19th Annual
VOL. 9 // NO.12 // AUGUST 2013
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In This Issue
p.5 / From the Editor
MONTHLY
It’s Summer- Here’s to getting out more. By Derrick Knowles
www.outtheremonthly.com
p.6/ photo of the month “Making it Look Easy”
p.7 / Out there news
Out There Monthly / AUGUST 2013 Publishers
Shallan & Derrick Knowles Editor
Derrick Knowles Visual Editor
p.8 / Health & Fitness Good Hydration
By S. Michal Bennett
Shallan Knowles senior writers
Jon Jonckers, Brad Naccarato, Amy Silbernagel McCaffree Contributing Writers:
p.9 / Destinations Climbing Mt. Rainier By Peter G. Williams
Hank Greer, Peter G Williams S Michal Bennett Circulation director
Dezi Nagyfy
ACT LITE 65+10
to request copies caLl
p.10 / Gear Room
What’s Your Gear: River Floats Gear Review: Lyte Balance
p.11/ Everyday Cyclist Riding the Rails By Hank Greer
p.12 / Explore fire lookouts By Derrick Knowles
p.14 / INW OUTDOOR CAlendar & 6 Month Training Calendar p.16 / Mtn. Bikes take over Ski Towns By Derrick Knowles
p.18 / Last Page
Surf’s Up on Inland Waterways By Brad Naccarato --------------------------------------------------------------
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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. ©Copyright 2013 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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On the cover: Quartz mountain lookout at Mt spokane state park // Photo courtesy of Jon Jonckers.
trail Mix • Fire lookout towers have been used in the United States for nearly 100 years. • In addition to a compass, maps, binoculars, and a radio, traditional tools of the trade for a fire lookout often included an alidade, which is a combination compass and map.
Register Online at:
SpokeFest
• Before dependable telephone lines, fire lookouts sometimes communicated with each other through a special code flashed by mirrors called heliographs. • When a lightning storm hits a lookout tower, the person inside sometimes sits or stands on a wood stool with glass legs to avoid getting zapped. • Probably the largest and likely the coolest fire lookout museum in the country with 19,000 relics ranging from the largest Smokey Bear collection in the world to two historic fire lookouts is 7 miles north of downtown Spokane. The free museum is operated by Ray and Rita Kresek by appointment only: www.firelookouts.com Some TRAIL MIX facts courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service
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Out There Monthly / august 2013
1 - MILE PARK LOOP • 9 - MILE SPOKANE FALLS LOOP 21 - MILE CLASSIC RIVER LOOP • 47 - MILE FOUR MOUNDS LOOP
From the Editor: It’s Summer- Here’s to getting out more. work life has been more sedentary than I prefer for longer than I care to contemplate. I’ve gone through phases of getting out a decent amount and being good about daily exercise and time outside, but overall my track record of staying committed to a healthy schedule that breaks up the monotony of days spent tapping away behind a glowing screen hasn’t been that great. More often than not, I’ve found myself stuck in a rut or weighed down with work stress, making excuses for not even pulling away for a walk around the neighborhood or a few minutes of yoga.
When my wife Shallan and I decided to take the plunge and buy Out There Monthly from Jon Snyder a few months back, we knew we were in for some long days and nights during the transition. Learning the ropes of running and publishing a magazine, while working our other jobs at the same time, was going to be a lot. I figured letting time outside doing the things in life that make me feel the most alive slide was inevitable and a reasonable compromise and part of the package of taking on such a new, exciting challenge. And maybe for a few weeks it was. That is
until Shallan put her foot down (thank you!) and began to insist that I blow off the dishes or postpone a stressful deadline to make time for that ride at Mt Spokane, run on the Bluff, or lazy float down the river. Right away my mood improved, stress melted away, and life regained the vibrant sense of purpose and joy that it seems to have whenever we spend more time outside moving and using our bodies and interacting with the natural world in meaningful ways. It can be challenging sometimes to force yourself to get out and do the things you love
when there are so many other responsibilities and obligations in front of you. But I’ve relearned a lesson over the past couple months that I can’t believe I let myself forget: that those things in life that can start to seem like luxuries—the evening hikes, the day-long floats, the epic rides, the climbs to the top of everyday mountains—are some of the most crucial ingredients of a healthy, happy, sustainable life. Here’s to getting out there more this month! ------------------------------------------------------derrick knowles, editor derrick@outtheremonthly.com
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The Bike Shop at Hughes Ace Hadware
Photo of the Month
Presents:
PhotO: Kathy wilson “Making it look easy.” at the finish line, Iron Man Coeur d’Alene
august’s winner recieves one month unlimited membership to mellow monkey yoga studio Send your 3 mb or less, hi-res (200+ dpi) submission with caption to photos@outtheremonthly.com. Best photo entries will be picked for upcoming issues and entered for an OTM give-away.
enonation.com 6
Out There Monthly / august 2013
DRINK LOCAL. rivercityred.blogspot.com • @rivercityred
Out ThereNews Input Needed to Shape Future of Spokane Region’s Trails Got a favorite Spokane area trail or trail pro-
posal? Make sure is part of the long-range vision for a connected Spokane Region trail system! Public input on existing and potential new trails and trail connectors between neighborhoods and parks and conservation areas is being sought for an update of the Spokane County Regional Trails Plan. That plan was drafted with citizen input, including members of the Inland Northwest Trails Coalition, in conjunction with the National
Parks Service, Bicycle Alliance of Washington and others in 2008, and will be updated later this year. The trails plan has four goals: create a comprehensive trail system, maintain it, implement road and trail standards, and promote the regional trails system. The plan is available at spokanecounty. org. Comments and specific trail recommendations can be made at www.surveymonkey.com/s/ D8QHK7X. //
ROW Adventures Launches New Tours The new ROW Adventures Center in downtown Spokane at 209 S. Washington will continue offering equipment rentals and guided tours for locals, out-of-town visitors, and tourists, but now ROW has added several new, themed tours. The new tours include a standup paddle board tour on the Spokane River and food and wine tours through ROW’s newly-acquired division, Savor Spokane. “We’ve been running trips in and around
Spokane for over three decades and our new location in downtown Spokane plants our roots even deeper in the community,” said ROW founder Peter Grubb. “In addition to our traditional rafting, kayak and biking trips, we’re excited to be expanding with paddle board tours and rentals, as well as our Savor Spokane division. We’re big fans of eating and drinking local fare, so there is strong motivation for this addition to our tour round up.” Check it all out at: www.ROWadventurecenter.com.//
Free Guided Hikes in the Scotchman Peaks the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, a grassroots conservation organization based out of Sandpoint, is offering free public hikes to the Scotchman Peaks wild country along the Idaho and Montana borders. Hikes scheduled for the month of August include East Fork Peak on the 12th, Sawtooth Mountain (including a scramble up to the 6,500 foot summit) on the 20th, and Ross Creek Falls through the spectacular Ross Creek cedar grove on the 25th. Pre-register and get more info about more hikes here: http://www.scotchmanpeaks.org/hiking/current-hiking-schedule. //
Aug 3: Spokane Distance Classic
road bike event brings cycling to st. maries Explore some of north Idaho’s most scenic backroads out of the St. Maries area on Saturday, August 17th at the White Pine Pedal Mettle community road ride. Riders can test their mettle or take their time and enjoy the scenery on one of five different ride routes, including the 16 mile Big Dog Challenge; 30 mile “Y” Not Ride; 42 mile Fernwood Tour; 62 mile Clarkia Tour; and the Eleventury 111 mile century plus a few route. The White Pine Pedal Mettle is being organized by the Bike Shop at Hughes Ace Hardware
in St. Maries and is a fundraiser to help restore the town’s historic, 100-year-old Masonic Temple. Entry fees range from $10-30 and include fully stocked aid stations, course safety, and a “sag wagon” support vehicle. Post ride dinner at the Gem State Grill is only $10. The ride starts at 8 am at the St. Maries Masonic Temple on the corner of 8th Street and College Ave. Number pick-up and day-of registration opens at 6 am. More info: 208-582-0520 or http:// www.pedalmettle.com. //
July 31, Aug 7, Aug 14: Hot Summer Nights more info at
www.runnersoul.com Spokane's only running specialty store.
