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.