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OUTTHEREMONTHLY.COM

THE INLAND NW GUIDE TO OUTDOOR ADVENTURE, TRAVEL AND THE OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE

River Time 5 River Hikes + Early Season Whitewater

Yoga for Outdoor Junkies You Just Ran Bloomsday What’s Next?

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4/3/14 10:13 AM

In This Issue p.5 / From the Editor

MONTHLY

Down by the River

camp.sleep.fun

p.6 / Out There News p.8 / Hike of the month

Out There Monthly / May 2014 www.outtheremonthly.com

McKenzie Conservation Area Publishers

p.9 / Dispatches

Shallan & Derrick Knowles Editor

Derrick Knowles

p.10 / Outdoor Living

Visual Editor

Tips for the Carefree Gardener

Shallan Knowles

Finding Morels on you next Hike

p.11 / Everyday Cyclist Bike to Work Week

p.12 / Health and Fitness Living with an Ironman in Training

p.13 / Outdoor Family For a Good Cause

p.14 / Yoga Right Hand Blue

senior writers

Jon Jonckers, Brad Naccarato, Amy Silbernagel McCaffree Contributing Writers:

S. Michal Bennett, Chris Kopcyznski, Hank Greer, Janelle McCabe, Ammi Midstokke, Aaron Theisen, Holly Weiler, Joe Whittle Contributing photographers:

Tom Bear, Young Bennett, Chad Case, Logan Crable, Jennifer Hall, Fiona Hicks, Shallan Knowles, Brad Moss, Kallie Mills, Lucas Rate Circulation director

Dezi Nagyfy to request copies caLl

509 / 822 / 0123

p.15 / Early season Rafting

Ad Sales

Derrick Knowles: 509 / 822 / 0123

p.18 / Road Trip

selkbagusa.com

North Idaho Breweries

p.20-21 / INW OUTDOOR & 6-Month Training Calendar p.22 / River Time

Go With the Flow on these 5 River Hikes

p.24 / Dog photo Winners P.25 / You Just Ran BloomsdayWhat’s next?

14 Races to Keep your Feet Moving

P.26 / The Art of Risk Roskelley’s Lifetime Achievement Award

P.29 / Running Running Wild in the Wallowas

VENTILATION

Out There Monthly

Mailing Address: PO Box #5 Spokane, WA 99210 www.outtheremonthly.com, 509 / 822 / 0123 FIND US ON FACEBOOK Out There Monthly is published once a month

by Out There Monthly, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 2014 Out There Monthly, LLC. The views expressed in this magazine reflect those of the writers and advertisers and not necessarily Out There Monthly, LLC. Disclaimer: Many of the activities depicted in this magazine carry a significant risk of personal injury or death. Rock climbing, river rafting, snow sports, kayaking, cycling, canoeing and backcountry activities are inherently dangerous. The owners and contributors to Out There Monthly do not recommend that anyone participate in these activities unless they are experts or seek qualified professional instruction and/or guidance, and are knowledgeable about the risks, and are personally willing to assume all responsibility associated with those risks.

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From The Editor: Down by the River It was day two on a five day rafting trip down the Main Fork of Idaho’s Salmon River when our flotilla of two loaded boats and a halfdozen people rounded a bend to a surprising sight. Until that point we had only seen a couple other rafters, a few deer, and a moose. It felt like we had the place mostly to ourselves. And then here were a couple backpackers hiking along a previously invisible trail along the canyon wall way back in the middle of nowhere.

Wilderness river trips down Idaho’s Salmon, Snake, and Selway rivers are legendary and accessible to just about anyone willing to hire an outfitter or pull together a private trip and land a permit, yet the miles of meandering trails that snake their way

up, down, and along these same river canyons, for the most part, are little known. It honestly hadn’t occurred to me that it might be possible to hike all the way into this remote stretch of river. How many other wilderness rivers had trails along their shores?

I didn’t have a clue, but I wanted to find out.

Hiking along and boating down a river are two very different things. By the time our float was over – one of the most magical experiences of my life – I was thoroughly convinced that I needed to experience them both on as many rivers as possible. Over a decade later, my brother Scott and I finally got around to hiking in to that same remote stretch of the Frank Church Wilderness ourselves. We drove my van on what seemed like several hundred miles

of back roads, and then set off on foot, sweating and swearing as we dropped thousands of feet toward the canyon bottom over a long, hot day of hiking.

I nearly stepped on a rattlesnake and the ancient trail we had been following finally disappeared all-together about an hour before dark. Down by the Salmon River, we enjoyed some of the good life typically reserved for rafters: green, glassy swimming holes; beautiful beach camps; and a nightly symphony of crickets and the dull, soothing roar of the river. We saw several groups of rafters each day, and we got to watch a few of them scout and run the same rapids we’d run 10 years before. We tried to remember beaches we may have camped on and got lost in the memories that the river stirred.

Time on a river, whether you’re on a trail accessed with a simple pair of walking shoes; set up with a full camp on shore; or out on the water in a raft, kayak, or some other watercraft, is an undeniably special experience. The Inland Northwest is blessed with wild, beautiful rivers, many with miles of trails along their banks. There is no better place to lose your worries and revive your spirit than in the fragrant spring air of an enchanting river canyon.

So grab your pack or paddle, and make a beeline for the river. // ------------------------------------------------------derrick knowles, editor editor@outtheremonthly.com

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Out ThereNews Celebrate National Trails Day with REI at the Little Spokane River Natural Area You can be part of National Trails Day history this year by coming out to the Little Spokane River Natural Area June 1 to help finish work on the Knothead Trail. REI Spokane is sponsoring the event and the trail work will be led by volunteers with Washington Trails Association and other community organizations from 1-4 p.m. After the work is done, volunteers can stick around for refreshments, music, and a ribboncutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new section of trail.

For 30 years, the American Hiking Society has observed National Trails Day on the first Saturday of June, celebrating over 200,000 miles of U.S trails. National Trails Day honors the thousands of grass-roots hiking and conservation groups, and countless volunteers, who maintain and extend trails into a collection of connected local paths and interconnected, national trail networks.

The Knothead Trail is an incredible yet little known trail that creates a loop option above the Little Spokane River with elevation and views. You know the iconic trail along the meandering Little Spokane River, from Painted Rocks to Highway 291? The Knothead Trail connects the two ends of the Spokane River Trail to form a loop that climbs high into the granite cliffs to the north. It traverses the Van Horn, Edburg, and Bass Spokane County Conservation Futures area. Hillside stands of Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, aspen groves and

meadows were formerly accessed by a confusing mix of abandoned logging roads and deer trails across the natural area and other public and private lands. Thanks to years of efforts by Riverside State Park, private citizens, and conservation and trail groups, hikers will soon enjoy defined trails providing access to the stunning views and varied habitat on these public lands.

This event will also introduce the Little Spokane River Events Center, formerly the old Clark barn, visible to the east of Highway 291 just south of the Little Spokane River. Riverside State Park, managing the Little Spokane River Natural Area, is going to restore and maintain the barn as a nature and events center. Parking for the REI work party will be at the center parking lot, and the party afterwards will be the center’s opening celebration.

For more information, visit the REI website calendar: rei.com/stores/Spokane. Register at riversidestatepark.org. Volunteers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate, but leave your four-legged friends at home for this one; dogs are not allowed in the natural area, even on leash.

Washington Trails Association is also planning a National Trails Day event on June 7; check their website for details soon (wta.org). You can also look up other National Trails Day events in your area or learn more about hosting your own event at americanhiking.org/national-trails-day. //

Still Time to Get a Plot at a Community Garden Community gardens are sprouting up like eager pea plants across the Inland Empire. People love the satisfaction of growing and eating their own fresh vegetables, the pleasure of being outside, and meeting and sharing with other gardeners and neighbors. According to Pat Munts, Community Gardens Coordinator for Spokane County, community gardens also grow confidence. “When I first started, I had to be involved at every step of getting a garden started,” says Munts. “Now, communities take ownership and have the confidence to learn from already existing gardens. I don’t even know about them until they are already going.”

Community gardens are a great way for new, less experienced gardeners to get started. The clearly defined space, usually with prepared soil and an

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irrigation system, gets a new gardener off to a good start. Helpful garden advice is often available from a community garden coordinator, volunteers from the WSU Master Gardeners program, and probably from your neighbor in the next plot. There is still time to start digging in a community garden this season. Check out greenspokane.org/communitygardens for more info if you live in Spokane; otherwise, browse on the web for community gardens in your neck of the woods.

An excellent book, “Gardening in the Inland Empire,” is a tremendous resource, and there is a lot of other gardening info available through WSU extension service online at spokane-county.wsu.edu/spokane/ eastside/garden_calendar. Grab a trowel and you’ll be eating your own radishes by the end of May. //

The CHAFE150 Gran Fondo – New Course Options Added “You should do it,” says Jane in a deceivingly casual tone, like riding 150 miles in one stretch is something anyone could do off the couch. We’re talking about the Chafe150 – North Idaho’s impressive Gran Fondo cycling event that begins in Sandpoint, winds through the Cabinet Mountains and Montana’s scenic landscapes, only to finish with miles of pristine lakeshore views as it wraps back into the city, where, allegedly, the Gran Fondo is followed by a Gran Party.

Set for June 21 this year, the race and casual, multi-distance ride in one, is sponsored by the Rotary Club and a host of other organizations and is a charity event that contributes to the Rotary’s scholarship program that supports special education for local children on the autism spectrum.

If 150 miles sounds like a long time to be sitting on the saddle (it is), the event also has an 80 mile course of equal splendor, and this year they’ve added a new 30 mile course for budding cyclists and families. Or those of you with a shred of sanity left.

The race is renowned for its great course support, from frequent aid stations to incredible food, and its post-race party at the City Beach finish line. I’m guessing it was the promise of endless food that lured me into signing up for the full distance. If you see a girl eating a rack of ribs while riding, be sure to wave.

To find out more about the Chafe150 or register, visit their website at chafe150.org.

(Ammi Midstokke) //

US Skyrunning Series Coming to the Okanogan Nothing testifies to the growth and impact of the sport of trail running like a pile of cash. While the Skyrunning Series grew and developed around the world, particularly in Europe and South America, it recently reached critical mass in North America. As part of the brand new US Skyrunning Series, the Angels Staircase 60k/35k race in the Okanogan August 10 will be among the toughest and most competitive trail races in America.

The race climbs over 6,000 feet to the top of Angels Staircase on a rough and rocky trail that travels above tree-line to the top of the ridge that

separates the Lake Chelan and Methow River watersheds. Runners will have the opportunity to earn series points, run on the same trails as some very fast runners, and have a chance at winning a chunk of the $7,000 prize purse.

The International Skyrunning Federation oversees 200 races worldwide with around 30,000 participants from 54 countries. Thanks to the ongoing efforts at Rainshadow Running and the evergrowing trail running community, Washington will now have one of the most substantial trail races in the U.S. More info at angelsstaircase. blogspot.com. (Jon Jonckers)//

From Tragedy to Charity Run – Justin C. Haeger Race June 21 In 2006, Justin Haeger died from an overdose of the prescription drug methadone. His death was a huge blow to his family, but out of the overwhelming pain, they created a cause that was worthy of Justin’s life and would help others – a memorial run to raise awareness about prescription drug abuse that benefits Daybreak (daybreakinfo.org) and their work treating teens for drug and alcohol abuse. Justin’s memory lives

on and his story has touched countless lives because of his family’s vision and their connection with running. The 8th annual Justin C. Haeger Race includes a 3.1 and 10 mile course along the Spokane River and a section of the Centennial Trail. This year’s race is June 21 with an 8 a.m. start at Spokane Falls Community College. More info at www.facebook.com/pages/ Justin-C-Haeger-Race/192186340821544.

May 2014

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HikeOfTheMonth

McKenzie Conservation Area (Newman Lake, Wash.)

enonation.com //hike of the month and photo by holly weiler

The McKenzie Conservation Area east of Spokane features old logging roads that volunteers transformed into hiking trails. Hike the outer loop by heading uphill from the parking area. The trail hugs the property boundary, crossing through a forest that is recovering nicely from past logging operations. The trail climbs gently, passing the intersection for the inner loop trail after approximately one mile. Stay right for the outer loop, and eventually the trail climbs to a vantage point above the lake.

From this highpoint, the trail drops down to the lake – turn left and continue downhill for the loop, or opt for an extension by taking the out-and-back to the right (with views of a meadow and a tribute marker for Alfred Bailey McKenzie, the former owner). Don’t miss the native plant garden at the lakeshore, then complete the loop on the old roadbed that leads from the lakeshore back to the parking lot. Watch for the sign indicating the location of an eagle nest near shore as you make your way up the hill. More info on the McKenzie Conservation Area here: spokanecounty.org/parks/ Open to hiking and equestrian use. Dog-friendly; leash required.

Getting there: Take I-90 east from Spokane to the Sullivan exit. Go north on Sullivan to Trent, then east on Trent to Starr Road. Take Starr north toward Newman Lake, turning right at the “Y” on Hauser Lake Road. Watch for Muzzy Road and turn left (north). Muzzy Road becomes West Newman Lake Road; the parking area is on the left-hand side. No parking permit required.