221 N. Wall St. 509.624.7654
Blazing Saddles Ride Spices up Colville If you’ve been hankering for a scenic road-
Trails Need Love Too The Washington Trails Association has sev-
eral trail improvement projects scheduled for this summer and fall in the Spokane area and on the Colville National Forest. Volunteers are crucial for keeping our trails in good shape, as the government agencies that manage our parks and recreation lands continue to face declining budgets. Head up to Mount Spokane State Park and lend a hand with a bridge building project along Trail 100 above the Kit Carson Loop Trail. Three work
days are planned: August 1, 5, and 15th. If backcountry trails are more your thing, WTA has a 3 day/2 night backpack trip planned on the Shedroof Divide Trail in the Salmo Priest Wilderness north of Spokane. Hike the wilderness and help clear logs and debris from the trail and make other trail repairs. For more information on other WTA trail projects or to sign up for one of these, visit www.wta.org/volunteer/trailwork-parties. //
bike ride through Northeast Washington and a belly full of beans, the first annual Blazing Saddles Bike Ride and Northwest International Chili Cook-off hosted by the Rotary Club of Colville is set for September 21. The ride will offer a Century (100 miles), a Metric-Century (65 miles), a 40 mile route, and a 20 mile Family Fun Ride. All rides are fully supported including mechanical and medical sweeps. All routes finish at the Northwest International Chili Cook-off at the NE WA Fairgrounds in Colville. Registered riders receive a commemorative long sleeve T-shirt and a ticket good for the cook off. Friends and family are encouraged to
come cheer you on and additional meal tickets can be purchased at the finish line. Rotary International is a service organization that encourages high ethical standards in all vocations, and provides humanitarian services in an effort to build goodwill and peace in the world. The Blazing Saddles Bike Ride and the Northwest International Chili Cook-off proceeds will all go toward local community projects, including building a more bicycle friendly community. More information, including the routes and elevation profiles (with links to online registration) as well as volunteer opportunities can be found at blazing100.org or at facebook.com/ BlazingSaddlesBikeRide. // august 2013
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Health andFitness good hydration
It’s More Than Just Water / By S. Michal Bennett It is a fact: we are dependent on water. The
human body consists of about 55% to 75% water—that’s about 10 to 12 gallons inside your body! Without it, the body quickly shuts down. Water: Nature’s Wonder Drink
Every cell, tissue and organ in your body contains water. Water serves to remove waste, control body temperature, manage blood pressure, keep skin moisturized, lubricate joints and maintain a healthy metabolism. Although sports drinks have become a popular “substitute”, water is still the optimal drink
water bottle on the shore and remember to frequently hydrate during long periods of activity. Food: The Juicy Truth
Moisture in food accounts for about 20% of your daily water intake. And you’d be surprised by how much water is in the foods you eat every day: a plain bagel (33% water), ground beef (56%), cheese (39%). But, there are healthier, more luscious foods out there for your hydrating pleasure. Here are my top picks: •Cucumbers (96.7% water)
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge.
other body fluids that carry an electric charge. They are vital to optimal health, affecting the amount of water in your body, the acidity of your blood (pH), your muscle function and other important processes. Common electrolytes are calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium. When you sweat, you lose electrolytes, and it is important to replace them, especially if you are vigorously active in the summer heat. However, most conventional sports hydration drinks, in addition to containing electrolytes, contain artificial colors and flavors, as well as large amounts of sugar or artificial sweetener. While these “flavorful” ingredients may cause us to consume more of these drinks, simple electrolytes and even coconut water are better and more efficient at hydrating our bodies. Here are a few of my favorite hydrating drinks:
for proper rehydration. And it doesn’t contain additional calories. There are varying opinions regarding the amount of water a person should drink in a day, but as we spend more time in the sun, on the water and outside, the amount of fluids we need significantly increases. In fact, in hot, humid conditions, you can become dehydrated in as quickly as 30 minutes. So, don’t forget your
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Out There Monthly / august 2013
• (94.5% water) •Salad Greens (95% water, <15 calories/2 cups) •Watermelon (91.5% water) •Strawberries (91% water & high in Vitamin C) •Cantaloupe (90.5% water)
•Lyte Balance Electrolyte Concentrate •Ultima Replinisher’s Grape Flavored Drink Powder •Harmless Harvest’s 100% Raw Coconut Water // Learn more about electrolytes and staying hydrated this summer with these resources:
Electrolytes: Keep It Simple
MedlinePlus, “Electrolytes”, www.nlm.nih.gov/
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and
medlineplus/
WebMD, “The Quest for Hydration” & “Water Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Hydration?”, www.webmd.com Senseable Supplements, www.senseablesupplements.com
Summer Hydration Tips Find plain water boring? Squeeze a slice of fresh lemon into your bottle for a refreshing, pH-balancing touch. Try this simple watery snack – sliced strawberries, whole blueberries, diced cucumbers and chopped mint wrapped in a green lettuce leaf. Blend coconut water, spinach, banana and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing summer green smoothie. Experiment with the right balance of different electrolytes that works best for your body
The BE ST selecti
Destinations
on of v intage bikes is at ...
climbing mt. rainier
King of the Cascade Volcanoes / By Peter G. Williams
* Elk Vin tage Cruis er Ride * Septembe r 7, 3PM
Time B
North Face of Mount Rainier // P hoto: Peter G. Williams Mount Rainier is known as the king of the Cascade volcanoes. In addition to a multitude of climbing route options, Mount Rainier National Park and the surrounding environs offer arguably every possible outdoor adventure imaginable. Mount Rainier is the highest volcano in the contiguous United States, and the highest point in the state of Washington, measuring 14,411 feet (4,392 meters) above sea level. The peak can be seen from more than 100 miles in any direction. Mount Rainier and the surrounding peaks and forests were preserved by the establishment of Mount Rainier National Park on March 2, 1899. The Park encompasses 235,000 acres, contains 382 lakes and ponds, and 470 rivers and streams. The forests and alpine meadows around the mountain offer habitat for 787 plant species, 54 mammal species, 130 bird species, and 17 species of reptiles and amphibians. The famous mountaineer Fred Beckey once observed: “The size and complexity of Mount Rainier are difficult to comprehend without personal experience on the mountain, and even then it is often grossly underestimated.” From the air, Beckey went on to say that “Rainier has been likened to an arctic palace floating on a sea of green trees.” Mount Rainier has the single largest glacier system in the contiguous United States, with 26 major glaciers that cover more than 35 square miles.
This grand peak was originally known by the American Indian name Tahoma. After sailing through the Strait of Juan de Fuca in 1792 and observing “the round snowy mountain,” Captain George Vancouver named Mount Rainier for his friend Rear Admiral Peter Rainier. Mount Rainier is known to literally create its own weather, due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean (only 100 miles distant). Standing in the path of prevailing moisture-laden marine winds, Mount Rainier’s weather can be very unpredictable. The mountain has record-setting levels of snowfall, which often reach depths of fifteen to twenty feet at 5,400-foot Paradise Valley. Seemingly perfect days can become cold, windy, and cloudy with little warning. Climbing Mount Rainier requires skill, proper equipment, and excellent physical condition. Although there are numerous routes of varying difficulties, all should be considered hazardous. Over 5,000 people summit Mount Rainier each year, and twice that number attempt the mountain. Roughly 40% of climbers are guided by a professional guiding service. The best time to climb is between May and August. Climbers must purchase a Climbing Pass if climbing above 10,000 feet or on glaciers. It is worth noting that Mount Rainier has been the site of numerous climbing accidents and fatalities. The most common climbing route up Mount Rainier is Disappointment Cleaver on the east
side, which is accessed via Camp Muir from Paradise. Follow the Skyline Trail to Pebble Creek until the trail ends, and then proceed onto the Muir Snowfield. From Camp Muir, the route traverses the Cowlitz Glacier laterally to Cathedral Cap, then traverses the Ingraham Glacier to Disappoint Cleaver. From the cleaver’s head, you continue via Ingraham Glacier to the east crater rim and onward to the summit. The second most popular route is the EmmonsWinthrop Glacier Route on the east side of the mountain. This route is accessed via Camp Schurman at the head of Steamboat Prow. To avoid the crowds, there are numerous other interesting climbing options. On the west side, the Tahoma Glacier route is very direct and is not technically demanding. It climbs the glacier that flows through the narrow gap between Sunset Amphitheater and Tahoma Cleaver. The most popular route on the North Face is the infamous Liberty Ridge route. Ever since its inclusion in Fifty Classic Climbs in North America, many parties have underestimated the length and seriousness of the route. The route is long and steep, with rockfall danger, serious avalanche conditions after fresh snowfall, and no easy escape if caught in bad weather. //
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For additional information, including how to get there, go to www.nps.gov/mora.
