 30 minutes, you can easily get lost in thought for 30 more.  Any person could go here simply for a few hours of serenity, or make the best out of any fair weather day.
     For more information about the pond loop please visit the Washington Trails Association 
     Here is the Google Maps link to James T. Slavin Conservation Area