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OutdoorLiving Tips for the Carefree Gardener

Finding Morels on your Next Spring Hike On spring hiking trips, I find my eyes are naturally drawn to the forest floor, suddenly transformed by the arrival of wildflowers. While their pinks, purples, yellows and blues demand attention, epicureans know to look closer for the arrival of a less showy find: morel mushrooms begin making their appearance at the beginning of May each year.

These seasonal culinary delights can be purchased at upwards of $20 per pound, but I promise the meal tastes better for those who forage their ingredients. I apologize for the lack of specifics, but a morel hunter hardly ever shares her secret spots.

Rather, I offer this advice: look for disturbed soil.

This could be the site of a prescribed burn, an area scorched by wildfire the previous year, or even along the edges of new trail construction.

Then train your eyes. Morels could be the size of your pinky fingernail, or they could be as big as the palm of your hand. They are about the same color as the forest duff, and they closely resemble the cones of several conifers, so they’re never easy to pick out.

Once you spot your target, slice its stem at ground level with a sharp knife. It should look wrinkled and have deep pits, and when turned over, the cap should be attached to the base. Carry morels in a basket or mesh bag while hiking. At home, clean by soaking briefly in salted water, then rinse and place on a towel to dry. Use morels immediately or slice and dehydrate for later use. //

Find, Harvest and Cook up Morel Mushrooms // By Holly Weiler

Because I’d Rather Be Hiking // By S. Michal Bennett With its rich soil and four seasons, the Inland Northwest is a great place to plant a thriving garden, but who has time for that? Spring is here, and the lake is calling! If you could cultivate your green thumb and still have all the time you want to play, would you? Here are some practical tips for growing a few edibles, while maintaining your outdoor enthusiast status.

1. Forgo the seeds Planting and sprouting your own seeds can be unpredictable and takes patience. I’d rather wait for water to boil. Instead, hit up a local farmer’s market (usually start in May) for plant starters. The farmers have already done the tedious work for you and offer a wide selection of organic and conventional herbs and veggies already green and growing. Of course you still have to plant them in something.

Fettuccine with Morel & Asparagus

2. Forget planting If digging up a corner of your flower bed, finding a pot, buying dirt, or reading up on when to plant is too much effort, look for a basket or pot already “landscaped” with herbs, chives and maybe lettuce or leafy greens. Some farmer’s market vendors offer these, as well as nurseries and home improvement stores. Hang or place your little ready-made garden in a partially sunny outside space, pour some water on it every other day, and reap a little harvest all summer. They are also rather pretty to look at.

Ingredients:

2 Tbs. butter ½ c. minced Walla Walla sweet onion 2 cloves minced garlic ½ c. dry white wine ½ c. chicken broth (or double the wine for a vegetarian dish) 1 lb. fresh morels, sliced ½ lb. asparagus, cut into ½ in. pieces ½ c. milk or cream 8 oz. feta cheese 2 Tbs. minced fresh chives sea salt & fresh cracked pepper to taste 1 lb. fettuccine, cooked according to package instructions

3. Use that window sill Don’t have a yard? Or maybe your yard, driveway and porch are currently storage spaces for skis, boats, snowshoes, paddle boards, Jet Skis and bikes for every occasion? Transform one of your under-utilized window sills into a mini greenhouse. Basil, thyme, mini peppers, oregano, wheatgrass – all thrive by a sunny window. And you can keep them in their starter pots or grow them in a jar or trimmed down plastic water bottle. Just be sure to stick your green thumb into the soil once in a while to make sure it is still moist – a little dab of water will do if it’s not. One warning: beware the gnats that can plague indoor plants.

To avoid them, get clean soil, don’t over water, and you can even spray your plants and dirt with a soap and water mixture. Not too hard for a season of fresh basil for your bruschetta!

4. Pay someone else Still feel you just can’t let those little green things cut into your outdoor recreation? Pay someone else to grow for you! Joining a local CSA (like the Winniford Family Farm, winnifordfamilyfarm.com) or signing up for a regional produce delivery service (like Full Circle, www.fullcircle. com) ensures that you have a continuous stream of fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs and more, straight from someone else’s farm to your kitchen. You will 10

Out There Monthly / May 2014

Directions:

1. In a heavy skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion and garlic.

2. Add the wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.

3. Add the morels and asparagus. Simmer for 6-8 min., covered.

4. Add the milk and feta. Stir over low heat until the cheese melts. Remove from heat and add chives, plus salt and pepper to taste.

5. Pour sauce over cooked fettuccine to serve.

No luck finding fresh morels? Substitute 3 oz. dried morels, reconstituted by bringing the chicken broth to a boil, adding the morels, and then setting them aside, covered, for about 30 minutes. Adapted from “Gourmet Magazine.” //

also be supporting local farmers who actually like to do all that stuff more than you do.

However you grow and play, be sure to encourage urban growing and local farming. Your food will taste better, and the more localized our food, the more healthy our families, community, economy and environment will be. Now, get out there and have fun! //

Left: Garden Harvest and Osborn garden circle.

Photos: Shallan Knowles. Top Right: Tools of the harvest. PHoto: Holly Weiler. Bottom: Hidden in the forest duff and pile of morels.

Everyday Cyclist

Bike to work week //

By Hank Greer

I don’t remember when I started smoking, but I remember when I quit. I also don’t remember when I started riding a bike to work, but it’s the best addiction I’ve ever had, and I’m not about to stop. I get two fixes five days a week.

If you’ve ever wanted to give cycling to work a try, then now is a good time because May is Bike to Work Month. There are plenty of events in our area to whet your appetite. And if you’re a seasoned bike commuter, you probably already know this.

Spokane celebrates Bike to Work Week May 12-16. There’s a commute challenge where you can log your miles. At 7 a.m. on May 12, there’s a kickoff breakfast at Riverfront Park right across from

On May 15, meet at Pilgrims Market at 6 p.m. for beer tasting and a movie about cycling. And then on Saturday, May 17, compete in the Roots Pursuit, a team cycling event consisting of 12 challenges. The event begins at the community garden on the corner of 10th and Foster Ave. at 10 a.m. The after party and awards presentation are from noon to 2 p.m.

More info at: www.cdaid.org/852/departments/ parks/park-events/bike-to-work-week.

In Sandpoint, Wednesday, May 14 is Bike to School/Work Day. Energizer stations will provide free refreshments, and students who ride their bikes to school will get a prize. On Saturday May 17, check out the Classic/Unique Bike Show where you can

“For me, bike commuting is a twice-daily workout that keeps me in shape and makes me feel good.”

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50 Mile Ultra-Marathon & 50 Mile Memorial Ruck Relay City Hall with free pancakes and free coffee. During the morning hours on May 14, you can stop by one or more “energizer stations” that provide snacks and drinks for cyclists. At 6 p.m., May 14, meet at Riverfront Park (Spokane Falls and Wall Street) for the Ride of Silence honoring cyclists who have been killed or injured while riding on public roadways.

browse a collection of classic and unique bikes at Greasy Fingers Bikes N Repair from noon to 3 p.m.

Awards will be given to People’s Choice and Most Unique Bike. If you want to enter your classic or unique bike, stop by Greasy Fingers or call them (208-255-4496). On the same day, there is a Bicycle Film Festival at the Little Panida Theater at 7:30 p.m.

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Bike to work week kick off breakfast.

Photo: hank greer.

At 5:30 p.m., May 16, attend the wrap up party at the River City Brewing (121 S. Cedar). Prizes and awards will be handed out and there will be food and drink. More info at: spokanebikes.net.

The City of Spokane is also doing something new during Bike to Work Week. They’re hosting Commute of the Century rides that follow many of the city bike routes. Volunteers are helping with these supported rides. There’s a more important reason to attend – the city is looking for your feedback to help direct transportation planning. The rides take place from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., May 12-16.

Register at beta.spokanecity.org/getthere/bikecommute.

Coeur d’Alene starts Bike to Work Week on May 12 with a ride from Home Depot down Government Way to City Hall where riders will gather for coffee and doughnuts and talk about other upcoming bike events. Meet at Home Depot at 7:30 a.m. There is also a Moonlight Ride on May 14th. Meet at Vertical Earth bike shop on Sherman Ave. at 8 p.m. and ride out on the Centennial Trail to Higgins Point and back. After-ride revelry will take place at Moontime.

There will also be a raffle and you must be present to win. Doors open at 6:30 and movies start at 7:30.

There is a suggested donation of $2. On Sunday, May 18, there is a Bike Swap at the Eureka Annex in the Old Granary Art District from 12:30-2 p.m.

Trade, shop, or consult with bike mechanics. You can drop a bike off to sell that morning between 9-11, and every child bicycle purchase comes with a free kid’s helmet. At 12:30 p.m., there’s also a Bike Rodeo that’s open to children 6-16 years of age. At 6 p.m., May 21, meet at City Beach for the Ride of Silence. More info at: www.pendoreillepedalers. com.

For me, bike commuting is a twice-daily workout that keeps me in shape and makes me feel good. I’m invigorated by my ride to work. I say hello to people I pass by. I get fresh air instead of road rage. I smile more. I save money. Barbecues urge me home to fire up my own grill. How could I give that up? Give it a try, and you might get hooked too. And that would be a good thing. //

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HealthAndFitness Living with (or putting up with!) an Ironman-in-training // By Janelle McCabe At the Coeur d’Alene Ironman a few years ago, I ran into a friend who was herding her family and friends, all clad in matching “My [dad/husband/ son/friend] is an Ironman!” t-shirts, through the crowds of spectators. Perhaps I caught her in a difficult moment, but when I asked how she was doing, she burst into tears and gasped, “It’s just been a really long year.” Photos of her hours later as her husband crossed the finish line showed a genuinely elated, if exhausted, woman, but as I parted with her that day, I thought: “This race demands a lot from many people, most of whom aren’t walking away with a medal.”

Ironfamilies and Ironfriends are expected to support, adjust to, and wait on their Ironman-intraining, and they’re often made to feel selfish or guilty if they respond otherwise. These significant others, children, parents, friends, and roommates live through months of being de-prioritized in deference to their loved one’s goal – a goal that is ultimately an individual pursuit but that has farreaching effects on relationships.

To begin with, there’s the schedule. An average Ironman training plan is 6 months long, starting with 6 hours per week and incrementally increasing to 20 hours per week. It demands the time equivalent of another part-time job, and those hours are nonnegotiable. For athletes with regular 8-to-5 jobs, the training must take place in the early morning, after work, and on the weekends – all time previously spent with family and friends. “Weekends were the hardest,” said one Spokane-area Ironspouse. “Long rides and runs made for less time at home with the

kids.” “It definitely keeps my mom busy,” said an Ironkid. “I don’t see her very often because of her training and my sports.”

Relationships outside of the immediate household experience strain as well. A straight-talking friend leveled with me: “Nobody is going to understand or sympathize when you don’t show up to an event because you had to ride your bike for five hours.

And honestly, I don’t want every conversation to be all about someone’s training. The same goes for Facebook posts.”

“She’s not good at nutrition, so I had to constantly remind her to eat well.” Another Ironspouse simply said: “Hours in training get longer, and the fridge gets emptier.”

Getting enough sleep is a challenge. A 4 a.m. alarm clock, no matter how conscientiously turned off upon the first ring (or accidentally upon the third snooze reminder), interrupts the household. “The training schedule has been difficult to get used to,” said one Ironhusband. “She wakes up early most days, which means I wake up early most days. The

“Relationships outside of the immediate household experience strain as well. A straight-talking friend leveled with me: ‘Nobody is going to understand or sympathize when you don’t show up to an event because you had to ride your bike for five hours.’ ” Then there’s the food. Athletes learn how to keep themselves adequately fueled during training sessions and racing, but regular meals increase by number and volume. “I had to have a large meal prepared every evening,” said one Ironwife. “I don’t think he realized that his being gone a lot and then super hungry when he got home affected the way I spent my time. Instead of cooking together, I was suddenly the sole person taking care of those needs for our family.” One Ironfriend reported a different challenge:

methodical thumping of treadmill footsteps in the basement isn’t as soothing as one might imagine.”

Dirty laundry piles up so quickly and with such intense odor that the act of just getting it clean becomes all that’s expected. “Putting away” means making sure the baskets of clean laundry are backed against the wall where they can be pawed through as needed.

“After Ironman, I needed to do some relationship recovery work.” Several Ironman finishers, still stuck

in race-speak, have admitted this to me. Indeed, I know at least three couples who divorced soon after one of the partners completed the event, and while none of them hold the monumental triathlon solely responsible, they all agree that it strained their relationships.

But Ironman doesn’t have to be a divisive element in relationships. “It helped us to grow closer,” said one Ironwife. “Since I had decided to train for a race as well, it gave us new ground to build our relationship on. That helped us recognize that with a family, it takes the effort and support of both people to be successful.” Many people use humor to maintain healthy perspectives. “We laughed about all the things that come from training so much,” said an Ironfriend, “like the sore and tired muscles, or the ridiculous antics from lack of food or sleep due to hectic training and work schedules.” One Ironhusband noted that “We value our time together more, since we don’t get as much of it. We are more deliberate about scheduling our time together.”

