October/November 2016

PRAY FOR SNOW | WINTER SEASON KICKOFF OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2016 // FREE

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Features

18 | Fall Hiking 33 | Idaho Hot Springs MTB Loop

men’s, women’s & youth

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33 Special Sections 25 | Family Winter Sports Guide 34 | On the Mountain

departments

W W W.C O L D P RU F.C O M

14 | Health & Fitness 15 | Food & Fuel 16 | Food & Fuel

columns 12 | Everyday Cyclist 22 | Run Wild 23 | Leaf, Root Fungi, Fruit

11 in every issue 7

| From the Editor

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| Out There News & Events

11 | Hike of the Month 17 | Urban Outdoors

25 34

45 | Outdoor Calendar 46 | Last Page

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October & november 2016 www.outtheremonthly.com Publishers

Shallan & Derrick Knowles Editor-in-chief

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Bradley Bleck Kelly Chadwick Dave Dutro Elena Gardner Hank Greer Summer Hess Jon Jonckers Derrick Knowles Amy Silbernagel McCaffree Ammi Midstokke Brad Naccarato Brad Northrup Erika Prins Simonds Anna Twohig Holly Weiler Contributing photographers:

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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. ŠCopyright 2016 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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Suzanne Hemmy Waldrup descends from a late season light and fast trip from the Selkirk Mountains in Idaho.

Photo: Woods Wheatcroft

From The Editor: Saving Trails An OTM contributor recently informed me (only half seriously, I think) that he didn’t appreciate coverage we gave to a few of his favorite trails via articles in our September issue. More attention to once lesser-known places, the argument goes, means more people on the trails, fewer parking spots at trailheads and increased impacts on wildlife. The conversation reminded me of a bumper sticker I have seen a few times on pickup trucks in Coeur d’Alene: “Idaho’s Full, Go Home.”

While there are many people who enjoy hiking or biking in groups and the social element of being outside with like-minded individuals, others, including the guy who was giving me grief for publicizing his not-so-secret “secret” spots, generally

prefer solitude to socializing on the trail. A misanthropic hiking buddy of mine used to take this sentiment to the extreme. While on backpacking trips or traveling through other parts of the West in the late 90s, if anyone would ever get curious about the Inland Northwest after asking where we were from, he would try to scare them away from visiting or moving to North Idaho and Eastern Washington by making up stories about our beloved home. His favorite yarn was to tell them how awesome the area is, “except for all of the neo-nazis and militias.” With his white lie, he hoped to keep more of the wilderness trails, lakes and rivers from being overrun by others seeking that next, best undiscovered place.

Most outdoor enthusiasts would probably prefer to have more elbow room out on the trails, but it’s tough to ignore the evidence that we are in serious trouble as a society and planet if we don’t come up with better ways to connect more of our fellow humans with nature, especially young people.

That doesn’t mean we should encourage every man, woman and child to visit our most pristine and ecologically fragile places, but who will stand up for existing and future trails, recreation areas, wild places, and parks if there isn’t a robust community of people who use and enjoy them? As an outdoor recreation community, it’s in our best interest to encourage others to get outside and play but also to learn about minimizing impacts and Leave No

Trace recreation (check out our Last Page article in this issue for more on this subject).

Even though I sometimes find myself cringing at the loud chatter of a big group marching through the woods in my direction when I’d rather be listening to songbirds or the delicate sound of crickets buzzing in the brush, I mostly feel a sense of camaraderie with the people I run into out on the trails these days, whether it’s in Riverside State Park or the Salmo Priest Wilderness. And I have a little more hope for the future with each pair of hiking boots, running shoes or pedals I pass along the way. // Derrick Knowles, Editor

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Out ThereNews&Events Bernard Lagat Honored Guest at Active 4 Youth Fundraiser On Friday, October 14, Active 4 Youth will host

its annual fundraiser at the Spokane Convention Center, Centennial Ballroom. For over seven years, Active 4 Youth has played an essential role in encouraging youth to live healthier lives through after-school sports programs. Crosscountry running empowers kids through physical activity and aerobic challenges; however, races are not funded by any of the area school districts.

Last year, over 6,000 elementary students participated in Active 4 Youth. The program is free to boys and girls in Spokane Public Schools and Central Valley and West Valley school districts, and this fundraiser is the primary support for these city-wide events. Tickets for the fundraiser dinner start at $50 each for couples, and they include live music, a dinner buffet, drink tickets, plus silent and

live auctions. Best of all, the honored guest for the evening is Bernard Lagat – a 13-time medalist in World Championships and Olympics.

Lagat graduated from Washington State University in 2000. He has competed in five Summer Olympics, and he is the American record holder in the indoor 1,500-meter and indoor mile, as well as the 1,500 meter, 3,000 meter, and 5,000 meter outdoors. This is an incredibly unique chance to meet a living sports legend while you’re supporting the next generation of Spokane runners.

Go to the website or the Active 4 Youth Facebook page to learn more about the auction items. VIP passes are also available for those seeking pre-party admission to mingle with the unstoppable Lagat.

You can register online at Active4youth.org. (Jon Jonckers)

Reel Rock Film Tour at Perry Street Brewing Reel Rock 11 is back this year at Perry Street Brewing. The event, which takes place on Wednesday, November 2, from 7 -10 p.m., will feature five climbing films you won’t want to miss, as well as food trucks and plenty of fun. Rare Earth Adventures, an outdoor adventure company that organizes trips in Washington, Oregon, and abroad, will be hosting this Spokane showing of

Reel Rock 11. The five films include Young Guns, Boys in the Bugs, Brette, Rad Dad, and Dodo’s Delight. The screening will be outdoors, so bring your own camp chair, and make sure you dress appropriately for the weather. Tickets are $15 per person, and an REA pint glass is $10. Visit Rareearthadventures.com for more details. (Elena Gardner)

Fall Leaf Festival & Compost Fair The Spokane County Master Composters/ Recyclers are once again hosting the semi-annual Compost Fair at the Finch Arboretum on Saturday, Oct. 22. The Fair is being held as part of the Fall Leaf Festival and starts at 11 a.m.

Attendees must arrive by 1:30 p.m. to complete all of the activities by the 2 p.m. close. Participants will learn how to make compost at home out of garden debris, food scraps, and all those leaves that will start falling from the trees. Activity stations will demonstrate the materials that can be composted, types of bins to use, and how to build and turn a pile. There will be hands-on experiences as well as great information shared by Spokane County Master Composters/Recyclers.

The Fair is free and open to everyone. Spokane County attendees who live in jurisdictions that participate in the Spokane County Regional Solid

Waste System can receive a free plastic compost bin after completing the learning stations. There is a limit of one bin per household and attendees must show proof of residency. The bins are provided by the County Regional Solid Waste System with grant funds from the Washington Department of Ecology. The Master Composters/Recyclers are volunteers sponsored by the Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System.

Also at the Finch Arboretum that day is the Fall Leaf Festival, sponsored by the City of Spokane’s Parks & Recreation Department. Information booths, kids’ activities, and beautiful fall colors await attendees. You can also play in a big pile of leaves! For more information on the Compost Fair, call 625-6580. The John A. Finch Arboretum is located at 3404 W. Woodland Blvd., at the intersection of Sunset Highway and “F” Street. (OTM)

Fall wonderland at Finch arboretum. // Photo: Shallan Knowles

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OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

Teton Gravity Research Turns 21 The Jackson Hole, Wyoming, based ski, snowboard, surf and other action sports media company Teton Gravity Research (aka TGR), is celebrating its 21st birthday in Spokane with the premiere of its new film “Tight Loose”. Largely known for its Deeper, Further, Higher film trilogy, TGR brings the antics and achievements of extreme sports athletes to film with creativity and passion and often environmental themes that are important to the outdoor recreation community. The new film

“Tight Loose” follows adventure seekers around the world with daring stunts, stunning scenery and cinematography, and humor in TGR’s unique style. Sponsored in part by Out There Monthly and Spokane Alpine Haus, Tight Loose premieres at the Bing Crosby Theater on October 13 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 the day of the show, and $5 for ages 16 and under. Visit the Teton Gravity website for tickets and a chance to win tour grand prizes at TetonGravity.com. (OTM)

John Wayne trail Cycling Presentation Willie Weir, adventure cyclist and author, will be

delivering a talk at a benefit for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail Organization on October 13 at 7 p.m. The talk, titled “Tiva to Tekoa: A Rescue Dog Travels a Rescued Trail,” will detail Weir’s bicycle journey on the JWPT last May with his wife Kat and their rescue dog Tiva in tow. If you’ve been thinking of venturing out on the John Wayne Trail

yourself, or just enjoy a good biking story, you won’t want to miss this. The talk will take place at the Mountain Gear Headquarters at 6021 E. Mansfield Avenue in Spokane Valley. $10 donations are suggested at the door. RSVP to the event on the Mountain Gear Facebook page, or visit Johnwaynepioneertrail.org for more information.

(Elena Gardner)

Eastoberfest Enduro MTB Race Evergreen East, the Inland Northwest’s mountain biking advocacy organization, is putting on its first-ever race October 15, and Eastoberfest is an eduro race at Beacon Hill/Camp Sekani. The date was picked to line up with some of the best riding conditions of the season. Racers will start at Camp Sekani and cover four stages over a total of about 13 miles before ending up at the towers at Beacon Hill. Each stage consists of varying terrain, flowing singletrack, mildly technical ter-

rain, easily do-able jumps, and about 3,000 feet of climbing. The stages of the race will be revealed a few days before October 15, so be on the lookout for details on Evergreen’s website and Facebook page. Registration is $45 for Evergreen East members and $55 for non-members. Funds from the race will help support Evergreen East in its trail building and maintenance efforts. For more information, visit Evergreeneast.org. (Elena Gardner)

Pray for Snow Party The annual ski and snowboard season kickoff

party at Perry Street Brewing in Spokane’s Perry District, Thursday Nov. 10 may be the most fun you’ll have all winter without your boards on.

Enjoy beer specials, classic ski films, prizes for the best retro ski attire, raffle drawings for great prizes, ski industry booths and swag, and a highenergy crowd stoked to usher in a snowy winter and celebrate the start of another ski/snowboard

season. For the second year in a row, stop by the Out There Monthly tent and do your best snow dance for a chance to win a pair of skis. Doors open at 2 p.m. and the fun starts at 5. Event sponsors include Perry Street Brewing, Out There Monthly and Spokane Alpine Haus and all funds raised benefit T.E.A.M. Grant. Watch Perry Street Brewing’s Facebook page for event details and updates. (OTM) //

The best way to pray for snow: PARTY!

october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

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STICK IT TO WINTER.

Colville National Forest // By Holly Weiler

Larchtopia: All that golden yellow is good for the eyes and warms the soul. // Photos: Holly Weiler

When choosing a fall hike, my biggest considerations are always seeing the best fall colors and

finding safe trailhead access in case of changing weather conditions. That last one also suggests a third consideration: keeping myself comfortable and warm, prepared for whatever our temperamental fall season may choose to throw at me.

That’s why Snow Peak Cabin ranks high on my list of hikes to complete in the fall. In an area still recovering from the 1988 White Mountain Fire, one of the main tree species to reestablish in the burn zone is western larch. A deciduous tree in a land of conifers, larch becomes especially notable in the fall as it transitions to yellow-orange before ultimately dropping its needles. The trailhead at Sherman Pass starts high at 5,574 feet elevation and therefore could see early-season snowfall, but it doubles as a winter SnoPark (parking permits go on sale beginning November 1; check ahead to see when they will be required). Layer up to make the day comfortable, and be sure to include an outer layer of blaze orange because this easy-access trailhead is also popular with hunters.

To begin the hike, walk out the parking area drive and cross to the south side of Highway 20. The trail begins a gradual switchback ascent until it comes to a fork at approximately 1 mile. The trail to the left contours around the east side of Sherman Peak and boasts views of some of the best larch groves in the Kettles. The trail to the right contours around the west side of Sherman Peak, where on a clear day the views can extend to the eastern flanks of the Cascades, and the fall colors are nearly as good as the other side. Both options rejoin on the south side of Sherman, so make your choice based on cloud cover or pick one for the way out and the other for the way back.

When the loop trail comes together again on the south side of Sherman Peak, continue south on the

Larch becomes especially notable in the fall as it transitions to yellow-orange before ultimately dropping its needles.

Kettle Crest Trail toward Snow Peak Cabin. Here the trail passes beneath Snow Peak and through an eerie forest of silvery snags, remnants of the 1988 fire. Bald Mountain is the pyramid-shaped peak to the right, and nestled in a low area between the two is Snow Peak Cabin. If the cabin is not rented out to someone else, it provides a sheltered spot for lunch before returning to the trailhead. An even better option is to plan ahead and reserve the cabin for an overnight stay (rentable through recreation. gov), making this an easy overnight trip since this dog-friendly cabin comes with a wood-burning stove for heat, a propane stove for cooking (plus cookware and utensils), and cots for up to four overnight guests. Round-trip distance is approximately 8 miles.

Getting there: Travel north on US-395 through Colville. Cross the Columbia River just west of Kettle Falls and bear west on Highway 20 toward Republic. At the summit of Sherman Pass, turn north into the trailhead parking lot and SnoPark. //

Holly Weiler is an avid trail runner, backpacker, and hiker. She is the race director for the Foothills Scenic Five fun run every June that supports a scholarship fund and community events.

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Fall & Winter Getaways at the Lochsa Lodge Located on the Nez Perce/ Clearwater National Forest

>>Great Mountain Escape Over the Holidays. >>Miles of Hiking, Snowshoeing, Cross-country and Snowmobile Trails >>Just 10 Miles from Jerry Johnson Hot Springs >>Home Cooked Cuisine

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Everyday Cyclist Finding a bike on craigslist

// By Erika Prins Simonds

Mark Simonds cruises the internet for a cruiser // photo: Erika Prins Simonds

The weird world of Craigslist holds a ton of potential for finding a great bike on a budget — but buyer beware: Your seller probably won’t cough up a refund if you’re unhappy with your purchase.

Local bike aficionado Bradley Baysinger, who has bought and sold bikes on Craigslist for years, has found some crazy steals on the site.

He’s also walked away from plenty of seemingly solid deals after seeing the bike in person.

“You can get a bike for a hundred bucks, which is a great deal — and then you have to spend a hundred bucks getting it running,” he says. Depending on the bike, that may mean it wasn’t a great deal after all.

Visit the “For Sale: Bikes” section of Craigslist and set search parameters to see only listings relevant to you. Use the sidebar options to limit geographic radius, price, and the condition of the bicycle. In the top search bar, enter a brand name, bike style, or size to filter results. To get email alerts for those settings, click on “Save Search.” You’ll be prompted to create an account using your email address.

When you spot a bike that suits your needs, respond immediately — remember, inquiring about a bike doesn’t obligate you to buy it.

Baysinger usually starts the conversation by simply asking if the bike is still available. A seller might have several parties interested, so wait until you’ve had a few exchanges to start talking money. “You don’t want to say anything that makes them think you’re going to drive a hard bargain,” Baysinger says. To determine a fair price, research the bike’s market value online at bicyclebluebook.com and similar sites. Any legitimate seller will be willing to provide a serial number for the bike, which you can check against local police records and online stolen bike registries like Bikeindex.org to ensure the bike is theirs to sell.

When you’re ready to buy, make an appointment

to see the bike. The low-res images on Craigslist can obscure costly problems, Baysinger says. The only way to really know what you’re getting is to see the bike in person, give it a careful look, and take it for a spin. Even riders who don’t know exactly what

The only way to really know what you’re getting is to see the bike in person, give it a careful look, and take it for a spin.

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OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

to look for can get a feel for the bike’s condition by riding it long enough to listen for weird noises, test the brakes, and notice other obvious problems.

Replacing wheels isn’t cheap, so Baysinger recommends taking the time to examine them carefully. Check each spoke to make sure none are loose, and examine rims for hairline cracks near the spoke holes. Then, pick up the bike and spin each wheel while it’s off the ground. “You shouldn’t feel any vibration whatsoever. Sometimes you can hear a little thump, thump, thump, thump — and that means it needs internal work or the bearings need to be replaced,” he says. He’ll even lift the bike a few inches from the ground and drop it to listen for any jangles or clunks.

A bike in need of minor maintenance can still be worth buying. If you’re not confident in your own ability to differentiate cheap fixes from bigger ones, ask a bike-savvy friend to come with you.

At the very least, noticing problems can help you negotiate a better price for the purchase so you don’t end up blowing your budget on repairs. “It’s so hard to sell a bike on Craigslist,” Baysinger says.