Mt. Rainier Hiking / camping options There are also many noteworthy hiking and
camping opportunities in Mt. Rainier National Park that are worth a visit. In the southeast corner of the park is a highly recommended 2 1/2 mile round trip hike to Silver Falls. This enjoyable hike along the Ohanapecosh River culminates with beautiful views of this impressive falls in a very serene wilderness setting.
Just outside the southeast corner of the park, at the base of the west side of White Pass, is the delightful La Wis Wis Campground in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Located on the Ohanapecosh River, this beautiful campground has 105 reservable single sites along with several multi-sites. Many of the sites have a nice isolated feel, and some are right on the river. From
the campground there is also wonderful short hike up Purcell Creek to Grant Purcell Falls, perfectly suited for a family adventure. As a base camp for Mt. Rainier National Park, La Wis Wis Campground provides great access to a multitude of adventures. // Make reservations at: www.reserveamerica.com.
august 2013
/ Out There Monthly
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The Gear Room Jon Wilmot on floating the Spokane River / By Amy Sibernagel McCaffree
Hannah And Aaron float the Spoakne river
Floating the Spokane River during the hottest
days of summer has long been a favored pastime for generations of locals—blow up the big, fat tubes, load up the cooler and the car and go. This process got much easier—no more figuring out tube transport and a shuttle system— thanks to Jon Wilmot and his company, FLOW Adventures, which he founded in 2005. This summer is their first tubing season, providing daily tube rentals and shuttle service to the put-in. “It’s great for our customers. We handle the
guided snowshoe trips and winter backcountry educational courses. Jon, age 43, grew up in Cheney, where as a kid he enjoyed cliff jumping, waterskiing and wakeboarding at Williams and Badger lakes. Life for Jon today still revolves around water, with at least 250 days a year spent within the Spokane River corridor paddling, rafting, standup paddling, tubing, trail running, mountain biking or just helping customers on and off the river. “The most amazing thing I’ve seen on the
“The river is fun and a safe place to play if you use a little common sense and don’t pretend it can’t or wont happen to you- that’s when life usually hands you your biggest lessons.” logistics so they can concentrate on having fun,” says Jon. FLOW stands for “For Love Of Water,” says Jon. “We play in the water all four seasons.” In addition to river tubing, FLOW offers whitewater rafting and inflatable kayak tours on the Spokane River, as well as the Lower Salmon River in Idaho. They also rent rafts and inflatable kayaks. During the winter, the business provides
Spokane River was two Bald Eagles sitting on the rock in the Bowl and Pitcher with three feet of snow on the ground while it was snowing heavily,” he says. When floating the river, the first and foremost safety gear item is a personal flotation device (PFD)—one in good condition that fits well. It’s not just a good idea; it’s required by law to wear a PFD on moving water in Washington State. Other
gear review
Lyte Balance Electrolyte Concentrate/ By Derrick Knowles With so many electrolyte drinks and powders on the market, it can be difficult to make sense of all the claims and know what your body really needs. I’ve flirted with my share of electrolyte products over the years, but have yet to settle down into a monogamous, hydrating partnership with one brand. But I may have found that special someone: Lyte Balance electrolyte concentrate from Liberty Lake based SenseAble Supplements. It seems to have everything I’ve been looking for to meet my hydration needs. Given the salt crystals that form on my bike shirt, backpack, and running shorts after long outings, I need to replenish my sodium. Lyte Balance concentrate, which you add by the capful to water, juice, milk (or other protein drinks), or any other favorite beverage (owner Tim Cunninghamm recommends trying it in beer and coffee), has a light, satisfying salty taste that my brain, and salt stained clothes, tell me I need. It also comes loaded with the other primary electrolytes that the average American is deficient in, including potassium and magnesium. I’ve been trying it now for three weeks in mostly 90 degree Spokane summer heat and have felt hydrated and avoided cramps on several long, sweaty mountain bike rides. I also like the fact that Lyte Balance is pure, plain electrolytes and water. No sugar. No weird colorings or artificial flavorings. It’s like the choose-your-own adventure of electrolyte drinks that you can customize anyway you want. And there’s only one small plastic bottle of concentrated clear liquid that will last you for weeks or months, which eliminates the waste of individual sports drink bottles. The philosophy behind Lyte Balance is also incredibly interesting and well worth reading about on their website: sensablesupplements.com. You can find Lyte Balance at Huckleberry’s, Main Market, and Pilgrim’s Market. //
Contest!
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Out There Monthly / august 2013
recommended gear includes a reliable tube, water bottle, sunscreen, and “most importantly, using footwear because some people think it’s cool to break beer bottles on the rocks,” says Jon. “Be aware of yourself and your surroundings. The river is fun and a safe place to play if you use a little common sense and don’t pretend it can’t or won’t happen to you—that’s when life usually hands you your biggest lessons.” As for safe stretches of the Spokane River for non-technical floating, one is in the valley, from Harvard Road to Plante’s Ferry Park. “There are several put-ins and take-outs in this stretch,” Jon says. The other stretch is in downtown Spokane, from the Sandifur Bridge to the TJ Meenach Bridge area. “You can lengthen the run by going up to Water Ave, but watch out for the mean and nasty bridge abutments,” he says. “Or you can make it longer by floating down to the sewer plant.” While Jon’s summer work days are long and busy, he says, “Ultimately it just comes down to making people’s memories of the Spokane area all about our local rivers and lakes, which takes a ton of logistics, managing staff and the guests’ schedules.” “One of my favorite things to hear guests say is ‘I have lived my whole life in Spokane and have never seen it from this point of view—floating the river.’ The river is why Spokane exists, so I encourage people to get out on your local river and enjoy it. If you have never seen Riverside State Park from the middle of the river, you are missing out.” When Jon isn’t on the river, he enjoys telemark
www.northdivision.com
what’s your gear?
skiing, snowboarding, climbing, mountain biking, trail running, and relaxing on the beach. Portland and the Oregon Coast, Sherman Pass (during winter), the Salmon River (in Idaho), and Washington’s Cascades are some of his favorite locations to venture beyond Spokane.