While an Ironman requires admirable mental and physical strength, it’s a self-indulgent goal that people need to be candid about when they take it on. It will undoubtedly stress personal relationships, but with a deliberate and honest approach to this relatively shortterm goal, those relationships can emerge stronger and healthier after the race, even if only one person can wear the finisher’s medal at a time. // Editor’s note: This is part two in a series on training for triathlons.

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Fishing for a good cause // By Amy Silbernagel McCaffree “My true release is fishing — nothing else can put me in a relaxed state of mind,” says Josh Mills, an avid fisherman who now takes his three-year-old son spin-fishing.

Klink’s Resort at Williams Lake, south of Cheney, Wash., hosts its 11th Annual Shriner’s Fishing Derby on Saturday, May 18. Proceeds benefit Spokane’s Shriners Hospital for Children.

“We usually have — if the weather is good — up to 275 attendees. We’ve raised over $45,000 for the local Shriners Hospital, by our estimate,” says Mills, who has been organizing this event along with the Klink family since its inception. “It’s such a family-friendly activity. It’s not a sport that you have to buy a lot of gear. All you need is a simple rod-reel combo and a little bait.”

The derby is 6 a.m.-1 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony and raffle. Registration is $10 per angler and is open to all ages. There is also a barbecue lunch available to purchase.

Klink’s Resort has a large fishing dock and also offers boat rentals. Anglers can launch their own boats at the resort, with the fee going to Shriners.

Children age 14 and younger don’t need a fishing license, according to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (wdfw.wa.gov/ fishing/youth.html).

After the derby, prizes are awarded for both the children (12 and younger) and adult divisions.

“Winners are determined by single biggest fish by weight, and ties are broken by length,” Mills says.

“Williams Lake is one of the top-producing trout fisheries in the entire state. The Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks it really well with standard rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and some larger sizes of rainbow trout. It’s managed so that anybody can go out there with a little bit of knowledge. The real star of the show is Kamloops trip-

loid rainbow trout, which are stocked by Klink’s and purchased from a regional hatchery….

Usually these are the ones that end up winning the derby. There’s nothing better than seeing a kid come in with a big fish.”

Mills says derby day weather has traditionally been good. “Williams Lake is in this weird ‘banana belt’ area because it sits between the Pullman and Spokane weather patterns. So weather can be a little rainy in Spokane but clear at Williams Lake,” he says. “If you wake up on derby day and decide last-minute to come, just show up. You can literally come out in your shorts and flip flops — and with your wallet — and go fishing.” The resort’s gear shop sells fishing licenses, poles and tackle.

“There’s a warm, comfortable, small-townish feel at Klink’s. Not a lot of technology works out there,” he says, so families can enjoy unplugged time together.

“I grew up fishing with my father. We hunted and fished throughout the year,” says Mills, who grew up in Spokane. “The reason why I have such a great friendship with my father is that we spent so much time fishing together when I was younger. This is what drives me to do this type of activity for other families.”

Mills offered some excellent advice for parents introducing their children to fishing: “Don’t force it. If you get out there and your kid is totally into it, take your time. Maybe spend an hour fishing and then spend an hour looking for tadpoles.

Tailor the experience to the child. Don’t spend all day out there if your child doesn’t want to be.

Leave your child wanting more. Start slow. Do it in small doses. Make it a big deal when they succeed.

Don’t make it a big deal when they lose a fish.”

For more event details and to download registration forms, visit www.klinksresort.com. //

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Family Fishing Resources More resources and fishing tips for children: takemefishing.org/fishing/family/fish-with-your-kids greenfishmovement.com/learn-with-greenfish/teaching-kids-to-fish.

More info on youth fishing events: www.wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/kids/events Washington’s “Free Fishing Weekend” this year is June 7-8.

Idaho’s “Free Fishing Day” is June 14.

Josh Mills and son Carson out on the Lake. Photo: Kallie Mills.

May 2014

/ Out There Monthly

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What to Wear Off the Trail

Yoga Right hand blue—yoga for the resisters // By Ammi Midstokke

There are few things I have resisted as staunchly in my life as Zumba, eating liver, and practicing yoga. As far as I could tell, yoga was just a bunch of people doing head stands in Lycra, and other than a chance to hobnob with Michael Franti before a concert, I couldn’t see much of a benefit in it.

Like many of you, I stick to real sports. Ones that only result in a fetal position after bailing on a jump, not as some pseudo-return to the safety of the womb. And guttural breathing? It’s kinda creepy if you’re standing next to a guy in tights.

Yoga, I assumed, was a sissy sport of chakra-aligning hippies in vegan shoes, no doubt.

Despite that, yoga appears to be a sexy vixen in the land of alluring activities. My friends started converting one at a time. First it was someone with a flower tattoo, so I wasn’t really surprised.

Then it was my gym rat wrestling coach friend.

Because I could do laundry on his stomach, I was briefly tempted to just watch. Then another biking friend came out, too. Suddenly, it was like everyone did some kind of yoga.

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those of you just learning, there are more types of yoga than Indian deities. Vinyasa is known as a hot “flow” yoga and is popular with the athletic masses. Bikram is a version of yoga for the flameretardant, as the room is heated to a temperature akin to the surface of the sun. It’s designed to add a slippery challenge to people who proficiently balance on a single left toe during an earthquake.

I had lectured myself on proper yoga etiquette before I went. Don’t ogle the boys. Don’t laugh if they chant. And for the love of god, please don’t fall on your face during one of those human pretzel moves.

I threw my mat on the floor and set my water bottle down like a pro, casually observing habits of other yoga-experienced people so I could blend in. I straightened the corner on my towel. I told myself, this is just a bunch of grownups playing Twister. In really cute workout clothes.

Our instructor, Nicole, came in and performed some sort of body balance wizardry that made circus contortionists look like rookies.

I spent the next 90 minutes establishing both

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Still, I resisted. They’d all show up for Sunday brunch and be oohing and aahing about how sore their shoulders and hammies were from doing poses that sounded as if they’d come straight out of a Bangkok brothel. I chided them for their silly ways, then poured myself another epsom salt bath.

After some time, I started noticing a trend. As if perhaps these people were more limber, less prone to injury. In a moment of weakness one day, I tried stretching, only to discover that my version of the splits looked like a skinny slice of pie. “Yoga could help you with that,” echoed the voices in my head.

The gradual opening of my mind was excelled nearly overnight when I learned that they have something called “hot yoga” where the supple bodies of young men covered in sweat can be found in some of those aforementioned Bangkok poses. Also, the yoga studio is right next to the coffee shop.

Then one Saturday morning, I found myself showing up to a Vinyasa class at Zest Yoga. For

my ability to sweat profusely and my inability to perch like an eagle. In my defense, I’ve never once seen an eagle cross its legs. It’s biologically impossible. That pose probably is too.

I also noted that yoga could be done by anyone.

The class was such a smorgasbord of individuals and abilities from different places and lifestyles.

The only thing they all had in common was the skill to impersonate trees. I was pretty sure that yoga could benefit just about everyone, whether they’re looking for better balance on their bike, internal peace, or stronger knees.

The next day I hit the trails only to discover my legs were more limber. I came home without the usual stiffness of a long run. I felt some new muscle groups and deep tissues that I’d long forgotten. I began secretly attempting head stands in my living room. I started to crave those active stretches. I signed up for another class.

And just like that, I too became a convert. I’m pretty sure my body thanks me for it. //

Early Season Rafting

If you’re waiting for warmer temperatures or mellow river conditions to book a river trip, don’t.

Floating lazily down the river on 80 degree days in sandals and board shorts is pretty nice, but waiting also means you’re missing out on some of the season’s biggest, thrilling whitewater. It’s a secret that’s kept many seasoned river rats pointing their boat-loaded rigs towards the Lochsa, Salmon, Wenatchee, and other Inland Northwest rivers during peak flows in May and June year after year.

Early season rafting trips also offer other perks. The scenery can be blooming with wild flowers and spring greenery that you’ll never see once the heat hits. With water moving faster, boaters can also cover more miles of river and rapids, which means better sightseeing and wildlife watching on day trips, and more time for hiking, fishing and hanging out at camp on multi-day trips. River outfitters also have the gear and skills to help make trips in colder, bigger whitewater safe and comfortable. High end gear like thick wetsuits, splash jackets, booties, gloves, and other warm clothing and creative comforts like on-river hot lunches, heated vans, and post-trip hot springs, hot tubs, or hot showers will help keep you warm so you can focus on having fun. Here’s a sampling of some of the region’s best early season whitewater opportunities to get you scheming for your next river trip sooner rather than later.

Whitewater Events: Cinco Fest at Three Rivers Resort (May 3-4, Lochsa River, Lowell, Idaho) An informal tradition at the Three Rivers Resort, Cinco Fest attracts groups of boaters from Spokane and North Idaho to take advantage of some of the season’s biggest whitewater. Three Rivers offers rafting specials (with free camping at the resort if you raft). After a refreshing day on the river, hit the hot tub, fiesta down by the bonfire or cozy up with your favorite cerveza in the bar. (idaho3rivers.com).

Lochsa River The Lochsa, which cuts through the Bitterroot Mountains in north central Idaho west of Missoula, is a world-class whitewater mecca. Come May and June, the Lochsa serves up heavy class III and IV rapids like Grim Reaper, Bloody Mary, and Lochsa Falls with huge, thrilling waves that keep the action coming for rafters on guided trips and seasoned private boaters. “We start our season on the Lochsa in May and run trips through June, and this year with an above average snowpack, there will probably be good whitewater into July,” says Marty Smith with Three Rivers Resort and Rafting. The resort operates at the confluence of the Lochsa and Selway, which come together to form the Clearwater River, at the tiny town of Lowell. “Conditions are already good – it’s going to be an exceptional year with big whitewater,” Smith says. In addition to running river trips on the Lochsa, Three Rivers also operates a campground, rental cabins, a heated pool and hot tubs, and a restaurant, bar, and store.

ROW Adventures also runs trips on the Lochsa and offers an all-inclusive “Whitewater Rush” package that includes a thrilling day of rafting on the Lochsa and a cabin with a private hot tub at the Riverdance Lodge in Syringa, Idaho, with meals at the Syringa Café included (rowadventurecenter.com).

Salmon River The stretch of the Salmon that flows past the idyllic river town of Riggins, Idaho, is a tad mellower than the Lochsa to the north, but it still packs some serious whitewater excitement into 20-25 mile day trips. In May and June, the Salmon is running cold and fast like the Lochsa, with several big class III and IV rapids like Lake Creek and Time Zone to keep the adrenaline pumping, but with its lower elevation, the temps tend to be warmer and the weather more forgiving. It can be downright summer-like in May. Jess Baugh with Mountain River Outfitters in Riggins, which also doubles as an awesome coffee shop and small store, notes that the spring weather has been exceptionally nice already this year. They run day trips that start above town with a take-out 10 or more miles below Riggins. “Some people get scared of early season whitewater, but you’ll be in the best equipment and have the best guides and gear,” Baugh says. “We’ll keep you safe and warm, and you’ll have a lot of fun.”

Mountain River Outfitters also offers a unique two-day trip on the Salmon that starts further upstream at the end of the Salmon River Road. From there, the 40 mile trip covers more remote reaches of the canyon and includes a night of beach camping with hiking to a hot spring. This trip is a great opportunity to sample a bit of what a longer wilderness river trip is like. (idahoriver.com).

Moyie and St. Joe Rivers ROW Adventures, which offers an ever-increasing selection of outdoor adventure tours around the region and the world, is one of only two outfitters that take people down the little-known Moyie River in extreme north Idaho and the only outfitter to offer trips down the St. Joe east of St. Maries.

“The Moyie is a gem that many people don’t know about, but when they get out with us on a trip, the beautiful forested canyon blows them away,” says Candy Bening, an avid river runner and ROW’s Domestic Sales Manager. The Moyie (two hours north of Spokane) is an exciting 15 mile day-trip through a roadless canyon with class II and III whitewater that is less heart racing and more awe inspiring. It’s perfect for families or mixed groups with some people who may not be up for more intense adventures like ROW’s Lochsa trips. Moose, bear, and several species of raptors are often spotted on

By Derrick Knowles

Lochsa Rendezvous (May 3, Lochsa River, Lochsa Lodge, Idaho) This annual rafter rendezvous put on by Lewis and Clark Trail Adventures on the Lochsa River has a cult-like following, with cabins at the Lochsa Lodge typically booked up for the weekend well in advance (camping should still be available). Rafting specials all weekend will get you out on the wild Lochsa, with live bluegrass music by Missoula based Ted Ness and the Rusty Nails and revelry at the Lochsa Lodge into the night. (trailadventures.com).

Moyie trips, while other boaters are few and far between.