“It’s seriously a buyer’s market. Don’t be afraid to talk people down on something — they probably expect it.” // Erika Prins Simonds bicycles as her primary mode of transportation. You can find more of her writing at erikaprins.com.

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13

Health&Fitness Local Sports medicine innovations //

The author tries out the anti-gravity treadmill at the new Rockwood Integrated Sports Medicine Clinic on Spokane’s South Hill.

Athletes with sports-related injuries can’t help but feel morose over both the setback to their performance and the inevitable multiple trips back and forth to various surgeons, therapists, and other experts.

The new Rockwood Integrated Sports Medicine Clinic on Spokane’s South Hill addresses this problem by combining recovery needs into a one-sizefits-all facility. Complete with therapy, performance training, and the basic functions of an orthopedic surgery clinic, the clinic services injuries from ACL tears to rotator cuffs, and the average orthopedic injuries in between. “This allows me to just say to

the patient, hey, walk with me and I’ll introduce you to a therapist who I think you’ll really enjoy working with,” says Christopher Dewing, M.D., who joined Rockwood Clinic in 2015. “They already know the routine, they’ve met the team, they’re part of our family, and it makes the whole process seamless.”

Integrated facilities are one of the many changes occurring in the sports medicine field. “Sports medicine has become more focused,” says Dewing.

“Team physicians are now doing on-field coverage and working directly with athletes.”

Science in the sports medicine field has also

By Elena Gardner

come a long way, making advances in injection treatment, platelet-rich plasma, and stem cell therapy, all of which fall under biological rejuvenation medicine. And sports medicine has begun to integrate with other service lines like therapy, performance training, on-the-field training, coaches’ training, clinics, injury prevention, and concussion treatment. “Concussions are a huge topic among soccer players and football players,” says Dewing.

“The main problem with concussion treatment is whether or not there is good baseline testing on our athletes. Even young athletes in elite programs are being tested pre-season for a baseline profile on their brain function. That way, if there is a severe concussion, we can do a follow-up test.”

Another big change in sports medicine comes in the form of equipment. The Rockwood Clinic boasts an anti-gravity treadmill that allows personnel to monitor what is happening from both a surgical and therapy standpoint. The anti-gravity treadmill allows post-op patients who, say, still have healing incisions, to start recovery without worrying about the water exposure associated with pool therapy. “From the very first week of post-op therapy, we can have somebody walking or doing drills at a fraction of their normal body weight,” says Dewing. “They can be anywhere from 0 to 100 percent of their body weight, depending on what we’re trying to accomplish.”

Research has shown that physiologic motion during recovery from surgery promotes rapid healing, keeps neural networks vital, and keeps oxygenation high. On the flip side, the anti-gravity treadmill also has benefits for those trying to increase training capacity without stressing joints.

That’s why these innovative treadmills are used at Olympic centers and other high-end physiotherapy clinics. “Patients here use the anti-gravity treadmill for anything from back injuries to toe injuries,” says Dewing.

The physical space of the clinic is inviting too, with open and lighted spaces designed to inspire patients and add a social aspect to recovery.

“There’s a certain level of excitement when you’re watching someone else progress in their rehab, and you know that’s ahead for you,” says Dewing.

“When I was in the military, I would watch the Navy SEALs compete over who was going to get their motion in fastest. Inspiration comes from watching other people recover.”

The clinic provides coverage for all Division 1 teams at Eastern Washington University, including football, basketball, tennis, and track and field. It also covers Spokane’s Shadow soccer club and the endurance sports community in town. “It’s gratifying to see those young athletes go from sitting in a puddle of tears to getting back to doing what they love to do,” says Dewing.

The clinic opened this summer, and its staff members are excited to get to work. Dewing enthuses, “We’re here together, we’re interacting, we’re learning from each other, and I think that is going to create an amazing experience for patients.”

The Integrated Sports Medicine Rockwood clinic is located at 2420 E. 29th Avenue in Spokane. // Elena Gardner loves to explore, travel, and write, and her favorite camp meal is instant coffee. Read more of Elena’s writing at egardnerblog.wordpress.com.

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OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

Food&Fuel veggieduckens

And Other Alternative Thanksgiving Treats // By Erika Prins Simonds

Better than turducken: stuffed Veggies!

The procrastinating veggieducken chef stands

in the grocery store on Thanksgiving Eve eve — aka Tuesday — with a spaghetti squash in one hand and zucchini in the other. She’s trying to picture them gutted, one tucked inside the other like Russian nesting dolls. As she looks back and forth between the two, trying to gauge their relative size, the pressure mounts. Ladies with shopping carts towering with stuffing, hams, and 12-pack dinner rolls grow impatient behind her. She’s blocking the yams, she realizes, and she hasn’t even picked out a super-skinny yellow squash yet — one that will fit inside the zucchini.

The veggieducken, inspired by the carnivore’s turducken, isn’t a recipe, it’s a concept: vegetables stuffed inside other vegetables, together comprising a meat-free holiday entree. Some holiday chefs start with a butternut squash; others use pumpkin or acorn squash. Though a ‘ducken is traditionally tied closed with string and slow-baked at a low temperature, some cooks opt to bake theirs open-faced for a crispy center. A small, round acorn squash cut open like a bread bowl yields a single-serving feast.

Even after one has located appropriately sized nesting squash, they’ll realize that with endless possibility comes a bit of pressure: deciding on the spices and sauce to complement the chosen ingredients, and determining cooking time for a dish completely unique in size and composition.

Back home at the parents’ house, the veggieducken chef and her sister get to work halving and gutting the squash, nesting them with layers of garlic, onion, and leek, plus fresh herbs from the garden.

Dad supervises, offering an engineer’s perspective

on the matter. There’s no twine in the house, so the culinary team settles on securing the halves back together with two diagonally lodged metal skewers.

At last, the veggieducken goes into the oven on a bed of small potatoes, whole garlic cloves, and olive oil, topped with salt and pepper and sealed in aluminum foil. Nobody — not even the chef — is sure of the best temperature, how long to cook the bird, or how to tell when it’s done. After 30 minutes they poke at it. It seems to be getting soft in the center, so they remove the foil and return the veggieducken to the oven to brown.

The chef throws more herbs and the rest of the onion, leek, and garlic into a pot with butter and salt — the two most important ingredients for vegetarian comfort food. A honey glaze, creamy gravy, or holiday-spiced sage pesto would pair well with starchier veggieduckens, but this one’s subtle flavors would be overpowered by a heavy sauce.

She squeezes a garden lemon into the simmering concoction for a bit of zing.

Fifteen minutes later, mostly because all the other food is ready, she pulls the veggieducken from the oven. It is aromatic, soft, and completely falling apart. Twine is a must, she notes for future reference. The leeks are a little stringy and end up being cast to the edge of the plate. Next year, she’ll sauté the “stuffing” first. The veggieducken, predictably, tastes like vegetables — divinely soft and flavorful vegetables. It’s a simple dish. But for the chef and her sister, who harbor equal disdain for traditional holiday food and tofurkey, it’s a Thanksgiving miracle. //

Local Heritage Turkey Options Not all turkeys are created equal. That delicious buttery flavor that flows from your Safeway bird may not be entirely natural — even if the packaging says it is. For carnivore palates, true poultry bliss comes at a price and requires some planning ahead. Heritage turkeys, the heirloom tomatoes of poultry, can be ordered from local grocers or directly from some local farms. Order as soon as possible to lock down a pasture-raised bird — many local farms take orders year-round and cannot accommodate last-minute orders. Alternatively, order certified organic, heritage, or free range from a natural grocer beginning in early November.

Ramstead Ranch

Ramsteadranch.com // 509-442-4725 Reserve your turkey as soon as possible to get a pasture-raised bird from the Ione, Washington ranch.

They accept pre-orders throughout the year.

Rocky Ridge Ranch

Rockyridgeranchspokane.com // 509-953-0905 The Reardan ranch is currently taking pre-orders for pasture-raised turkeys.

Main Market Co-op

Mainmarket.coop // 509.458.2667 Place an order in early November to get an organic turkey from the downtown Spokane co-op.

Huckleberries

Huckleberrysnaturalmarket.com // 509.624.1349 The lower South Hill natural market begins taking orders for free range or organic turkeys in early November.

Natural Grocers

Naturalgrocers.com // 509.953.0905 The new North Spokane location of this national health food chain store will offer pre-orders for organic turkeys starting in early October. october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

15

Let your bike take you somewhere.... NEW

Food&Fuel

2017 BIKES IN STOCK

eating carbohydrates and other dirty secrets // By Ammi Midstokke

CLOSEOUT ON ALL 2016 BIKES

It was some time ago that the world

was exposed to the evils of carbohydrates.

Unbeknownst to those of us living on low-fat, high-pasta diets, we had misplaced our fear in the wrong macronutrient. With the quality of “scientific journalism” you find in The Huffington Post and your Facebook feed, it’s easy to be led astray.

Don’t worry though; we here at OTM have done our research and have a definitive answer to the question: Are carbohydrates evil?

The answer is no. And yes.

Now that we’ve clarified that, let’s dig a little deeper so those of you on ketogenic diets can eat a piece of cake. Once upon a time, some scientisty people decided to group our food into three categories: fat, protein, and carbohydrate. Since then, we’ve spent billions of dollars on research vilifying them in turn. Perhaps worst of all, we keep trying to define a one-size-fits-all solution to eating that will keep each of us looking like the cast of 300.

Should we be low-carbing? Many of us are athletes, weekend warriors, or soccer moms who have to shop and chase children with veritable stamina. The idea of fewer carbohydrates and a pie-less life makes us shudder. The scale for a low-carb life is based on the ridiculously high amount of carbohydrates in the average American diet. Recent research suggests the average American gets 64 percent of their calories from carbohydrates alone. In my clinic, I typically recommend between 20 and 25 percent, depending on the lifestyle and goals of the client. The problem is, carbs provide a big calorie bang for a minimal nutrient buck. Eating too many of them means we might be missing out on other important things, such as the fatty acids that help our brains function and build our hormones, or the proteins that repair our muscles after an adventure.

Research shows us many things regarding a low-carb life. Doctors Jeff Volek and Stephen Phinney spent 20 years researching long-term, low-carbohydrate intake in athletes and found their endurance did not suffer. Their social lives and sense of joy likely did though. Extremely lowcarb diets (anything under 50 grams a day) are used to induce ketosis or “nutritional” ketosis -- a metabolic state in which your body effectively converts fats into ketones for fuel (as opposed to using

glucose stores). Research shows this is an effective way to lose fat; however, it places a higher demand on the liver and is not always recommended for long periods of time. Also, you can’t ever eat cake, which makes pretty much any nutritional dogma unsustainable and miserable.

The reality is, Americans eat a ridiculous amount of carbohydrates because they are available, cheap, and transportable. The results are becoming more and more evident: increases in diabetes, heart disease, digestive disorders, and an obesity epidemic that is an embarrassment to our nation. That doesn’t mean we must avoid them entirely. Here’s a little secret the dietitian authors seldom mention: Every single human body is a little different, so no cookie-cutter plan is going to be quite right for you. To figure out what is right for you, you need to have an honest look at what you are eating, what your goals are, and what your

If you are out riding long miles, you’re going to crave and need more carbohydrates. If you’re soaking in the hot tub, maybe stick to some lean protein and sautéed veggies.

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lifestyle is. Then make some space for your body’s unique history and state of health.

It is not so much that we must fear carbohydrates as it is that we must embrace a well-rounded approach to our nutrition. Our needs for macronutrients are as dynamic as our days. If you are out riding long miles, you’re going to crave and need more carbohydrates. If you’re soaking in the hot tub, maybe stick to some lean protein and sautéed veggies. If we are what we eat, then we must take a look at our plates and ask ourselves if that is what we want to be. It doesn’t disappear into a black hole inside of you. It becomes you. So make sure your plate is balanced. And leave a little room for dessert, for the soul must also be nourished. //

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UrbanOutdoors

in-town ideas for staying active this winter // By Erika Prins Simonds

No excuses for not getting outside in the winter. // Photo: Erika Prins Simonds

ICE SKATING Every Sunday morning without fail, a hodgepodge of experienced players and newbies gathers to play Ultimate Frisbee at Wentel Grant Park in Vinegar Flats. Neither knee-deep snow nor Christmas falling on a Sunday is cause to cancel a game. Sometimes when it’s particularly heinous outside, only a few people show, but even then, they’ll toss the disc until they lose feeling in all their toes. “We have not missed a Sunday for about five and a half years,” says Jim Schrock, the group’s organizer. “We’ve played with a foot or more of snow, raining, strong wind, and hundreddegree weather.”

It doesn’t take a snow-dusted mountain to get a great winter workout. Whether you can’t make the time to spend weekends on the slopes, don’t have the budget, or just don’t dig barreling downhill with your feet strapped to sticks, the Inland Northwest offers plenty of other ways to stay fit during winter.

ULTIMATE FRISBEE

Newbies and pros can play side by side in Utimate Frisbee, a no-contact team sport that doubles as your speed workout for the week. Not to be confused with disc golf, ultimate frisbee is played on a field and somewhat resembles soccer. Several pick-up ultimate frisbee groups play year-round.

A lunchtime group plays weekdays near downtown Spokane at Glover Field whenever enough players opt in. Sunday afternoons, a more competitive crowd plays at Franklin Park on the north side.

• Wentel Grant Park Ultimate Frisbee: find on Facebook • Glover Field weekday lunch group: email spokane-frisbee+subscribe@googlegroups.com • Spokane Ultimate Frisbee (Franklin Park): find on Facebook

Unlike most other sports involving frozen water, ice skating requires little contact with the cold.

Plus, it’s cheap and makes you feel like you’re in a romantic comedy. An hour on the ice will leave your cheeks rosy and your quads burning. Several local ice rinks offer onsite skate rentals and open skate hours for under $10 per person. Take a beginner’s course to master the art of not falling and perhaps a few fancy moves.

• Spokane Figure Skating Club at Eagle’s Ice Arena: spokanefigureskating.org • Ice Palace at Riverfront Park: my.spokanecity.org/riverfrontpark • Frontier Ice Arena in Post Falls: frontiericearena.org • Lake City Figure Skating in Coeur d’Alene:lakecityfigureskating.org CURLING AND REC SPORTS

Not only does giant shuffleboard on ice exist, but it’s also an Olympic sport that’s seen a local resurgence in recent years. Lilac City Curling Club has tentative plans to play its final season at Riverfront Park’s Ice Palace before park renovation forces the club to find new ice. Join with friends as a way to earn pre- or post-game beers. Similarly, indoor soccer makes for a great pretext for socializing with friends. Spokane Soccer Center breaks teams into ranked categories, so newcomers can rest assured they won’t be pummeled every time.

Spokane Youth Sports Association offers drop-in games for women and men aged 50+.

• Lilac City Curling Club: spokanecurling.com • Spokane Soccer Center: sscindoor.com • Spokane Youth Sports Association: sysa.com // Erika Prins Simonds writes our Everyday Cyclist column. She also wrote about running Rossland BC’s Broken Goat Ultra in September. Find more of her writing at erikaprints.com.

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17

Fall Hiking

traversing the selkirk crest A Guide to Backcountry Swashbuckling

By Ammi Midstokke

Celebrating what may be the flattest section of the entire “hike.” // Photo: Ammi Midstokke

“This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” the Captain says over the sound of his trekking poles dragging along the trail. As we are not even to the hard part yet, I say some encouraging stuff about how doing hard things makes us better people, stronger of character, and slightly tougher than a Girl Scout. The sun is beating down on us. I seem to be coming down with a cold. We are rationing water. And we’re nowhere near our destination.

These are all ingredients for calamity, but we’re still calling it an adventure.

Some weeks ago, the Captain, who gets his name from his position as a paramedic for EMS, had casually asked me if I wanted to attempt a traverse of the Selkirk Mountains. “I’ve mapped out a route from Parker Ridge to Schweitzer,” he said.

Considering it required significantly more planning than what usually goes into my trip logistics (Destination: Check. Beef jerky: Check.), it seemed like a great idea. I did my part as a good partner and pretended to watch as he described saddles and summits and the gaining of ridges over dinner one night. He seemed like he knew where he was going.

Besides, my therapist says I need to exercise more trust in my relationship. Apparently she does not backcountry bushwhack with her boyfriend.

The plan: Climb into the northern U.S. section of the Selkirks via Parker Ridge, catch part of the Pacific Northwest “Trail,” traverse the crest from peak to peak, reach Schweitzer in four days, call my mom for a ride home.