Here is Jon’s gear list for floating the river. A garbage bag for packing out your trash and a Discover Pass to support Washington State Parks are also recommended by Jon. -----------------------------------------------------PFD: NRS Ninja -----------------------------------------------------Tube TUBE pro 48” with can holder -----------------------------------------------------Kayak: NRS Bandit Inflatable or Wave Sport Project X 48. -----------------------------------------------------Paddle: Werner Double Diamond -----------------------------------------------------Shorts: Patagonia board shorts. -----------------------------------------------------Sandles: Luna Sandals “By far the best I’ve had, and made in Seattle.” -----------------------------------------------------Hat: Sweet Protection helmet (for whitewater rafting) or big sun hat -----------------------------------------------------Sunglasses: Smith Pavilion. //
Fitness Hybrids are Perfect for…
Mini Tri’s, Commuter Biking, and Casual riding. the best selection in town. Flat Repair Class, Saturday August 10th. 9:30AM $5
FIND US ON FACEBOOK Taking great care of the customer and having fun doing it since 1983. North Division Bicycle Shop • 10503 N Division • 467-BIKE (2453)
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Everyday Cyclist Riding the Rails / The idle railroad tracks serve no purpose
now except the one for our group this day. Very little traffic was passing by and yet two people pulled over to satisfy their curiosity. “Are those bicycles? You ride them on the railroad? That’s so cool. I’ve never heard of that before.” Neither had I. Michael Conley, owner of North Division Bicycle Shop, has been rail biking for about sixteen years. He donates a ride to the Bicycle Alliance of Washington where it’s auctioned off to raise money for cycling related advocacy. The highest bidder wins two days of riding for two. Jeff Loomis, of Seattle, won the auction and brought his dad, Jim, up from the Tri-Cities. Along for his second ride ever was Bob Rohde (ro-dee) of Wilbur, Washington. Bob is an avid cyclist who, after hearing about rail biking, tracked down Michael through the Internet. Pat McPhelan, Bob’s friend, came all the way from Vancouver Island, Canada. As a child he was intrigued by a magazine showing a bicycle riding on a railroad track. Now in his 60’s, this is something he’d been dreaming of doing for a lifetime. Mont and Andena Hibbard of Lewiston, Idaho have 13 years of experience with their side-by-side rail bike. We each signed the waiver and Michael received the track warrants, which are permission slips that state the dates, times, and mile marker limits of the track we could be on. While Mont and Andena assembled their rig, Michael showed the rest of us how to affix the runners and outrig-
By Hank Greer looked at the empty track disappearing through the trees behind us, shook my head in disbelief, and started running. After rounding the bend I saw the bike in the distance, the sun glinting off the pedals as they spun backwards. I grabbed the handlebar a quarter of a mile later. If bikes could laugh this one would have complained of stomach cramps. I rejoined the group and was informed that the strap hanging on my handlebar is used to set the rear brake and prevent the bike from rolling. So, yes, I got a workout. And it was pretty funny. What is riding on the railroad like? It’s surprisingly easy given that a bike and gear could weigh in at 60 or more pounds. There are no hills. Well, no steep hills. If you’ve been on the Hiawatha Trail, it has a two percent grade. Now imagine riding that on rails where there’s no rolling resistance. It’s a very smooth and quiet ride punctuated by a mild click-click as the wheel guides pass over the rail joints. As a bonus, the remoteness provides an opportunity to see wildlife. I rode ahead of the group looking for a place to take pictures. When I stopped, my brake squeaked. The noise startled three moose in the brush below me. They took off in a fright, and it sounded like they were destroying everything in their path as they ran away. Along with setting the rear brake for parking, I had to remember to use it for stopping. The front wheel on these bikes is resting on a guide. Twice I ran into a bike ahead of me because I squeezed the front brake out of habit. Another lesson learned. The bikes we were riding, including the Hibbard’s side-by-side, were built by Whitey
I grabbed the handlebar a quarter of a mile later. If bikes could laugh this one would have complained of stomach cramps. gers to the six other bikes and safety pin them in place. Then we loaded up our gear. Coolers and packs were strapped or bungee corded into place. Unlike normal cycling, weight is not an issue. Mont and Andena hauled the chain saw should we come across a fallen tree. A chain saw on a bike ride. That was a first for me. Does rail biking give you a workout? It’s possible. The track we rode had a very gentle climb for the first couple of miles. As we rounded a bend, I spied a shady area ahead and asked if we could stop there. I wanted to set the video camera on the track and get shots of the bikes rolling over it. I stepped off my bike, walked around to the front of the group, and set up the camera. When I returned to the end of the line, something was wrong. “Where’s my bike?” Then I remembered we were on a grade. I
Hartman, of Clarkston, 12-16 years ago. Whitey, 82, said he made his first bike for a friend using plans the friend provided. Both wheels rode on the track, a guide protruded out front, and an outrigger rolled on the opposite rail. Unfortunately, that design allowed the front wheel to slip off the rail, which could send the rider tumbling to the ground. Whitey put the guide under the front wheel and he’s proud to say his bikes are safer and faster than that first one. The logistics of rail biking can be very demanding, but I thought it was worth the serene and peaceful ride. You can learn more about rail biking using any search engine. Please remember that railroad tracks are private property. For your safety do not ride on them without permission. // Watch a video of the ride here: http://vimeo. com/68490046 august 2013 Untitled-1 1
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7/19/2013 11:56:39 AM
History Meets High Adventure
EXPLORE
family hiking up at lookout mountain // by harry neff
Fire Lookouts
By Derrick Knowles
Wherever fire lookouts still stand on exposed mountain tops, they’re a reminder of an era that has nearly faded into history. Throughout much of the last century, watchmen spent days and weeks alone scanning the skyline from glass-windowed towers for signs of smoke from the tops of many of the region’s highest peaks. Fire spotters in airplanes began replacing staffed lookouts decades ago, and today only a fraction of the many fire lookouts that were built over the last 100 years are still standing. Some of these recommended fire lookouts in the Selkirk Mountains have been restored and are available for rent for a unique camping experience. Others are closed to the public 12
Out There Monthly / august 2013
but make for fun, photogenic day hike destinations. A few of the lookouts that made our list are some of the last active fire lookouts in the Northwest that still deploy paid staff and volunteers to keep an eye out for wildfires. Visiting a lookout and getting the chance to chat with a lookout attendant, if they are there and have the time, is an opportunity to experience a piece of living history that won’t be around forever. Whether you drive to the top, day hike in, or pack in to spend the night, exploring our region’s remaining fire lookouts is a wonderful way to experience history and high adventure all in one unforgettable trip.
salmo Mountain Lookout Drive to the top for world-class views The views from the foot of the Salmo Mountain lookout might be the most impressive of any you can drive to in the Inland Northwest. Mountains spread out in every direction, with the dramatic snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the north stealing the show. The lookout building is currently closed to the public and battened down tight to keep vandals and would be squatters at bay, so you’ll have to settle for the 6,828 foot ground level view at the base of the tower, which is darn impressive and well worth the drive. The towering structure, which was built in 1964 and is on the National Historic Lookout Register, is an impressive, photo-worthy sight against a backdrop of mountains and sky. Overnight camping options are available at several National Forest campgrounds nearby on Sullivan Lake, and there are two hiking trails that head off into the Salmo Priest Wilderness at the end of the main forest road #2220 you use to access the spur road to Salmo Mtn Lookout. Trail #506 heads down about 3 miles through old-growth cedar and hemlock along to the South Salmo River and is highly recommended. Trail #535 starts at the same trailhead and works its way up towards the Shedroof Divide in the heart of the surrounding wilderness. The two trails connect into a 21-mile loop and also provide access to the remote Little Snowy Top Lookout, which requires a long day hike or overnight backpack trip to visit.
Getting There:
From Metaline Falls, drive north on Hwy 31 about 2 miles past the Pend Oreille River Road bridge and turn right toward Sullivan Lake. Near the lake, drive east on forest road #22 about 6 miles to the junction with Pass Creek Pass Road. Continue left on road #2220 toward Salmo Mountain. Drive 13 miles to spur road #270 and follow it to the lookout.
Lookout mountain Two lookouts, epic Priest Lake View Lookout Mountain on the northeast side of Priest Lake sports two fire lookouts that can be reached after a moderate hike to the top at 6,727 feet. The mountain’s first lookout was built in 1929—that original schoolhouse looking “cupola” lookout structure is still there, with a relatively new white coat of paint, and is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register. It was restored between 1983-1992. The newer, taller lookout tower next to the original structure is the third of its kind on Lookout Mountain and was assembled there in 1977. The two lookouts are an impressive sight perched on top of the nearly tree-less granite summit and can be seen from miles away. Neither of the lookouts are currently open to the public, unless you happen to arrive when lookout Pam Aunan is at work and can talk her into showing you around. This year will be Pam’s 23rd season on Lookout Mountain. “This is a really special place to me, and I love being here,” Aunan says. “A lot of people from the local area come up with their relatives every few years or so just to climb the mountain and see the lookouts. It’s like a family tradition.” The hike up to Lookout Mountain is 2.5 miles long and climbs approximately 1,500 feet from trailhead to summit. The trail pops out at Lookout Lake after about ¾ of a mile. You get a nice view of the lookouts from the lake, which is a fine place for a shady break before pushing on to the summit. There are also a few lakeside campsites if want
to make it an overnighter. Past the lake the trail mellows for a bit before meeting up with a lightly maintained section of the Pacific Northwest Trail (stay left!). Continue climbing towards the top (the final quarter-mile push is on an old, closed road). At the foot of the lookouts, the views of the Selkirks, Chimney Rock, and Priest Lake are incredible.
Getting There:
Lookout Mountain is on the northeast side of Priest Lake in North Idaho. Get there by heading north from Coolin on the East Lakeshore Road about 27 miles (4 miles past the Lion Head State Park Campground) to Idaho State Forest Road #44. Head up road #44 for 2.5 miles then turn right on road #43 and go for about a ¼ mile then turn left onto road #432. Drive about 3 miles and look for ribbon and a hiker sign that mark the trailhead on your left just before the road ends at a gate. A high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended. The Lookout Mountain hike is # 37 in Rich Landers 100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest book (2nd Edition), where you’ll also find more info on other nearby hiking trails.
Shorty peak Lookout Live like a fire lookout for a night For much of the 20th Century, people were hired to live for the summer in mountain top lookouts like the one on Shorty Peak. They were paid to spend their days scanning the surrounding forests for the first puffs of wildfire smoke. Shorty Peak Lookout is perched high up in the Selkirk Mountains of north Idaho near the Canadian border northwest of Bonners Ferry, Idaho. The Lookout is one of several Forest Service lookouts available as overnight rentals in the region. For a complete list of lookout rentals throughout the Inland Northwest and beyond, visit the Forest Fire Lookout Association link at the end of this article. Once you’ve made the necessary reservations, it’s a 2.5 mile, moderate hike into the lookout with about 1,300 feet of elevation gain. The lookout is a recently refurbished 15X15’ cabin-like building that sits on top of an elevated foundation on 6,515 foot Shorty Peak. Wrap-around decks and windows make for some excellent scenery watching in just about any direction you choose to look, with dramatic peaks of the Selkirk, Purcell, and Cabinet Mountains in three states and BC dominating the horizon. Reservations are required for overnight use, but day hikers can also visit and explore the sights around the restored lookout if no overnight guests have it reserved (check reservation calendar online). Overnight accommodations for up to four people include two twin beds and tables and chairs, but not much else. You’ll need to bring your own water and camping supplies. There’s no electricity, but there is a pit toilet 100 yards away. The price for a night’s stay is a reasonable $25. For reservation availability (July-September) visit www.recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.
continue northeast on road #282 for 4 miles. Park at the trailhead on top of the saddle before the locked gate. Hike 2.5 miles up the trail to the west to reach the lookout.
need of ongoing TLC.
More lookouts in the selkirk mountains
Fire Lookouts of the Northwest and
Use the resources section below or search online for more info about these lookouts, driving directions, and nearby hiking and camping options. Quartz Mountain Lookout—Mount
used online)
The coolest thing about the relocated and beautifully restored Quartz Mountain Lookout is how close it is to Spokane and an incredible network of hiking and biking trails. The only bummer is how quickly reservations to spend the night there fill up.
Forest Fire Lookout Association
Fire Lookout & Hiking Resources: Fire Lookout Books Fire Lookouts of Oregon and Washington, by Ray Kresek (both are out of print but available
Spokane State Park
Hughes Ridge Lookout—Northwest side of Priest Lake Hike ½ mile to the 45-foot lookout tower, which was built in 1953, and is still staffed most of the summer by volunteers.
Little Snowy Top Lookout—Salmo Priest Wilderness
Remote wilderness lookout along the 21-mile Salmo Priest Wilderness loop hiking route. The historic lookout is open to the public, but is in
Firetowers, Lookouts & Rustic Cabins for Rent, by Carolyne Ilona Gatesy (Bear Mountain Press, 1997)
This great organization researches existing and former lookouts and raises funds and organizes volunteers to restore historic lookouts. http://www.firelookout.org
Rex’s Fire Lookout Page Photos, history, geocaching links http://www.firelookout.com
Priestlake.org Great site maintained by the Priest Lake Chamber of Commerce with info on area lookouts, hikes, and events. http://www.priestlake.org.//
pristine quartz moutain sleep-over // by Jon Jonckers
Getting There:
The Idaho Panhandle National Forest offers these rather complex driving directions online: Take Hwy 95 north from the Bonners Ferry Ranger Station for 17 miles. Turn Left onto Hwy 1, head north for 2 miles. Turn left onto county road #45, head west for 4 miles. Stay right at the “T” heading North on road #45 for 9 miles. Stay to the left around the switchback, which puts you on road #281, and head west for 8 miles. Turn up to the right on road #655 and head west 1.5 miles. Stay right again at the switchback, head east 1 mile on road #282. Go straight at the next junction and
Earning the views // by dave vogel
august 2013
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Outdoor Calendar CLIMBING (Ongoing) Vertical Introduction. When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 6 – 8, Saturdays 4 – 6 PM. Where: Wild Walls 202 W. 2nd Ave. In this class you will learn the fundamentals to climb indoors: fitting the harness, knot tying, and proper belay technique. This class (or previous experience and passing our belay test) is a prerequisite for top roping in our facility. Ages 12+, $35. Info: 509-455-9596.
(Ongoing) Introduction to Lead Climbing. When: Last two Tuesdays of
the Month 4 -6 PM. Where: Wild Walls 202 W. 2nd Ave. For climbers looking to further their climbing ability and increase the options available to them, our lead climbing class will prepare you for the world of sport climbing! With an emphasis on safety, you will learn proper technique for both lead belaying and lead climbing, as well as helpful strategies for efficient sport climbing. Experience required, $75. Info: 509-455-9596
(Ongoing Mondays & Wednesdays) Spider Monkeys Climbing Club. When: 5 – 7 PM. Where: Wild Walls, 202 W. 2nd Ave. For kids ages 4 – 10 years. Please call ahead. Come climb and meet new friends! Info: 509-455-9596.
Submit your event at www.outtheremonthly.com
509.270.8347, http://www.spokanerocketvelo.com/races/inland-roadrace-series-general-info
(August 3) 8 Lakes Leg Aches Bike Ride. When: 7am. Where: Group
Health Corp Office - 5615 W Sunset Hwy. Routes: 15, 30, 45 & 75-MILE. 6 Rest/Food Stops. Great SAG Support. Info: www.lcsnw. org/8lakesride, cmckee@lcsnw.org
(August 10-16) Sunny’s Pedal. When: All Day.Where: Spokane, WA - Sun Valley, ID. Cyclists will spend 7 days riding about 580 miles from Spokane, WA to Sun Valley, ID to raise funds and awareness for organ donation. Info: 503-380-9800, www.facebook.com/sunnyspedal. HIKING / WALKING (On-Going) Wed & Sun Hobnailer Hikes. When: Varies. Where: Varies.
Join Hobnailer hiking club for weekly 6-8 mile hikes in the Spokane area. Call 456-0250 for schedule or more information. Info: clcspo@msn.com (August
1-5) Mt Spokane Trail Work.
When: All Day. Where: Mt. Spokane State Park. Join Washington Trails Association for a day of work on trail 100. Info: www.wta.org
(August 15) Slackline Intro. When: 6-7:30pm. Where: Camp Sekani. (August 3) Hikes lead by Idaho Improve your core, strength, balance and Conservation Legue. When:August 3, movement for climbing, fun or everyday life. $15 Info: 509.625.6200, www.spokaneparks.org
CYCLING
4, 10, 17, 25, and 31. Where: Various hikes in North Idaho. Join Idaho Consevation Legue for moderate hikes lead by conservationists. Info: www.idahoconservation.org
(Ongoing) WOW Cycling Spokane. (August 11) Trail construction WOW is excited that Spring is here! along the Little Pend Oreille River Check our FaceBook page for upcom- Refuge with the Washington Trails ing rides and activities! Tailwinds Alliance. When:August 10th, 11th or to you! Info: 509-951-6366, wowcycling.com
(Ongoing) Belles and Baskets. Whatever style your cycle, join other Spokane women for no-drop rides, treats, and friendship. Info: 509-951-4090, facebook.com/bellesandbaskets.
both. Where: Contact WTA for meeting locaiton. This is a weekend work party so you can join us for either one or both days! A camping area will be available for those who want to stay overnight and we will have a BBQ on Saturday evening for everyone. Tools and hardhats provided. Info: www.wta. org/volunteer/trail-work-parties
(Ongoing) BOMB Mountain Bike Rides. When: Varies. Where: Spokane PADDLING
Area. Spokane BOMB (Believers On Mountain Bikes) is a non-denominational Christian group leading rides in the Spokane area April-October. Everyone welcome, helmets required. Info: www. spokanebomb.com
(April - August) Baddlands Cooper Jones Twilight Series Races. When:
Tuesday evenings at 6 PM. Where: Cheney, Spokane, Rathdrum, Liberty Lake, Steptoe Butte. USAC Sanctioned bicycle racing. Info: 509456-0432, baddlands.org.
(August 1) Paddling Basics. When: 7 p.m. Where: REI Spokane, 1125 N
Monroe. Before you head out on the water, learn the paddling basics. This program offers an overview of information on Canoes, Kayaks and Stand-up Paddleboards and equipment. Register at rei.com/Spokane Info:509-844-8354, rei. com/Spokane.
(August 1&8) Aloha Race Series, Stand up paddle board event. 6:30 pm. Where: Nine Mile. Obstacle course race events, do all four, get a t-shirt. Info:
(May through August) The Inland 509-325-9000, mountaingear.com/retail. Road Race Series. When: 11 a.m.
Where: 14
Inland
Northwest.
Out There Monthly / august 2013
Info:
SIXMONTHTRAININGCALENDAR CYCLING
both climax with their climbs up and over Mt Spokane. Info: www.mtspokane50k.blogspot.com/
(September 4-5) Iron core racing summit or bust . 8.5 mile run up to kelloge peak, bike back (October 12) Battle Back for Mac down. info: Silver Mountain Sports Attack; Steptoe Kicked My Butte Info: 208-699-9998 (208) 783-1517 (September 8) Spokefest. Various (October 12) THE 9’ER (CMRS length bike ride celebrating 2013). Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.The Spokane. Info: www.Spokefest.org 9’er is a challenging and beautiful nine mile trail run on Canfield (September 14-15) Bike MS. Ride Mountain. All dirt course. Info: around Lake Coeur d’Alene. Two www.ironcoreracing.com ride options: One Day: 84 Miles MARATHONS Two Day: 150 Miles. BikeMS.org. (September 21) Blazing Saddles at the Colville Fairgrounds. Century/ Metric Century/40 miles and Family fun 20 Mile. Info: www.facebook. com/BlazingSaddlesBikeRide. (September 28) CdA GranFondo. Ride around Lake Coeur d’Alene followed by post-ride Oktoberfest. 108 miles, 84 miles, 47 miles*, 37 miles** and 15 miles options. Info: CdAGranFondo.com.
(September 7) Lake Chelan Marathon, Half-Marathon, 10K. Info: www.lakechelanmarathon. com/ (September 28) Methow Duathlon. Winthrop WA, 2nd Annual Methow Valley Off-Road Duathlon, 40km Mtn Bike & 10Km Trailrun held at Sun Mountain/MVSTA trails. Info: www.methowduathlon.blogspot. com/
(October 13) Spokane Marathon. Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay & 10k. Info: www. (September 28) Speedy 10K. Spokane Raceway Park. Flat and spokanemarathon.us Fast. Info: www.speedy10k.com TRIATHLON / MULTI-SPORT (September 21) 2013-Odessa “Deutschesfest Fun Run” 5K and (September 1) Annual Steve Braun 10K. Run at 8:30. Info: www.vis- Memorial Triathlon. At the Cascade Lake Picnic Area Moran State Park itlincolncountywashington.com/ on Orcas Island.½ mile swim in (September 21)River Run Half- beautiful Cascade Lake 15 mile Marathon, 10K, 5K, Wenatchee, bike ride along a scenic rural road Wash. Info: www.runwenatchee. 3.5 mile trail run around Cascade Lake. com/ RUNNING
(September 21)50K/25K Cle Elum, (September 7) Tsunami Sprint at WA Info: www.rainshadow-run- the Kalispel Powwow Grounds. Info: www.tsunamisprint.com ning.blogspot.com 7)Palouse Sprint (November 28) Turkey on the Run, (September Triathlon Info: The Palouse Sprint Wenatchee, Wash. Info: www.run- Triathlon is a sprint distance triwenatchee.com/ athlon held in Moscow, Idaho every fall. The race distance and (September 28) Almira Country environment are perfect for beginFair “ACFun Run” 5K. Run at 8:30. ners. Info: http://www.palousetri. Info: www.visitlincolncountywash- com/ ington.com/ 26) Halloween at Hells (October 5) Sekani Trail Run at (October This race is held at Hells Gate Gate. Camp Sekani, Info: www.active. State Park Lewiston Idaho. 1/2 com/running/spokane-wa/sekani- Marathon this course is rated as trail-run-2013 difficult. Info: www.trailmaniacs. com/ (October 5) The 50k and 25k courses
Have an Event You Would Like to List? // Please visit www.outtheremonthly.com and click the “Submit Your Event” link. // Events MUST be sent in by the 20th of the month to be listed in the following month’s issue. Please follow the when, where format as seen in the calendar. Ongoing events need to be re-submitted each month.
Outdoor Calendar ID. 200 mile overnight running relay from atop Mt. Spokane, down 50 miles of Centennial Trail and finishing on the beach in beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho. Info: info@cascaderelays.com, www.spokanetosandpoint.com
(August 4) Kayak Horseshoe Lake. When:1-5pm. Where:Horseshoe Lake.
(Aug 24) 5K/10K trail run. 9am.
(August 12-31 or 13-31) Rowing for Beginners. When: 6-7:30pm, 9-11am. Where: Spokane River Rowing
(August 31) Seven Bays “The Seven K at Seven Bays” 7K. Run at 8:00am.
Lozeau Exit 55, MT. Exciting class III whitewater rafting with lunch buffet, gear, guides and rapids. Camp for free! $47. Info:509.625.6200, spokaneparks.org.
Enjoy the grace of your sleek kayak passing through the water to a 50’ waterfall feeding this jewel of a lake. $27Info: 509.625.6200, spokaneparks.org.
Where: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. 2nd annual CMRS 5K/10K trail run on Canfield Mountain. Single track, some wide trail. All natural course. All natural beauty. Love the challenge. Be inspired. Info: www.ironcoreracing.com
Boathouse. Learn the necessary skills to get you familiar with the great sport of rowing in this 3-wk course. Info: 509.625.6200, spokaneparks.org.
Info: www.visitlincolncountywashington. com
(August 10) Canoe Paddle Little Spokane River. When:1-5pm. Where: Little Spokane, Nine Mile Falls. Paddle
(August 8) West Plains Wunder Woman Triathlon. When: 7:30. Where:
the beautiful Little Spokane River, watching for deer, beaver, otter and other wildlife on this scenic tour. $29. Info: 509.625.6200, spokaneparks.org.
Waterfront Park. Medical Lake. Women’s Sprint and Olympic distance triathlons starting and finishing in beautiful Medical Lake, with country roads for the bike. Info: marla@emdesports.com
(August 14) Spokane Water Trail Presentation. When: 7 p.m. Where:
(August 10) Scenic Challenge Triathalon. Where: Coeur d’Alene City
TRIATHLON / MULTI-SPORT
REI Spokane, 1125 N Monroe. Join the Spokane River Forum to find out more about how to recreate on one of our region’s greatest assets, the Spokane River. Visit spokanewatertrail.org to find out more. Register for the presentation at rei.com/Spokane. Info: 509-844-8354, rei.com/Spokane.
Park. The Coeur d’Alene Triathlon and Duathlon is one of the most scenic races in the Northwest. Finish line in the Coeur d’Alene City Park. Info: www.cdatri.wpengine.com/
(August 18) Pangaea Clark Fork River Moonlight Float. 9:00 PM.
(August 2-4) Yogafest. When: 2:00pm August 2nd. Where: The Eureka Center,
RUNNING (Ongoing) Fat Ass Trail Runs. When: Varies. Where: Washington/Idaho. We
meet 1-2 times per month for a trail run. FAT ASS is the name given to a series of low key runs that are frequented by experienced runners & walkers and characterized by the phrase “No Fees, No Awards, No Aid, No Wimps”. Info: 208-457-2726, facebook.com/TrailManiacs
(Aug 4) Chewelah Peak Trail Run. When: 10am Where: 49 degrees
North.10M and 3.5M. Info: cptrailrun.com
(August 11) Angels Staircase 60K/ 35K. Where: Carlton WA. Angels
Staircase offers great views of the surrounding North Cascades Mountains, including Glacier Peak, and the Methow River and Lake Chelan Valleys. Info: www. rainshadow-running.blogspot.com/
(August 16-17) Spokane to Sandpoint Relay. When: All Day. Where: Spokane, WA to Sandpoint,
6162 Eureka Dr, Sagle, ID. The Northwest Yoga Fest offers a captivating weekend of fun and enrichment for the body, mind and spirit. In addition to plenty of Yoga time there will be several speakers, musicians and other activities including, a sacred journey through the 4 directions, chakra painting, Yoga trance dance, conscious movement training, aerobatics, body and sound healing. Info: info@eureka-institute. org, 208-265-4000.
EVENTS / MOVIES / MISC (Ongoing) Spokane Table Tennis Club. When: Wednesday from 6:30PM - 9PM. Where: Southside Senior & Community Center, 3151 East 27th Avenue. Ping pong club plays every Wednseday. $2/ visit. 456-3581.
(August 8) GoPro Basics. When: 7 p.m. Where: REI Spokane, 1125 N
Monroe. Looking to get a GoPro, or you have one and would like some insight into best practices for capturing your life’s most exciting moments? Join our GoPro experts for this class and Get to Know Your GoPro. We will focus on the camera’s user interface, video. Info: 509-8448354, rei.com/Spokane.
(August 17) DIY Skin Care with Monique Kovalenko. Saturday from
11:00 to 1:00. Where: Sun People Dry Goods. In this workshop we’ll talk about extremely simple skin care routines for healthy skin, ingredients you already have at home. You’ll head home with recipes, new knowledge, and also some deodorant and face toner we’ll make in class. Cost: $20 Info: 509.368.9378, www.sunpeopledrygoods.com.
(August 31) Juniper Jam. Saturday, Labor Day Weekend, August 31. Where: Wallowa County Fairgrounds in Enterprise, Oregon. The sweetest little music festival in Eastern Oregon!. This fun-filled day of music starts at noon and continues non-stop all day until about 10:00 PM. Festival-goers will enjoy many styles of music including folk, country, Americana and blues, as well as great food and drink, plus children’s activities. Tickets for the event are $15, kids six and under are free. Info: 541-426-3390, juniperjam.com.
OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Where: Clark Fork River Pangaea created a special night of music, food, wine and moon light on the Clark Fork River. Info: http://www.leaveboringbehind.com/ moonlightfloat.html or call (877) 2392392, www.montanariverrafting.com
YOGA
Learning Center 8706 E Upriver Dr. Join us at the OLC for our Open House! Come see the animals, tour the center, and much more! Info:509-340-1028, www.olc.wvsd.org.
AUG 2013
(August 4, 17, 18) Raft Trip Clark Fork River. When: 9am-2:30pm. Where:
(August 16th) Open House. When: 11 AM - 2 PM. Where: West Valley Outdoor august 2013
/ Out There Monthly
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Mountain Bikes Take ove r Sk i Tow n s
By Derrick Knowles
When the snow disappears each year, many ski resorts and mountain towns throughout North America shift gears. They’ve learned to lure valley dwellers back up to the mountains with their bikes to pursue flowy ribbons of dirt and heart-pounding descents. Several Inland Northwest area ski resorts have been slowly heading that direction for years, while others haven’t quite jumped on the mountain bike bandwagon yet. For fat tired riders of all skill levels and abilities, these three regional ski resorts and ski towns offer the summertime equivalent of carving sweet turns down a mountain slope. Schweitzer Mountain Resort/Sandpoint, ID
Schweitzer Mountain Resort boasts over two dozen trails open to mountain bikes as well as several hiker only trails. Some trails like Bear Grass Cruiser, Redemption and The Collector are downhill only, while others, like many of the 30 plus miles of cross-country trails, allow both uphill and downhill traffic. For those who prefer to spend less time pedaling and more time rolling down 1,700 feet of expert, intermediate, and beginner trails, the Great Escape Quad is there to aid the uphill haul. “Bear Grass Cruiser is the most popular trail
on the mountain,” says Schweitzer Marketing Manager and rider Sean Briggs. “It’s a long, flowy trail with great views of the lake that’s perfect for beginner and intermediate riders.” Briggs reports that new wooden bridges have been added to the trail this season that provide an additional challenge for more advanced riders. Each of the constructed features also have “go around” trails for anyone who prefers to keep their wheels closer to the ground. For people who are new to mountain biking or feel like their riding skills aren’t up to snuff enough to ride the trails at a ski resort, nothing beats watching others ride and survive a trail first. Schweitzer recently posted a video of two very happy looking riders enjoying the heck out of the Bear Grass Cruiser Trail on the mountain biking page at schweitzer.com. This is a trail that just about anyone with basic mountain biking experience can have a great time on. See for yourself. For riders who want to turn it up a notch, Collector is the new favorite intermediate to expert trail, according to Briggs. “It’s a super fast and flowy trail with 8 bridges and several freeride features,” he says. Whatever trails you choose to ride, Schweitzer’s views of the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains and Lake Pend Oreille make for some
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Out There Monthly / august 2013
pretty scenic singletrack riding. The resort is open daily through Labor Day Weekend, with lift access available from 11-5. A one-time lift pass is $12 and unlimited lift trips costs $20. The cross-country trail system, which can be ridden right out of the Village, is free and open to anyone who wants to come up and ride the trails. Rental bikes and other gear are also available at the Rental Shop. More info to plan your next Schweitzer Resort MTB bike trip at www.schweitzer.com or call 208-255-3081. Silver Mountain Resort/Kellogg, Idaho
Silver Mountain has been slowly and quietly making improvements to their bike trails over the last couple of years, but big changes and additions to the trail system are reportedly in the works. “A lot of stuff is happening behind the scenes now, and by next year, it should be a whole new vibe here,” says Silver Mountain Resort Marketing Coordinator and avid rider Willy Bartlett. Silver already boasts 30 plus miles of downhill and cross-country biking trails with 3,400 feet of vertical, including a new 6-mile, intermediate and beginner cross-country trail down to Chair 3. A new 2-mile expert technical downhill trail is also under construction this summer in the Chair 3 basin. A lot of work has been done on existing trails, according to Bartlett. “We did a total rebuild on Hammer,” he says. “Our focus is on smoother, flowy, berm-to-berm trails, but we also worked on and built up the jump lines to make them bigger but also safer.” But the major improvements Bartlett is so excited about will get underway this fall when they begin inventorying and re-mapping the entire trail network on the mountain. “We’ve been restructuring and rebuilding some of our older trails, and we are just now getting serious about building more new trails,” he says. With an expanded trail crew, Bartlett hopes to build trails that will appeal to a wide range of riders. “We definitely cater to the gravity crowd, but we’re also putting in mellower trails. We’re in the beginning phase of making Silver Mountain into a major mountain biking destination.” The gondola runs Friday 11-8, Saturday 9:305, and Sunday-Tuesday 9:30-4 through Labor Day Weekend, then on weekends only through September. Chair 3 is open through August on weekends only. A gondola and bike trail pass for the day is $33. To keep in the loop on Silver MTB happenings, find them on Facebook at: facebook. com/silvermountainresort Also check out a sneak preview of an upcoming video about riding at Silver from Ride My Domain at http://vimeo.com/70166422 For info about bike and other gear rentals call Silver Mountain Sports at (208) 783-1517. Red Mountain/Rossland, BC
Rossland, BC is starting to feel more like a bike town than a ski town, which is hard to imagine given the frequent deep powder dumps Red Mountain Resort has become known for during the dark, cold months. But it’s true. Local riders and the Kootenay Columbia Trails Society have built such an amazing network of over 100 miles of brilliant, beautiful trails in recent years, that the possibilities for exploring long loops of righteous singletrack right out of town could eat up a good chunk of your summer vacation. Many of the trails wind up above town towards Red Mountain Resort and include a mix of technical and intermediate singletrack along with a surprising number of beginner trails. The acclaimed 35km IMBA Epic Seven Summits Trail carves a path from Nancy Greene Pass to just about the U.S. border, including a stretch along the edge of
photos courtsey of Justin miller www.ride mydomain.com
the ski runs at Red. While the ski resort doesn’t offer summertime lift service for biking and hasn’t yet jumped into the business of developing biking trails, relatively new trails like Red Top, the Redhead Loop, and reportedly others have started creeping their way up towards the ski resort from town. Trails literally surround the town of Rossland and connect with the trails that climb up around the ski hill. It’s quite easy to get disoriented by the maze of trails and to wander until you discover new trails you’ve never ridden before that take you to cool places you didn’t know existed. So if you’re the kind of person that likes to pick a route and stick to it, I highly advise stopping in at Revolution Cycles on Columbia Ave downtown to get a trail map and the latest trail beta. You can also arrange your shuttle for the Seven Summits Trail, rent or repair bikes or purchase gear there as well. More info on riding in Rossland at: www.revolutioncycles.ca/ and www.rosslandtrails.ca. //
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2013 Newport Autumn Bloom 5K & 10K Fun Run Newport Hospital & Health Services Foundation
l
(Corner of 1st St. and Washington Ave.)
Tourism support for 2013 Autumn Bloom is provided by City of Newport Hotel/Motel Tax Funds.
Hot Tub and Sauna
Hiking and Biking Trails Volleyball
Newport, WA
Register online at Active.com or download registration form at www.phd1.org. Pre-registration Deadline: 9/16/2013
Bocce
Playground
September 21, 2013 T.J. Kelly Park 9AM
10 K is a Second Seed Qualifier for Bloomsday 2014!
Contact:
Jenny Houck, Foundation Director Telephone: 509.447.7928
On-site Registration: 7:30AM - 8:30AM
Email: jhouck@nhhsqualitycare.org
NOw Open
Wednesdays & Saturdays The Spokane Farmers' Market starts it's 15th year of bringing local, fresh foods to Spokane. Located on 5th Avenue between Division and Browne Street. Featuring Spokane’s finest Local, Natural and Organic: bountiful farm-fresh produce, fresh baked bread & pastries, beef, pork, lamb, poultry, eggs, honey, fruit, and much, much more!
8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (509) 995-0182 www.spokanefarmersmarket.org We accept: Visa/Mastercard, Food Stamps (EBT), WIC
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Last Page surf’s up on inland waterways Wake Surfing Takes Off / By Brad Naccarato
photo curtsey of Brad Naccarato
The bow of the boat is slowly sinking down into the water as my friend Chris fills the internal ballast tanks of his 2008 Malibu Wakesetter with river water. “We need about 1,000 pounds of weight to get the wave height dialed in just right” says Chris. Within minutes the boat’s internal pumps have filled the tanks to capacity, and we are ready to shred our first surf session of the season…and we’re hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean. Wakesurfing (similar to, but not the same sport as, wakeboarding) is taking off all over the country and now represents the fastest growing segment of all boat-based water sports. How does someone surf behind a boat you might ask? Typically, the rider trails behind the boat, surfing the boat’s wake without being directly attached to the boat. With the use of weight created by the boat’s internal holding tanks, the wake coming off of the rear of
the boat is maximized and mimics the look and feel of an actual ocean wave. After getting up on the wave by use of a tow rope, riders drop the rope and surf the steep face below the wave’s peak in a fashion reminiscent of ocean surfing. Sitting in the warm summer water of the Pend Orielle river, I get my feet set on the board, position my body directly behind the boat, grab the rope and yell “hit it!” The boat powers me up onto a plane and within seconds a massive wall of water is building off of the toe side of my surf board. And then that magical moment happens: the face of the wave grabs the board, the rope goes slack, and you are free from the boat, riding purely on the power of the wave. Staying within the small window of the wave’s power is no easy feat though. A delicate balance of weight distribution is needed to hold your position on the face—especially as you
begin to explore the crest and trough of the wave. After holding steady on the wave for a few minutes, I’m feeling a little confidence, so I inch my weight to the front of the board and begin to descend down into the trough of the wave. Easing off the front of the board, I quickly ascend back to the crest of the wave. Feeling exhilaration and accomplishment, I’m ready to hit the trough again, but even faster and deeper this time. “Keep your weight forward” Chris yells from the back of boat. I shift my weight aggressively to the front of the board this time, and it darts directly down towards the trough. Gaining speed quickly, I somehow know that this is not going to end well. Just then, the nose of my board dives underwater and… SLAM! I hit the drink. Ride over. The origins of wakesurfing are somewhat disputed with multiple people and companies claiming to be at the genesis of the sport. Footage from the 50’s and 60’s shows ocean surfers experimenting with regular surfboards behind motor boats, but at the time it was more of a gimmick than a serious attempt to develop a new genre of surfing. Nevertheless, the sport never really separated itself and remained a quirky appendage of ocean surfing until wakeboarding began to grow in popularity beginning in the late 80s and early 90s. As a result of technology to increase the size of wakeboarding wakes, the opportunity to reintroduce wakesurfing to the mass market was seized upon by several sport pioneers starting around 2002. The sport gradually gained momentum with each passing year as several inboard boat manufacturers began marketing boats specifi-
cally used for wakesurfing. Wakesurfers generally use special boards, usually five feet or shorter. In fact, wakesurf boards have now become a major category for watersports retailers across the country. “Wakesurf boards represent at least 30% of our total watersports sales for the season” says Eli Coski, Manager of Wintersport, one of Spokane’s leading water sports retailers. “At least 50% of our customer base are now participating in the sport, and they are purchasing multiple boards as part of quiver for different surfing styles and abilities” adds Coski. So of course, a major barrier to participating in this sport is having access to a surfing specific boat. If you are not quite ready to drop 50K on one of these beauties, you can always hit up Gared Schneider of “Hayden Wake” watersports school in Hayden Lake, Idaho. Gared charges $125 p/h (minimum 2hrs.) for use of the boat, gas, gear, and surf lessons. You can go solo or you can split the time and cost with your buddies (up to 13 at a time). “We have taught a ton of people to wakesurf, from ages 4 all the way up to 70,” says Schneider. Hayden Wake, in their seventh season of operation, also runs various kids camps throughout the summer. For more info call: 208-659-4411 or info@haydenwake.com It should be noted that the only boats that are safe and legal to surf behind are inboard boats. Inboard boats have a prop orientation that is directly under the middle of the boat. Surfing behind a stern drive or outboard boat is extremely dangerous as the rider is exposed to the prop in the event of a fall. While boat and other cost barriers have made this sport somewhat limited to the masses, wakesurfing has given many landlocked folks the opportunity to experience the excitement and exhilaration or “stoke” that can only be found in the power of a wave. //
2013
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Meet TevaSphere, an outdoor cross-trainer that isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afraid to stray from the norm. Its groundbreaking heel and pod-arch system supports the way your body moves naturally. Now you can change your shoe instead of your stride.
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Marmot Limelight 2 Reg $218.95 SALE $159.94
Full-service shop, rentals, demos, classes and an experienced staff!
Time to
Mountain Hardwear Pinole 20 Reg $110.00 SALE $74.98
get out and play!
Osprey Packs Viva 50 & Volt 60 $179.00
Whatever your adventure Stop in today for the latest gear
Camptime Roll A Stool $23.95
Oboz Men’s & Women’s Sawtooth Mid Boot $139.95
Biolite Campstove $129.00
Bending Branches Arrow Paddle $84.95 Black Diamond Cosmo Headlamp Reg $29.95 SALE $19.98 We-no-nah Northfork $999.00
Photo: Jim Rueckel
NRS Vista PFD $84.95
Current Designs Solara $599
August Classes
Bending Branches Whisper II Paddle $59.95
Rec & Tour Kayak
Discover Rock Climbing
Kayak classes covering all the boat safety and handling skills needed to get you ready for a recreational day on the lake or a tour of the San Juans!
For those who wish to try climbing, as well as for parents wishing to get their young ones climbing safely.
8.10
8.15, 8.27 6 pm Rec class: 10-12 pm $30 Tour class: 1-5 pm $50 Top Rope Anchors
$20
Learn to set up a top rope on bolts, equalize and evaluate an anchor, then climb on your anchors.
8.11
12 pm
$40
For a complete list of class descriptions, events and information, contact us: 2002 N Division, Spokane • 509.325.9000
mountaingear.com/retail Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am-8 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm
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