A highlight of a Moyie trip, is running an exciting rapid around the towering face of the old Eileen Dam. “You’re heading down the river towards a big, impassible looking cement wall, and then you come around the corner and you see the gap in the old dam with an exhilarating rapid,” Bening says. The season on the Moyie is typically limited to several weeks in May and June (depending on flows).

Early Season Rafting, Continued on page 17

Left: Rafters keeping warm paddling. Photo Jared Cruce, Courtesy of ROW Adventures. // Right: Early Season=Big Whitewater.

Memorial Day Madness (May 23-26, Lochsa River, Highway 12, Idaho) Join the informal gathering of spectators lined up to watch some serious peak flow, whitewater carnage at Lochsa Falls (mile marker 114) between Three Rivers Resort and the Lochsa Lodge along Highway 12. Boaters on all sorts of unique craft play it up for the crowd and the peanut gallery gives it right back, says Marty Smith with Three Rivers. “It’s definitely fun. People partying and cheering for boats that flip and booing at boats that make it through clean.” Watch last year’s spectacle for yourself: youtube.com/ watch?v=wSWY0Mq3zFU. Big Water Blowout River Festival (June 7, Salmon River, Riggins, Idaho) This is an action packed day of rafting and other activities suitable for thrill seekers and families. Hit the Salmon River’s famed whitewater with experienced guides offering discounted raft trips all day (you can pre-register for a seat on a Mountain River Outfitters boat at idahoriver.com).

Come paddle huge boat munching waves with names like The Pencil Sharpener, The Pancake Wave, The Big Easy and The Haystack. Enjoy the pleasant spring weather and magnificent scenery and wildlife in the second deepest gorge in North America and the rustic old-West charm of Riggins. If you’re not up for challenging the whitewater yourself, there’s excellent rapid viewing from the road in several locations. And there’s a Dutch oven cook-off, live music, a beer garden, and activities for kids at Riggins City Park. (bigwaterblowout.com). //

May 2014

/ Out There Monthly

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Destinations wilderness trip of a lifetime on idaho’s salmon river Kayaking and Rafting the Middle Fork // By Peter G. Williams If there is heaven on earth, it can be found on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in central Idaho. This 104-mile-long whitewater trip through the heart of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness has everything that makes the perfect trip: great whitewater, deep wilderness, pristine camping spots, and daily natural hot springs.

What is often simply referred to as the Middle Fork begins at the confluence of Bear Valley Creek and Marsh Creek on the northern flank of the Sawtooth Range roughly 20 miles northwest of Stanley, Idaho. Ten miles below this confluence is the standard put-in boat launch at Boundary Creek, just below Dagger Falls. The river then traverses northeast through the most remote part of central Idaho. The take-out is just below the confluence with the Main Salmon, about 50 miles northwest of Salmon, Idaho. The put-in elevation is 5,800 feet above sea level, and the take-out is at 3,000 feet, giving the river an average gradient of 28 feet per mile.

Middle Fork trips can be privately organized, or guided by rafting companies. The U.S. Forest Service manages the activities on the river and allows groups of up to 24 people. The trips typically last between 6 days and 8days. No roads reach the river between the put-in and the confluence with the Main Salmon. Wildlife is abundant in the rugged canyon, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and bear. The fishing is also out-

Left: Middle fork Salmon River. Photo: Peter G. Williams. Top Right and bottom: Middle fork of the salmon. Photo: Tom Bear, courtesy row adventures.

standing, including salmon, steelhead, cutthroat, rainbow, whitefish, and Dolly Varden.

Most people enjoy the river on large rubber rafts. Experienced boaters often use whitewater kayaks and travel with rafters who carry both people and gear. McKenzies, dories, and drift boats can also be used.

The difficulty of the whitewater rapids on the Middle Fork depends greatly on the water level, which varies by snowpack and the time of the year. At high water the most difficult rapids are graded class IV+, which is defined as long, difficult rapids with constricted passages that often require precise maneuvering in very turbulent waters. The most challenging rapid is one of the first after the put-in, named Velvet Falls because you can’t hear it coming due to the Class II water immediately above it. At lower levels, the difficulty of the rapids on the river goes down to class III, which is considerably more moderate. That said, most of the rapids are fairly straight forward, and for kayakers, there is endless surfing and play boating opportunities.

Middle Fork campgrounds are designated, which means if you are organizing your own trip, you need to sit down with a ranger and hash out where you are going to camp each night in advance of the trip.

Each party is allowed one hot springs campground during the duration of the trip.

The Middle Fork has an incredible history.

Human artifacts have been found along the river dating back 8,000 years. Pictographs in caves and

on rock walls can still be seen. In 1968 the Middle Fork was protected as a Wild River, becoming a charter member of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

The magic of the Middle Fork really lies in the length of the trip, the fun whitewater, the deep wilderness component, and the number of natural hot springs. After about the third day of floating on this river, you tend to forget all your troubles, and feel as if your entire life has been a float down an endless river. Everyone should experience this unforgettable trip at least once during their lifetime. //

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Out There Monthly / May 2014

Each year, over 10,000 people float the Middle Fork, about 40 percent in private parties, and the remainder with commercial outfitters. The Middle Fork is administered under a permit system to protect its fragile ecosystem from human use. A lottery system is used to manage trips for launches between May 28 and September 3. Lottery applications are accepted annually from December 1 until January 31. Reservations for pre and post-season float permits (before May 28 and after September 3) become available annually on October 1 (limit of 7 per day). The Middle Fork is typically not floated between November 1 and March 31 due to winter conditions, inaccessible roads, and low water.

There are a number of rules that must be followed during a trip, including minimum impact camping, use of a portable toilet, and a fire pan for all fires. Details are available at www.recreation.gov. Organizing a private trip is a significant undertaking, but very rewarding.

All but the most experienced whitewater boaters should do the trip with a commercial guide. There are a large number of commercial guides to choose from. Locally based ROW Adventures has been offering Middle Fork trips for decades (rowadventures.com/idaho-middle-fork-salmon-rafting). In addition, there are also a number of companies that rent rafting equipment to private groups specifically for such trips.

The beautiful town of Stanley offers the best lodging in advance of a trip on the Middle Fork. Sawtooth Hotel (sawtoothhotel.com) and Redfish Lake Lodge (redfishlake.com) are the best known in town. Check out Bertram’s Salmon Valley Brewery in the town of Salmon between the takeout and put-in for good food and brews (bertramsbrewery.com)

Early Season Rafting, Continued from page 15 The “Shadowy St. Joe” further south is a well-known fishing destination that is full of whitewater surprises for rafters. 60 miles upstream from the town of St. Maries, the canyon walls constrict the current, creating big, explosive class III to III+ waves. “What brings people out is the gorgeous forest, wildlife and fun, fast rapids,” Bening says. “It’s a pretty consistent boom, boom, boom of whitewater when the flows are high.” Day trips on the cedar forest-lined St. Joe range from 12-16 miles. (rowadventurecenter.com).

Big Water Blowout River Festival June 7

Snake River (Hells Canyon) Looking for a little more than a one or two day trip? Several outfitters, including ROW Adventures and Mountain River Outfitters, offer multi-day wilderness river trips down the Snake through Hells Canyon. The canyon is wild, rugged, and serves up a couple of the region’s most intense rapids in the midst of dazzling scenery and unbeatable camping and hiking on 3-4 day trips. All in the deepest gorge in North America. Hells Canyon is known for its warm spring weather and the dam controlled flows are warmer, which makes for more pleasant rapid runs and some excellent fishing.

Riggins Hot Summer Nights July 25-26 Riggins Salmon River Run September 13

Wenatchee River With such exciting early season whitewater, a trip on the Wenatchee River out of Leavenworth, Wash. should get more attention from those of us who live east of the Cascades. Beginning the first weekend in May, Leavenworth based Osprey Rafting is offering several trips that are tiered towards specific types of rafters. Looking for an adrenaline charged whitewater pounding? Try one of Osprey’s High Adventure trips featuring some of the Wenatchee’s biggest class IV rapids (Triple Shot and Tenley Falls) on a 16 mile long day that ends at Osprey’s private beach for a BBQ beach party. They also offer their Main Event class III trips that cover eight major rapids and are suitable for families and anyone who wants an exciting day on the river without the added intensity of class IV whitewater. Like your whitewater wild, fast, and late in the day so you can hike, climb or ride the trails around Leavenworth first? Check out Osprey’s Happy Hour floats that include two runs down the biggest rapids on the river from 5-7 p.m. followed up with a beer at Icicle Brewery. “We’re talking big, fun, heart pounding whitewater,” says Osprey Rafting’s Matt Black. “It’s the real deal, Wenatchee whitewater experience packed into two hours.” (ospreyrafting.com).

Spokane River Surprisingly to some, the Lower Spokane on the edge of the city passes through a gorgeous river canyon with several fun class III rapids, including the Bowl and Pitcher and Devils Toenail. A whitewater trip down the Spokane is one of the best ways to see 14,000 acre Riverside State Park, Washington’s largest state park. Several outfitters start running trips on the Spokane in May and June when flows are fast and furious, and then transition to more easygoing floats later in the summer. Book a half-day trip and spend the rest of the day exploring the park’s miles of hiking and biking trails. //

photos by Jon Jonckers

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RoadTrip ®

North Idaho Breweries

Tour them all, From Coeur d’Alene to Moscow // By S. Michal Bennett The arrival of spring in the Inland Northwest brought with it a diverse collection of new and revamped local breweries in North Idaho. These craft beer options in the Coeur d’Alene and Moscow areas offer plenty of opportunities to hop on your bike or round up a designated driver and create your own brewery, outdoor adventure road trip this summer.

The 30th Running of the “Original” Bare Buns Fun Run. July 25-27

Run is Sunday at 9:30

75th Anniversary of Kanisku Ranch Family Nudist Park Two Dances!

Friday night DJ, Saturday night The Other White Meat Band.

Sports Arena Pickleball, Volleyball, Bocce and More.

Chidren’s Pavilion and new playground.

Crystal clear pool and hot tub. Camping for all sizes of motor home or tents.

Delicious Meals!

You’ve always wanted to!

kaniksufamily.com 18

Out There Monthly / May 2014

The Heart of The North When planning a brewery road trip through majestic North Idaho, the best place to start (or end) is in the recently ranked Top Mountain Town of America*: Coeur d’Alene. In 2011, the Lake City was left void of local brews when Coeur d’Alene Brewing Co. closed its doors. However, over the last three years, five new breweries have opened in the vicinity, four have survived and rumors of more consistently circulate.

While its address says Post Falls, Selkirk Abbey Brewing Co. (6180 E Seltice Way) is a stone’s throw from the Coeur d’Alene city line. Owner Jeff and brewer Steve produce exquisite, awardwinning Belgian style beers, such as their flagship Infidel (Belgian Style IPA), their collection of Saisons and their collaboration Belgian coffee porter, Guilt (with DOMA Coffee Roasting Co.).

If you time your visit right, you might even catch Jeff pulling some rare brews from the “cellar” for a spontaneous taste test (selkirkabbey.com).

Just a little further into town and north of I-90, Tricksters Brewing (3850 N Schreiber Way) has undergone a recent re-branding. Their new look is enhancing their current line, which includes the solid Bear Trap Brown, and opening the door for Matt, head brewer and owner, to introduce some new brews, like German Kölsch and Vienna Lager (trickstersbrewing.com).

In the heart of midtown sits Slate Creek Brewing Co. (710 N 4th St.), a little brewery

that took the town by storm just over a year ago.

Brothers Jason and Ryan brew genuine Northwest beer and promote a hearty outdoor lifestyle. Look for the little green dots denoting current beers on tap, like their nicely balanced Mountain Hop IPA and unique Norse Nectar Pale. They also keep a guest cider on tap for a break from gluten and hops. Look for their production and selection to expand this summer when their newly arrived brew system starts humming (slatecreekbrewing. com).

Brothers Jason and Ryan brew genuine Northwest beer and promote a hearty outdoor lifestyle.

Mad Bomber Brewing Co. (9265 N Government Way), a collaboration of veterans who served in the Army as bomb disposal technicians, is just a short jog north in Hayden. This nano brewery has become the hang out spot for locals, veterans and visitors alike. Owner, Tom, not only keeps it steady with his core brews – Booby Trap Blonde and Lonely Walk Brown – but also mixes it up with limited batches from their small-scale system. Before visiting, check out their hopping Facebook page for current taps and spontaneous events (madbomberbrewing.com).

Before leaving the lake behind, consider stopping in at the Crafted Taphouse (523 Sherman Ave), opening late May/early June on the corner of 6th and Sherman. Their 3,000-square-foot patio, 50 hand crafted beers on tap and inventive gastro pub menu will make them a hot spot in

Where to Stay Coeur d’Alene: Japan House Suites 2113 Sherman Ave (208) 667-0600 japanhousesuites.com Why: Clean, affordable, breakfast SpringHill Suites 2250 W Seltice Way (208) 667-2212 marriott.com Why: Value, service, “green” conscientiousness Moscow: University Inn 1516 W Pullman Rd (208) 882-0550 uinnmoscow.com Why: Reasonable price, good reviews Little Green Guesthouse 1020 S Adams St. (208) 669-1654 littlegreenguesthouse.com Why: Nice cottage for hotel price, kitchen, sleeps four

top: color study. Photo: Lucas Rate. Bottom: Selkirk Tap. Photo: Jerome Pollos

downtown Coeur d’Alene this summer (facebook. com/CraftedTaphouse).