We set out on a Friday morning. The Captain was aiming for 24 miles, which seemed ambitious enough on trail, and I was just naive and optimistic enough to enthusiastically note this would take approximately 12 hours. One of the many differences we noted about ourselves on this trip was 18

OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

that I seem to embrace suffering with an almost pathological delight. There are any number of routes available into and through the Selkirks, but no clear path along the crest. We expected to cross some sections of trail and connect those via ridges and saddles. It was an exciting prospect, to get from top to bottom via a few peaks I’d never been to. We opted not to bring climbing gear and to skirt the bottom of a few summits that were unsafe without ropes.

Our first moment of truth came within a couple hours as the Captain slowed to a pace resembling a depressed, overheated sloth. To his credit, he did not resist when we reloaded our gear and his girlfriend (apparently a cross between a pack mule and a drunk Norwegian) loaded her pack to nearly 50 pounds. Mostly because I wanted to make sure that I had all the chocolate if he fell off the side of the mountain.

When we passed the 10-mile mark, it became blatantly obvious that our mileage estimations were optimistic at best. And we were still on trail. We reset our goal for the first night: Make it to Pyramid Lake and see how far we get the next day. The ridge between Parker Peak and Long Mountain opens up to amazing views toward Canada and the valleys that stretch toward Montana. Dozens of granite peaks poised as landmarks for our navigator. “We’re going to head across that ridge, around the back of that peak, take the saddle down toward that other peak, then gain that other ridge, and go over that peak,” he would say while pointing into the abyss.

All I could see was a bunch of granite and hills to climb. This established another difference between us: The Captain actually has a sense of direction whereas I think all mountains look like mountains.

Whenever you are preparing to go outdoorsing

with someone, it is valuable to assess each other’s skills and abilities while having an honest conversation with yourself about your own. We had always operated well together as a team, but we had yet to spend days together in the mountains testing endurance or patience. We made a few crucial mistakes that could have ended our trip, though we safely compensated for them. Things not to do when planning an outing: 1. Forget to actually train for said adventure.

Chances are, if your girlfriend has to carry your gear, she’s going to expect breakfast in bed for a long time.

2. Blindly trust the navigator’s estimates. If it looks farther than 10 miles, it probably is.

3. Assume your sleeping mat is in good condition.

We made it to Pyramid Lake long after sunset, where I discovered a two-inch slice in my sleeping mat. After carrying a heavy load, sleeping on the cold ground was not my favorite part of the trip.

The next morning, stiff and sore, my snot getting greener by the blow, our water pump failing, we had The Conversation. Do we hike on or hike out?

The purpose of our trip was to adventure together.

We had four days to wander through the mountains. We had gear and food. There was no eminent danger despite the reality that half the party was in over their head and the other half was contracting consumption. We loaded our backs and headed for the ridge.

The new plan: Go until we don’t want to, hike out.

It took us 10 hours to travel 10 miles off trail. It poured rain on us in the morning as we schlepped over steep granite inclines and talus fields. The sun burst out of the clouds in the afternoon and dried

us. We reached Myrtle Peak and pointed toward Two Mouth Lakes, only a six-hour bushwhack away. The descent off Myrtle was veritably insane, and my lexicon of swear words reached drunken sailor variety. We dropped nearly 1,200 feet in less than a half mile.

We were rewarded later by summiting to a moonscape of granite slab above Kent Lake. In a single moment of afternoon sun and bizarre geological formations, every scratch and bruise and drop of blood was worth it. The majesty of our backyard is understated. We camped at Two Mouth Lakes and woke to a late summer sunrise. The trailhead is closed for logging this season, which allowed me to establish a temporary nudist colony.

I made my coffee in the nude. I packed my tent in the nude. I did my yoga in the nude. As far as I was concerned, the trip was a success. We opted to stay on trail the next day as a thunderstorm rolled in, hiking out and connecting to the Myrtle Creek Trail, then eventually to the Harrison Lake Trail.

Soaking wet from hours of rain, knees creaking from days of clambering through the mountains, we emerged to find our ride home waiting with dry towels and hard cider.

In three days, we had covered 43 miles with 13,000 feet of elevation gain, which based on new estimates is probably about half the distance to Schweitzer. We’ll find out next summer. The best part about unfinished adventures is the anticipation of embarking upon them again. // Ammi Midstokke lives in Sandpoint, Idaho, where she raises her daughter on a deeply ingrained fear of gluten and an arguably dangerous appetite for adventure. Ammi wrote about single-parent road tripping in September.

october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

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Fall Hiking

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Indian summer on the Bead Lake Trail. // Photo: Aaron Theisen

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Our trip to Bead Lake began with a 1.5-hour drive from Spokane to the Eastern WashingtonSelkirk Range in late May, but the relatively lowelevation hike makes for an excellent fall adventure. My boyfriend and I had decided the 11.4mile round-trip out-and-back trail around the lake was an ideal pick for our one-night backpacking trip.

We skipped past the boat launch and began our hike at the trailhead above that runs parallel to the launch. While the trail was mostly shaded throughout, the heat of the late May sun still found its way through the trees, making the lake look more and more inviting with each passing hour. With little elevation gain (only 400 feet), we had plenty of opportunity to gaze out dreamily over the still water, imagining it to be cool and refreshing. The lake beckoned to us for hours, daring us to take the plunge, but when we dipped in our hands as a quick test, it told us all we needed to know: This mountain runoff was shockingly cold. A quick dip in the early hours of the morning would be doable, but it was already late afternoon and we’d be hard pressed to find enough time to dry off and stop shivering in the shade before the sun went down.

Although the opposite side of the lake was dotted with cabins and docks, the lake itself was devoid of human activity, giving the entire trail a private and secluded feel. The lake was distractingly beautiful; it was easy to forget to stop and explore the richness of growth nearby. Bright yellowish-white stalks of cauliflower-shaped fungus sprouted next to the trail, along with eerily beautiful purple blooms of fungus larger than my hand. About 3 miles in, a

grove of cedar trees became visible. One stood sentry in the middle, with a trunk so wide that we could barely touch hands when wrapping our arms around it.

After two hours on the trail, we realized we were not alone -- lying across the trail was a large canine tooth the size of my thumb amidst patches of blood-streaked, wispy white fur. Some unlucky small mammal was on the menu tonight. But better it than us.

Bead Lake can easily be hiked in a day, but it is well worth the overnight stay. If you do choose to backpack, you have three campsite options: two in

The lake beckoned to us for hours, daring us to take the plunge, but when we dipped in our hands as a quick test, it told us all we needed to know.

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OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

the first two-thirds of the trail and one at the very end of the trail. While the last campsite is worth the final stretch for both privacy and beauty’s sake, it is small, and if someone has beaten you to it, prepare to get cozy with your neighbor. We opted for the last site, and another couple soon joined us. We all spent the night chatting happily, sharing our campfire and gazing up at the lighted night sky.

Look for fall colors on a day hike or overnight along and above Bead Lake, including larch and various shrubs and deciduous trees. // Elena Gardner loves to explore, travel, and write, and her favorite camp meal is instant coffee. Read more of Elena’s writing at egardnerblog.wordpress.com.

Fall Hiking

Find epic fall colors at Sullivan Lake

By Jon Jonckers

A hike or trail run along Sullivan Lake is a fall classic. // Photos: Jon Jonckers

At 1,291 acres, Sullivan Lake is the largest natu-

ral lake in the Colville National Forest, but the lake isn’t necessarily the main attraction. Brilliant day hikes all around the lake entice hikers and trail runners every fall season because the changing leaves are so intense. Many of the hikes in that area feature a variety of distances and difficulties, but the most splendid hike of them all is the Shoreline Lake Trail. The trail runs 4.2 miles one way along the lake. Some people opt for a shuttle, but most prefer to hike it or run it both directions for the full 8-mile experience.

On the southern end of the lake, hikers begin at the Noisy Creek Campground. Perhaps the creek is noisy in the springtime, but in the fall there’s seldom even a trickle. Continue past several ancient mining roads before briefly breaking out onto a couple of rockslides. From there, the trail rarely comes close to the actual shore. Most of the hiking takes place about 200 feet overlooking the water, and the majority of the trail is in the shade.

The Shoreline Trail frequently surprises firsttime hikers because of the variety of trees and shrubs. Whereas many Eastern Washington hikes pass through miles of ponderosa pine, this trail showcases hemlock, western red cedar, as well as birch and pine. Portions of the trail are lined with ferns and moss, and other portions are lined with grasses and shrubs. If you time it just right for the later part of October, the western larches shine at their peak golden luminescence.

Near the north end of the lake, when the trail dips into the Hall Creek drainage, the damp moss floor creates shades of green that look like you just entered Middle Earth. There’s even a portion of the trail that appears to be carved right out of a cliff wall. Then the trail climbs out of the drainage and curves toward the East Sullivan Campground and boat launch. Right before the turnaround point, there’s a 0.6-mile self-guided interpretive nature trail detailing the forest processes at work. This side trail creates the only fork in the primary Shoreline Trail, and it could derail a trail runner if they didn’t

see the sign.

Hall Mountain towers above the Shoreline Trail and is home to lots of wildlife including whitetail and mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and black bear. There have also been a few rare sightings of grizzly bear, Canada lynx, and the endangered woodland caribou traveling through the area. A growing number of bald eagles winter in the vicinity, and Sullivan Lake is a popular fishing spot.

The Shoreline Trail (also called Lakeshore Trail 504) is featured on page 152 in the Day Hiking Eastern Washington guidebook written by Rich Landers and Craig Romano. They made special mention of an old mining adit: “Forest Service biologists have put a bat-friendly gate on the entrance to keep people out while allowing Townsend’s bigeared bats to continue using the cave.”

This hike offers beautiful views, wonderful flora, incredible terrain, and opportunities to see lots of wildlife. Both campgrounds remain open yearround for hiking, fishing, and camping, but the fall season is the best time to visit. Sometimes it’s still warm enough for a little swimming, and it’s worth repeating that the larch are so beautiful when they change to gold. Without a doubt, this hike belongs on everyone’s fall hiking calendar.

DIRECTIONS TO SULLIVAN LAKE Sullivan Lake sits 95 miles due north of Spokane.

Take Highway 2 north and follow the signs to Metaline Falls. Turn right onto Sullivan Lake Road and continue to Noisy Creek Campground or East Sullivan Campground for trailhead access.

Be prepared for a $5 Day Use Fee. //

Jon Jonckers serves on the board for the Friends of the Centennial Trail and is also an assistant cross country coach at Shadle Park High School. He is the co-author of “Climbing the Rocks of Sharon,” available at Mountain Gear. Jon profiled photographer Woods Wheatcroft in August.

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october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

21

Thank you for supporting the Market.

See you next year!

OPEN Every Saturday and Wednesday

RunWild Dressing for winter running // By Dave Dutro

Through October 29

Winter running requires attention to gear. // Photo: Jon Jonckers

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

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

5th Avenue between Division and Browne

Fall Compost Fair & Leaf Festival Saturday, October 22, 2016 11 am-2 pm John A. Finch Arboretum Spokane County residents* who complete the activities may take home a free compost bin. Limit one per household. Bins provided by the Spokane County Regional Solid Waste Sytstem.

Feel that winter chill in the air? Like many,

I run on trails year-round, and I adjust my clothing and gear with the weather. Some people like to wear slip-on gadgets for their running shoes, or clothing with the latest and greatest material. I have tried several types of clothing, running shoes, traction devices, screws in my shoes, you name it.

It boils down to personal preference.

It’s important to stay warm and dry when you run in the winter, and that means you will need to invest in comfortable winter running clothing.

Excluding hats and gloves, winter running clothing generally covers three areas: tops, pants, and shoes.

Tops can include a base, middle, and an outer layer.

Base layers should keep the moisture away from your skin as much as possible, which will keep you warmer. The most common material is polyester; it’s cheap and can be made from recycled materials. If the weather isn’t too wet then I like polyester, but my preference is Merino wool. The plus side of Merino wool is that it’s a natural fiber that wicks moisture and keeps you warm even when it gets wet. The downside of Merino wool is that the higher the Merino wool content, the more expensive the product is. A lot of companies offer a wool/poly blend material that works fine. Some people like to wear a middle layer for additional warmth. Outer layers should keep the wind and rain out as much as possible, and this is where it’s important to spend a little more money on a high-quality running shell.

Most shells are nylon or polyester and sometimes have a special coating to make them water-resistant.

When shopping for a running jacket, look for one

that has taped seams or opt for Goretex. You will spend more money, but Goretex is very durable and breathable. You don’t typically need as many pant layers because your legs will keep warm from constant movement. However, some people do like to wear thick running tights or a breathable baggy tight over their regular running tights.

I could spend hours just talking about socks.

Keeping your feet warm, dry, and blister free is essential. I stay away from bulky socks and wear a Merino wool blend sock made for running. I even like toe socks a lot more than I thought I would.

If the trail is going to be slippery, wear traction devices on your shoes. Yak tracks are easy to put on and take off as surface conditions change. Or if you want to save money, install quarter-inch sheet metal screws on the bottom of your shoe (see YouTube for how-to videos).

Don’t overdress, and start off cold. Running takes a lot of energy, which means you will generate a lot of body heat. The last thing you need is to be soaking wet from sweat. If you are going for a long run and the weather is going to be challenging, consider carrying extra clothing. You can keep your clothing in a freezer bag and stuff it in your hydration vest.

If it is going to be especially cold, pack some hand warmers. // Dave Dutro is an avid trail runner, mountain biker, hiker, and co-founder of the Trail Maniacs. Read about Trail Maniacs events and activities at www. trailmaniacs.com.

*Please check with your jurisdiction to see if you are a participating member of the County Regional Solid Waste system.

Please arrive no later than 1:30 pm and bring proof of residency.

For more information call 625-6580 or go to www.spokanecountysolidwaste.org Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System Partial funding provided by WA State Dept of Ecology.

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OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

SPOKANE MARATHON – OCT. 9 PUMPKIN PACER 5K – OCT. 29 221 N. Wall St. 509.624.7654 10208 N. Division 509-468-1786

Leaf, Root, Fungi, Fruit

BRE

W IS B

K

THE

AC

FO

R

ME

The Russula // by Kelly Chadwick TI A L IMITED

Russula bi-color // Photo: Drew Parker

A couple thousand species of mushroom inhabit our region, quickly perplexing the budding enthusiast. Most people give up once familiar with chanterelles, morels, and shaggy manes. However, there are certain groups of mushrooms that can be approached by broad rules. This is a critical step in your studies, reducing the drudgery of hours buried in dichotomous keys, and thus amplifying enjoyment. The mycological community discourages this tact, fearing humans’ capacity for poor decision-making and the potential for lawsuits, mycophobia, and death. Understandably. In my opinion, this fear is trumped by the importance of dispersing knowledge.

The genus Russula is a perfect example of the broadstroke approach to sleuthing edibles. They are unique because of a cellular structure that ma kes t hem crumbly and joyously explosive when thrown. The brittle texture results in stems breaking like chalk and gills shattering when touched. The appearance is like watercolor over a blank canvas, often with a touch of similar color running through the white stalk. They arise late summer to early fall and are identified to species by stature, staining reaction, microscopic features, and a dizzying array of colors that often overlap. Identification from the 750-plus members can be humorously impossible, especially with the effects of age, location, and weather. But the fabulous rule eliminating all this ambiguity is a simple taste test. After verifying the genus, take a bite and chew. Keep masticating for a bit. If the taste becomes strongly and unpleasantly peppery, abort. If not acrid, swallow (and cook the rest -- all mushrooms should be cooked before eating). The toxic Russulas, with a few exceptions, merely create a biliousness in your belly, and even some of those are pickled and eaten by the iron-stomached Russians.

This family is the sole provider of nutrients to the ghost plant — the white asparagus-looking anomaly in summer forests. These nonphotosynthesizing plants shed their greenness thanks to the support of Russulas, which willingly and mysteriously provide them with sugars gathered from trees. Some Russulas are highly adept at concentrating zinc, lead, and mercury, which is why it’s recommended not to consume wild mushrooms near roadsides and other potentially contaminated areas. Another

noteworthy factoid is that several species are evolving into puffballs, having “decided” it’s a more effective way to disperse spores than with a cap and gills.

Russulas are symbiotic with many trees in the Northwest and can be found in great abundance.

The flavor is mild and clean and the texture snappy, more like a vegetable than a fungus. This makes them candidates for those who don’t like to eat mushrooms. Russulas are not cherished in the U.S. but have been harvested for thousands of years around the globe. An exception is Lobster mushrooms. You may have seen these mutated orange fungi in local markets. They are a hefty Russula

Long before paintball guns, it was used in the ancient art of running sideways while lobbing harmless objects at one’s opponent. covered by a parasite, transforming it from blasé to gourmet. Pink and red Russulas tend to be peppery and can be avoided to minimize the tingly sensation dominating your tongue. The finest are purple and green varieties. One that is bland but common in the Northwest is the short-stemmed Russula. It is ideal for woodland battles. Long before paintball guns, it was used in the ancient art of running sideways while lobbing harmless objects at one’s opponent. When throwing mushrooms, feel no guilt besides the sacrilege of beauty; you are dispersing spores.

Identifying Attributes: Often bright-colored

ORGANIC FAIR TRADE

caps on a white background. Brittle. No ring on stem. Medium to large in size.

Cautionary Points: Learn the genus well before applying the taste test. Avoid pink and red members and most importantly specimens that stain red or black when touched and are so firm they feel hard -- the dangerous ones.

Culinary Attributes: Snappy and of a cleaner flavor than other mushrooms. Pleasing in a subtle way like starches can be. Green- and purple-tinted kinds are the best flavored.

Wine Pairings: Champagne. // Kelly Chadwick is an arborist and owner of Spirit Pruners. He grew up wandering the outdoors, which led to a lifelong passion for the natural sciences. He wrote about bunchberries in August.

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october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

25

Family Skiing Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

By Amy Silbernagel McCaffree

Clockwise from top: Silver Mt. // Big White Magic Carpet // Mt. Spokane Lessons // Start em’ early! // Ski Swap SnowBoards.

Dollars add up quickly when taking multiple, always-growing children to the mountain year after year to go alpine skiing or snowboarding.

While it’s not as cheap as some other outdoor activities, there are ways to save money and rein in costs. With strategic and careful planning, including taking advantage of the below opportunities, families can make skiing and snowboarding together affordable for this winter and beyond.

SKI SWAPS

Great deals on new and used gear and clothing can be found at ski swaps. Local alpine shops bring both new and used rental gear to sell, and the public also brings in used gear. Do your research ahead of time so you know what sizes to look for.

Swap volunteers and shop professionals are usually available to assist with gear selection. Local 2016 swap events include: • Oct. 22: 49 Degrees North Ski Swap. Ski49n.com • Oct. 29-30: Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol Ski Swap, Spokane County Fairgrounds. Skipatrolskiswap.com • Nov. 5: Winter Swap, Kootenai County Fairgrounds. Winterswap.org • Nov. 5-6: Fitness Fanatics Nordic Ski Sale and Swap. Fitfanatics.com • Nov. 12: Schweitzer Alpine Racing School Ski Swap, Bonner County Fairgrounds. Sars.net LOCAL SKI/BOARD SHOPS

Sports Creel is a locally owned business in Spokane Valley that offers a unique trade-in/ 26

OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

trade-up program for adult and children’s ski equipment. Whether trading in for bigger sizes or more advanced gear, third-generation shop owner Micah Genteman accepts one-to-one trade-ins of skis, boots, and bindings, and he applies the value of the used gear to the purchase of new gear from the shop (e.g., trade-in boots for new boots). More info: 509-924-2330, Facebook.com/the-sportscreel-312711075603/.

Alpine Haus, located on Spokane’s South Hill, has junior ski and snowboard lease packages starting at $139.99, comprised of either used or new gear. Ski packages include skis, boots, and bindings (no poles) as well as a mid-season tune-up. (Return equipment by May 1.) For the shop’s junior buyback program, Alpine Haus owner Drew Harding says, “If a customer buys new boots or skis from us, they can use them for two full seasons. At the start of the third season, we’ll buy back gear for 50% of what they paid to be applied for the purchase of new boots or skis.” More info: 509-534-4554, Thespokanealpinehaus.com.

For North Idaho families, Ski Shack in Hayden offers children’s ski lease packages, ranging from $100-$130 for used gear and $150-$170 for new equipment. Packages include skis, boots, poles, tune-ups, and waxing. This season, Ski Shack will also have youth snowboard lease packages, with all new gear (boots, bindings, board) starting at $150. According to Rhen Lyden, shop manager, Ski Shack will host a season lease night event around mid-October. More info: 208-772-3112,

Haydenskishack.com.

In downtown Sandpoint, Alpine Shop also has a lease program for kids that includes used skis, boots, and bindings ($130-150). More info: 208263-5157, Alpineshopsandpoint.com.

LIFT TICKETS AND LESSONS

When your children are age 6 and younger, take advantage of free lift tickets offered at the five major regional ski areas in Washington and Idaho.

The Ski the Northwest Rockies association offers a “5th Grade Ski or Ride Free Passport” at the four association resorts (49 Degrees North, Lookout Pass, Mt. Spokane, and Silver Mountain). The four Ski the Northwest Rockies resorts also each offer a great EZ Ski 1-2-3 learn to ski or snowboard program that includes three days of skiing or riding that comes with lift tickets, rental gear and

lessons at your mountain of choice. (More details about both of those programs at skinwrockies. com.) Most ski areas also offer their own discount packages and specials for kids and families as well if you don’t have a season pass. Night skiing, when offered, is another way to save. At Lookout Pass, people ski free on their birthday, and the mountain will host a Service Appreciation Day on February 26, 2017, with free skiing for military, firefighters, police, EMTs, and nurses. When your family is ready to commit to one mountain, plan ahead for next season and take advantage of spring early-bird sales on season passes.

As for lessons, Lookout Pass’s Free Ski School begins on January 7, 2017. Other ski areas have various one- or multi-day lesson packages, and some include rental gear.

MORE COST-SAVING TIPS • Look year-round for discounted, high-quality alpine clothing and gear, such as helmets. Take advantage of deals and buy ski pants, jackets, underlayers, or socks in sizes that your children will eventually grow into.

• Choose clothing, especially ski jackets and pants, in neutral colors, like black or red, whenever possible so you can more easily pass them down from one child to another of either gender when an item is outgrown. For the younger years, boys’ and girls’ apparel sizes are usually similar.

• Get to know other ski families and personally borrow, swap, or trade used gear. //

3 Fun Ways to Get Kids Outside this Winter health, it’s virtually never too early to get them outside on your back or on their own two feet in the snow. Snowshoeing at Silver Mountain Resort makes it even more fun and easy with a ride on North America’s longest gondola to kick off your outing. Snowshoeing is basically hiking on top of the snow, which is made possible by oversized “shoes” that fit over your winter boots and help keep you from sinking down too deep in the snow.

Most snowshoers use trekking poles with powder baskets or ski poles to help maintain balance while moving through the snow. From the top of the gondola at Silver Mountain Resort, you can enjoy up to three miles of snowshoe trails. Snowshoe rentals are available for $10 at the resort, or you can rent them ahead of time from Mountain Gear or REI. Check in with Silver’s ski patrol before you start and let them know when you return.

Silvermt.com. (OTM)

The Cy’s Café yurt at 49 Degrees North is a great detour from the slopes for the whole family. // Photo courtesy of 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort.

Cross-country Skiing at Mt. Spokane

If you are looking for an outdoor winter activity for the entire family, then cross-country skiing might just be the thing. Spokane is blessed with very accessible groomed trails only 45 minutes away at Mt. Spokane State Park. The absence of ski lifts and lift tickets make cross-country skiing a little easier on the wallet than alpine skiing. For over a decade, Spokane Nordic has been offering an 8-week ski school for kids ages 5-15 called Nordic Kids on the 60 kilometers of trails at Mt. Spokane. The Nordic Kids ski program is very reasonably priced at $75 for the first child and only $70 for each additional child. Parents can choose to enroll their children in either two-hour morning sessions or two-hour afternoon sessions.

The classes are taught by certified ski instructors

and parents are encouraged to come out and ski with their children on the trails as an on the snow helper. Youth are separated into groups by age and skiing ability with opportunities for new skiers to join at every age group. Nordic Kids meets every Saturday in January and February.

Cross-country skiing is a great physical activity to build endurance, strength and balance at all ages.

The trail network that Nordic Kids uses to teach lessons leads to warming huts and fire lookouts where kids can feel a sense of adventure and warm their hands by the fire. One unexpected bonus is the community of skiers and parents that make up Nordic Kids. It is not uncommon for parents to need a little help finding an errant mitt or ski pole, and at Nordic Kids there are always many parents around to help. If any more encourage-

ment is needed to get your little ones on the trails, maybe you should share the little secret that every week’s lesson ends back at the Selkirk Lodge with hot chocolate and Oreo cookies for all the kids.

Learn more and register online at Spokanenordic. org. (Todd Dunfield) Ride the Gondola and Go Snowshoeing at Silver Mountain

“It’s common in Nordic countries for parents to put their toddlers, swaddled in a pram, outside for their noontime nap, even in the chill of winter,” says father and Spokane outdoor writer Aaron Theisen. “The thinking goes that exposure to cold outside air can stave off wintertime colds, in addition to getting little ones accustomed to wintertime temps.” If you have young children in good

Warm Up at 49 Degrees North’s On-Mountain Yurt

Yurts are portable, round tents that were traditionally covered with animal skins and used as an on-the-go home by nomadic herdsman of Central Asia. Modern-day yurts like the ones recently installed up at 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort near Chewelah are toasty-warm, cool weatherproof hangout spots for kids who need a break from the slopes and a treat to keep them going.

One of the yurts at the bottom of the Sunrise Basin lift is home to Cy’s Café, which serves everything from cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate to soups, sausages and a variety of lunch, snack and beverage options. Kids often like to take breaks from the slopes and the Cy’s Café yurt is the perfect detour to enjoy the cozy atmosphere inside or take in the scenic view from a picnic table out on the deck on a sunny day. Ski49n.com. // (OTM)

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OTM: What events do your sons participate in?

TT & PA: Last year they turned 10, which is the first year they were old enough to compete in higher speed racing. So now they compete in Slalom, Giant Slalom (GS), and Super Giant Slalom (Super G).

OTM: During the ski racing season, how many

days is your family on the mountain?

TT & PA: It feels like we pretty much live on the mountain in the winter. The boys train Wednesday evening, Thursday evening, and all day Saturday and Sunday. With the SSRA development program, they have the option to train all day Friday too. We haven’t pursued this opportunity since school is a high priority.

OT M: What have been some of the most memo-

Ages 18-23

Family Pass

serious commitment and support from both children and their parents. Out There Monthly interviewed Teri Tucker and Paul Ainsworth, whose two sons – Hayden and Owen, both age 11 – will soon begin their sixth season as members of the Spokane Ski Racing Association (SSRA), to share what it takes to be a ski racing family.

rable highlights as a ski racing family?

TT & PA: The highlights for us are when we get to ski together as a family – which is quite rare – and see how the boys are progressing and see how much fun they have skiing. They both have a strong passion for skiing, which is a joy to see.

Also, it has been wonderful watching them take responsibility for their training and gear. They get themselves up early – sometimes 5 a.m. for races and 6 a.m. for 7 a.m. practices – and then carry their gear to and from the car and to the chair lift. We still do the waxing of the skis, but they are eager to learn. Another benefit is getting to know other ski families. We have had some wonderful times laughing together, volunteering together, and cheering our SSRA kiddos together. There are some great people working hard to make SSRA a success – coaches, parents, and grandparents.

OTM: What challenges, such as injuries, have your

sons personally overcome during their ski racing years?

TT & PA: They have only had one major injury

each, which both happened last season. Owen crashed at high speed (not on the race course) and hit his head resulting in a concussion that took several weeks to come back from. Fortunately, modern ski racing helmets are very good, and he was otherwise fine. Hayden also fell last year (not during a race, but off the chairlift during practice) and broke his arm. This put him out for the remainder of the season, which was very frustrating for him, but we supplied him with extra root beer at races and he became Owen’s biggest fan and cheerleader.

OTM: What should other people know about

ski helmet safety, based on your experiences as parents and ski patrollers? (Note: Both Tucker and Ainsworth are volunteer members of the Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol.)

TT & PA: Helmets are critical. Without a good helmet your risk of a life-changing injury goes up exponentially. Modern ski racing and recreational helmets are excellent and there are affordable options, so please don’t ski without one.

OTM: What are your sons’ long-term ski racing

goals and ambitions?

TT & PA: We are leaving this up to them. We will support them if they want to keep racing, but we would be just as happy if they are ready to move on and go back to skiing as a family each weekend.

We are just happy that they are both strong skiers and have this sport to love for years to come.

OTM: What advice would you give other parents

whose children are interested in ski racing?

TT & PA: SSRA has a fantastic program for all levels of ability and commitment. We suggest that any family interested in ski racing should start by signing their child up for the five-day holiday camp, which is a great way to see if your child enjoys the ski racing program, and they will meet their peers and coaches and will train the same way all the other racers do. On the last day they have the chance to race in an SSRA club race. It’s a great opportunity to see what it is actually like to race through gates, get an official time, and maybe even a trophy. If you decide to join, the money you spent on the camp goes toward your membership. //

5th Grade Ski/Ride FREE Program 5th graders can ski or ride for FREE at any participating ski area with the Ski Free Passport Program. This is your chance to experience great outdoor winter recreation in the Inland Northwest with your family and friends!

How it Works

The passport allows 5th graders to ski or snowboard FREE for 3 days at each participating Ski the Northwest Rockies resort.

Read the program rules and regulations and mail in the below application or fill out the online application form at www. skiNWrockies.com. Applications must include a photo that shows the 5th grader’s face and a valid credit card (there is a $20 processing fee). Passports will be mailed out mid-November or up to 10 business days for applications submitted later in the season. (Applications are accepted all season long.) Once you receive the passport booklet, present it at the ticket window of the participating ski resort—it’s that easy! Most ski areas also have deals on lessons and rentals for 5th graders.

5th Grade Passports are accepted at these ski areas:

5th GRADE SKI/RIDE PASSPORT APPLICATION For quicker delivery apply online at www.skiNWrockies.com. If unable to apply online, use this application.

1. Read the Rules & Regulations and sign the consent form.

2. Important: Include a 2x2-inch photo of the 5th grader (a school picture works perfectly!)

3. Write the 5th graders name on the back of the photo.

4. Print neatly, complete all sections of the form and include a phone number.

5. Send the completed application, photo and include a CHECK or Money Order payable to “5th Grade Passport Program” for $20 to 5th Grade Passport Program, PO Box 522, Ephrata, WA 98823 Parent Name: ________________________________________________________________________________ Student Name: _________________________________________________ Student’s Date of Birth: __________ Parent’s Phone: ___________________________ Parent’s email: _______________________________________ Mailing Address: ______________________________________________________________________________ City: _____________________________________________ State: _________________ Zip: _______________ Student’s School: _______________________________ Student’s Teacher: _______________________________ We fully understand the terms of the 5th grade ski and snowboard passport agreement and agree to comply with all the rules and regulations set forth. We understand that any misuse of the Passport or lift ticket obtained with the Passport will result in revocation of the Passport. By acceptance of the Passport, we agree that Ski NW Rockies, all participating resorts and the 5th Grade Passport Program partners and sponsors and their respective subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, officers, employees or agents have no liability whatsoever for injuries, losses or damages of any kind caused by the Passport or resulting from application for or acceptance, possession or use of the Passport.

Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian

1. Students Gender:

☐ Female

2. Do you ski or snowboard ☐ Ski 3. Rate your ability

☐ Male

☐ Snowboard

☐ Beginner ☐ Intermediate ☐ Advanced

4. Is there an adult in the household who skis or snowboards?

5. Do you expect to rent equipment this year? ☐ Yes

☐ No

6. Did you ski or snowboard LAST winter?

☐ No

☐ Yes

☐ Yes

☐ No

7. How did you hear about this program? ☐ School ☐ Friend ☐ Internet

Date: _________________ ☐ If you are NOT interested in receiving information from Ski NW Rockies and ski area specials please check here.

☐ Family ☐ Out There Monthly/KidsMagazine ☐ Other

2016-2017 5th Grade Ski & Snowboard Passport Rules & Regulations: Your Passport will not be validated or sent until you read this agreement, answer the survey questions and sign the consent form on the application.

1. The 2016-17 Ski Idaho and Ski the Northwest Rockies Fifth Grade Passport is a non-transferable document which entitles the 5th grader to whom it is issued to obtain all-day lift tickets, subject to the terms and conditions set forth below, at participating member resorts during the 2016-17 season. The following participating ski areas for the 2016-17 season: 49 Degrees North, Lookout Pass, Mt. Spokane, Silver Mountain, Loup Loup, Bluewood. All Ski the Northwest Rockies participating ski areas reserve the right to withdraw or join the program at any time. 2. The Passport is valid at all participating ski areas during the 2016-17 season except on the blackout dates identified by each ski area during the 2016-17 season. 3. The Passport may be used to obtain no more than three (3) all-day lift tickets at each participating Ski the Northwest Rockies and other participating ski areas during the 2016-17 season subject to the resort blackout dates. 4. The Passport or use of the Passport or of lift tickets obtained with the Passport may not be transferred or resold to any other person, including family members or relatives. It is a violation of Idaho and Washington law to resell lift tickets. The passport will immediately be revoked if the holder transfers use of the Passport or of any lift ticket obtained with the Passport to another person, for monetary consideration or otherwise. 5. Ski the Northwest Rockies will revoke and cancel a Passport without notice for any misuse. Passport holders and their parent or legal guardian are responsible for proper use of the Passport at all times. In the event of Passport misuse and cancellation, Ski the Northwest Rockies may recover damages to Ski the Northwest Rockies and/or to participating Ski the Northwest Rockies member resorts arising from Passport misuse, including reasonable attorneys fees. 6. Ski the Northwest Rockies reserves the right to modify or cancel the Passport program at any time and to modify or cancel all valid Passports at any time with or without notice. Ski the Northwest Rockies is not responsible for expenses incurred or opportunities foregone by Passport holders if Ski the Northwest Rockies modifies or cancels the Passport program. 7. If a Passport is lost or stolen, notify Ski the Northwest Rockies immediately. Participating resort lift ticket offices will not assist with lost or stolen Passports. Ski the Northwest Rockies reserves the right to make case by case determinations concerning replacement of lost or stolen Passports, but in no event will a lost or stolen Passport be replaced without collecting a $20 processing fee. 8. There are no refunds on any passport processing fees submitted so please check what ski areas are participating before you apply. 9. All Passport holders agree to comply with all rules and regulations of participating Ski the Northwest Rockies member resorts and with all other applicable laws and regulations. 10. An individual is eligible for the Ski the Northwest Rockies Fifth Grade Passport only once. Home School 5th graders are eligible only once. Individuals repeating all or a portion of the 5th grade do not qualify for a repeat Ski the Northwest Rockies Fifth Grade Passport. 11. If a Fifth Grade Passport applicant provides any false or inaccurate information in his or her application, a Passport will not be issued. Any Passport issued to a 5th grader who has provided false or inaccurate information will be revoked. 12. All information provided in this application is subject to verification by Ski Idaho and Ski the Northwest Rockies. All information provided in this application becomes the property of Ski Idaho and Ski the Northwest Rockies. Information provided by Passport applicants may be used by Ski the Northwest Rockies and its member ski areas for verification and market research purposes.

Ski the Northwest Rockies is the marketing arms of the non-profit Inland Northwest Ski Areas Association and represents the North Idaho and Eastern Washington ski and snowboard industry. Ski the Northwest Rockies Phone: (509) 621-0119. info@ skiNWrockies.com/ www.skiNWrockies.com

october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

29

Take Your Kids Skiing in Two States at Lookout Pass

By Amy silbernagel mccaffree Family time on the mountain. // Photo courtesy of Lookout Pass

the United States that’s situated on a state border.

Only 90 miles from Spokane and with no two-lane, switchback mountain road to travel, the drive is relatively quick and easy – just take the last exit (#0) off I-90, 12 miles east of Wallace, Idaho, before the Montana border. The parking lot is only 200 yards from the interstate, and from there it is a short, easy walk to the lodge, which is great for young children still learning how to responsibly carry their own equipment.

The official ski mountain history begins in 1936 when the Idaho Ski Club was founded and its members installed a rope tow. Four years later, the club started a free ski school, which still operates today at Lookout Pass. The base lodge, built in 1941 when the U.S. Forest Service commissioned the Civilian Conservation Corps for the job, is the second oldest in the Northwest, behind Mt. Hood’s Timberline Lodge in Oregon, according to the Lookout Pass website. The lodge’s cedar wood interior provides a cozy, family-friendly gathering place for eating lunch, drinking hot cocoa, and playing card games as you wait for other family members to finish their runs for the day. Lodge expansions in 2005 added a 6,000-square-foot, three-story addition to provide more seating with slope-side mountain views, a pub, and an outdoor deck.

It wasn’t until 1980 that Lookout’s first chairlift was installed; the Montana side didn’t get its chairlift until 2003. While the historic lodge is

small enough to easily meet up with friends and family, the mountain has 540 acres of skiable terrain spread across three sides, designated as the Idaho, Montana, and north sides. The summit is

Skiing can be as hard or as easy as you want it to be, depending on the day and your mood.

Skiing or snowboarding with your children

anywhere other than the bunny hill is an adventure in itself. A big mountain of new terrain awaits you on those intermediate runs and eventually black diamond ones. A great, and sometimes frustrating, aspect of skiing is that it requires continuous learning, with new challenges for every new run, every snowfall, every new mountain. Skiing can be as hard or as easy as you want it to be, depending on the day and your mood.

30

OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

While all the regional ski mountains have unique offerings to meet the needs of families and varied ski levels and abilities, if you are searching for a unique adventure, head to Lookout Pass for a twostate mountain experience – where you can ski in both Idaho and Montana. This is what my family did last season, as we brainstormed ways to add new challenges and excitement to our children’s ski experiences.

Lookout Pass is one of only a few ski areas in

where the three major chairlifts converge. Today, 70 percent of all the runs are designated as either intermediate or beginner level, which means lots of family-friendly terrain. My children were excited that we could switch back and forth between Idaho and Montana throughout the day. Our favorite runs were Rainbow Ridge and Cloud 9, both intermediate ones on the Montana side.

With a summit elevation of 5,650 feet and an annual average snowfall of 400 inches, Lookout Pass is known for having deep powder dumps. And its 34 named ski runs and three snowboard terrain parks provide something for every family member to enjoy. Lookout Pass also hosts family-friendly events throughout the season, which includes, for 2017, a Winter Carnival in January, Super Bowl Snow Field Goal Contest in February, and Crazy Costume Day and Scavenger Hunt in March, according to Jason Bergman, Lookout’s Director of Marketing and Sales.

Skiing at Lookout Pass is a fun way to explore a mountain – children can feel like they’re close to the top of the world, even if it’s only the Northwest Rockies. //

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31

Ride Soak Repeat A Day in the Life on the Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Route

By Hank Greer

The hot springs at the Stanley Motel offers an awesome view of the Sawtooth Mountains // photo: Hank Greer.

Last July, my brother John, my son Geoff, and I attempted to conquer the Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Route, a 517-mile loop of mostly Forest Service roads that take you through beautiful high country in central Idaho. It’s a hard ride.

We were mostly successful.

We left McCall early in the morning following the route clockwise to Warm Lake, 70 miles away with 5,000 feet of elevation gain. I was surprised that 30 miles were paved but also thankful there were 30 fewer miles of bouncing on washboard dirt and gravel. Our second day going to Stanley was longer, steeper, and rougher. Then our plans changed.

John’s 28-tooth small chain ring was not small enough, making the long climbs very difficult. He decided to take the Lowman Cutoff and return to McCall where he would get his truck and meet up with us. So John headed west and Geoff and I continued south on the route toward Ketchum. Thirty miles later, I broke my rear derailleur.

It’s amazing how generous people can be when you’re in a remote area. I walked and coasted 6 miles to the highway. Within 10 minutes of reaching it, Geoff and I were in Steven Gorman’s pickup truck headed back to Stanley. Steven offered up the derailleur from the bike he had in his truck but it wouldn’t fit. Mark, the mechanic at the bike rental shop, had a broken bike with a derailleur that would work. The repair price was a bargain and I gave him a huge tip. Late in the afternoon and with 67 miles to go, Geoff and I started plowing through

a hot, blasting headwind. After 15 miles of desiccation treatment, we decided to put our thumbs out again. An 80-year-old German-American woman named Juda (yoo-duh), whose life story is Spielberg-worthy movie material, insisted we fit everything in her small SUV. She said her children would be angry with her — again — for picking up hitchhikers — again — but we seemed nice.

Back on track the next day, Geoff and I left Ketchum for Featherville. There was a sign saying Forest Road 227 was closed. But we knew that was many miles ahead and that bikes could get through the washed-out section. We stopped by Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs where a young couple was reading a book together in the early morn. It’s a goodsized pool so I got my feet wet without disturbing them much. After cresting Dollarhide Summit, the highest on the route at 8,192 feet, snakes occasionally darted across our path as we followed miles of dusty road. Down the road from the Preis Hot Spring we found the Smoky Bar Store. A 4-year-old girl opened the door for us.

“Come on in, guys.” Her mom served us cold drinks and reminded us the road ahead was closed.

At the washed-out section we had to make two

Left to right: Geoff portaging the washed out section of Forest Road 227 - photo by Hank Greer // Mile 16 Hot Springs between Warm Springs and Stanley // John and Geoff riding to Warm Lake on the first day. // photos by Hank Greer

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OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

trips over 1/3-mile of rocks with our gear and bikes. Then we continued to Featherville on an even dustier road. A sign at Cyndie’s Featherville Café greeted us: “Welcome Insane Cyclists.” But first things first. A beer at the saloon washed away the dust. Then we had dinner at the café where we added our names to the logbook listing the insane cyclists who preceded us.

Near the end of the next day’s ride we found another oasis in the middle of nowhere — George’s Tavern. A couple of riders going in the opposite direction told us the third person of their group,

I thought parts of that road were too sketchy even for a four-wheel drive. But then I’m a city boy so what do I know?

Alex, was behind them somewhere. We found Alex just five minutes away sitting in the shade. He probably thought we were put up to pranking him when we told him his friends were just ahead at a tavern drinking beer. He waived us off in disbelief saying, “Get outta here.” We laughed as we left.

The next morning we started the 4,000-foot ascent leading us to Idaho City 29 miles away.

Midway on the descent we ran into John. He had sandwiches! Geoff and I put our gear in John’s truck and for the last two and a half days we were on a supported ride, which changed everything. John would drive ahead, scout out the next stop, and we’d have a surefire plan for the day whereas before, we’d find out when we got there and adjust accordingly.

Removing the not-knowing-what-lies-ahead part diminished the adventure. But lighter bikes made for easier riding. I was conflicted.

There are about 50 hot springs along the route.

Stopping at them takes up time. To fully enjoy doing the entire loop, I recommend taking 10 to 12 days. We scheduled nine and that turned out to be a little aggressive, especially since we had a setback. Shortening each day’s distance and setting up camp instead of aiming for the towns would’ve made the trip less physically demanding for us. And even more adventurous.

The Idaho Hot Springs Route is a great adventure. If you decide to use a support vehicle, there will be one definite detour — bypassing the washedout section of 227. Another possible detour is the huge climb south of Idaho City. I thought parts of that road were too sketchy even for a four-wheel drive. But then I’m a city boy so what do I know?

Regardless, go unsupported. It’ll be more memorable and you’ll have better stories to tell. // Hank Greer is an avid photographer, runner, and cyclist, as well as an inconsistent Oxford comma dropper. He wrote about DIY bike gear in September.

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33

on the mountain La NiÑa

Winter Weather Predictions Crossing Our Fingers for La Niña

By Brad Northrup I was sitting at my desk this summer, sipping

ice cold Coronas, when something happened that made me realize what this winter could possibly bring. It rained in August. And not just a few sprinkles that evaporated the second they hit the ground, but a full-on downpour so strong it soaked the lawn, washed my car, and scared the bejesus out of the dog. Now for all of you refugees that have migrated to the east side of this great state of ours, that might not seem like a big deal.

But take it from this sunburned, raccoon-eyed native of the Eastern Washington scablands when I say that rain in August usually means Old Man Winter is fixin’ to pay us a visit this year, and it looks like he might be bringing a half-full can of whoop-ass and his sister La Nina with him. The key word here is might, but I was so excited by this obvious sign from Ullr I went out to our storage shed and fingered my powder skis. Twice. Now before you get all worked up and go throw down the big bucks for some new fat sticks, have a look at what the weather gurus have to say about what lies in store for the Pacific Northwest this winter.

NOAA Climate Prediction Center

Remember that kid you sat next to in Meteorology 101 who seemed to get a little too excited during lectures about cumulous nimbus cloud formations? Yeah, he got his Ph.D. at age 22 and now works in a building with 500 people just like him, and they are projecting a

Section Sponsored in part By: 34

OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

“40% chance of La Nina developing in late fall and winter of 2016/17…with above average precipitation and below average temperatures in the Pacific Northwest from November 2016 to March 2017.” For those of you who don’t habla, La Nina is a weather condition that develops due to a cooling of the sub-surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean and normally results in stormy weather in our neck of the woods and can produce epic, multi-day powder dumps. Think Snowmageddon in ’98 when people’s roofs collapsed and skiers actually died from having too much fun. Oh, and a 40% chance of La Nina is a heck of a lot better than nada.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Not to be confused with those wankers over at the “New” Farmer’s Almanac. Founded in 1792, the OFA weather sages use a mixture of historic climate data, witchcraft, folklore, and Scientology (Tom Cruise is a huge skier) to develop their prognostications, and they do a damn fine job. Their crystal ball says we can expect “below normal temperatures, with the coldest periods being mid-late December and mid-late January, with the heaviest snowfall expected to hit in early December and mid-January.” I couldn’t see what was projected after that as I didn’t want to pay for an 18 month renewable subscription, and my editor wouldn’t throw down for it either. Oh, I was also kidding about the Scientology stuff. Sort of.

The Farmer’s Almanac

Not to be confused with those d-bags over at the “Old” Farmer’s Almanac. The folks at FA are not projecting this winter in the PNW to be as severe as some other groups are, but it’s sure good to have a voice of conservative reason in the mix, right?

Methinks not. No sir, predicting a winter that consists of “above average precipitation and mild temperatures” will not suffice for your humble narrator, nor for you, dear reader. Thankfully, we benefit from a nice big cold air mass that typically parks itself over southern British Columbia and tends to seep down to us, so hopefully that above average precip will collide with it and provide some tasty powder dumps. You gotta think positive, bro.

AccuWeather

Always good to have one guy who keeps that growing excitement in check, and the forecasters at AW play the role perfectly. Although they are predicting a weak La Nina to develop during late fall and into the winter, “an area of warmer-thannormal water off of the northwest U.S. coast, nicknamed the “warm blob,” is inhibiting the development of a strong La Nina. Though the Pacific Northwest will shoulder the brunt of La Nina’s impacts that produce stormy conditions, the warm blob will limit the cold a typical La Nina would bring to the area.” Again, see reference to nice big cold air mass in southern B.C. in paragraph above.

We’re good. Bring it.

Office of Washington State Climatologist

Anybody else think that it’s kinda odd that we even have a state climatologist? Actually, this being Washington state, I am surprised we don’t have 4 or them, with funding coming from some goofy toll on I90. But I digress. OWSC is basically parroting NOAA’s forecast for a decent chance of above average precip and below average temps, but with a special note for skiers and riders. “Although average temperatures will be lower throughout the state during the traditional snow sports season, skiers and riders visiting resorts located on or west of the Cascade Crest should continue to utilize black plastic garbage bags and ankle braces as the amount of moisture in both the air (rain) and the snow can lead to soggy clothing and the phenomena known as ‘Cascade Concrete.’ Conversely, those traveling to areas east of the Cascades should possess sunglasses and ample amounts of sunscreen, which will help in reducing the deepness of suntans and smile lines, both of which could draw the ire of one’s co-workers on Monday morning.”

Brad Northrup is an avid skier, fly-fisherman, and mountain climber. A graduate of Eastern Washington University, Brad is the author of numerous outdoor and historical articles.

on the mountain Backcountry

On Top of the world near Revelstoke, B.C. // Photo: Anna Twohig

Skiing Like a Lady

Alpine Finishing School

By Anna Twohig

Ski boots planted firmly into the side of a snowy cliff, I test the rope by slowly easing my weight back into the harness, a completely foreign feeling to me especially in full ski gear with my skis strapped to my pack. My fear of heights makes it difficult to focus. Trusting that my partner will help pull me back up when it’s time, I try not to think about the fact that it was the two of us

who built the ski anchor currently holding me.

But then I think, why I am worried? We built that anchor just as they taught us, we have all of our redundancies in place, and we have become pretty deft at tying our knots. Then it suddenly clicks for me. I’m doing it. I took the jump and now I’m right here, right now, relying on the skills I’ve been taught and am now executing. Becoming

more self-reliant is the whole reason I’m here, and a major sense of accomplishment rolls over me as I register this.

I’ll go back a bit further and explain how I got here. It’s April and I’m at the second session of the 2016 SheJumps Alpine Finishing School (AFS) with 17 other women I’ve just met. We’re in the beautiful Revelstoke backcountry, high in the alpine where our lodge and home base sits at 2,200 meters (that’s 7,200 feet for us Yankees). On the Albert Icefield in British Columbia, our location is only accessible by heli, adding a little gravity to each decision we make out here. Our group is an assortment of mountain women; the youngest is 21 and the oldest is in her 60s. Fourteen of us are skiers and three are splitboarders. A handful are pro riders but everyone here is strong. We hail from across the U.S. and Canada, and one even made the long journey from New Zealand. We have different backgrounds but we are here for a common purpose: to push ourselves.

AFS is an all-women ski and splitboard mountaineering course taught by seasoned female guides.

This unique course comes recommended by the likes of Backcountry Magazine and is the creation of SheJumps, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to increase the participation of women in outdoor pursuits. SheJumps creates safe and encouraging environments where women of all ages can “take that jump” into a new outdoor skill. AFS is the epitome of what that experience can mean. We are here for the next eight days and seven nights to test our physical and mental capabilities in the mountains. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that I’m also here for the food made famous by Claire Smallwood, the Executive Director of SheJumps.

An accomplished skier, Smallwood will be feeding us gourmet food all week.

Our daily lecture sessions are followed by 3,000plus vertical foot days in the field applying what we’ve learned. This includes building ski anchor

and pulley systems above cliffs and then rappelling down to simulate crevasse rescues; roping up and practicing proper travel techniques crossing glaciers; using our boot and ski crampons while summiting peaks; and spending time drilling ourselves in avalanche safety and rescue, route planning, navigation, and daily terrain decisions.

Surrounding myself with this array of elite athletes whose boldness is balanced by their capability is pure inspiration to me. Seeing other women strongly execute crucial maneuvers necessary for success in the mountains motivates me to push myself further. It begs the question as I watch them: If she can do it, why can’t I? During our eight days in the backcountry, we have our share of laughs, sweet ski lines, high fives, campfire songs, injuries, sunburns, lots and lots of sweat, and a few tears. Coming together as strangers and learning how to effectively communicate and work as a team under pressure is challenging, but rewarding. This course has helped us become better decision-makers and ultimately better touring partners to those waiting for us at home.

SheJumps Alpine Finishing School occurs annually in April and May. For more information, visit www.

SheJumps.org. // Anna Twohig is an enthusiastic skier and mountain biker and likes to explore rivers and lakes on her SUP, often while wearing a tutu. Anna is the Spokane Ambassador for SheJumps, a national nonprofit that encourages women to take on outdoor pursuits. Anna wrote about custom ski and snowboard construction in March.

CANADA’S LARGEST SKI-IN SKI-OUT RESORT VILLAGE Only 4.5 Hrs Drive from Spokane

GEOFF HOLMAN

october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

35

on the mountain SKI NEWS

Left and Middle: A new look to Lodge 2 at Mt. Spokane. Photos: Brenda McQuarry. // Top Right: New summit lodge at Schweitzer. Photo courtesy of Schweitzer Mountain Resort. // Bottom: New road to Sunrise Basin and slopeside parking at 49 Degrees North. Photo courtesy of 49 Degrees North

Ski & Snowboard Season News Slopeside Living, New Lodges, & a Chance to Own a Piece of a Mountain

49 Degrees North

Change is coming to 49 Degrees North. In fact, it is already underway. If you made it up to the mountain last season, you likely noticed the improved road leading to the bottom of the Sunrise Basin quad, and the new deck and yurts located there as well, offering food, beverages, and information on buying real estate in the new alpine village. That was the just the beginning, though.

Ground was broken this summer on the planned construction sites, and more is to follow. Beyond slopeside living, there will be snow making, high speed quad lifts, and new lodges. The completion of these additions may be out in the future, but the fact remains. They are coming.

What does this mean for the area? First and foremost, it will make 49 the only ski in/ski out resort in Washington. That’s a big deal and is sure to draw skiers and riders from all over once it is all said and done. Equally important is the additional revenue it will bring to the northeast part of the state, an area that has traditionally relied on extraction industries to survive. This shift to better utilizing recreationbased resources is a major leap forward, and should serve as a great model for other areas to look at.

Will this change the “vibe” of the mountain?

Doubtful considering the folks who visit and work at 49 are about as down to earth as they come. The place is popular because of how family-friendly and laid back it is, so why change that? Ski49n.com.

(Brad Northrup) Lookout Pass

Last winter Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area kept skiers and riders coming back for more with surprisingly good conditions and coverage in a challenging snow season. Looking to the future,

36

OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

Phase One of Lookout’s long-range expansion plan, which includes two chairlifts on Eagle Peak, a mountain to the immediate west of the existing ski area with a potential to add up to 700 acres with 14 new ski runs plus glade areas with a 1,400’ vertical drop, continues to move forward through the Forest Service planning process. A final environmental analysis is expected this fall.

Construction is also projected to start on a new 14,000 square foot base lodge sometime in the summer of 2017 that will be a welcome improvement on the mountain. The main level will house a new food court, expanded seating, and meeting room space, and, in an exciting development for those powder hounds who want to spend more time skiing and less time behind the wheel on I-90, the lower level will include overnight lodging rooms. Speaking of powder, Lookout will once again be open on Wednesdays (after being closed for powder dumps on Tuesdays) in January and February. Skilookout.com.

Mt. Spokane

Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park completed multiple improvements to the ski area this summer. Thanks to a grant from the Washington State Legislature, continuation of remodeling projects were completed at Lodge 2, including new windows, siding, slope-side entries and beautiful hand-hewn finish work inside.

A fleet of vegetation management equipment was purchased mid-summer and has been in use maintaining the slopes ever since, meaning runs will be ready soon as possible for opening day. Mt. Spokane is also excited to offer new state-of-theart rental skis and boots by Rossignol that have an auto turn rocker that is more versatile and makes it easier to ski in a broad range of snow and ter-

rain. Looking for winter work with skiing/riding benefits? Mt. Spokane is hosting a Winter Job Fair at Lodge 2 on November 5 from 8 a.m. – noon.

Mtspokane.com.

Schweitzer

Schweitzer Mountain Resort is looking forward to the completion of the new lodge at the summit of the mountain. Construction began in July 2015 and the structure will offer unforgettable views of Lake Pend Oreille, three states and Canada.

The 9,000 square foot lodge will offer an amazing venue for on-mountain dining and relaxation with a full service restaurant and bar, cafeteria, space for group functions and a new home for ski patrol dispatch. Completion is anticipated this season by December 2016. In addition to the new summit lodge, the resort has spent over $900,000 in capital improvements, which include a new food and beverage technology system, upgrading the entire ski rental fleet, and the purchase of a Prinoth winch cat to continue providing high angle grooming.

Schweitzer.com.

Silver Mountain

Getting ready for its second season of seven-daysa-week operations, Silver Mountain’s brush cutting team has been hitting it extra hard this summer getting more terrain ready to open earlier in the season. Silver is also bringing back its popular “Flexible 5 Pak” lesson packages, which comes with a season pass valid for the remainder of the season after graduating from the program. The program is open for new skiers/riders 7 years old and up and includes rentals, lift tickets and lessons. Best of all, it’s designed for kids and adults who are new to the sport. Silvermt.com.

Whitefish Mountain

The independently owned Montana resort is stoked to be named “No. 11 Overall” by SKI Magazine readers in this year’s annual Resort Guide. “We are pleased that the readers of SKI Magazine have once again voiced what we believe to be the core of our mission: to provide an affordable world-class ski experience with a natural, easy atmosphere in the un-crowded, laid-back smalltown setting,” says Whitefish Mountain Resort CEO Dan Graves. This winter Whitefish goes into its 70th season having invested over $10.6 million to improve the guest experience in the last decade.

This season the resort finishes its remodel of it popular mountaintop lodge, the Summit House with a complete remodel of the café and kitchen while continuing the look and feel of the major remodel that began last season. Skiwhitefish.com.

Red Mountain

The same week that Vail Resorts purchased Whistler-Blackcomb, highlighting a trend of acquisitions and buyouts in the resort world, Rossland, B.C.’s RED Mountain Resort launched a crowdfunding campaign—“Fight The Man. Own The Mountain”—where passionate snow sliders and investors alike can take a step towards owning a piece of the oldest ski area in Western Canada.

The bold move was a success right out of the gate, attracting attention and lining up potential investors. Minimum buy-in to own a piece of RED is set at an accessible pledge amount of $1,000, which doesn’t obligate you to purchase shares; it’s just a gauge of interest before the real-deal crowdfunding campaign gets underway. Check it out and get your piece of the powder pie before it’s too late.

Redresort.com. // (OTM)

on the mountain Travel

Yep, looks pretty word class to us! // Photo: Bradley Bleck

World Class In A Day’s Drive Whistler Blackcomb

By Bradley Bleck Downhill skiers in the Spokane area have five resorts that offer about 9,000 skiable acres along with thousands more in the backcountry. But even with this abundance of great skiing, our local resorts aren’t what most skiers would consider world class. So, what’s a skier hoping for world class to do? One answer is to make the day-long drive to Whistler Blackcomb.

Along with more than 8,200 skiable acres, Whistler Blackcomb offers all the vertical a skier could want. Topped by Blackcomb’s 5,280 feet, both mountains have more than 5,000 feet of vertical and peaks more than 7,100 feet. Skiing all day at 4,500 feet above sea level all but guarantees good snow. Thanks to a 15-inch dump the night of our arrival, the first day was spent cruising powder in Blackcomb’s Lakeside Bowl. Steep and deep.

When it comes to groomed runs, Whistler’s hosting of the 2010 Olympics means anyone can ski runs such as the Dave Murray Downhill course,

along with dozens of intermediate and beginner runs. Those who like bumps will find plenty on black diamonds such as Gear Jammer.

With all of Whistler Blackcomb’s gondolas, highspeed triples, quads, and six-packs, the single line was often the faster choice. Because my son would rather ski with his buddies, I ride single a lot, which let me get more of the international experience. On day three, I rode the lift with a former Olympian who was a member of the resort’s Ski with an Olympian program. I felt a little bad about chatting with him for free as his client sat silently beside us. The Olympian suggested Blackcomb Glacier, a short hike from the top of Showcase T-bar.

While it had snowed little since the dump two nights before, Blackcomb Glacier had just opened that day and its expansive terrain, while already having seen a good many runs, had the next best thing to backcountry freshies. I spent the rest of the day skiing the glacier’s powder, despite it taking

three lifts and a short hike each time.

At the writing of this story, the exchange rate was US$1 to CA$1.30. Given this advantage, you may want to check heli-skiing off your bucket list.

For a little more than the price of skiing with an Olympian, heli-skiing opens up nearly a half-million acres of skiable terrain. If that isn’t world class, I don’t know what is.

Lodging: For this trip, we used Home Exchange,

where we swapped our ski condo for a threebedroom, two-bath, fully stocked condo a short walk from the village. Across the street was a stop for the free shuttle to the lifts. Vacation Rental by

Owner and Airbnb are also excellent sources.

Happy Hour: We found ourselves at the Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub if only because it was less than a minute from both gondolas. It’s considered among the top spots in the village for regional craft brews, nearly a dozen from British Columbia alone.//

When not teaching English courses at Spokane Falls Community College, Bradley is likely to be riding a bike (no matter the weather -- that’s why someone invented studded bike tires) or snow skiing (in bounds or out, once in a while on skinny skis). Bradley wrote about Leavenworth summer activities in our June issue.

≈ WHISTLER BLACKCOMB BY THE NUMBERS ≈ Vertical drop: (W) 5,020 feet; (B) 5,280 feet Lift serviced area: (W) 4,757 acres; (B) 3,414 acres Marked runs: 200+ Number of lifts: (W) 19; (B) 17; plus PEAK 2 PEAK gondola Longest run: 7 miles Average snowfall: 458 inches Base elevation: 2,140 feet Summit elevation: (W) 7,160; (B) 7,494 Distance from Spokane: 489 miles, 8 hours by car.

倀 刀 䔀 匀 䔀 一 吀 匀

䄀 匀䬀䤀 ☀ 匀一伀圀䈀伀䄀 刀䐀 䘀䤀 䰀䴀

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吀䤀䌀䬀䔀吀匀 䄀吀 吀䔀吀伀一䜀刀䄀嘀䤀吀夀⸀䌀伀䴀⼀匀倀伀䬀䄀一䔀 october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

37

on the mountain travel

Alpine steeps, a magical village, and world-class Nordic trails set SilverStar apart from other destination resorts. // Photos courtesy of SilverStar Mountain Resort

SilverStar Serves Up Winter Adventure

B.C.’s 3rd Largest Resort is Only Five Hours Away

By Derrick Knowles The Spokane area is ringed by enough desti-

nation ski resorts (not to mention the dozens of cool, out-of-the-way mom and pop ski hills) to keep local skiers and snowboarders busy exploring new places for years. SilverStar Ski Resort, a few hours north of the border near Vernon, British Columbia, is one of those amazing destinations that is somehow off the radar of many Spokane area skiers and riders, despite the fact that it’s B.C.’s third largest ski resort. SilverStar is an awardwinning ski-in, ski-out resort with a beautiful and highly colorful mid-mountain village that’s been called the “Best Small Resort in North America”

and “Best Family Resort in Canada.” And more importantly, it happens to stay cold and snow a lot there in the Monashee Mountains. The resort’s famous champagne powder is all natural and highly reliable, with an average of 275 inches of flakes piling up each year on 128 designated trails spread out over 3,065 skiable acres.

My buddy Phil and I were fortunate to ski two days at SilverStar in early December last year, where we enjoyed excellent early-season coverage and boot-deep powder each morning while things were just getting going back home. We were even more fortunate to be toured around the mountain

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by SilverStar’s then Winter Sports Manager Guy Paulsen, who also happens to be a member of the Canadian Ski Instructors Association Hall of Fame and a badass tele skier who is equally comfortable and accomplished on alpine gear and Nordic skis.

We cruised the front side of the mountain, hopping around the several open lifts (there are a total of 12 lifts when the mountain is 100% open) and largely empty ski runs, which we were told was only a taste of what SilverStar has to offer. Unfortunately, the steep and deep mostly black and double black Putnam Creek zone on the backside of the mountain, a place that definitely needs to be on your

bucket list, was scheduled to open a few days after we had to leave. But that just gave us one more reason to start scheming for a return trip in 2017.

Paulsen led us around with a passion for and awareness of the mountain that was remarkable and contagious. He made sure we sampled favorite runs and took the time to ask us what we thought about the layout of runs and the flow of the mountain.

Our home away from home for the trip was at Snowbird Lodge, a high-end, apartment-style lodging option with a private hot tub that made chilling after a long day on early-season ski legs an epic relaxation experience. We happily sampled the many on-mountain eating and drinking options at night much like we systematically skied our way around the mountain by day. The Red Antler turned out to be a repeat favorite for lunch, dinner and drinks, with its laid-back atmosphere and Canadiana pub fare.

Morning number two started with another bootdeep powder day on the alpine trails before switching gears and gear for a late-morning Nordic ski tour of SilverStar’s truly world-class cross-country trail system that is the largest of its kind in Canada.

The Nordic network consists of 55k of trails at the resort that connects to another 50k of groomed trails within the Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre.

Back at the village, we contemplated taking rental fat bikes out for a spin but had the drive home ahead of us. With so many winter sport activities available in such quality and quantity right there out of the village, SilverStar is a paradise for active people who love winter and all of the different ways to get out and enjoy the cold, beautiful, snowy-white world.

SilverStar is also on the way to and from other regional destination resorts, including Revelstoke, Big White and Sun Peaks, which makes an epic B.C. road trip tough to pass up when you start connecting the dots on a map. Visit Skisilverstar.com to plan your own SilverStar adventure. //

OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

on the mountain SKi People

Small Town Charm.

Big Mountain Adventure.

Spokane Parks & Recreation’s Therapeutic Recreation program gets people with disabilities out on the slopes. // Photos courtesy of Spokane Parks & Recreation

Inspirational Skiers

Sharing the Love of Skiing at Mt. Spokane

By Amy Silbernagel McCaffree Winter sports are becoming more accessible

to all, thanks to Spokane Parks & Recreation’s Therapeutic Recreation Services and its volunteer instructors, who have been providing ski lessons for more than 20 years at Mt. Spokane for people of all ages who have physical or developmental disabilities. This winter, the program will run January 7 through March 4, 2017, with varied start dates for the different sessions.

For those with physical disabilities, adaptive alpine ski lessons provide assistance and adaptive gear, when needed, to “teach people who may not be able to do the conventional stand-up skiing,” says Program Coordinator Alice Busch. “If we have someone who’s hearing-impaired, we pair the skier with an instructor who knows sign language. A blind skier needs a ski guide. For people who have balance issues, we have different pieces of equipment so they can stand up. For people who can’t stand or prefer not to, we have equipment to help them ski in a seated position.”

Participants enter the program with varied degrees of experience, Busch says, from experienced students, who are now learning how to ski or snowboard with an amputation, to children learning for the first time.

“For amputee skiers, we’ll teach them how to ski standing up, sitting down, or laying back using the limbs they have,” Busch says. “We had a guy in his mid-80s – a skier his whole life, and he lost a limb.

We taught him how to use a three-track ski, which means you have three points on the ground – one ski and two outriggers on the snow with ski tips on the end. Then he wasn’t standing very well, so we put him in a sit-ski, called a bi-ski, which means there are two skis under the bucket seat.”

Busch continues, “We’re advancing them as far as they can go. We teach other people in their life how to use the equipment, and we give them resources to help them buy their own equipment.

This program is ideally helping people to ski or snowboard on their own. We have some brilliant instructors who come up with great ideas to adapt equipment for a student based on specific disabili-

ties,” she says.

For those with developmental disabilities, even children as young as 4 years old, Spokane Parks’ Therapeutic Recreation Services provides both alpine and cross-country ski lessons.

Although it aims to enable skiers to compete in Special Olympics, competition is not required, according to Busch. Nordic skiers are referred to as “Blue Waxers” and alpine students are called “Powderhounds.” She says, “The instructor-to-student ratio goal is one-to-one, and never more than three skiers per instructor, as long as the students are independent, experienced skiers and know the mountain.”

Mt. Spokane’s supportive, friendly culture has helped the therapeutic program thrive. “We have an amazing partnership with Mt. Spokane and we adore ski patrol. They are so important to our program,” says Busch.

Spokane mom Amy Beert, whose daughter began therapeutic ski lessons at age 7, says, “The program allowed us to go up to the mountain and have fun as a family. My daughter was able to learn to ski independently and feel successful doing it. It’s a fun, safe environment.”

Every year Busch needs more volunteers – friendly people who are excited to help others. To be an adaptive instructor, one needs intermediate skiing or snowboarding skills. “Adaptive teaching is a little harder on your body. Volunteers are matched with adaptive students according to an instructor’s skills and experience,” she says. “For our other programs, if you’re a beginner, you’re only going to get better.” Volunteers must be able to participate in instructor training, which includes one day of dry land training in early December and a weekend of on-snow training: January 7 and 8, 2017, for Powderhounds and Blue Waxers, and January 13 through 15 for the adaptive program.

For more information about Spokane Parks & Recreation’s Therapeutic Recreation Services, visit www.my.spokanecity.org/recreation/therapeutic or contact Alice Busch at (509) 625-6245 or abusch@ spokanecity.org. //

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Because Good Ski Gear Makes a Difference

By Brad Naccarato

Season’s pass? Check. New GORE-TEX jack-

et? Check. Winter tires for the Subie? Check. This year’s hottest ski gear? If you’re not feeling too confident about that last one, check out these gear picks from some of our region’s leading shops.

ARC’TERYX PROCLINE SKI MOUNTAINEERING BOOT: $750 ($1,000 CARBON)

New for the 2016 winter season, Arc’teryx expands its footwear collection with a new category including the Procline Boot, the company’s first ski alpinism boot that boasts multiple game-changing, patented performance features. Combining agility, support, and power for peak alpine performance, the Procline Carbon Support ski boots close the gap between traditional alpine climbing boots and plastic touring boots. “There has been a lot of hype around the boot and we’re excited for its arrival in mid-October,” says Mark Beattie, sales associate at Mountain Gear. “Word from the early on-snow tests was that it skied very well and was a very warm boot.”

The Procline’s features include a new cuff design that allows for both fore/aft and side-to-side motion when in touring mode. The aim is to provide a more comfortable, flexible, and natural fit. “The boot offers lateral articulation at the ankle so you can achieve better crampon contact,” adds Beattie.

SMITH I/O CHROMAPOP GOGGLES: $180-$210

In Smith’s words, “Quite simply, ChromaPop lenses are the most advanced polarized lenses in the world. By blocking color wave intersections as they pass through the lens, ChromaPop is able to eliminate color confusion, so your brain is recognizing truer color, faster. ChromaPop optimizes color and increases clarity, enabling you to see the outside world with an unparalleled level of vibrancy.”

For winter 2016/17, Smith has adapted its ChromaPop lens technology into 11 of its current goggle styles including its most advanced style, the I/O series. “The I/Os all come with two sets

of lenses, which is such a great fit for our region as some days are bright, sunny days and others are low-light, overcast days,” says Rachel Link, coowner of Alpine Haus. “That’s a great value for the consumer, not to mention they also are rad-looking goggles that really do perform well,” she adds. If you’re serious about shredding in all conditions, from whiteout to bluebird, having multiple lenses at your disposal is crucial. The frameless design not only looks snazzy (or steezy, if you prefer), but it also eliminates any of the hassle you may have experienced in trying to change out the lens from an ordinary (purely retentive) goggle frame.

ROSSIGNOL SOUL 7 ALL-MOUNTAIN ALPINE SKIS: $750

The Rossignol 7-Series has made some waves in the ski industry these past few years. In fact, Rossignol claims it’s made the top-selling skis in North America and Europe for the past three seasons. From dawn patrol tours to afternoon laps on-piste in the resort, the Rossignol Soul 7 Skis are the most versatile in the 7-Series and simply do it all well. An excellent option as a touring ski at only 1,900 grams, the Soul 7 is a powder-biased all-mountain ski that shines in soft and variable conditions.

“There has been an industry trend where people are downsizing to more manageable waist sizes in the all-mountain category,” says Cameron Forsythe, owner of Traverse Ski and Bike. “The Soul 7 fits that bill perfectly at 106 mm, making it a really versatile ski that’s light and fun, anywhere on the mountain.” Whether you like to smear big turns in wide-open terrain or utilize the sidecut to make more aggressive short turns in tight terrain, from couloir to apron, and powder to piste, the Soul 7 has you covered. “While we don’t carry the newest version of this ski, we currently have a full-size run of 2015 Sole 7 demos that we’re offering with bindings,” says Forsythe. “They have been by far our best-selling item.” //

on the mountain Ski Bum Advice

Illustration: Erika Prins Simonds

Ski Bum Advice

When Dreams Go Bad

By Brad Northrup

Friends tell me I am little strange when it

comes to my skiing superstitions, and they are probably right. I have a dream every year in the fall that involves me skiing. Been having it for 20 years or so, and each year the dream is so vivid and real that I actually wake up with cold hands and can smell mountain air. It is never the same, although it usually involves powder and a group of people, some of whom I recognize. I always wake up with a smile on my face, knowing that winter is right around the corner. This year, though, was a little different.

(Fade to the mountains.) I found myself at the top of the most perfect run imaginable. A thousand vertical feet blanketed by two feet of fresh, bonedry powder, and a sky so blue you would think it came right out of a magazine. I dropped in and floated for what seemed like a lifetime, linking per-

fect turns for nearly a quarter of the run when it happened. The sky went dark, and I was suddenly knocked off my feet by a flash of neon yellow that came out of nowhere.

Facedown in the snow, I heard the figure’s voice before I saw him. “You poached my line, you moron,” said the recognizable voice. Standing in front of me was Donald Trump, dressed in a neon yellow one-piece, a hot pink head warmer around his head, and mirrored aviator shades covering his eyes. The one-piece was so bright it could be seen from space, and his skis could have easily doubled as water skis in summer. Not a hair was out of place.

“Dude, this run is huge. I am the best skier ever and you totally jacked up my mojo,” he blustered.

“I bet you are Canadian. You people come down here with your funny money and ruin all of the untracked snow before us Americans can get on

it. You know what I am going to do? Build a wall across the entire U.S.-Canadian border, and make Justin Bieber pay for it.” He took off, hair not moving as he rocketed down the slope.

Shaking off this exchange, I continued down the run, slowly getting back into rhythm. Just as things were feeling good again, I came upon a yard sale victim. One pole was broken, and both 205cm straight skis were augured into the slope. When the skier turned toward me, I nearly jumped out of my skin. Clad in a mink-fringed white outfit that would have been out of place even at Vail was none other than Hillary Clinton. Looking dazed and confused by the epic digger she had just taken, she asked if the Secret Service had arrested the grooming operator who had failed to lay down a perfect swath for her. “Uh, there wasn’t any grooming today. Didn’t you get the snow report email from the mountain?” I asked. “I have no idea,” she said.

“You know how may emails I get on my private server? The FBI will just have to figure it out, but I don’t recall getting any snow report.”

I pointed my skis downhill and left her there to sort out Whitewater Part II. In an instant, I found myself at the end of the run near a beautiful lodge.

Feeling pressure in my bladder, I made my way to the restroom, only to find it locked. I pulled and pushed, but the door would not budge. I know what you’re thinking: poor guy is going to pee in his sleep. Thankfully, my savior appeared out of nowhere, kicking the door so hard it flew off its hinges. Rushing past me to use the facilities, the blonde/green-haired hero gave me a crazed smile.

“Had a few too many PBRs today, bro. Dibs on the first urinal,” said Ryan Lochte.

I woke the next morning with dry sheets and a smile on my face. Yeah, maybe the dream was weird, but damn was the snow good. // Brad Northrup is a former ski racer, alpine coach, and ski industry professional. He wrote about the people you meet on a chairlift in our March issue. He is currently in the market for a neon yellow one-piece.

october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

41

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OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

Top: Sam McGee Trail Tower in the Yukon. // Left: Gondola over the spokane river in RiverFront Park

The Riblet Tramways

Mount Spokane and Beyond

By Jon Jonckers

Byron Christian Riblet arrived in Spokane in

July 1885 after completing the Civil Engineering program at the University of Minnesota. He spent the first few years as a railroad engineer, and then started building tramways in 1896 in Nelson, B.C. with his brother, Walter Riblet. According to the Riblet Tramway website, there’s a legend that Byron, having been instrumental in laying out Spokane’s streetcar system, was first invited to visit British Columbia to advise on what he thought would be a streetcar system. Learning on arrival that the project would be somewhat different, Byron Riblet proclaimed himself a designer of aerial tramways, and he left the railroad and streetcar business behind.

In the following 10 years, the Riblet brothers designed and raised more than 30 aerial tramways in the booming mining districts around the Kootenay Mountains in southern British Columbia.

Byron returned to Spokane in 1908, and partnered with his brothers, Walter and Royal, to found the Riblet Tramway Company.

Conflicting online sources report that the Riblet brothers built their initial ski chairlift in 1938 or 1939 on Mount Hood. In any case, the Spokane company grew to unbelievable heights following the postwar popularity of ski resorts and aerial trams. They built numerous lifts across the Pacific Northwest and even as far away as Australia.

According to Wikipedia, they have the most double chair lifts operating in the U.S. Royal Riblet was disassociated from the Riblet company in 1933. Although he wasn’t an engineer, he did become a successful inventor, and became a flamboyant personality around Spokane. Originally called the Eagles Nest, the Cliff House, now owned and operated by Arbor Crest Winery, was his overthe-top mansion and playground. Nearly everyone who tours the Cliff House grounds encounters the Riblet square-wheel tractor. Patented in 1947, there are reports he created it several years earlier. Few people are surprised to learn that before his death in 1960, Royal Riblet was married eight times.

Byron Christian Riblet passed away in 1952.

Nearly a decade after his death, Riblet Tramway

Company built its first triple chairlift in 1963, and its first quad in 1967. Even when it appeared they were building nonstop, the demands for Riblet chair lifts continued to explode. Many of the greatest ski resorts in North America were adding a new ski left every year.

In 1946 the Riblet Tramway Company installed an old mining ore tramway on Mount Spokane.

This is the birth of the claim that Mount Spokane is home to the world’s first double chairlift, and it served an hourly capacity of roughly 550 skiers.

Sadly, it only operated for three years. It was located just south of the current radio and cellphone towers, but it had to be torn down because it was often rendered useless due to rime ice.

In the summer of 1956, a new Riblet double chair was installed on Mount Spokane following the addition of Lodge One. A second double chair was constructed five years later, and a third one appeared in 1970. The fourth and fifth double chairs were completed by 1977. Mount Spokane hopes to add another Riblet ski lift in 2017. It was purchased used from Bridger Bowl in 2010.

In a strange twist of fate, the Riblet Tramway Company actually owned the Mount Spokane Ski Park for a short stint. The majority owner of Mount Spokane Chairlift Inc. was founder Al Mettler. He sold his interest in 1970 to Rock Caley. Six years later, Caley filed for bankruptcy and the ski area assets were sold to their main creditor, Riblet Tramway Company of Spokane. Eventually the resort changed hands a few more times, and it’s currently operated by Mount Spokane 2000.

Perhaps someday they might name a lodge or a ski run after the Riblet family. After all, they did participate in creating one of the Inland Northwest’s best ski and snowboard parks. // Jon Jonckers serves on the board for the Friends of the Centennial Trail and is also an assistant cross country coach at Shadle Park High School. He is the co-author of “Climbing the Rocks of Sharon,” available at Mountain Gear. Jon has been writing for Out There Monthly since 2006.

on the mountain SKI FILMS

Ski/Snowboard Film Preview

Get Stoked for Winter at TGR and Warren Miller Spokane Premieres

Don’t miss TGR’s 21st birthday bash featuring it’s new film Tight Loose October 13 at the Bing. Photos courtesy of TGR. // BOTTOM: Warren Miller comes to town with its new film Here, There, and Everywhere October 28 at the Bing. Photos courtesy of WME

By Elena Gardner Anxious for ski and snowboard season? The

Bing Crosby Theatre will feature two wintersports films this October to help tide you over until you can finally hit the slopes.

Teton Gravity Research: Tight Loose

“Keep it tight, let it get a little loose…but always keep it tight-loose.” Teton Gravity Research, the ski, snowboard and surf film production company, is celebrating its 21st birthday with a one night only Spokane premiere of its new film “Tight Loose” October 13 at the Bing.

The film embodies the company’s aim to push boundaries to the limit and pursue adventure. The phrase “tight-loose” is meant to represent the balance of keeping things under control in order to seize the moment when necessary – TGR has been living up to this motto for 21 years. The film seeks adventure across the world, from India to Alaska, and everywhere in between in an attempt to showcase life lived to the fullest.

The film’s teaser features daring stunts and stun-

ning aerial shots, hot tubbing, a lot of face-plants, and an epic reunion-style massive 21-year athlete roster group shred of the Palisades at Squaw Valley.

The film gives you an idea of what it takes to live tight-loose. Whatever kind of winter sports you’re into, the film is sure to provide a thrill, the kind of thrill that can only come from watching someone ski down what looks like a sheer cliff face.

Founded by Steve and Todd Jones and headquartered in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, TGR amplifies the antics and achievements of the world’s top athletes through film and other action sports media.

“Tight Loose” premieres at the Bing Crosby Theater on October 13 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 the day of show, and $5 for ages 16 and under. Visit the Teton Gravity website for tickets and a chance to win tour grand prizes at TetonGravity.com/win.

The premiere, sponsored in part by Out There Monthly, will feature prize giveaways, and a shot at the tour grand prizes: a trip for two to the

TGR hometown of Jackson Hole, a trip for two to Whitewater Ski Resort in Nelson, B.C. (as seen in the movie), or your choice of a pair of Atomic Skis.

Tetongravity.com.

Warren Miller: Here, There, & Everywhere

The Boulder-based Warren Miller Entertainment is releasing its 67th annual feature film. “Here, There, & Everywhere” brings the mountain to you as it follows the world’s most accomplished skiers and snowboarders across the globe from the U.S. and Canadian Rockies to Greenland and the Swiss Alps as they find untracked powder and adventure. Narrated by Olympic gold medalist and freestyle skier Jonny Moseley, the film features interviews with Warren Miller himself, and reminds you what you love about sliding down mountains.

“For the first time in a dozen years, we are thrilled to return to the screen with the support and inclusion of the patriarch of winter stoke, Warren Miller,” says Managing Director Andy Hawk. “This

year’s project has been an incredibly rewarding opportunity for the athletes, film crew and staff who were able to work directly with him again.”

In addition to inducing nostalgia over the roots of skiing, “Here, There, & Everywhere” also seeks to show the more progressive side of snowsports, from fat biking, backcountry snowmobiling, and hill-climbing racing (featuring Polaris pro Keith Curris), to dogsledding and pond skimming.

The film tour stops in Spokane on October 28 at the Bing Crosby Theatre for two shows: one at 6:30 p.m. and again at 9:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online on the Warren Miller website.

Everyone attending the film showing will receive vouchers good for a free lift ticket to Mt. Bachelor, a free night lift ticket to Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park, a free early or late season lift ticket to Steamboat, and a voucher good for $25 off a purchase of $100 or more at Spokane Alpine Haus. Skinet.com/warrenmiller. //

october-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

43

on the mountain Mountain culture

Tale of a Ski Town

What makes a perfect ski town? Snow like this sure helps. // Photos courtesy of Tourism Fernie

How Fernie, B.C. Became One of the Best Ski Towns in North America

By Elena Gardner There’s more to the mountain town of Fernie,

British Columbia, than meets the eye, and that’s saying something. With over 30 feet of snow each season, looming mountains, and an intriguing history, Fernie is a popular ski and snowboard destination, as well as one of the most classic ski towns in North America. But what the charming small town and the people in it didn’t have was a chance to tell their story. Until now.

The soon to be released 22-minute film, “Ascent to Powder – Tale of a Ski Town,” will tell this story.

Shot on location at Fernie Alpine Resort, FWA Powder Catskiing, and Island Lake Catskiing, the film explores the real stories of those who have tra-

versed the slopes, passed through Fernie, or grew up in the small mountain town.

What’s the most surprising thing about Fernie?

“That we care so much that we don’t care,” says Jikke Gyorki, executive producer of the film. “The people of Fernie care a lot, about their town and its history, their outdoor pursuits, their mountains and environment, their lifestyle, their friends, family and neighbors. So much that they don’t care about what other people may think.”

Fernie, which started out as a mining, forestry, and railway town, eventually became the birthplace of the Powder Highway, also known as Route 95A, which connects seven ski resorts in British

Columbia. The town is rich in heritage architecture, and even boasts its own Ghostrider curse (a horse and rider whose legend lives on at Mt. Hosmer). The ski resort base is located close to downtown, so it is easy to experience everything that makes Fernie special.

The film seeks to show off all that Fernie has to offer winter sports, through the stories of those who know it best. Featured in the film are prominent locals such as Mark Gallup, Heiko Socher, Dylan Siggers, Andrea Byrne, Ross Janzen, Blair Craig, Kevin Griffin, and indie band Shred Kelly.

“Those passionate about Fernie don’t feel they need to prove themselves or how great Fernie is,”

says Gyorki. “They encourage people to come and experience Fernie for themselves and dig in deep to really feel what Fernie is all about. Locals love to share their passion with others. Then visitors will truly see why Fernie is such a special place.” Skiers and snowboarders alike will drool at the stunning powder and cinematography featured in the teaser trailer for the film. (WARNING: It will make you anxious for ski season.)

You can watch the film at home on YouTube and Vimeo at 7 p.m. on October 13. The film will also be shown on US TV networks this fall. Keep up to date for local showings by visiting the film’s website at Ascenttopowder.com or visit Tourismfernie.com. //

Retro Ski Pass Contest

Got a classic ski pass pic that stakes out a slope style from a bygone era that’s worthy of sharing with the masses? We’ll publish the best in the March 2017 issue of Out There Monthly and send you a lift ticket to an area resort if we print your season pass pic. Send a high-resolution (1MB or larger) photo or digital scan of your retro ski pass contest submission, along with the owner’s name, email address, phone number and a supportive or entertaining caption by February 1, 2017.

Info: OutThereMonthly.com/retro-ski-pass-contest

44

OutThereMonthly.com / october-november 2016

OutdoorCalendar BIKING (October 1) Rivers and Ridges Ride. Where: Clarkston, Wash. The Rotary Club of Clarkston invites cyclists to come explore the area on a road bike on routes over major rivers, through the famous Palouse and back. The ride includes three familyfriendly courses (7 14, and 25 mile) as well as challenging half century and full century routes. Info: Riversandridgesride.org (October 8) SheJumps Mountain Bike Shuttle Ride. Where: Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Join SheJumps for a fun-filled day of downhill mountain biking on Schweitzer with other women. Info: Shejumps.org

(October 13) John Wayne Trail Adventure Cycling Presentation. Where: Mountain Gear Headquarters, 6021 E. Mansfield Avenue, Spokane.

Willie Weir, adventure cyclist and author, will be delivering a talk at a benefit for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail Organization. Info: Johnwaynepioneertrail.org

(October 15) Eastoberfest Enduro MTB Race.

Where: Camp Sekani/Beacon Hill. Racers will start at Camp Sekani and cover four stages over a total of about 13 miles before ending up at the towers at Beacon Hill. Each stage consists of varying terrain, flowing singletrack, mildly technical terrain, easily do-able jumps, and about 3,000 feet of climbing. Info: Evergreeneast.org

RUNNING (October 8) State Park Series. Where: Bowl & Pitcher, Spokane. When: 9 a.m. This is #4 of the trail run series. Info: trailmanics.com

(October 15) Hayden Lake Marathon. Where: Hayden Lake, Idaho. Enjoy breathtaking views while running past golf courses, lakes, horse pastures, farms, and North Idaho forests. The full marathon, half and quarter distances all start and finish at Hayden Lake’s Honeysuckle Beach. Info: Haydenlakemarathon.org

(October 15) Chocolate Chip Cookie 50K Trail Run. Where: Riverside State Park Equestrian Area.

Rolling river run with short hills, rocks and open praire. Double track, single track, Forest Service roads, and even a little gravel and pavement. Info: ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=32772

(October 15) Oktoberfest Trail Runs. Where: Leavenworth, Wash. The Oktoberfest Trail Runs (10mile and 8K, plus a kids’ race) are held on Wenatchee National Forest lands near Leavenworth, with the start and finish occurring at the Leavenworth ski hill facility. The event is held during the community’s famous Oktoberfest celebration. Info: Runwenatchee.com (October 16) Sekani Trail Run.

Where: Camp Sekani, Spokane. The 8th annual trail run is a 5k/10k event (plus a free Kids’ 1k) with 100% dirt trails and fabulous course challenges with 700 feet of elevation gain for the 10k run! The trails run above the

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2016

Spokane River and provide great views of the City of Spokane and surrounding areas. Proceeds benefit Franklin Elementary’s APPLE program. Info: Sekanitrailrun.com

largest winter sports event. With thousands of new and used skis, snowboards, clothing and more, attendees know this is the place to stock up for a winter full of adventure. Info: Winterswap.com

(October 30) Monster Dash 5k and Kids’ Fun Run. Where: Manito Park, Spokane. A fun run and kids run with proceeds benefiting Active 4 Youth, a local non-profit that believes that by teaching sports and introducing healthy activities to children at a young age, we can begin to address the alarming rise of childhood obesity while providing children with a safe place to play after school. Info: Spokaneswifts.com

(November 10) Pray for Snow Party. Where: Perry Street Brewing, Spokane. The annual ski and snowboard season kickoff party at Perry Street Brewing may be the most fun you’ll have all winter without your boards on. Enjoy beer specials, classic ski films, prizes for the best retro ski attire, raffle drawings for great prizes, ski industry booths and swag, and a high-energy crowd stoked to usher in a snowy winter. Facebook.com/PerryStreetBrewing

(November 5) Sugar Rush 5K/10K.

Where: Gonzaga University Campus. When: 8:30 a.m..

Finishers enjoy a cup of hot cocoa followed by a truffle reception. Race bnenfits Inland NW Baby. Info: www.active.com/spokane-wa/running/distance-running-races/sugar-rush-2016

(November 11-12) Snowlander Expo.

(November 24) Turkey on the Run. Where: Rotary Park, Wenatchee. When: 9 a.m. - noon. 12K and 5K options. Info: RunWenatchee.com

OTHER

(December 3) Jingle Bell Run. Where: Riverfront Park | Northbank Shelter. 5K Race to support The Arthritis Foundation. Costumes and holiday wear encouraged. Info: jbr.org

WINTERSPORTS (October 13) Teton Gravity Research Film “Tight Loose. ” Where: Bing Crosby Theater, Spokane. The new film Tight Loose follows adventure seekers around the world with the daring stunts, stunning scenery and cinematography, and humor that TGR is known for. Info: TetonGravity.com

(October 28) Warren Miller Film “Here, There, & Everywhere. ” Where: Bing Crosby Theater, Spokane. Warren Miller’s new film brings the mountains to you as it follows the world’s most accomplished skiers and snowboarders across the globe from the U.S. and Canadian Rockies to Greenland and the Swiss Alps as they find untracked powder and adventure. Info: Skinet.com/warrenmiller

(October 29-30) Mt Spokane Ski Patrol Ski Swap. Where: Spokane Fair & Expo Center. Mindblowing amounts of used skis, snowboards, clothing, helmets, goggles, and children’s items, plus a growing selection of AT, telemark, and cross-country equipment, all for sale. Info: Skipatrolskiswap.com

(November 3) Matchstick Productions Film Ruin & Rose. Where: Hayden Cinema, Hayden, Idaho. The Lookout Pass Race Team is hosting a premier of the MSP ski movie “Ruin and Rose.”

Admission is $10 and includes admission to Winter Swap. All proceeds benefit the Lookout Pass Race Team.

(November 5) Winter Swap. Where: Kootenai County Fairgrounds. Winter Swap is North Idaho’s

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.

Where: Spokane Convention Center. The Inland Northwest’s ski and snowboard expo featuring ski industry booths, deals on gear, giveaways and a Northwest craft beer and cider festival. Info: Snowlanderexpo. com

(October 7) SEED: The Untold Story. Where: Bing Crosby Theater, Spokane. This fascinating feature-length documentary follows passionate seed keepers protecting our 12,000-year old food legacy, while also examining issues surrounding the loss of seed diversity, climate change, pesticides, GMO labeling and the patenting and corporate takeover of seeds and food. Info: Inlandnwland.org

den debris, food scraps, and all those leaves that will start falling from the trees. There will be hands-on experiences as well as great information shared by Spokane County Master Composters/Recyclers. Info: Call 625-6580

(October 21-22) Tangled Up | Women on the Fly. Where: Kalispel Golf & Country Club, Spokane.

One-of-a-kind fly fishing instructional weekend.

Optional dinner showcasing farm raised and wild caught salmon, including health facts. Casting instructions on the fall greens followed by lunch from award winning chefs. Info: Inlandnwland.org

(October 29) Deep Creek Preserve-Bird Migration. Where: 52975 Bisson Road, Reardan.

When: 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Children are welcome, no pets please. The terrain is unstable with no established paths, proper shoe attire is required. Dress for weather conditions. This location is home to over 200 kids of birds and other wetland species. Bring spotting scope or binoculars. Learn more about the Deep Creek Preserve, and migratory birds. Info: InlandNWLand.org

(November 2) Reel Rock 11. Where: Perry Street Brewing, Spokane. The film tour features five climbing films, food trucks, beer and plenty of fun. The screening will be outdoors, so bring your own camp chair, and make sure you dress appropriately for the weather. Cost: $15. Info: Rareearthadventures.com

(October 8) Radical Reels Tour. Where: Salvation Army Kroc Center, Coeur d’Alene. When: 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. A collection of 11 high-adrenaline, action films from the Banff Centre, this year featuring “Balloonskiing”, kayaking in Mexico, downhill mountain bike lines in the Italian Dolomites, “Freerunning” on the Isle of Man, skiing Japan by van as well as climbing on the red rocks of Namibia in Africa. Info: Mountain-Fever.com (Showing at the Panida Theater October 7) (October 14) Active 4 Youth Fundraiser. Where: Spokane Convention Center, Centennial Ballroom.

The major fundraiser for cross-country running programs at many Spokane area schools with honored guest Bernard Lagat. Info: Active4youth.org

(October 15-16) Wilderness First Aid Certification. Where: Spokane Mountaineers’ Chalet on Mt. Spokane. Topics in the 16-hour class include: patient assessment, how to provide longterm care with limited resources, the decision of when to call for help, and treatments such as splinting, wound care and managing spine injuries. The course schedule includes classroom time, as well as hands-on skills practice through medical scenarios and labs. Cost: $190. Info: LongLeafMedical..com

(October 17) Meet the Spokane Mountaineers.

Where: Mountain Gear Headquarters, 6021 E Mansfield Ave., Spokane. When: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Learn more about the Spokane Mountaineers, including the club’s diverse outdoor activity offerings and how the group supports recreation, education, and conservation in our community. Cost: Free. Info: 509-838-4974

(October 22) Fall Leaf Festival and Compost Fair. Where: Finch Arboretum, Spokane. Participants will learn how to make compost at home out of garoctober-november 2016 / OutThereMonthly.com

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Last Page Sustainable Summits Conference Inspires Responsible Alpine Recreation // By Summer Hess a group of climbers hike up to camp muir from paradise. // Photo: Summer Hess

High places inspire me; they challenge my

fragile mountain landscapes. This year’s conference was hosted in Mt. Cooke Village at Aoraki National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak.

The first Sustainable Summits Conference was hosted in Colorado in 2010 and focused on “exit strategies” or human waste removal. Since then, it has broadened its scope to include talks on environmental impacts such as water contamination and erosion, natural hazards such as earthquakes and floods, and social values such as commercialism and cultural awareness. Human waste removal, however, remains one of the most important recreation-related concerns across the globe.

It is also one of the most important concerns close to home. Consider the Enchantments in the Cascades, where human waste has been a hazard since the 1970s. Despite limiting transit through

spirit, inspire me to closely observe and participate in the natural world, and serve an essential role in supporting life on this planet. The more time I spend in the mountains, the more I feel responsible for stewarding alpine environments to the best of my abilities.

That’s how I became interested in the Sustainable Summits Conference, where from August 7-11 approximately 100 scientists, National Park staff, climbing guides, alpine club staff, foundation directors, tourism consultants, industry representatives and passionate recreationists from across the globe shared their expertise and discussed the diverse considerations of recreating in the alpine realm.

Their aim was to unite our personal connection to the mountains with ecological concerns about

the core alpine zone in high season and installing more than 40 vault toilets to help capture waste and minimize impact, our excrement remains one of the biggest management challenges for the U.S. Forest Service. This agency has important questions to consider as it looks to the future and considers how to keep up with demand. Are more toilets the answer? If so, where will the funds for helicoptering out more human waste come from? Should the USFS consider limiting day users as well as overnight campers? I hate the idea of further restricting access to Washington’s most beautiful places; but if we are going to give as many people as possible a wilderness experience, then it’s important to understand what additional exit strategies are available.

One option for waste removal from heavily transited, fragile environments comes out of Alaska.

Long-time Denali ranger Roger Robison, who organized the first Sustainable Summits Conference, was a featured speaker this year and discussed decades of work to promote clean climbing. His strategic approach to human waste and garbage removal has helped make less polluted and more hygienic one of the most important climbing destinations in the United States. Robison’s practical contribution to this effort includes designing a portable toilet called the Clean Mountain Can (CMC), which he developed with financial assistance from the American Alpine Club and the Access Fund.

The CMC makes it possible for climbers to more faithfully practice Leave No Trace principles, even on a three-week expedition. Robison also spoke about the importance of collaboration and how dif-

ficult it can be to access information about good sustainable practices, thus confirming the importance of the conference.

Sometimes incentives are a powerful way to inspire people to take action. Another simple but innovative exit strategy presented at the conference was the Cash for Trash program set up by the EcoEverest Expedition on Mount Everest. Dawa Steven Sherpa, the environmental entrepreneur in charge of the program, explained that Sherpa carry heavy loads of equipment up the mountain to set up high camps but return with empty packs. Thanks to these hardworking mountaineers, trash that was left decades ago by the early commercial expeditions on Everest is finally being removed from the mountain.

Dawa Steven Sherpa’s ability to see opportunity in the face of a tremendous problem exemplifies the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit necessary for minimizing impact and making human habits in the hills more sustainable. It’s surprising, then, that the Sustainable Summit Conference receives little publicity and is only attended by 100 people; hopefully, as issues like climate change and human waste continue to surge, conference attendance will also grow. Sharing international best practices has been and will continue to be a crucial part of the ongoing global effort to maintain the aesthetic beauty of our mountains and keep critical ecosystems thriving. // Summer Hess is a writing instructor at Eastern Washington University and manages special projects for the Community Building. She wrote about Northwest climber traits in August.

Ski & Stay starting from $79 USD Based on September 2016 USA/CDN exchange rate, Double occupancy and is subject to applicable taxes

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