Deep South Just south on Highway 95, deep in the heart of grain fields and foothills, but also near excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, the college town of Moscow is teeming with great dining and drink spots. Paradise Creek Brewery (245 SE Paradise St) known for their hop-bomb, Over the Hop, and their creamy, roasty Sacred Cow Milk Stout, is just over the state line in Pullman, WA (paradisecreekbrewery.com).

However, the only truly local brewery is the brand new Moscow Brewing Co. (630 N Almon St #130). Owner and brewer Lucas brews up an ever-changing selection of beers, like his Cascadian Dark Ale and Spruce Tip Porter, on a compact 1/2-barrel system just off a cozy, busy tap room. He also offers a cider tap from Whiskey Barrel Cider Co. in Pullman, WA, as well as snacks of locally-made cured meats, breads and cheeses.

Due to their ever-increasing popularity, they are also working on financing a 7-barrel brew house by the end of 2014 (moscowbrewing.com).

North Idaho is booming with brewery options that are worth checking out on their own or as a perfect addition to your summertime outdoor adventures. //

*Top 10 Mountain Towns in America by Steve Winston; World Property Channel, Vacation News, North America Edition; March 19, 2014.

Opening Day Saturday May 10 Wednesday Market starts June 11

m

Come See Us Every Saturday

Pedals2People

Volunteers welcome!

Used bikes, parts and do-it-yourself shop

p

1527 E 16th Ave #1 - perry neighborhood

Fri-Sat 1-6 & Sun 1-5

∙veggies ∙eggs ∙meats ∙breads ∙honey ∙bedding plants

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

5th Avenue between Division and Browne

www.spokanefarmersmarket.org We accept: Visa/Mastercard, Food Stamps (EBT), WIC

May 2014

/ Out There Monthly

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OutdoorCalendar Full events calendar at www.outtheremonthly.com BIKING (Tuesday Nights) 2014 Cooper Jones Memorial Twilight Series. When: 6 – 8:30 p.m. Bicycle races

held on different venues in and around the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene area. Courses include criteriums, circuits, and road races. Info: baddlands.org.

(Wednesday Nights) Wednesday Night Mountain Bike Races. When: 5 - 8:30 p.m. Where: Riverside

State Park 7 Mile Airstrip, Wednesday nights starting May 7 and every Wednesday through June 25.

Mountain bike racing for everyone. Registration at 5, racing at 6:30, cold drinks and prizes after every race! Cost $20. Info:nomadzracing.com.

(May 6 & 20) Biking Betties of the Inland NW – Ladies MTB Rides. When: 5:45 p.m. Where: dif-

ferent Spokane area trails. Join Evergreen East for these monthly ladies specific group rides. These no-drop, social-paced mountain bike rides will take place every third Tuesday of the month until midOctober. Novices are welcome, and experienced riders are encouraged. Rides may split into fast/slow depending on group size and participants. Rides are sponsored by Evergreen East, The Bike Hub and Liv/giant. Info: evergreeneast.org.

SIXMONTHTRAININGCALENDAR RUNNING (June 7) Hear Me Run 5k Fundraiser. When:

9:30 a.m. Where: Riverfront Park, Spokane. This 1st annual fun run benefit for HOPE School is a chip timed run along the Spokane River. Info: www.databarevents.com/events/view/99/HearMe-Run-5K.

(June 7-8) The Riverside 24 Hour Relay. Teams of 1 – 12 runners will take turns completing a beautiful, 6-mile loop through Riverside State Park. Athletes can set up their own RV/tent city.

Info: r24relay.com or 208-664-0135.

(June 8) Red Devil Challenge Trail Run. When: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Where: Wenatchee National Forest. The running trails dissect beautiful glades of Ponderosa pine and grasses; cuts through cooler, darker stands of Douglas Fir with views of the Enchantments, Mission Ridge and other views in the Cascades. Info: runwenatchee.com or 509-378-0051.

(June 8) Herron Half Marathon and 10k. Where:

(May 8) Bike Maintenance Class. When: 7 – 8:30

p.m. Where: REI Spokane Join an introductory class designed to help you take care of your ride. Info: REI.com/Spokane.

Herron, Mont. This challenging and fun course consists of three loops each with 400 to 600 feet of elevation gain near Kalispell, Montana. Info: runflathead.com/herron-half-10k.

CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL BIKE SHOP FOR WEEKLY RIDES!

(June 28-29) Kaniksu 50 & Emory Corwine Memorial Ruck Race. Where: Colville National

(May 17) Tour de Cure to Stop Diabetes. Where:

Northern Quest Resort and Casino. Riders can choose from a 3 mile loop or 20, 30, 50, or 100 mile-long rides for a cause. Great support out on the routes and all of the food, beverages and entertainment the resort has to offer. Info: diabetes.org/ spokanetourdecure.

(May 17) Kidical Mass Bike Ride. When: 1 – 2 p.m. Where: Chief Garry Park, Spokane. Kids and families are invited to Kidical Mass, a fun, safe bike ride especially for kids. Join this family friendly afternoon bike ride of about 3 miles cycling on anything that rolls! All types of bikes, trailers, Xtracycles, bakfiets, tandems, folding bikes, trikes are welcome! Ride through the Chief Garry neighborhood beginning at Chief Garry Park. Cost: Free.

Info: summerparkways.com.

(May 17) Roslyn Rush. Roslyn, WA. The Roslyn

Rush is famous for its killer 1-mile climb right off the start! Once you survive that the rest is a piece of cake… rolling, singletrack with a rippin’ descent and one last kick of a climb piece of cake that is. Info: rideviciouscycle.com.

(May 17) Bike Maintenance Class. When: 8 a.m.

Where: Fitness Fanatics, Spokane Valley. Learn how to keep your bike pedaling all summer long. Info: fitfanatics.com or 509-922-6080.

(May 18) WOW Women’s Cycling Club Spokane Meet & Greet. When: 1 – 3 p.m. Where: No-Li

Brewery, Spokane. Join the annual Meet and Greet ride.

WOW is a group that promotes women’s cycling for all ages, levels, and abilities. Short ride will be followed by a meeting to discuss the club and its upcoming activities.

Cost: Free. Info: wowcyclingspokane@gmail.com.

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Out There Monthly / May 2014

Forest. A 50-mile point-to-point endurance run and memorial relay ruck race held in the lower Selkirk Mountain Range. The race course boasts over 10,000 ft. of elevation gain making it one of the most difficult 50 milers in the state. Or, take 5 friends and take on the ruck race. A 5-member relay team will each complete a leg of the course carrying a minimum 35lb pack/ruck. Cost: $75 for Ultra or $250 for the Ruck Race. Info: kaniksu50.com.

(June 14) State Park Series #2 – Heyburn State Park. When: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Where:

Heyburn State Park, Idaho. Second race in the Trail Maniacs State Park Series. SPS is a trail run point series, including 5 mile and half marathon distances in six state parks from two states (Idaho and Washington). SPS will have over $1,000 in prizes for its points series. Info: trailmaniacs.com.

(June 21) Justin C Haeger 3 point 1, and Ten Miler. When: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Where: Spokane

Falls Community College. The JCH 3.1 and Ten Miler is a memorial run for a young man who passed away due to a prescription drug overdose.

All proceeds benefit Daybreak Youth Services.

Daybreak serves 10-to-18 year olds, and their families, struggling with drug and alcohol problems. Info: jchtenmiler.com.

(August 16) “Dig Your Grave” 30K Trail Race.

When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Hope Memorial Center, Hope, Idaho. Based on the life of Ike Walters, a turn-of-the-20th century U.Ss Marshal

in Hope, this 30K will test your climbing and descending as you run/hike/crawl to the top of Roundtop Mountain and return. Unique awards.

Cost: $30. Info: goatevents.com.

(July 5) Mt Misery Relay Race. Where: Umatilla National Forest. Some might think running a 57-mile relay race on a route flanked by mountains named Misery and Doom is reason to question a person’s sanity. The course covers some incredibly scenic country in the canyons and mountains south of Lewiston, Idaho, near the Grande Ronde River.

Team members swap out any time they want to.

Seaportstriders.com/entry/misery.

(September 13) The Riggins “Salmon Run”.

Where: Riggins City Park, Riggins, Idaho. This is a family friendly event offering multiple distances including a kids fun run for ages 3-6. Runners will complete an out and back course retrieving a special token at the turn around aid station. The finish line for all distances will be at Riggins City Park, where runners and their families can enjoy live music, food and drinks. Finishers prizes will be given in each distance, as well as Men’s and Women’s first prize awards. Cost: $5 kid/ $20 5K/ $30 10K/ $40 1/2 marathon. Info: rigginsidaho. com.

MARATHONS (June 1) Windermere Marathon. When: 7 a.m.

Full or Half Marathon. Where: Spokane. Info: http://windermeremarathon.wordpress.com.

(July 6) Negative Split Marathon & 5K Run. When: 6:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Where: Riverfront Park. Running a negative split means to finish the race stronger than you started.

Course is fast, flat and scenic. Starts in Riverfront Park and follows the Spokane River. Well supported, chip timed. Proceeds benefit the Spokane Boys and Girls Clubs.

Info: nsplit.com or 208-806-1311.

(September 6) Lake Chelan Shore to Shore Marathon, Half-Marathon, 10K. When: 7 a.m. to 1

p.m. Where: Manson Bay Park, Manson, Wash. The course is almost entirely adjacent to Lake Chelan.

Runners are treated to views of the lake as well as views of the North Cascades, the rolling foothills, orchards and vineyards. Runners also will traverse through the quaint downtowns of Chelan and Manson. Info: lakechelanmarathon.com.

BIKING (June 14) Woodrat 25’ER Mountain Bike Race.

Where: Hill’s Resort, Priest Lake, Idaho. A 25 mile MTB endurance ride through cedar forests on a mix of single and double track trail at beautiful Priest Lake. This ride is for intermediate and bet-

ter riders only. Info: priestlakerace.com.

(June 28) Silver Valley Ride to Defeat ALS. Where: Eanaville Trailhead/Snake Pit Resort, Kingston, Idaho. Fundraising bike ride on the scenic Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes to benefit ALS Association – Evergreen Chapter. Picturesque and memorable one-day ride. Fully supported. 28 or 43 mile option on paved trail. Benefits patients living with Lou Gehrig’s Disease in the Pacific NW, while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure. Info: rideals.org.

(August 23-24) Gigantic Bicycle Festival.

Where: Centennial Fields Park, Snoqualmie, Wash. The two day, mid-August festival features a diverse, multi-faceted and regionally representative mix of live music, hand-built bicycles, visual & performance art, film, comedy, guest speakers, sculpture, and interactive installation pieces. Cost: $15 -$30. Info: theleveebreaking.org.

(September 20) Ovando Gran Fondo. When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Ovando, Mont. An epic offroad ride for the Missoula Symphony. Bring your cross or mountain bike for this fully supported 57-mile ride. Ride through some of Western Montana’s most scenic landscapes on dirt roads, including numerous miles through private land not otherwise open to the public. Info: missoulasymphony.org.

Triathlons (July 13) Valley Girl Triathlon. When: 7:45 a.m.

Where: Liberty Lake. Women’s Only Sprint Distance Triathlon. Individual entry or teams. Volunteers are always welcome. Info: ValleyGirlTri.com.

(July 19) Tiger Tri. When: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Where: Gilette Lake Campground/Colville High School. This point to point event starts with a 0.6 mile swim and a 24 mile bike along the beautiful State Route 20 back to the town of Colville. The run is approximately 5 miles and takes place on the Rotary Dominion Meadows trail ending at Colville High School. Cost: $75 individual. $50 pp teams. Info: tigertri.com.

(August 9) Coeur d’Alene Triathlon. The Coeur d’Alene Triathlon and Duathlon has been one of the most scenic races in the Northwest since 1984.

This year marks the 31th anniversary of the race.

New last year: Sprint Distance. Info: cdatriathlon. com or 877-782-9232.

(August 31) Steve Braun Memorial Triathlon.

When: 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Where: Moran State Park, Orcas Island, Wash. Swim: 1/2 mile in beautiful Cascade Lake. Bike: A 15 mile bike ride along a scenic and very rural county chip sealed road. Run: A beautiful trail run 3.5 miles around Cascade Lake. Cost: $55. Info: friendsofmoran. com or 360-376-3111.

Have an Event You Would Like to List? // Please visit www.outtheremonthly.com and click “Add Event” under the “Outdoor Calendar” tab to get your events listed online and considered for the monthly print magazine calendar. To be considered for the print calendar, events MUST be entered by the 20th of the month to be listed in the following month’s issue. Please follow the instructions for submitting an event using the web form.

OutdoorCalendar (May 24-25) 24 Hour Round the Clock Race.

for a mom, or race on behalf of a special person. All participants can list a special person in their life to be printed on their race bib. Info: newportwashingtonmarathon.com.

(May 17) Breakthrough for Brain Tumors Spokane 5k Run & Walk. 5K Run & Walk will

(Ongoing) Belles and Baskets. Whatever style

raise critical funds to support vital brain tumor research and desperately needed services for those living with a brain tumor diagnosis. Cost: $35. Info: abta.org.

(First Wednesday-Each Month) Bike Fights.

(May 17) State Park Series #1 – Farragut State Park. When: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Where: Farragut State

your cycle, join other Spokane women for no-drop rides, treats, and friendship. Info: 509-951-4090, facebook.com/bellesandbaskets.

When: 8 p.m. Where: Soulful Soups & Spirits, Spokane. 60 seconds to ride your heart out on a bike trainer. $10 to enter. Prizes! Info: 509-459-1190.

HIKING / WALKING (On-Going) Wed & Sun Hobnailer Hikes. When:

Varies. Where: Varies. Join Hobnailer hiking club for weekly 6-8 mile hikes in the Spokane area. Info: clcspo@msn.com or 509-456-0250.

(May 8) Washington Trails Association Iller Creek Trail Project. When: 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: Big Rock Trailhead. Join WTA for a day of giving back to the trails at Iller Creek/Big Rock. Info: jane@wta.org.

(May 10) Palisades Park Wildflower Hike. When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Where: Palisades Park, Spokane (Junction of Rimrock, Greenwood, and Basalt). This year’s wildflower hike will be led by Dr. Rebecca Brown, Ecology and Botany Professor at EWU. Cost: free. Info: palisadesnw.com.

(May 10) Iller Creek Hike. When: 9:45 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: Spokane Valley. Experience a local natural area on a hike with local naturalist and photographer Rich Leon and the Inland Northwest Land Trust.

Cost: free. Info: inlandnwlandtrust.org

(May 31) Washington Trails Association Iller Creek Trail Project. When: 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Where:

Big Rock Trailhead. Join WTA in building new trail in the Iller Creek/Big Rock area. Info: jane@wta.org.

(May 2 & 3) Brooks Race Ready Gait Analysis.

When: 4 - 8 p.m. Fri. and 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sat. Where: REI Spokane. Free gait analysis and shoe fitting with Brooks Gurus. All it takes is a few minutes on the treadmill (walking or running) to ensure you’re in the best set of kicks to tackle your 2014 goals. Info: REI.com/Spokane.

(May 4) Bloomsday. When: 9 a.m. Lilac Bloomsday Run held in Spokane, features over 50,000 runners, joggers, and walkers. Info: www.bloomsdayrun.org (May 10) Liberty Lake Trail Run. When: 9 a.m. to

2 p.m. Where: Liberty Lake Trail Head. At the finish is a pancake feed. This trail run is rated as difficult.

Info: trailmaniacs.com.

(May 10) Pend Oreille River Mother’s Day Marathon.Where: Newport, Wash. This flat, fast,

scenic waterfront course along the beautiful Pend Oreille River includes full, half, and relay options. It’s a celebration of Mother’s Day: race for yourself, race

(May 25) Coeur d’Alene Marathon. The Coeur

d’Alene Marathon, Half Marathon, and MyHealth 5k fun run. Info: http://www.cdamarathon.com.

(May 31) Purplestride 5K Run & Walk for Pancreatic Cancer. When: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Where:

Coeur d’Alene City Park. 5K run or walk to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer (the cancer with the lowest 5-year survival rate in the U.S.) and raise funds for research, advocacy and support of patients and families. Info: purplestride.org/ inlandnw.

TRIATHLONS (May 5) Women’s Triathlon Training Class.

Where: Fitness Fanatics, Spokane Valley. Learn how to train for your first sprint distance triathlon with this six week training plan: bike handling skills, open water swimming skills, how to run off the bike, what T1 and T2 are and what you need to complete your first sprint triathlon. Info: fitfanatics. com or 509-922-6080.

(May 31) Troika Triathlon. When: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Medical Lake Park. Sprint Triathlon (1/4 mile swim, 10 mile bike, 3 mile run) Half Triathlon (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run). Info: TroikaTriathlon.com.MARATHONS

MARATHONS (May 10) Horse Lake Half Marathon. When: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Where: Horse Lake Reserve in the Wenatchee Foothills. The reserve is known for its wildflowers and stunning views of the North Cascades and the Wenatchee River. Info: runwenatchee.com or 509-387-0051.

(May 25) Coeur d’Alene Marathon. The Coeur

d’Alene Marathon, Half Marathon, and MyHealth 5k fun run. Info: http://www.cdamarathon.com.

YOGA (Ongoing) Intro to flow yoga. When: Mondays 8

p.m. Where: Wild Walls Climbing Gym. Classes are included with membership, or drop in for for single or pass rates.

(Ongoing) Yoga for Back Care. When: 9 a.m.

OTHER (May 2) Celebrate the renovation of Huntington Park. When: 10:30 a.m. Where: Huntington Park,

downtown Spokane. Avista and the City of Spokane invite you to join them in dedicating the new City Hall Plaza and celebrating the renovation of Huntington Park. Be part of Spokane’s history as they unveil a new, outdoor community gathering space including local artifacts and artwork. You won’t want to miss the spectacular, up-close views of the falls so wear your walking shoes. Also plan to enjoy the food truck rally on Post Street to follow.

Info: avistalegacy.com

(May 3-4) Washington Fly Fishing Fair. Where:

Kittitas Valley Event Center, Ellensburg. Two days of fly fishing events and workshops. Info: 425-3086161.

(May 6) The Healthcare Movie. When: 6:30

p.m. Where: Bing Crosby Theater, Spokane. You’re young, in great shape and very physically active, so you don’t need to see a doctor, take medicine or worry about getting sick, right? Unfortunately, your active, outdoor lifestyle automatically puts you at risk for injuries. Interacting with the health care system at some point is inevitable. Find out about alternatives to our current haphazard system at this film. Info: healthcaremovie.net.

(May 8) Bird Watching for Beginners. When: 9 –

11 a.m. Where: Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge.

This program is sponsored by Friends of Turnbull and Spokane Audubon Society one Saturday morning each month during the spring and summer months. Cost: $5 per person or $10 per family.

Pre-registration and payment is required. Info: 509448-0659 or fotnwr.org.

(May 10) Spokane Farmers Market. When: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Where: between Division and Browne downtown. The SFM is a gathering of local farmers and producers to serve the Spokane area with local produce, meats, cheeses, honey and more open every Saturday May – October and every Wednesday starting June 11th. Info: spokanefarmersmarket.org.

(May 29) Outdoor Photography Basics. When: 7 – 8:30 p.m. Where: REI Spokane. Learn to use the basic functions of your camera. We will cover exposure settings, composition, file size and type, and more. Small class size guarantees individualized instruction. Cost: $30 for REI members; $50 for non-members. Info: REI.com/Spokane.

OUTDOOR CALENDAR

RUNNING

Park, Idaho. First race in the Trail Maniacs State Park Series. SPS is a trail run point series, including 5 mile and half marathon distances in six state parks from two states (Idaho and Washington). SPS will have over $1,000 in prizes for its points series. Info: trailmaniacs.com.

Friday or noon on Monday. Where: North Pines Yoga. A yoga class focused on balance and core work to deliver endurance to your spine. Info www. northpinesyogapilates.com or 509-928-1400.

MAY 2014

Where: Riverside State Park. The 24-hour event is a team relay mountain bike race, beginning at noon on Saturday and ending at noon on Sunday. Teams compete for medals, prizes and bragging rights. Info: roundandround.com.

May 2014

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River Time

Go With the Flow on These 5 River Hikes by Aaron Theisen

Hiking in hells Canyon. Photo: Logan Crable, courtesy of ROW Adventures.

Whitewater enthusiasts revere the rivers of north-central Idaho – the Salmon River, its 425 miles of undammed water the longest free-flowing river in the contiguous 48 states; the Selway and its siblings in the Clearwater country east of Lewiston, which drain a wild area large enough to be its own state; the tumultuous Snake River and its more-than-mile-high canyons.

A short boating season and strictly limited access on several of these rivers mean that boaters speak of successful bids for lottery spots like fish stories. But with a pair of boots, adventurers can enjoy these same rivers with no reservations.

River hikes bring unique pleasures. The low elevations in otherwise-arid country mean early hiking seasons; hikers in Hells Canyon, for example, might be clad in shorts and spotting wildflowers in March when snow still blocks the high country for months to come. River trails also make for family-friendly first hiking destinations, with the potential for rock-skipping on sandy beaches an enticement to coax tired feet onward.

Best of all, unlike hikes with a fixed destination, river trails lend themselves to treks tailored to the abilities of a group, so they’re great spring conditioning outings or road-trip leg-stretchers. Go with the flow on these five classic river hikes – no permits required.

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Out There Monthly / May 2014

Rapid River Trail Gateway to the Seven Devils

The Wild and Scenic Rapid River in central Idaho forms a gateway to Idaho’s Seven Devils, which lord over Hells Canyon. Popular with residents of Riggins and McCall, the trail paralleling the river hosts hikers nearly year-round, although springtime highlights its wildflower charms.

Beginning near the Rapid River Fish Hatchery – the small waterway provides breeding grounds for chinook salmon – trek through a narrow chasm with an intimate view of the pools and riffles of the river. Watch for deer on the high slopes and hawks overhead. Typical of the variety of habitats encountered on river trails, hikers will find gnarled mountain mahogany reminiscent of the Great Basin one moment, and round a corner to pacific yew the next. Woodland flowers – bleeding heart, phlox, glacier-lily – abound, and early spring sees entire slopes awash in the white blooms of serviceberry. The junction with the West Fork Rapid River Trail at 4.5 miles makes a good turnaround point. Ambitious trekkers can continue on for early-season, high-country probing in the Seven Devils.

Camping/lodging: The broad sandy beach at Shorts Bar on the Salmon River just upstream from Riggins offers easy tent camping near town. Travelers can also find several motels in Riggins.

Driving directions: From Riggins, Idaho, drive 4.3 miles south on Highway 95 to Rapid River Road. Turn right and drive 2.4 miles, past Rapid River Fish Hatchery, to the trailhead.

Leaves of three, let it be: Poison ivy grows along many of the Inland Northwest’s more arid river canyons. Look for the signature three shiny leaves on bushy plants along trails and creeks (sometimes with small white berries bunched up near the stems).

Avoid brushing up against poison ivy, as the oil from the plant is known for causing a rash on most people who touch it.

Rattlesnakes: Keep an eye out for snakes along the trail or near creeks and shady areas on hot days. Use a walking stick or trekking poles to poke around rocks and tall grass, which can help let any resting rattlers know you’re coming. Tune your ears to listen for the unmistakable, high-pitched rattle. Rattlesnakes rarely bite unless provoked and bites are rarely fatal if treated properly.

Selway

River Trail

Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Part of the original Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the Selway River in north-central Idaho remains one of the most pristine waterways in the lower 48; to keep it that way, the Forest Service allows only one permitted boat launch a day. Hikers don’t need to cross their fingers for a chance to explore this passageway into the heart of the 1.3-million-acre Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, although herpetophobes should beware: the Selway’s rattlesnakes are legendary and legion. The 56-mile Selway River Trail parallels sand beaches and sculpted boulders along its length, with the steep, fir-cloaked canyon occasionally narrowing enough to necessitate a climb away from the shore. The Selway swelters in mid-summer, but spring is pleasant. Six miles in, Cupboard Creek rapids rates as a good turnaround spot for a long dayhike, although groups with young hikers may choose to stop at any of the beaches before then.

Camping: Race Creek Campground at the Selway River Trail terminus makes a fine staging point for hiking trips.

Driving directions: From Lewiston, drive 114 miles east on Highway 12 to Lowell.

At Lowell, continue east across the Clearwater River onto Forest Road (FR) 223 (Selway River Road). Proceed 18 miles (past Selway Falls) to the trailhead at Race Creek Campground and road’s end.

Looking over the shoulders of kit and alex at the raging wind river. Photo: Derrick Knowles.

Snake River Trail Hell’s Canyon

Wind River Trail Gateway to the Gospel Hump Wilderness Even by the scant standards of the other hikes featured here, the Wind River trail upstream from Riggins receives little traffic, overshadowed as it is by the world-class whitewater rafting on the Salmon River nearby (the take-out point for the life-list Main Salmon River float is just upstream from the trailhead).

But hikers who leave the boaters far below will be treated to outstanding vistas of wild country little changed from when Lewis and Clark deemed it nigh-impassable.

From the Salmon River, cross the Wind River Pack Bridge and immediately enter the 206,000-acre Gospel Hump Wilderness. The trail leaves the Salmon River behind and follows Wind River north through a pleasant canyon. After a level mile, climb to a balsamroot-bedecked hillside for fine views and a decent turnaround point for a quick leg-stretcher. For a better vantage point, descend to a second footbridge and then climb 600 feet up a sun-baked slope for a postcard view across the Salmon River canyon to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, which, along with the Gospel Hump and Selway-Bitterroot, form the largest wilderness complex in the lower 48 states.

Camping: The Forest Service operates a fee campground at Spring Bar, 8 miles downstream from the trailhead. But campers who can live without picnic tables can pitch a tent on several stretches of beach with pit toilets nearby.

Driving directions: From Riggins, Idaho, drive east on Salmon River Road. Follow the paved road (it eventually turns into a well-graded gravel road) 18.4 miles to a T-junction, just beyond French Creek. Stay left along the river and follow the road an additional five miles to the Wind River Pack Bridge and signed trailhead.

“There is a river called the River of No Return.

Sometimes it’s peaceful and sometimes wild and free.” (“River of No Return”)

Hikers enjoy the sunshine along the Snake River Trail. Photo: Aaron Theisen.

By some measures, Hells Canyon claims the greatest chasm in North America. By any measure, the Snake River National Recreational Trail along the river rates as a must-do Inland Northwest day-hike. From Pittsburg Landing – a popular staging area for long-distance treks into the Hells Canyon Wilderness – the trail winds approximately 26 miles on the Idaho side of the Wild and Scenic Snake on tread that alternates between surprisingly green grassland and vertigo-inducing rock ledges.

Serviceberry, sumac and the twisted trunks of hackberry hide an array of wildlife: prepare to be startled by chukar partridges exploding from cover. Canyon wrens and rabbits inhabit the lush, narrow creek draws.

Early spring brings surprising color from phlox, paintbrush, brodeia and others; early June bears prickly pear cactus blooms. Hikers should be on the watch for poison ivy year-round. Hike in the morning for comfort; once the sun rises above the canyon walls, shade is scarce.

Historic Kirkwood Ranch – which boasts a small museum in addition to historic ranch houses and an orchard – makes for a popular day-hike destination of 12 miles round-trip.

Camping: Upper Pittsburg Landing features free trailhead campsites, but Lower Pittsburg Landing boasts a better campground complete with sheltered cooking areas, picnic tables, and a fee.

Driving directions: From Grangeville, Idaho, drive south on Highway 95. At 1.2 miles south of Whitebird Junction, turn right (west) toward Hammer Creek Recreation Area. Cross the Salmon River and turn left toward Pittsburg Landing on Deer Creek Road (#493). Drive 17 miles over Pittsburg Saddle and down to the Pittsburg Landing area. At the paved junction, turn left toward Upper Landing and drive 1.7 miles to the road’s end and trailhead.

Wenaha River Trail Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness The Wild and Scenic Wenaha winds its way across the heart of the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness, which encompasses almost 200,000 acres of rugged ridges, flower-filled meadows and deep river canyons in the Blue Mountains of southeast Washington and northeast Oregon. The Wenaha River trail meanders 22 miles along the river, alternating between ponderosa and black cottonwood flats and narrow causeways blasted out of the rock high above the water. In addition to being a blue-ribbon trout stream, the Wenaha is a wildlife-watchers delight: scan the steep slopes for black bears, elk and bighorn sheep, but keep an eye on the trail, too; rattlesnakes are rife here. Fragrant coyote mint and other hardy rock-garden plants enliven the trail in the spring, although poison ivy is also plentiful. Numerous side trails climb the 2,000-foot canyon to the broad tablelands above and beckon backpackers, but day-hikers can aim for the wilderness boundary at 4.5 miles or Crooked Creek at 6.5 miles.

Camping: Fields Spring State Park, just across the border in Washington, is one of the state’s finest parcels, with plentiful tent sites and a shower facility. Save time for the short hike to Puffer Butte, which boasts an unbeatable view over the canyon country below.

Driving directions: At the north end of tiny Troy, Ore., drive west on Bartlett Road, following signs toward Pomeroy.

Drive 0.3 mile to the trailhead at the road’s first switchback. // May 2014

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Out There Monthly / May 2014

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You Just Ran Bloomsday—What’s Next?

14 Races to Keep Your Feet Moving All Summer Long

You trained hard over the past couple of months, and you’re sporting the latest Bloomsday finisher shirt. It’s early in the running season, so what’s next? The mud runs and color runs are extremely popular these days. If you’re not signed up by now, it may be too late. Not to worry. Our area hosts plenty of opportunities to showcase your fleet feet.

(Pssst, if you’re looking for a full weekend of running fun, there’s a gnarly Bavarian Battle Adventure Race the day before: Skileavenworth. com/events/BavarianBattle).

Mt. Misery Relay Race – July 5. Some might think running a 57-mile relay race on a route flanked by mountains named Misery and Doom is

By Hank Greer

the Flying Irish should easily win. Theslimerun. com/locations/spokane.

The Riggins Salmon Run Half Marathon, 10k, 5k – September 13. This year the beautiful canyon town of Riggins, Idaho, on the Salmon River is hosting this first annual event that includes multiple running distances and a kid’s fun run. The race ends at Riggins City Park with live music, food and beverages. Rigginsidaho. com/events/11-riggins-salmon-run-a-foot-racealong-the-beautiful-salmon-river/event_details#.

U0_jcleP6Dc. Scenic Half Marathon, 10k, 5k – September 21. There’s a distance for every runner at this Sandpoint race. All routes are out and back from the Sandpoint City Beach. Get a free victory stand photo showing proof of your accomplishment.

Sandpointchamber.org/TheScenicHalf.

Spokane Marathon, Marathon Relay, HalfMarathon, and 10k – October 12. You’ve had all year to prepare, and you still don’t want to do a whole marathon? I don’t blame you. Split it up four ways and do the relay or choose one of the other distances. Spokanemarathon.us.

Runners crossing the Don Kardong Bridge one mile after starting the Negative Split Half Marathon. Photo: Hank Greer

State Park Series 5-mile and Half Marathon races – May through September. Maniacally run through nature on trails. Race once a month at six different state parks in Washington and Idaho.

You don’t have to be faster than a bear – just faster than at least one other person. Trailmaniacs.com/ state-park-series--sps-.html.

reason to question a person’s sanity. Others might think, “Let’s form a team!” The course through the Umatilla National Forest covers some incredibly scenic country in the canyons and mountains south of Lewiston, Idaho, near the Grande Ronde River. Team members swap out any time they want to. Seaportstriders.com/entry/misery.

Hear Me Run 5k – June 7. This chip-timed run benefits HOPE School, Spokane’s only listening and spoken language preschool for the deaf and hard of hearing. The course follows both sides of the Spokane River from Riverfront Park to the Gonzaga campus. It’s only 5k and it’s for the kids.

Hearmerunspokane.com.

Negative Split Half Marathon and 5k – July 6.

This is the second year for this great out-and-back race along the Spokane River. Start in Riverfront Park and follow the Centennial Trail eastward on a fairly flat course. Turn around and join the party when you get back to the park. Last year’s finisher medal also functioned as a bottle opener. Now that is some forward thinking. Nsplit.com.

Riverside 24-hour Relay – June 7. At last, a relay race with no vans. Form a team of 1 to 12 members and take your turn on the 6-mile loop.

Set up camp and enjoy the live music and DJs when you’re not running. There’s also a special 4-hour School Duel for six-member elementary, middle, and high school teams on a 3-mile course.

R24relay.com.

Herron Half Marathon and 10k – June 8. This challenging and fun course consists of three loops each with 400 to 600 feet of elevation gain near Kalispell, Montana. But each loop crests before the halfway point, so you’re going downhill most of the time. Last year there were 115 runners. It’s not a crowded race, but it will be in a couple of years at the rate they’re growing, so beat the crowd!

Runflathead.com/herron-half-10k.

Bavarian Battle 10-Mile, 8k and Kids Trail Runs – June 22. The races begin and end at the Leavenworth Ski Facility, and the course is said to be hilly and challenging. Fortunately, they go easy on the kids who only have a 1k to 2k route.

Runwenatchee.com/event/bavarian-battle-trailruns.

Regardless of the race or distance you choose, the main point of all this is to have fun. Smile and keep you pace steady. //

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Let’s Climb A Mountain 34.3 Mile Solo and Relay – July 12. If you’ve ever had the urge to run a marathon and then immediately follow that by running 8-miles up Mount Spokane, then this race was tailor made for you. Normal people form a relay team. Letsclimbamountain.com.

Schweitzer Mountain Trail Run 10 or 3.5 miles – July 19. This race features a mix of double and single track, some rugged and some fun. It’s on a mountain so what did you expect?

Smtrailrun.com.

Bare Buns Fun Run 5k – July 27. It’s the 30th anniversary of this run through nature au natural (if you choose) with a large group of nonjudgmental, non-Photoshopped people. Caution: Forming an office team might result in some awkward moments. Kaniksufamily.com/?page_id=4.

The Slime Run 5k – August 23. Instead of mud and obstacles, it’s slime zones and obstacles. Bring some towels and maybe a change of clothes. This new race is being held at the Spokane County Raceway. One prize for the biggest group, which May 2014

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LL

“Fifty years ago starting out in the early 60’s, John and I climbed the North Peak of Mt. Index, Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier in a three-and-half day weekend, including taking the time out to party half the night in Seattle.”

The Art of Risk: Roske Piolets d’ Or Lifetime A

John Roskelley Climbng on Mt. Index in the North Cascades in the Summer of 1965. Photo: Chris Kopczynski 26

Out There Monthly / May 2014

In the cool of evening on Saturday night, March 29, 2014, six of us, all senior Spokane Mountaineers, left our hotel rooms for a 20-minute walk through the winding resort village of Courmayeur, Italy, to the Cinema Palanoir.

Cinema Palanoir is the main theater in the Aosta Valley and a beautiful architectural complement to the hanging glaciers thousands of feet above on Mont Blanc. The entrance to the theater is a giant, glass-shaped blooming tulip 60 feet high that is supported by a steel frame. Inside the Cinema was the seventh Spokane Mountaineer that we came to support and see honored as one of the world’s best mountaineers.

Two hundred-and-fifty-four years ago, the sport of mountaineering began on the other side of Mont Blanc in the village of Chamonix, France. The “producer” of mountaineering was a man named Benedict de Saussure, who in 1760, offered a cash reward for any man who could climb Mont Blanc. Twenty-six years later, in 1786, and climbing from Chamonix, Jaques Balmat and Dr. Michael Paccard claimed the prize and became the first men to stand on the summit of Mt. Blanc, 15,781 feet above sea level. Modern-day guides earn their money by successfully getting their clients up and down safely, but the money de Saussure paid Balmat and Paccard, as far as I know, is the first and last prize money won by mountaineers for reaching the summit of a mountain. The sport of alpinism was born, and with it emerged a new approach to the mountains and a new culture deeply rooted in the ethical and humanist values, which are more and more essential to our world today.

In 1965, a 7 ½ mile car tunnel that bored through Mont Blanc was completed thanks to the astounding engineering prowess of the Swiss, Italians, and French, thus joining Chamonix on the north side to Courmayeur, Italy, on the south side. Courmayeur is the smaller of the two villages, at just over 4,000 feet in elevation, and is nestled into a Pleistocene glacial-carved valley beneath wild rock pillars and hanging ice on the south side of Mont Blanc. These two villages set the scene for the 22nd Piolets d’Or awards for alpinism, the Academy Awards for the world’s greatest mountaineers. On March 27 and 28, we were entertained in Chamonix in the main conference theater at the luxurious Le Majestic Hotel of Chamonix. We watched climbing movies and learned about the celebrated climbers who represented the five climbs nominated for the 2014 Piolets d’ Or (The Golden Axe). The crowning prize was the Lifetime Achievement Award to be awarded to John Roskelley.

The third and final day of ceremonies was held in Courmayeur. The festivities started at the Alpine Museum on the hill above the Cinema Palanoir. There was a band dressed in colorful,

native regalia, and at 6:30 sharp, the parade started through town with the band leading the way. The alpine guides followed, and then the rock stars of the year. Ueli Steck, Catherine Destivelle and George Lowe were walking with the eight climbers nominated for this year’s most inspiring climb.

I had heard about how popular climbers were in Europe, but to see the respect paid for their achievements was stunning.

The parade moved south through the main street of Courmayeur for about six blocks, then did a U-turn back north toward the theater. As we entered the front doors of the theater, Ueli Steck, the superstar mountaineer of the day, was chatting with Catherine Destivelle and the Mayors of Chamonix and Courmayeur. I thought my wife Michelle was going to do a table dance as she snapped photos of the super fit Ueli Steck. Inside the large foyer to the theater, music played for the invited guests including climbers, mayors, and judges. We had a smorgasbord of the finest hor d’oeuvres offered in Europe that included fondue cheeses and breads, vegetables, lamb, wine and beers. After nearly two hours of filling our stomachs, we filed into the theater.

The main event started as the master of ceremonies, the beautiful Kay Rush, walked onto the stage dressed in a brown sweater and a slim, silver skirt with silver slippers. Kay introduced the climbers for the five nominated climbs and expeditions. Kay asked the questions to the climbers in English and translated the answers in Italian.

The first nominated climb was shown on the big screen in a prepared video describing the commitment and ascent, with the climbers standing on stage watching the screen. The guides stood by on the outside of the stage dressed in professional grey tweed suits.

In between the nominated climbs, the Italian band l’orage performed on stage with a host of instruments, ranging from flutes, harmonicas, Scottish bagpipes, to a double bass, entertaining the audience with Italian songs. I couldn’t understand a word but wanted to get up and dance anyway. On a giant screen behind the musicians a video of mountain scenes played, complementing the music. An acrobat danced across the stage as the band played. All this pomp for mountain climbers! For the record, Kay never asked the classic question: why do you climb mountains?

After the five nominated climbs, Kay Rush began her speech to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to John Roskelley. With Mount Spokane the highest inspirational mountain in view of our city, how did a desert town like Spokane cultivate one of the world’s greatest alpinists? The packed theater of approximately 700 people was curious to learn. John explained in a prepared video shown on a giant screen how he got started in the Spokane Mountaineers club.

elley Awarded the Achievement Award He explained how friends and family and human values of shared kinship of the rope were the most important things in life. He talked about and showed in slides the expeditions that were most important to him. His track record of success in the mountains was undeniable.

A young girl dressed in colorful mountain dress appeared on the side of the stage with a trophy she struggled to hold. It was obviously very heavy. Kay spoke in Italian, and then translated in English. Two other women representing the towns of Chamonix and Courmayeur gave separate speeches in French with Kay translating into English. A few lines that I heard from the speech were: “You have earned this award for a lifetime of commitment to bold, daring alpine ascents with commitment to the safety of your companions,” and “Mr. John Roskelley, you are awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award, the Piolets d’ Or.” This was the “Golden Ice Axe,” the Piolets d’ Or trophy that millions of climbers in the world can only dream of winning. I was struck by the artistry and the construction of this trophy, a stunning piece of artwork that should be set in the middle of a room complete with viewing benches. An Oscar would make a nice door knob next to it.

The main body of the trophy was vertical, one inch thick plate-glass shaped and cut into a mountain and set into a routed groove in a hardwood base. An artistic shaped modern ice axe made from molten metal was routed into the plate glass.

The handle, or axe shaft, was the color of titanium.

The adze, or cutting blade atop the handle, had a golden sheen. The golden plate on the hardwood base read: “Piolets d’Or Carriere. Walter Bonatti.”

Loosely translated, this means the “The Golden Ice Axe, the calling in life, in the spirit of Walter Bonatti.” The girl holding the trophy seemed relieved to hand it over to John. Then the clapping began, and seconds later the audience rose to their feet and continued clapping. A standing ovation is a rare gesture in Europe, I am told.

In my opinion, and the judgment of world alpinists, this is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon climbers; The Gold Medal, The Medal of Honor, the Academy Award for Best Performance, the Golden Globes, and American Idol, all rolled into one award for an athlete. In America, a climber could never make the back cover of a Muesli box, let alone a Wheaties Box, but in Europe, climbers are treated with the same acclaim as NBA or NFL heroes.

As Joyce Roskelley, John’s wife of 42 years, and kids Jordon and Jess clapped, the audience continued to stand and applaud. We all felt the deep respect shown for the “conquerors of futility.” I thought of all those hundreds of trips John and I took as teenagers. Fifty years ago starting out in the early 60s, John and I climbed the North Peak of Mt. Index, Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier in a

3 ½ day weekend, including taking the time out to party half the night in Seattle. And we drove 1,300 miles round trip to climb Mt. Robson north of Jasper, all in three days, to get back in time for work. We knew the Alps and Himalayas were bigger. Years later, I snickered to myself when Seattle Seahawks superstars Jim Zorn and Steve Largent took three days to climb Mt. Rainier, saying “It was the hardest thing they ever did.”

Water was thicker than blood that night as I felt I was right up there on stage with my friend. It took 15 minutes for the photographers and journalists to dissolve so that I could get close enough to get a photo of John with his award. Journalists and photographers from all over Europe crowded around me, and not one was from the USA. The final event of the evening presented the 2014 Piolets d’Or to Canadians Ian Welsted, Raphael Slawinsky and the superman from Switzerland, Ueli Steck. Welsted and Slawinky climbed a bold new route on K6 in Pakistan, and speed solo artist Ueli Steck climbed the South Face of Annapurna up and down, in the astounding time of 28 hours.

It was nearly 1 in the morning as we six senior citizens walked back to our hotel drunk with the warm spirit of the humanity of the event. The fraternity of the rope runs deep.

This is what the world sorely needs. I thought of the words in the Piolets D’Or program: “Mountaineering, an incongruous activity in our societies, is a vehicle for the values of commitment and high performance, achieved with the deep respect for nature in one of its most powerful expressions: the high mountains. The performance is difficult to assess. The summit cannot be the only goal: the manner in which it is achieved is the main objective. While a major crisis destabilizes our society, a few men and women with no desire for celebrity or with forecasting any return on their investment, perpetuate the ideal of climbing summits by the most beautiful means possible, because the mountains exist and offer them this challenge by fair means.”

On a cold fall evening in 1964, John Roskelley and I started our careers in the mountains together. We envisioned mountaineers as athletic competitors focused on excellence. I have now witnessed my best friend inducted into the Inland Empire Hall of Fame, winning the National Underhill Award for Alpinism from the American Alpine Club, and now the international award for alpinism, The Lifetime Achievement Award and the Piolets d’Or. That night I felt as if I had won it myself, but in the broader sense, we all won. // Story and photo by Chris Kopczynski.

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Out There Monthly / May 2014

Running Running wild in the Wallowas // By Joe Whittle Late spring in Wallowa County is a confusion of all the seasons. Sun-warmed reveries are often cut short by cold breezes that quickly remind you of the mountains of snow yet to thaw. Yellow grasses and bare branches are still visible over much of Wallowa country.

Trail running here in the spring can be about as varied as the conditions of the season. Warm sun evokes thoughts of summer and refreshing after-run river dips, but the occasional shoe full of cold slush or a muscle-straining slip of a foot in the mud reminds a runner that summer’s trails are not a reality just yet.

The reality, even in May, on the east side of Oregon, can be wet snow, slush and mud, sketchy avalanche crossings, cold rain and snowfall, dark gray days, chill winds – and weakened, unused muscles meeting trails that seem to have steepened since winter’s start.

But on the newly melted Hurricane Creek Trail, undulating waves of pine and fir wash against the mountainside. Birds sing in budding green aspen. Afternoon light sets newly unfurled gooseberry leaves aglow. And we remember sunny summer trails soon to be revisited. // Joe Whittle is a freelance photographer, blogger and adventurer in northeast Oregon’s Wallowa County

Early Season Wallowa Trails Hurricane Creek Trail A popular entry point for hikers and equestrians setting out on trips into the Eagle Cap Wilderness, the Hurricane Creek Trail (#1807) can also make for some adventurous, early-season trail running before the summertime trail traffic picks up. From Enterprise (on Main Street/Highway 82), turn right on Hurricane Creek Road/South River St. and go about 9 miles to the trailhead. A $5 per vehicle fee and a free, self-issue wilderness permit are required.

More info at: www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/wallowa-whitman/recreation/hiking/ recarea/?recid=51485&actid=51 East Fork Wallowa River Trail Starting out at an elevation of 4,646, the East Fork Wallowa River Trail (#1804) can offer some early season trail running (you may want running snowshoes if you go far enough). From Enterprise, Ore., take state Highway 82 through Joseph and past Wallowa Lake. The trailhead is at the end of the road, approximately one mile past the lake. The river runs along the length of the trail.

More info at: www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5417364.pdf.

Photo Top: With outflung arms, trail runner Justin Sullivan of Enterprise seems to embody the wild joy of snowmelt season on a slushy spring run under Mount Sacajawea in Hurricane Creek Canyon. Snow patches can last into July on the Wallowa trails, and this year, the road to the Hurricane Creek Trailhead is still blocked by the avalanche that typically rumbles across the road in the winter. The blockage, about a mile from the trailhead, could remain well into June.

Photo Bottom: A runner’s breath slowly begins to match rhythm with the spring-filled river next to the Hurricane Creek Trail, which at times sounds more like an ever-breaking tide than a river. Runner Ashley Jones, who grew up in Wallowa County but now lives in Seattle, enjoys the return of the sun and warmth on a spring trail run in Hurricane Creek Canyon.

Saturday June 7th, 2014

Proceeds Benefit the Vital Programs of Lutheran Community Services Northwest May 2014

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Last Page Finding that Perfect Outdoor Dog // By Brad Naccarato Companionship is a primary need for most people. We seek it in various ways, but nothing quite fills the void in our hearts like the love of a four-legged family member.

Faithful to their last breath, they offer a level of devotion that not many humans could ever match.

For many of us, when we think of ideal days spent in the backcountry, we picture ourselves climbing mountains with an eager Lab, or cuddled up with a shaggy golden next to the fire at a stream-side camp. Experiencing the outdoors with the right canine companion will warm your heart and make you slow down and appreciate the simple joys and experiences of outdoor life. There’s no doubt about it; dogs are very much a part of the value system that defines the outdoor lifestyle in America.

Most outdoors people fit into two categories: those who own one or more dogs; and those who want one. For the furry friends adopted by those in the first category, it’s often a Nirvana of days and weekends filled with dog walks, morning runs, camp trips or games of fetch in the backyard.

If you’re one of the less fortunate in the dogless category, finding your new best friend may be much easier than you thought. When many people think of dog ownership or adoption, they envision long drives across the state, meeting with multiple breeders and shelling out enough coin to add up to a mortgage payment.

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Out There Monthly / May 2014

Susan is getting to know Baby, a 3 year old lab/Chow Mix, at the Spokane Humane Society. Photo: Brad Naccarato

But there’s a much simpler option that is arguably a better option for active people looking for a trail companion: your local animal shelters.

Animal shelters, over the years, appear to have developed the stigma of housing the dogs that nobody wants. A lot of people tend to perceive these animals as “problem animals” incapable of obedience. Ask any local shelter volunteer, and they’ll tell you a different story. Most, if not all dogs, are capable of love and obedience at any stage of life if their owner is willing to teach and lead them in a proper, non-violent way. Some of these animals simply haven’t had that opportunity yet.

A lot of the dogs in shelters tend to be medium to larger breeds. These breeds need a lot of exercise and room to play. Less active people can realize over time that they simply don’t have the time, energy, space, or patience to give these breeds what they need to be happy, wellbehaved companions. Guilt, moves, divorces, job losses or just general apathy can often result in pets being surrendered to a local shelter. The result? Hundreds of scared and confused animals that could make perfect outdoor adventure dogs waiting for a new home.

One of Spokane’s most prominent shelters is the Spokane Humane Society located off of Bigelow Gulch Road (6607 N Havana St.).

“S.H.S. is a 501c3, non-profit local public charity dedicated to the welfare of companion animals. For over 100 years, we have acted as a refuge for animals in peril by providing care, shelter, and placement for tens of thousands of lost, neglected, and unwanted animals in the greater Spokane area,” says Dave Richardson, SHS’s Executive Director. “Currently we place between 2,500-3,500 animals annually throughout the Northwest,” he adds.

SHS is committed to helping visitors make the best possible adoption match for their family situation and lifestyle. They’ll counsel you about your individual needs and then help you search for the most appropriate companion. “You start by walking through the kennels and taking a look at the pets that are available for adoption – take them for a walk on our 40 acres or play with them in one of our exercise pens. Next, you meet with an adoption counselor at the front desk to discuss the match and complete necessary paperwork. If the visitor has additional pets at home, a meet and greet is often scheduled to ensure that all pets in the household will be compatible,” he says. It’s important to note, the SHS will take back an adopted animal for an exchange if it’s not fitting into your home.

The adoption fees, a serious steal at $50175, include spaying or neutering, a shot series, rabies vaccine and a microchip. Other adoption benefits include a free office visit to a veterinarian that is a member of the Inland Empire Veterinary Medical Association. SHS also provides a free promotional 30-day health insurance plan through 24 Pet Watch that kicks in 48 hours after the adoption.

There may not be a better complement to your outdoor lifestyle than a new furry family member to share your adventures with. As you take your first tour through the kennels, you will immediately see the impact you can have on the life of a shelter dog. //

Freeride Media

May 2014

/ Out There Monthly

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NRS Men’s & Women’s Hydroskin Shirt $97.95

Boardworks Super Natural 10'6" SUP $999.00

Chaco Men’s Z/1 Women’s Z/1 Yampa Sandal $99.95

Cascade Designs eSeries Waterproof Case $27.95

Full-service shop, rentals, demos, classes and an experienced staff!

May Events at Mountain Gear

32

Standup Paddle Board 101 Canoe & Kayak Demo SUP (Standup Paddle Board) Demo Out There Monthly / May 2014

May 22 6:00pm May 27 5:30-7:30pm May 29 5:30-7:30pm

Free $10/person $15/couple $10/person $15/couple

For a complete list of class descriptions, events and information, contact us: 2002 N Division, Spokane • 509.325.9000

mountaingear.com/retail Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am-8 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm