On th e Mounta in: S k i / S n o w b o a r d S p e c i a l S e c t i o n P g . 3 5 MARCH 2020 // FREE
THE INLAND PACIFIC NORTHWEST GUIDE TO ADVENTURE + TRAVEL + CULTURE
INLAND NW
RACE
Ride & Event Guide
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MARCH 2020 WWW.OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM PUBLISHERS
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I N T R O Dangerous Things By Derrick Knowles, Publisher THERE ARE MANY THINGS that can snatch
the life from outdoors lovers no matter how prepared they are: keeper holes that don’t let go until it’s too late, falling rock or a forgotten knot, two wheels colliding with four, a turn down the wrong trail in the middle of nowhere, and, although extremely rare, the managed and decidedly safe snow at the local ski hill. The last time I saw Carl was along Idaho’s Lochsa River almost four years ago. We were driving with our then 1-year-old son along Highway 12 headed for a hike when a hitchhiking kayaker caught our attention. It was mid-week in May and the river and
road were mostly empty. We pulled over and offered the stranger a ride, but it turned out not to be a stranger after all. It was Carl, a fixture in the Inland Northwest outdoors community. We gave him a shuttle upriver so that he could make another solo run down the Lochsa’s wild, spring whitewater. On that brief ride together, we swapped life updates and stories of recent adventures, promising to float or ride together soon. Unfortunately, I never made the time to make those outings happen. Fast forward to January 2020. A sick feeling flooded my senses after hearing about the skiers who had just lost their lives in the Silver Mountain avalanche and the pain their
family and friends were going through. Then with the release of the names—Scott Parsons, Molly Hubbard, and Carl Humphreys—it felt a lot worse. I had only hung out with Carl a handful of times since first meeting on the Spokane River 15 years ago, but his passion for getting so many days out on water, bike, or skis and his friendly, fun-loving personality were legendary. There are many dangerous things in the places where we play that could cut our adventures short one day. But there are serious dangers lurking on the edges of our everyday lives too. And I’m not talking about our daily car rides or the diabetes and heart
disease-inducing American lifestyle (some of the biggest killers that should really concern us). The everyday peril that sneaks up on us is the missed opportunity to connect with friends and family and get outside to our favorite places while we can. That turned down invite to go mountain biking or join on a surf trip. Choosing work or sleep over a powder day or backyard barbeque with friends. It sure feels true to me that some of the most dangerous things are not doing what we love and never experiencing the elation that time outside with your people can deliver in plenty. And, worst of all, living one day with regret for all those times you could have said yes. //
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7
DISPATCHES LONG-TIME GEAR SHOP CHANGES HANDS SANDPOINT, IDAHO.
Downtown Sandpoint’s Outdoor Experience, or OE as it’s known to many of the outdoor gear store’s customers, has been a fixture of the community for decades. And thanks to new ownership the shop should be around for years to come. 32-year-old Jenny Curto of Sandpoint stepped up and bought Outdoor Experience from one of the businesses’ founders, Kevin Nye, in May of 2019, ensuring that the shop remains in qualified local hands. Curto, who had worked in the outdoor industry in both retail and for Seattle-based Cascade Designs for 10 years, says she has tried to keep the things people love CHANGING OF THE GUARD AT SANDPOINT'S OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE. // PHOTO: COURTESY OF JENNY CURTO. about the store the same, although she’s excited to expand existing events and gear demos that create community. One of the unique things about the shop, says Curto, is the exceptional customer service and employees who know their stuff. “We kept our entire staff, most of whom have worked at OE for almost the entire existence of the shop, and they have tons of local knowledge about the area, trails, and even recommendations of things like great places to eat.” The shop carries equipment for many different types of outdoor activities, along with outdoor apparel, footwear, kayaks, and Trek bikes, says Curto. “We are the only place in downtown Sandpoint where you can get camping and backpacking gear, specialty running shoes like Hoka and Altra, and just about anything else you would need for any type of outdoor adventure.” And if you need rental gear, OE rents snowshoes, Nordic equipment, bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards. When it comes to community engagement, one of Curto’s passions, the shop is already ramping up its event schedule, including a Monday night group run, backcountry medicine classes, and a backpacking clinic planned for May. Follow the shop’s Facebook page for more event details and sale info. (Derrick Knowles)
NORTH IDAHO CENTENNIAL TRAIL TURNS 30 COEUR D'ALENE, IDAHO
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
2020 marks the 30th Anniversary of the North Idaho Centennial Trail, and the North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation has big plans to mark the event in the coming months. For starters, the group recently published a book titled “North Idaho Centennial Trail: The Trail That Almost Wasn’t.” On the back cover, Idaho governor Brad Little writes, “Decades ago, a group of forwardthinking Idahoans came up with the concept of a paved trail to connect our beautiful state with neighboring Washington, running past some of the most scenic places in all of Idaho. We owe these visionary Idahoans a debt of gratitude.” There will be a book signing event with author Doug Eastwood at The Well-Read Moose in Coeur d’Alene on April 7th. All proceeds from the book will go back to the North Idaho Centennial Trail. In related news, the NICTF is also making big plans for their annual Ales for The Trail bash on August 8, as well as a 30th Anniversary Party in Coeur D’Alene on October 1. Check out the NICTF Facebook page for more details. (Jon Jonckers)
PHOTO: JON JONCKERS
GRAVEL RIDE TO BENEFIT PEND OREILLE PEDALERS SANDPOINT, IDAHO
After a sizeable turnout at the inaugural Three-Quarter Minus Cykeltur gravel ride last year, the event, which benefits the trail building and advocacy group Pend Oreille Pedalers, is poised for another great turnout with plenty of post-ride revelry. “We had 128 people registered last year and were kind of thinking we would only get 50-75 and were pleasantly surprised,” says Charles Mortenson with event sponsor Syringa Cyclery. “People seemed to really like the ride so we are anticipating more riders this year.” The gravel gran fondo set for Saturday, May 2, includes two ride options: a shorter on- hill route (52 miles) or the longer twohill version (72 miles). Both rides provide a great tour of the countryside around Sandpoint, says Mortenson, and have been modified this year to avoid traffic congestion on the way back into town for the finish. The ride includes a mix of surfaces ranging from asphalt, gravel, and dirt, and this year’s long route has added a new 2-mile section of singletrack through the Pine Street Woods. After the ride, participants gather at Matchwood Brewing for food, drink, music, and an awards ceremony. Stay tuned to Syringa Cyclery on Facebook and Instagram or Syringacyclery.com for registration information and more details. (Derrick Knowles) PHOTO: COURTESY OF SYRINGA CYCLERY
STUDY SHOWS TRAILS ARE CRUCIAL OLYMPIA, WASH.
According to the 2019 Executive Summary of the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office, “The analysis on the benefits of trails facilitated by the Recreation and Conservation Office clearly demonstrates that trails are strong economic and health improvement drivers for every corner of Washington. Every county in Washington state benefits from walkers, runners, bikers and backpackers using our beautiful trail systems. Ninety percent of Washington residents participate in nonmotorized recreation annually.” In collaboration with the Washington Trails Association, Washington Bikes, and the University of Washington, the studies looked at the economic, environmental, social and health benefits of trails and recommended that state leaders develop more trails and use them as a way to improve health. In a nutshell, Washington trails contribute more than $8.2 billion dollars to Washington’s economy annually. These same trails support more than 81,000 jobs each year. Best of all, physical activity associated with these trails results in more than $390 million of health savings annually. Fun fact discovered while making this report include: Washington trail use accounts for 1.45% of the 2018 Washington gross domestic product. That means Washington trails created 11 times more GDP than logging, and seven-times more GDP than craft breweries. (Jon Jonckers)
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9
DISPATCHES BASH TO SAVE BEACON SPOKANE, WASH.
If you’re a fan of the incredible trails at Beacon Hill and Camp Sekani, don’t miss this annual party to raise funds in support of the final stage of the Make Beacon Public campaign. Evergreen East’s Spring Kickoff Movie and Fundraiser, held this year on March 29 at the Washington Cracker Company Building downtown Spokane, is a great chance for the region’s mountain biking community to come together for an important cause. Evergreen East members have been working on protecting Beacon’s trail system for over a decade, and now is the time to show public support for a plan to work with local land owners and public lands agencies to protect much of the trail system and connect existing blocks of public land into one larger park. Festivities include food, beer, wine, and a silent auction, as well as a premier of the mountain bike movie “Return to Earth” by Anthill Films. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event may sell out so don’t delay. Tickets available for $15 online. More info at Evergreeneast. org. (OTO) PHOTO COURTESY NORTHWEST TANDEM RALLY
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TANDEMS TAKE OVER CHENEY CHENEY, WASH.
More than 600 tandem cyclists from around the Pacific Northwest are expected to descend on Channeled Scablands for the 35th annual Northwest Tandem Rally July 3-5. The theme for this year’s event is “Wandering the West Plains,” and rides feature tandem-friendly routes through historic communities, scenic byways, and the unique mix of flood-carved landscapes and farmland surrounding Cheney and Eastern Washington University. Organizers note that the selected routes are routinely ridden by area cyclists due to the excellent road surfaces, the endless supply of route options, and low level of vehicle traffic. Participants will travel from British Columbia, California, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and beyond for this annual gathering of tandem cycling enthusiasts. The NWTR offers fully supported rides on well-marked routes that include foodstops and mechanical support. Single-person bikes are also welcome and multiple socials are planned. Organizers are also looking for additional volunteer support as well (email nwtrspokane@gmail.com for details). Info at Https://2020.nwtr.org. (OTO)
LONG-DISTANCE HIKING CONFERENCE IS BACK HAYDEN, IDAHO
For many of us, a pack on our backs and a rugged pair of shoes on our feet is the way to experience the natural world around us. The traveling American Long-Distance Hiking Association West (ALDHA-West) “Ruck” returns to Hayden, Idaho, for its 6th annual conference April 4. The event brings a full day’s worth of backcountry education, trail-stories, and a delicious potato bar at the Eagle’s club center. All who have graced a dirt path, or have the desire to, are encouraged to attend and learn more about our nation’s extensive list of long-distance trails. Whether you are working on cleaning up your triple-crown of the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Appalachian Trail, or are interested in tips on how to pack your new Osprey backpack for the first time, the ALDHA-west ruck will have something to offer you. The day consists of alternating back and forth between a “main-stage” panel of experienced hikers sharing personal experiences and advice, and breakout sessions where you can choose from many of the options, such as individual trail talks or discussions around navigation. The hiking community is one that is not only focused on getting out into nature, but also educating other hikers on practices that allow the next generation to have the same opportunities. This includes a heavy emphasis on “Leave no trace” principles as well as an awareness of how we can support local land conservation efforts. The conference is held on April 4, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Eagles #4080, 1520 West Wyoming Ave, in Hayden, Idaho. For ALDHA-West members, the admission is $20 and $35 for non-members (membership is only $20, so you might as well become an official member while you are at it for the extra $5). Participants are encouraged to bring their full backpacking kit for a pack shakedown. Register now at aldhawest.org to hold your spot. (Tyler McFarland)
RETURN OF THE SWANS CUSICK, WASH.
The annual migration of tundra swans makes a stopover each year in lakes and other waterbodies in Northeast Washington, and one of the best places to witness this dramatic spectacle is in the Pend Oreille River Valley. While you can head out on your own to try to catch site of these large, sparkling white birds, the Tundra Swan Festival in Cusick, Wash., on March 21, affords a chance to come together with other nature lovers to appreciate and learn about these unique animals. Tundra swans, sometimes called “whistling swans” thanks to the characteristic whistling sound made by their wings, have shorter necks than trumpeter swans and like to forage off of the bottom of lakes and other waterways. Calispel Lake near Cusick with its shallow waters is a prime location for viewing these magnificent birds. While organizers of the festival admit that it’s somewhat of a calculated guess when the swans will be most abundant on Calispel Lake, they typically number in the hundreds, and the cacophony of bugling calls and water slapping can be heard from far away when they arrive. The festival kicks off at 10 a.m. with socializing and information and vendor booths, followed by a photography workshop to help participants capture their own images of the animals. Next festival goers get a bus ride to whatever swan viewing locations are most prime. After the tour, there is a lunch back at the Camas Center for Community Wellness, followed by an hour-long presentation on local wildlife projects by wildlife biologist Bart George. Tickets can be purchased separately for the different activities and range from $10 for the tour only, $15 for lunch, and $15 for the workshop and presentation (space is limited). Info: Porta. us/tsf (OTO)
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Hike of the Month
Telford Recreation Area Davenport, Wash. By Holly Weiler
CLASSIC SCABLANDS TERRAIN AWAIT YOUR WANDERING. // PHOTO: HOLLY WEILER
IF YOU'VE DRIVEN WEST on Highway 2 through Davenport on your way to Wilbur and points west, you've seen it. There's a lonely rest stop along Highway 2, and for a long time whenever I passed through I was tempted to pause my road trip and go for a nice long walk through the adjacent landscape of sagebrush with scattered stands of Ponderosa pine. I didn't realize until recently that the majority of the land I could see from the rest stop was actually part of the Telford Recreation Area, acquired by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in 2004. The Telford property spans both sides of Highway 2 and has three distinct trailheads providing recreational access. Two trailheads are located on the north side of Highway 2, and the hike described here utilizes the southernmost trailhead. There are adjacent properties managed by the Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, offering hikers miles of routes to wander among the spring wildflowers and sagebrush. The area is open to hunting in season, along with hiking and dispersed camping. Check hunting seasons before a visit here and wear high visibility clothing. Spring is the ideal time to visit this area. Access to trailheads at higher elevations can yield marginal conditions or may still be snowbound. In the low-lying shrub-steppe landscape around Telford, access is generally good by March, and hikers will likely be able to spot some of the first wildflowers of the season. The nearby seasonal wetlands are wonderful places to linger and watch waterfowl. Be sure to pack binoculars and a camera for a hike here. For this hike, exit the parking area through the green gate near the parking area. Be sure to close all gates after passing through, as the area is used as rangeland. The trailhead kiosk is generally stocked with maps, although it can be a good idea to visit the BLM office in Spokane first to ensure map availability. The BLM map provides an excellent overview for the area, but the addition of a USGS topographical map is advised, as the area does 12
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
not have a marked trail system. The landscape is open and relatively flat, making it an ideal place to practice route-finding skills. The landscape varies from thick stands of sagebrush to open rocky outcroppings covered in bright green lichen. Generally choose the high rocky ground for the best footing, as low areas are frequently marshy in the spring. Travel north through the open landscape until intersecting an old farm road. Along the way pass numerous wetlands with groves of aspen and hawthorn. Then follow the farm road slightly east to reach an old abandoned homestead near a marked spring, complete with derelict vehicles and old farm equipment from an earlier era. Take only photographs as you enjoy imagining what life must have been like when this was still a remote working farm. Retrace the route south to return to the parking area, or extend the hike by following the fence lines along the perimeter of this large property. ROUND-TRIP DISTANCE: Approximately 4.5
miles
RATING: Easy to moderate, although route
finding-skills are necessary ELEVATION GAIN: 300 feet PERMIT REQUIREMENT: None. Discover Pass required for nearby WDFW access areas if extending this hike. MAP: USGS Telford
BLM MAP: GETTING THERE: Turn south on Telford
Road on Highway 2 between Davenport and Creston, just west of the Telford Rest Area. Continue on Telford Road South for just over 5 miles to a BLM parking area with a large kiosk on the east side of the road. SUPPORT LOCAL TRAILS: Join the Washington Trails Association as we resume trailwork at Fishtrap Recreation Area on March 24 and 27.
Holly Weiler leads Washington Trails Association trailwork crews and writes the Hike of the Month for each issue.
NATURE
The Slow Clean Up of Midnite Mine By Adam Gebauer
JUST 45 MILES DOWN STREAM from Spokane sits Midnite Mine, a former uranium mine within the Spokane Tribe of Indians Reservation. Most of us are aware of the long drawn-out effort to clean up the Hanford Nuclear site, and the Midnite Mine sites have faced similar hurdles. Midnite is part of the U.S. uraniummining legacy from the Cold War arms race. It operated from 1955-1965 and again from 1968-1981 until the price of uranium dropped. After abandoning production, mine owners also left open pits of exposed radioactive ore, groundwater contaminated with acid and heavy metals, and a mill site with tailings in the town of Ford. During the height of production, the mine employed nearly 500 people, including many tribal members. The jobs where a boon to the reservation, but the risks of mining radioactive material where less understood in the past and even more poorly communicated to those most at risk. Miners worked without adequate safety gear, bringing dust home on their clothes. Ore was spilled from trucks along the local highways. Midnite Mine is currently owned by Newmont Corporation, which has been working to clean up the site since 2016. In 2018 Newmont petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to relax the clean up standards. They claim that the standards exceed the background radiation levels and reaching those standards would not be feasible without expanding the clean up outside the mine sites. Tribal members are concerned that the petition will slow down an already drawn out process. Since the federal government raised concern about the millions of gallons of contaminated water in the open pit mine in
1988, there have been lawsuits, negotiations, and the designation of a Superfund site. The current plan for remediation is to fill and cap the open pit mines, treat the groundwater, and pump it 7 miles to the Spokane River. Currently the treated ground water is pumped into Blue Creek. Twa-le Abrahamson is a Spokane tribal member and a community organizer with the SHAWL Society, which stands for Sovereignty, Health, Air, Water, and Land. She is concerned about the lack of information being shared by Newmont and the Washington State Department of Health, which deals with contaminants and drinking water quality. She states that the traditional practices of tribal members have been impacted. The land along Blue Creek was used for sweat lodges, and the mouth of the creek along Spokane River is an important traditional fishing ground. There are also herds of elk that frequent the area, and she warns there is limited fencing and signage to warn people. Abrahamson sees much of the remediation focusing on the open pit mine, but she is also worried about the mill site that lies in Ford. She knows families living near the mill site that have found spikes in radiation in their well water. There will be public hearings about Newmont’s petition to reduce the clean up standards. Abrahamson touts the work of the Spokane Riverkeeper and the Upper Columbia United Tribes in supporting the tribe and states that when more concerned parties are at the table, there are more positive results.
T S ZE
Adam Gebauer is a freelance biologist and distracted adventurer. He last wrote about the Othello Sandhill Crane Festival.
URANIUM ON TRIBAL LANDS: A NATIONAL PHENOMENON THE SPOKANE TRIBE OF INDIANS is not the only Native American Tribe to deal
with the legacy of uranium mining. Thousands of Dine (Navajo) in the southwest and Lakota (Sioux) of the Dakotas have been exposed to highly radioactive materials from mining. It wasn’t until the founding of the Environmental Protection Agency in the 1970s that tribes became aware of the dangers of contamination and the effects to air, water, and soil. These tribes have had to deal with radioactive spills, including the 1979 breach of a tailings pond near Church Rock, New Mexico, where 100 tons of radioactive mill waste and 93 millions gallons of acidic contaminated water spilled into the Puerco River. More recently in 2015 the Gold Mill tailing pond spilled into the Animas River in Colorado and affected Navajo farmers growing hay and alfalfa down stream. For more information on local impacts of uranium mining, visit spokaneriverkeeper.org.
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RUN WILD
Refining your Running Gear By Sarah Hauge
I HATE TREADMILLS. I am far from alone on
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this. A treadmill run can be dreary, making you feel like a hamster on a wheel—because basically, that’s what you are. Sometimes, though, a treadmill is just a piece of essential gear, a tool that helps runners get through the often sloppy “shoulder season” bridging from winter to spring. This is what I reminded myself of the other day when I ran on the treadmill in my friend’s garage, unwilling to risk the ankle-twisting ice outside, lurking ominously beneath a thin layer of snow. I relied on another essential piece of “gear” to brighten the gloomy run, an audiobook (Malcolm Gladwell’s Talking to Strangers). As I ran I looked out the small garage window, keeping my mind off the monotony by increasing and decreasing my speed at intervals. There are many running-related conundrums—and many of them can be dealt with via appropriate gear. One chance discovery for me recently was a pair of workout tights with thigh pockets. This small addition (none of my pants had pockets previously) has been a game changer on drizzly and snowy days, protecting my phone from condensation and keeping the battery charge from plummeting in low temperatures. I now own four pairs (mine are Zella brand, 7/8 length)—and have shoved all my other running pants to the back of the dresser drawer. Then there’s eye protection. For years I just sort of squinted and bore it when I ran on bright, sunny days—my regular sunglasses slipped off my nose, and runningspecific shades were out of my price range. Glare off the snow was a significant problem.
No longer! Now I rely on a pair of Goodr glasses (I picked mine up at Fleet Feet; more styles available on goodr.com). They come in many colors, they are polarized, and they don’t slip off my ears or the top of my head when propped up there. Best of all, they cost just $25-35 a pair. Other essentials: a lightweight vest for an extra layer on chilly days. Running tops with thumb holes when it’s not cold enough for gloves, but not warm enough for unprotected digits. AirPods, which I wrote about in a previous gear article. I won’t oversell them by repeating their finer points, but they’ve become an everyday staple and are especially clutch when I’m bundled up for cold or wet weather and don’t want any cords to fumble with. Handwarmers and ski mittens on extremely cold days. And, another recent staple: Balega running socks. For many years I saved money by purchasing “athletic” cotton socks at Costco in bulk, not understanding why running socks were so expensive. Guess what: They cost more because they feel better. They wick moisture and prevent blisters. Now that I’ve tried them, there’s no going back. Today, the slush is melting. The roads are clear enough that I can skip the treadmill and run outside, no need for Icebugs or a vest. It’s overcast, so I’ll also skip the sunglasses. I’ll keep refining my gear stockpile, though. There’s no telling what tomorrow will bring—and I plan to run regardless. Sarah Hauge is a writer and editor who lives in Spokane with her husband and two daughters. She wrote about fascial stretch therapy in the January issue.
LOCAL RUNNER SPOTLIGHT: MATT GROSS
MATT WITH HIS MEDAL. // PHOTO COURTESY OF NEGATIVE SPLIT.
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"In 2014, I started my running journey with signing up for my first race with the Windermere Half Marathon,” says Spokane runner Matt Gross. “My first half marathon finishing time was 2:09, but I was definitely hooked. My fastest half marathon to date is 1:34 with a lot of training. Over the course of the next 6 years, I have completed 38 half marathons and 5 full marathons.” His goal for 2020 is to use Negative split races, including the Negative Split 10k on April 19 and the Windermere Half Marathon May 17, in hopes of qualifying for the Boston Marathon and the Chicago Marathon in October. (OTO)
GEAR ROOM FLYSHACKER FLANNEL
I’m not the kind of person who gets too excited about clothes so was surprised how much I immediately loved the Flyshacker Grindle Plaid flannel I picked up last fall. It’s incredibly soft, fits better than any flannel I’ve ever owned (with a length that can be worn tucked or not), and has a wool-like fuzzy feel to it even though it’s made from 100% non-itchy cotton. The more I learned about Flyshacker, the more I liked the company too. Flyshacker Clothing Company started out as a small family business 25 years ago and is based in Spokane. The Flyshacker name (pronounced fly like a bird, shack like a house, plus er) has a cool story too. The
name comes from Mortimer Flyshacker, the great uncle of owner Cynthia Hathaway’s husband who lived in Minnesota and gave up everything to move up north away from the city to follow his passions: fishing, hiking, hunting, and being outside. And finally, Flyshacker warmed my heart even more when Hathaway told me she has opted to not play the Amazon game. She only sells her flannels and other clothing directly from its website or at select small retailers like Outdoor Experience in Sandpoint. Look for their spring clothing line coming out hopefully in March. MSRP: $59. Flyshacker.com (Derrick Knowles)
MOUNTAIN // ROAD // HYBRID // DUAL SPORT // GRAVEL // E-BIKE // COMMUTER // COMFORT // CRUISER // BALANCE // BMX // FREESTYLE // TRI // CYCLOCROSS // ENDURO //DOWNHILL // RECUMBENT // TRIKE // TADPOLE // TANDEM
SWEET PROTECTION HELMET
I started wearing a helmet skiing over a decade ago, and good thing too. The very next season, casually picking my way down a shredded and deserted powder field, a young snowboarder crashed into me from behind. His board struck my helmet and the impact left my head aching for hours. It was long past time to retire that first battle-scarred helmet this season. I upgraded to a Sweet Protection Switcher with MIPS (multi-directional impact protection system) that reduces rotational forces on the brain upon impact. The Switcher is strong, light, and super comfortable. And it comes with
well-designed features that my bargain basement brain bucket of old never had, my favorite of which is a magnetic chin buckle that secures and clicks like magic, even with gloves on. Other favorite features include easy adjustable vents and a removable/washable liner so that you can keep your helmet from smelling like the ski school lost and found box by the end of the season. The Switcher is also set up for zipped-in Audio Chips (sold separately), although I prefer to keep my ears on alert for approaching snowboarders. MSRP: $269.95 Sweetprotection.com (Derrick Knowles)
CODY TOWNSEND’S LE SEND SKI TOURING SOCK
Australian gear company Le Bent turned to pro skier Cody Townsend to help design the first sock specifically for ski touring. Years of suffering through long ski tours with cold, wet feet and painful blisters gave Townsend the motivation to address all the issues faced by backcountry riders from climbing to descending. The sock includes extra thickness in the toe box, strategically placed weaves that enhance
breathability, proprietary merino wool/rayon fabric, and silicon strips on the heel to lock down the foot from any sort of upward slippage while touring. Says Townsend, “It’s the simplest solution to a problem that caused blisters, inefficiencies, less downhill performance and generally drove me crazy.” MSRP: $31.95. Lebent. com.au (Wil Wheaton)
SWEET PROTECTION INTERSTELLAR GOGGLES
For me, a sign of a well-designed piece of gear is how little cursing is involved with first getting a gear item dialed and functioning. When I frantically ripped open the box containing my new Sweet Protection goggles an hour before the lifts started running on a powder day this winter, I expected to do my share of expletive hurling. To my surprise, adjusting the Interstellar goggles
was almost too easy and switching out the lenses was shockingly intuitive and doable without leaving your fingerprints all over them. And the proprietary lenstechnology provides enhanced contrast in low-light conditions with excellent anti-fog protection, a welcome technology when visibility deteriorates. MSRP: $199.95 Sweetprotection.com (Derrick Knowles) MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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OutThere Kids Books to Enhance Outdoor Exploration By Amy McCaffree SPRING IS A TRANSITIONAL SEASON for little humans as much as it is for nature. Like budding green leaves, kids are venturing outside more often, transitioning from weekend winter sports to riding bikes after school. Increasing daylight minutes provides children with time to enjoy warming, sunny afternoons. Parents and caregivers can harness this opportunity with an intentional focus on nature-based activities. Here are seven howto books, all published by Quarto Books, that focus on STEAM principles—Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. FOREST CLUB: A YEAR OF ACTIVITIES, CRAFTS, AND EXPLORING NATURE, by Kris
Hirschmann, mother of two. This hardcover book for teachers and parents—with a foreward by Anna Sharratt, founder of Free Forest School—makes a great addition to a nature school-themed home library. Organized by seasons, the spring chapter includes eight environmental learning concepts, like flowers and animal homes, and eight related activities, like flower pressing and building a bird nest.
GARDENING LAB FOR KIDS, BY RENATA FOSSEN BROWN, vice president of educa-
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tion for the Cleveland Botanical Garden. 52 experiments are organized into six topical units, to “learn, grow, harvest, make, play, and enjoy one’s own garden.” It includes practical, hands-on activities to make, for example, a rain gauge, birdfeeder, or clay pot water fountain. HERBAL ADVENTURES: BACKYARD EXCURSIONS AND KITCHEN CREATIONS FOR KIDS AND THEIR FAMILIES, BY RACHEL JEPSON WOLF, a homeschooling parent of
two kids and owner/founder of the body care company LüSa Organics. Wolf is a dedicated herbalist (her children’s names are Sage and Lupine). Her book is organized like a cookbook, with recipes for elderberry gummies, dandelion fritters, chickweed salad, and many more. There are also botany lessons, a field guide with text and photos to identify plants, and directions for DIY crafty projects like how to make seed bombs.
MY GREAT OUTDOORS BOOK: THE KIDS’ GUIDE TO BEING OUTSIDE, BY JOSIE JEFFERY, horticulturalist, garden designer,
and mother of three kids. 34 hands-on activities are organized according to weather, location, and season, such as rainy or
sunny days, in the woods or at the park. The illustrations and layout seem tailored especially for kids in grades three and younger. OUTDOOR SCIENCE LAB FOR KIDS: 52 FAMILYFRIENDLY EXPERIMENTS FOR THE YARD, GARDEN, PLAYGROUND, AND PARK, by Liz
Lee Heinecke, a molecular biologist and creator of Kitchen Pantry Scientist website and KidScience app. Organized into 12 topical units, such as Playground Physics, Picnic Table Chemistry, and Garden Hose Science, kids use a science journal for recording their learning experiences. Teens and intermediate elementary-grade youth (grades four+) would be able to complete these labs solo or with peers with minimal adult guidance.
OUTSIDE EXPLORING NATURE, translated into English and written by a group of Portuguese authors. Subtitled as “a first introduction to weather, geology, and the night sky,” the graphic layout is reminiscent of an education primer, particularly appealing to grades three and younger. Includes 10 chapters, from trees and flowers to oceans and weather. It is organized as a “take along” for family excursions,
with probing questions and activities to engage children in hands-on, experimental learning. There’s also a glossary of scientific terms and timeline of global natural history. STICKS AND STONES: A KID’S GUIDE TO BUILDING AND EXPLORING IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS, by Melissa Lennig, a former
outdoor educator and elementary school counselor. “Research shows that a daily dose of unstructured, outdoor play is essential for the physical and social-emotional health of kids,” writes Lennig in the introduction to her book of 30 STEAM projects that all require the use of logs, sticks, or rocks. Ideas include building a survival shelter and simple seesaw from logs, crafting catapults and fences from sticks, and creating rock campfire rings and stone tools. Kids can take this sturdy book with them outside and play and build for hours. // Amy McCaffree is mother to two elementary-age kids, and together they enjoy camping, paddling, biking, and alpine skiing. She was in 4-H as a kid and grew up “free range” on a farm near the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains.
BIKING
Spring Fever Cure
By J.D. Ennis different fun trails that can be ridden down by the creek; however, it is a manageable grind back up that will be sure to have the quads screaming. By staying on the middle trail, riders will now be treated to a 4.5 mile ride to Polly Judd Park. This ride along the Bluff can be looped, or can be shuttled by parking a second vehicle at the Polly Judd Park parking lot. The trail has a good flow with some technical aspects at times. Mountain bikers BOMBING BLUFF BALSAMROOT // PHOTO: AARON THEISEN
THE SUN IS BREAKING through the clouds
daily, the air is warm and fresh, and the trails are clear and tacky. Mountain bikers seeking to put the doldrums of the winter months behind them can find a multidimensional ride on Spokane’s South Hill. Also known as the Bluff, this area provides some fantastic spring riding because of the ability of the trails to shed water. While any type of mountain bike can be ridden on the bluff trails, it is best suited for trail bikes and enduro bikes. It can be busy on the weekend, but weekday rides usually see less people. Hikers, runners, and dog walkers share this
trail. Caution should be taken, and riders must yield to all these groups. Bikers can park in the Hatch Drive parking lot and proceed down the dirt fire access road. Just before reaching the bottom of that road there is an unmarked trail that breaks off and up to the right. This is the trail that riders will want to steer towards. Once on that trail, the rule of thumb is to stay on that main middle trail. Other trails that branch off to the left will lead you to the bottom of the bluff by Latah Creek. Trails branching to the right will lead you up and out of the trails to High Drive Road. There are many
should expect to see some small rock sections, as well as steep, wide-open areas that overlook the creek. Bikers will find it hard not to stop from time to time to take in the views of South Spokane. // J.D. Ennis has an outdoor recreation degree from Eastern Washington University. Using his mountain bike to climb big mountains and hitting high speeds on the way down with groups of friends, or solo, is his peaceful place.
8 SPRING RIDING TIPS IN EARLY SPRING, mountain bikers tend to be excited and ambitious. This ambition can lead to trail damage or personal injury and further delay the trail rides they have been waiting for all winter.
1. Stay off wet or muddy trails and all dirt trails during active freeze/thaw cycles. 2. Visit a local bike shop for a tune up. 3. Start with some small distance rides and set goals. 4. Practice a stretching routine before and after a ride to reduce the risk of injury. 5. Have several different layers of clothing. 6. Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after a ride. 7. Use the Trailforks app since there are not a lot of trail markers on many Spokane-area trails, including those on the Bluff. 8. Avoid riding on trails that cross private land.
MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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provisions
(n.) food drink, or equipment, especially for a journey. PHOTO: S. MICHAL BENNETT
PHOTO: AMANDA MEAD PHOTO: SUZANNE TABERT
WELCOME, LUMBERBEARD BREWING PROTEIN TO FUEL ADVENTURE
PHOTO: JON JONCKERS
TRAILBREAKER CIDER
Trailbreaker Cider, in Liberty Lake, Wash., makes some of the best hard cider around. They start with 100 percent Washington grown apples, and then they go berserk. It’s not uncommon to find ciders with plum, mint, cucumber, pear, or ginger. Like a backpacker’s compass, they follow cider flavors in every direction. This ensures they always have something for everyone— including a couple of non-alcoholic ciders. Trailbreaker headquarters includes a welcoming bar, a delicious restaurant, cider production facilities, and a giant mezzanine overlooking the whole facility so you can drink cider while you watch how it’s made. The production facility is so large they can even host special events such as fundraisers or sip-and-paint evenings. Also, their specialty taco bar testifies to the fact that they take Taco Tuesday very seriously. In the backcountry, a trailbreaker sets the course for everyone else to follow. A trailbreaker is a pioneer through thick brush or deep snow, and they are often underappreciated for their hard work. This is NOT true with Trailbreaker Cider. Their efforts are appreciated with every pint they pour, and the owners are making huge strides promoting delicious hard ciders in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. (Jon Jonckers)
Protein, whether plant based or animal, is a vital part of the human diet—especially if you are active. Protein is a chain of amino acids that are bound together by peptide bonds, like a string of beads. When we consume protein, our bodies break it down into the individual amino acids. Our bodies need 20 different amino acids to grow, function, and recover properly, but there are nine that we can only get from food: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. These are the “essential” amino acids and are important for things like muscle growth, energy production, immune function, metabolism, appetite regulation, digestion, and sleepwake cycles. Animal-based proteins like eggs, dairy, seafood, and meat provide a balance of all nine of the essential amino acids. Plantbased proteins, like grains, beans, nuts and seeds tend to vary in their levels of the nine essentials. Soy, however, has all nine in adequate amounts, but also contains plant-based estrogen, which, if consumed in large quantities, can impact human hormones. Whatever protein you eat as you venture outside, choose local and organic as often as possible, and be sure to add a colorful vegetable or two to your meal for nutrient diversity and fiber. As we get in those last days on the mountain and begin to anticipate spring rolling around the corner, it is important to make sure our diet is balanced and optimized for pursuing the outdoor adventures that await us. (S. Michal Bennett)
GF V 18
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DF
Lumberbeard Brewing is one of the newest establishments to join the ever-expanding local craft beer scene. Located on east Third Ave. in Spokane, it occupies an old auto repair shop that still shows the telltale signs of its former life. Newly replaced rollup glass garage doors prominently feature the gleaming silver tanks of the brew house in back. The tap room space up front is large, if not a bit sparse, with an industrial feel and tons of natural light. If the goal was to come out of the gate with solid beers, then owner and head brewer, Bret Gordon, nailed it. For IPA fans, there are lots to choose from here. Batch 1 IPA is the frontrunner, particularly for hopheads. It’s hazy and full of citrus flavor but still light and drinkable. Dreams Get Brewed, a dry-hopped double IPA, is more flavor-forward with a balanced palate. If this is your drink of choice, be sure to have a designated driver. This highly drinkable beer clocks in at 8.5 percent. For folks who are looking for an approachable craft beer, Lumberbeard’s kolsch is refreshing, crisp, and a perfect choice after a long day on the trails. Rounding out the lineup is a tart, classic French saison, a smooth Belgian strong ale with prominent fig notes, and an espresso stout that packs a ton of flavor (though it lacks some of the characteristic body of a stout). For non-beer drinkers, Lumberbeard features ciders from Liberty Lake-based Trailbreaker. There are also tons of board games to play, as well as shuffleboard and cornhole. Lumberbeard is a welcome addition to Spokane’s beer community. (Amanda V. Mead)
keto
RAW VEGAN HERBAL ENERGY BARS
It used to be that the mention of a vegan recipe elicited visions of boring cardboardtasting snacks that only the most devout would consume. This energy bar breaks through that barrier with robust flavor and texture. Ingredients: 3/4 cup almond flour 1/2 cup cacao powder 1 1/2 cup oat flour 2 1/2 cups dried plums or apricots 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted 1/4 cup shredded coconut 1 tablespoon local honey 1 tablespoon bee pollen 1 tablespoon hemp fiber 1/4 teaspoon Himalayan pink mineral salt 2 tablespoons of each of the following: chia seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, powdered roasted dandelion root, and powdered nettles Directions: Pulse the apricots and coconut oil for a minute in a food processor to easily blend, then add all ingredients except flax and pumpkin seeds until it’s a thick paste. Sprinkle half of the chia, flax, and pumpkins seeds into a 13 x 9 casserole dish, press in the energy bar mix, then evenly sprinkle and pat on the rest of the seeds. Let it harden in the fridge for an hour, then cut into bars. Wrap in reusable beeswax wraps for a planet-saving alternative to plastic wrap. (Suzanne Tabert)
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The Human Adventure
Relating to Other Humans By Ammi Midstokke
I AM NOT A PSYCHOLOGIST, but the people who are (which are also the people who get a lot of my money) tell me that it is human nature to want to bond to other humans. Psychologists must generally be surrounded by reasonable humans, and their dads probably never stole bacon off their plates when they weren’t looking. Some of those bonds we get born into and then spend the rest of our lives trying to understand the dysfunction—but that dysfunction usually doesn’t stop us from relating to them. Research also suggests we’re particularly compelled to bond with people who offer sex or good foot massages, tolerat-
ing otherwise unacceptable behaviors (such as drinking decaf coffee) so as not to break the bond. And then there are those we want to go play with: friends, adventure buddies, running partners, and training companions. Most of us are surrounded by humans with whom we’re trying to relate. Interestingly enough and despite plenty of opportunity, we’re not always really great at relating to the humans in our lives. Sometimes it’s because we’re too busy guarding our bacon, but mostly it’s because we don’t know what the hell is going on with us or anyone else. Interactions with my future spouse often go like this:
“Put the pizza on a tray and set the oven to 350 degrees.” He reads the instructions on the box, sets the oven to 375. We spend the next 40 minutes arguing about trust, how I’m not a frozen pizza chef, and things like “feeling heard.” There’s a lot of he said, she said, some petty use of semantics, and a fair bit of passive-aggressive blame. And we particularly love everything to be real black or real white as we seek that righteous feeling of being right. This is what those therapists refer to as “content.” It’s not so useful. In fact, it’s often a distraction from the core issue of “meeting the need.” This matters when you’re lost in the mountains with your adventure buddy, emotions are high, there is only one pouch of salmon jerky left, a bear has been tracking you for miles (whose idea was the salmon jerky anyway?), and suddenly you need to negotiate a plan that you are both totally invested in. While swear words are useful here, the ability to articulate actual feelings and needs seems to be most conducive to the practice of empathy and finding a solution. While my friend is telling me how afraid she is of steep, exposed granite, I can express my fear of not being able to outrun a hungry bear. In the very least, as we plummet or get mauled to death,
we’ll really be able to empathize with each other—totally bonding. Being known for schlepping the optimistic and unaware into the mountains, the practices of asking, listening, and articulating have been essential to both wilderness survival and the preservation of my friendships. Whether we’re heading out for a bike ride with a group, negotiating an after-adventure beer, or determining who should carry the jerky, offering a bit of our vulnerability and speaking our truths can make all the difference in the experiences we share. As for me, I’ve begun prefacing outings with, “How would you feel about the potential of going somewhere we totally did not intend and being out for far longer than expected?” Thankfully, my people seem to know me well enough by now to pack their bivy sacks, an extra sleeve of cookies, and an open mind. Editors’ Note: The Human Adventure is a new column from the warm and irreverent voice of Ammi Midstokke. It chronicles her explorations of the natural world and the human experience. Ammi Midstokke is a nutritionist and author living in North Idaho. Last month she wrote about the importance of supporting our mental health.
THREE FREE POURS FREE TROLLEY RIDES COURTESY CRAWL MAPS & GUIDES SOUVENIR 16 OZ. GLASS HISTORIC WALLACE
WALLACE Craft Beer Pub Crawl
Saturday April 18, 2020
Advance tickets/details on Facebook & Eventbrite or call Historic Wallace Chamber of Commerce wallaceidahochamber.com
208 753-7151 MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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Shoulder
Season Heaven Head to the Wenatchee Valley
By J.D. Ennis, Chris Gabrielli, & Matt Jones
UGH, SHOULDER SEASON. Throw in your adventure towel. Maybe it’s time to take up gardening. And you should probably clean out the gutters or something, too. Whether the trails aren’t quite dry, the rock’s still under its winter blanket of snow, or the ski lines are melting out, spring can be a rough time of year for the intrepid adventurer. But these in-between conditions are exactly what make the Wenatchee Valley—and its surrounding hills, rivers, and trails—the perfect shoulder season destination.
through closing day on April 12.
SKIING
Apple Loop Trail: For a low-key paved option guaranteed to be dry, head out on the Apple Loop Trail. This trail is such a community mainstay that the city plows it after snow events. Jump on this 10-mile loop from the parking lot of Pybus Market and enjoy a flat run along the river. Be sure to refuel and grab a brew or a bite at one of the market’s bars and restaurants after your jaunt.
The powder’s mostly gone and the temps are rising, but don’t give up just yet. Instead, throw on your Hawaiian shirt and shades and head to Mission Ridge to enjoy the spring skiing without the crowds. The resort is located on the east slopes of the Cascades and is higher, drier, and sunnier than many nearby ski hills. At only 12 miles from downtown, Mission Ridge makes Wenatchee the state’s most accessible ski town. There aren’t any fancy condos on the mountain yet, and the food is classic pub fare that you’d expect to find at any resort, which is part of the charm. However, Mission punches above its weight in terms of snow quality and fun terrain. It boasts a small mountain vibe but with really interesting terrain. The free SkiLink bus runs every Saturday and Sunday from the downtown Columbia Station and Lincoln Park through the end of the season. Also check out ski and stay deals through several local hotels. After getting sufficiently sunburned, grab a drink at the Chair 5 Pub or fire up your grill in the parking lot. With events and live music on every weekend this spring, there’s plenty of reasons to ski hard and party hard
HIKING AND TRAIL RUNNING
Trail running and hiking are great ways to carry over that ski-season fitness to longer summer endeavors. Wenatchee is home to some of the best early season trail running and hiking in central Washington. Whether you choose to lace up your shoes in town and run straight into the surrounding hills or take a short drive to a trailhead, there’s something for everyone.
Horse Lake Reserve: For moderate trails through reclaimed farmland with views of the Columbia River and North Cascades, visit Horse Lake Reserve starting on April 1. With interpretive signage to help identify flora, fauna, and nearby mountain peaks, Horse Lake offers a remarkable opportunity to get your bearings on the valley. Many .15 through 2.5-mile options can be braided together to create shorter or longer runs or hikes. These popular trails are dogand mountain-bike friendly and burst with color when balsamroot and other wildflowers are blooming. Ancient Lakes and Beezley Hills: The earliest trails to dry out are usually around Ancient Lakes near Quincy and the Beezley Hills
LOVE WENATCHEE’S TRAILS—DON’T WRECK THEM! Even if it’s a nice bluebird day, certain trails may not be dried out for the season yet. Running, riding, or even hiking on wet trails can ruin them for the rest of the summer. If you’re in the Wenatchee area, make sure to visit the Chelan Douglas Land Trust’s website for current trail conditions or closures and please pay attention to the dirt under your feet or wheels. 20
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
in Ephrata. For information about these trails and other regional recommendations, visit WenatcheeOutdoors.org, which offers the most comprehensive guidebook to the region. Here you can find dog friendly, family friendly, and accessible trails, as well as up-to-date information about other outdoor activities. CLIMBING
When the skiing starts to fade, and the trails are in the process of drying out, it’s prime time to start climbing outside in Eastern Washington. Even when the nights are still frigid, know that there’s plenty of local dry rock to be climbed. Frenchman Coulee: The most popular place for early spring climbing is Frenchman Coulee, better known to climbers as Vantage. The area’s columnar basalt offers a lifetime’s worth of splitter cracks for trad climbers and bolted face climbing for sport climbers. The area known as the sunshine wall catches a lot of—you guessed it—sunshine, so it heats up pretty well for a few hours on even the coldest spring days. Because Vantage is often warm and dry when most other areas in the state are overcast and wet, this place can get packed. Plan ahead if you’d like to get on any of the classic moderates. Note that camping in the area is allowed but that a Discover Pass is required for parking. One last hot tip: for climbing at Vantage: The queue for the latrine is about 40 people deep on popular weekends. Plan to take care of your business early or bring your own TP and a winning attitude. Peshastin Pinnacles: If you’re not into fighting the crowds, there’s another unique spot to check out. Before Vantage stole the show for shoulder-season cragging, the Peshastin Pinnacles were the crud-weather climbing destination of choice in central Washington. Located just west of Cashmere, this group of sandstone fins overlooks orchards, the Wenatchee River Valley, and the stunning peaks of the Enchantments. While too hot to climb in the middle of the summer, the primarily southwest-facing pinnacles offer sunny cragging close to the road in the early spring and late fall. Known for
its unique but somewhat crumbly sandstone, many folks prefer the bolted sport climbs here, although there are a number of unique trad lines. Be prepared for old school grades and funky gear placements. Note that Peshastin Pinnacles has been a state park since being purchased from orchard owners in 1991, so you’ll need to buy a parking permit or have a Washington State Discover Pass. (MJ) KAYAKING AND RIVER SPORTS
The Wenatchee Valley is truly stacked with incredible whitewater opportunity. While your other hobbies may be taking a break for the season or haven’t ramped up yet, there really is no such thing as a spring shoulder season once you add rivers to your quiver of play. The Wenatchee area boasts incredible spring whitewater for every level of enthusiast. Within an hour of town you can find world class, big water playboating, class IV-V steep creeking, and lots of fun river running. Challenging Whitewater: For the adrenaline junkies there are only two places to be: Tumwater Canyon and Icicle Creek. Both located within five minutes of Leavenworth, these class V gems drop the jaws of every tourist who drives by. Icicle Creek can feel more like a river that’s been tipped upwards and poured over boulders, producing an endless series of long, complex, pushy, and intimidating whitewater. Tumwater is pool-drop in nature; its mellow sections only stand to give you extra time to pucker before dropping into some of Washington State’s biggest whitewater. Intermediate River Runs: Notching it down a grade, the Little Wenatchee offers a remote, lower volume, and tight canyon adventure for competent class IV boaters. Be on your toes for wood. Next, throw your boat on your shoulder and hike a mile up Ingalls Creek for class IV creeking that dumps you into the Peshastin River for non-stop class III-III+ boogie all way down to the Wenatchee River. Since you’re now back on the Wenatchee right near the put-in for the play section, just swap into your playboat and float down to Cashmere for one of Washington’s best play runs—
Winter Adventure at the Lochsa Lodge
The Wenatchee Valley is an early-season outdoor recreation mecca. // photo: Mark Kacmarcik massive standing waves, many with eddy service, await your surfing pleasure. Class-Fun Runs: Got some kiddos who want to play? Maybe a non-river person who is excited to see the valley from a different perspective? There are three great sections to suit: The upper Wenatchee River from Lake Wenatchee to the top of Tumwater Canyon provides a beautiful familyfriendly scenic float. The town run from Leavenworth down to Peshastin offers easy logistics and keeps you in the heart of the mountains. Finally, the lower Wenatchee River from Cashmere to the Columbia provides a great way to admire the beauty of the lower valley. Flow-dependent, these sections range from class I to II+ and can be fantastic for anything from canoe, to SUP, to family raft, to kayak. (CG) MOUNTAIN BIKING
After 10 years of project planning, the Central Chapter of the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance has received grants and generous community donations that have led to massive trail development over the past four years in the Wenatchee area, stretching from Leavenworth to Chelan. While the areas and trails listed are a sample of what the region has to offer, make no mistake, Wenatchee is a mountain biker’s dream. Sage Hills: Located on the fringe of Wenatchee, Sage Hills has over 20 miles of beginner and intermediate trails suitable
for cross-country and enduro bikes. There are amazing views of the Wenatchee area and dynamic early season wildflower displays. Opens April 1. Squilchuck State Park Trail System: A perfect place for the mountain biking family. Bikers will find over 8 miles of beginner to intermediate singletrack trails, as well as a skills park. The skills park includes beginner to advanced jumps, skinnies, and log rides. One log ride is over 200-feet long! Creature Comfort Dark Forest is a recommended intermediate trail within Squilchuck. The trail has a manageable climb and a fast, fun descent.
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Devil’s Gulch/Mission Ridge: These two trails are intermediate rides through old growth forest, with occasional views of the North Cascades. They are best described as old school, rugged trails that also have some of the fastest singletrack in the state. The two trails cross, allowing bikers the option to ride a section of one trail, and then ride a section of the other trail. And they merge near the bottom and can be ridden up or shuttled. The climb is challenging. PTD (Prepare to Die): This is a new black diamond trail opening this spring. It is part of the Number 2 Canyon trail system trail near Wenatchee. It is a ride for bikers seeking an aggressive trail with natural features. This trail includes a large rock slab with a 30-foot dirt berm at the bottom. (JDE) //
SPRING EVENTS IN THE WENATCHEE VALLEY • March 7: Sisters In Action Snow Sports Day at Mission Ridge. Includes group rides, group lessons, gear demos, raffles, and great community. • March 21: Dummy Downhill at Mission Ridge. Participants use their creativity to design, build, and launch their dummies off a massive jump. • April 5-6: Tour de Blues at Mission Ridge. Spend the weekend skiing and riding all the blue runs on the mountain to register for great prizes. • April 18: Wenatchee Marathon. This fast course with something for everyone is a USATF-certified course and Boston qualifier. Full, half, and 10k categories. MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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AUGUST 14TH - 15TH
2020
By Amy McCaffree
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LILAC CENTURY and Family Fun Ride
REGISTER NOW SUNDAY, May 17TH SPOKANE, WA
Pick the ride that fits you best - 50, 66 or 100 miles for the avid cyclist, or 15 to 25 mile rides for family and friends. Choose the shorter rides for a fla�er course and fun for all levels or the longer routes to challenge even the most experienced rider. For complete ride info & online registra�on visit:
LilacCentury.com FOR MORE INFO:
509.991.2562
lilaccentury@gmail.com Register by May 1st to Receive the 2020 Tech Tee
A Fund Raising Ride organized by Spokane Aurora Northwest Rotary 22
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEGATIVE SPLIT
HERE ARE 100+ GOOD REASONS to exercise and get out of the house this spring, summer, and fall. Registering to participate in an event motivates commitment to health and fitness routines and inspires travel to other cities and regions of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or Strava-addicted competitor, there is something for everybody who enjoys road or trail running, cycling, mountain biking, triathlons, and other outdoorsy events. Many of these are long-time traditions, marking the start of the race season or a tradition of engaging with community. Some of these support charitable causes or include activities to make the event especially family-friendly. All of the events in our annual guide gather like-minded folks get fit in the great outdoors.
ROAD RUNNING
ST. PADDY’S FIVE MILER (MARCH 15): Family-
friendly event at Spokane Community College hosted by Bloomsday Road Runners Club and Fleet Feet; includes free kids’ 3,000-meter run (age 6 and younger).
SPOKANE SUPERHERO FUN RUN (MARCH 28): Family-friendly, chip-timed 5k and 10k
races for all ages along the Centennial Trail
through Riverfront Park. Proceeds benefit CASA Partners, helping children in the foster care system. YAKIMA RIVER CANYON MARATHON & HALF MARATHON (APRIL 4): Point-to-point
USATF-certified marathon course with views of the Yakima River Canyon.
HAUSER LAKE 5K/10K ICEBREAKER RUN (APRIL 5): USATF-certified 10k course is a
Bloomsday second-seed qualifier and the largest fundraiser for Double J Dog Ranch. Runners and walkers with strollers and dogs (on-leash) are welcome.
WENATCHEE MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, & 10K (APRIL 18): Boston-qualifier course
includes the Apple Capital Loop Trail through Wenatchee Confluence State Park. SPRING DASH & TOT TROT (APRIL 18): This
5-mile Bloomsday second-seed qualifier race starts at Coeur d’Alene’s McEuen Park and raises funds for United Way of North Idaho; includes Tot Trot (ages 10 and younger).
NEGATIVE SPLIT HALF MARATHON, 10K, AND 5K (APRIL 19): Run along the Centennial
Trail and through Riverfront Park, starting in Kendall Yards.
MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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PALOUSE 100K RELAY & SOLO RUN (APRIL 19):
Organized by the Palouse Road Runners club, course begins/ends in Pullman. Race divisions include 100k Ultra Relay, 100k 10-person relay, 100k 5-person relay, and 100k Solo.
POOCH & PAL RUN AND WALK (MAY 2): Pet-
38th Annual
Saturday, 0 2 0 2 , 8 1 l i r p A n Park, CDA McEue
REGISTER!!
CDA.com www.SpringDash 50503 ash to or Text: SpringD 0 | Tot Trot: $8 t: $25 | Youth: $2 Tot Trot: $10 ul Ad : RD BI Y RL EA $25 | ult: $30 | Youth: AFTER 4/5/20: Ad
E L U D E H C S Y A D E C RA OT START BLOOMSDAY SECOND SEEDING
9:00AM: TOT TR T 9:30AM: RACE STAR CEREMONY 10:45AM: AWARDS
friendly event at Columbia Point Marina Park in Richland, Wash., includes 5k and 1-mile courses.
LILAC BLOOMSDAY RUN (MAY 3): 12k for
runners, walkers, and wheelchair participants.
WINDERMERE MARATHON & HALF MARATHON (MAY 17): Organized by
Negative Split, the flat, net negative course along the Centennial Trail is a Boston marathon qualifier.
COEUR D’ALENE MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, 10K & 5K (MAY 24): Organized
by Negative Split, event is based at McEuen Park and course goes along the North Idaho Centennial Trail. PRIEST LAKE SPRING FESTIVAL RUN (MAY 24): Kick off the summer season at Priest
Lake with half marathon, 10k, 5k, and Kids Dash distances on a mix of pavement and compact gravel.
T9 MERMAID RUN (MAY 30): Hosted by Title 9 and Mermaid Series for women runners, walkers, and joggers; includes a 1.5-mile Mermaid Dash, 10k, and 5k. STRIDES FOR STRONG BONES FUN RUN/ WALK (MAY 31): Hosted by Emde Sports at
Kendall Yards in Spokane, proceeds benefit Washington Osteoporosis Coalition.
WENATCHEE VALLEY TRAIL RUN SERIES (MAY 9, JUNE 6, OCT. 17): Organized by
RunWenatchee, this three-race series includes Horse Lake Trail Runs (25k, 10m, 5m); Red Devil Challenge Trail Runs (50k, 25k, 10k); and Oktoberfest Trail Runs (10m, 5m).
STACHE DASH (JUNE 13): 5k/10k run, walk,
wheelchair-race to support Elevations in Spokane Valley, a therapy service-provider for special-needs children.
DAD’S DAY DASH (JUNE 21): Event ben-
efits SNAP, a Spokane-based community action agency, and includes a 5k run and non-timed 1.4 mile walk in celebration of Fathers Day.
GET OUT FEST HALF MARATHON & 5K (JUNE 26-28): Run along the Ferry County Rail
Trail for the 2nd annual Get Out Fest in Republic, Wash.
RIVER RUN ON THE FOURTH 5K & 10K (JULY 4): Start/finish on the Apple Capital
Loop Trail in Wenatchee and partake in the city’s Independence Day Celebration.
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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
SPOKENYA 7K RUN/WALK FOR CLEAN WATER (JULY 18): Fundraiser for Spring of Hope
International, to support clean water projects in rural Kenya, course starts/finishes at Life Center church in northwest Spokane. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome.
MISSOULA MARATHON & HALF MARATHON (JUNE 26-28): USATF-certified Boston
Qualifier marathon course, 5k, and kids’ 1-mile untimed fun run. SPOKANE TO SANDPOINT RELAY (AUGUST 14-15): A 200-mile overnight, 12-person
relay team race starting from Mt. Spokane’s summit, down to the Spokane river, along the Centennial Trail to Coeur d’Alene, and then north to the finish line at Sandpoint’s City Beach.
TASE T. LENTIL 5K FUN RUN (AUGUST 22):
A USATF-certified race to celebrate the National Lentil Festival Food & Brew Fest in Pullman. RIGGINS SALMON RUN (SEPT 12): Run through the dramatic scenery of the Salmon River canyon in Riggins, Idaho, on a 5k, 10k, half marathon, or 30-mile course. NEWPORT AUTUMN BLOOM 5K/10K FUN RUN (SEPT. 19): Takes place at TJ Kelly Park in
Newport, Wash.; proceeds benefit Newport Hospital and Health Services Foundation programs.
DEUTSCHESFEST 5K/10K FUN RUN (SEPT. 19):
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Odessa, Washington’s tribute to everything German by burning off some brats and beer. RUN THE DAM HALF MARATHON, 10K, & 5K (SEPT. 19): Partake in the local Harvest
Festival with a run across Grand Coulee Dam and along Banks Lake to North Dam Park.
NUMERICA HAPPY GIRLS RUN SPOKANE HALF MARATHON, 10K, & 5K (SEPT. 19): For
women of all ages and abilities, based at Spokane’s Mukogawa Fort Wright Institute. SANDPOINT SCENIC HALF MARATHON & 10K (SEPT. 20): This race gets its name for a
reason, with a start/finish at City Beach in beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho.
LEAVENWORTH MARATHON & HALFMARATHON (OCT. 3): USATF-certified
course near the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area includes dirt roads and trails.
SPOKANE MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, MARATHON RELAY, & 10K (OCT. 11): Proceeds
from this Boston Marathon Qualifier race benefit local high school cross-country programs.
HAYDEN LAKE MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, & QUARTER MARATHON (OCT. 17): Start/finish at Hayden Lake’s
Honeysuckle Beach; full marathon goes completely around the lake.
MONSTER DASH 5K & KIDS’ FUN RUN (OCT. 29): Organized by Active4Youth in collabo-
ration with the Spokane Swifts Running Team, this event at Manito Park, includes a 5k adult race and kids’ race (ages 12 and younger); jogging strollers and dogs allowed.
TURKEY ON THE RUN 5K, 12K, AND KIDS RACE (THANKSGIVING DAY): At Walla Walla
Point Park in Wenatchee, Wash.—concluding event for RunWenatchee’s race season.
SPOKANE RIVER RUN (APRIL 19): 5k, 10k, 25k, 50k, and 50k team relay race at Riverside State Park; fundraiser for Garfield Elementary A.P.P.L.E. program. (See Charity sidebar below.) RUN LIKE THE WIND RUNNING FESTIVAL (APRIL 26): 5k, 10k, or half marathon,
along the trails, paths, and roads at the Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility in Ellensburg, Wash.; benefits Kittitas County Search and Rescue.
SUNFLOWER TRAIL MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, & RELAY (MAY 2): Run on
TRAIL RUNNING
CAVEMAN ROAR & POUR 5K TRAIL FUN RUN (MARCH 21): Run through the vineyard over-
looking the Columbia River Gorge before the wine tasting event at Cave B Estate Winery in Quincy, Wash.; includes Carol’s Cabernet Loop Kid’s Run (ages 4-12).
YAKIMA SKYLINE RIM 50K (APRIL 18) & 25K (APRIL 19): Challenging out-and-back
course in the high desert of the Yakima River Canyon outside Ellensburg, Wash. TRAIL MANIACS LIBERTY LAKE TRAIL RUN (APRIL 18 & 25): Two dates this year for this
popular race on an 8-mile single-track loop course.
single-track trails and gravel roads in the Washington’s Methow Valley, on a point-topoint course from Mazama to Twisp.
PRIEST LAKE MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, 50K ULTRA, & 5K FAMILY FUN RUN (MAY 9):
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a wilderness trail run in the Panhandle National Forest. Events include 50K, Marathon, 25K, Half marathon, 1/4 Marathon, and family 5K. PRIEST LAKE SPRING FESTIVAL HALF MARATHON, 10K, 5K, & KID’S DASH (MAY 24): Start/finish at Coolin Community Park
at Priest Lake, Idaho; free 1k Kid’s Dash (ages 9 and younger).
SEKANI TRAIL RUN. // PHOTO: COURTESY OF SEKANI TRAIL RUN
Doing It for a Cause SIGNING UP FOR AND COMPLETING A RACE IS EXTREMELY SATISFYING—and even more
so when proceeds help members of the local community. Here are four events that will deliver goodwill and inspiration long after the race is over. • Spokane River Run (April 19): This race features a 5k, 10k, 25k, 50k, and 50k team relay race on challenging courses through Riverside State Park. Proceeds benefit the Garfield Elementary A.P.P.L.E. program. • Apple Century Bike Ride (June 6): Century, half century, and 25-mile ride through the Wenatchee Valley's beautiful landscape. Registration fees help fund scholarships, hunger and disaster relief, and dozens of community projects. • Silver Valley Ride to Defeat ALS (June 20): Starting in Kingston, Idaho, from the Enaville trailhead of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, participants age 12+ ride solo or as part of a team to raise funds to fight Lou Gehrig’s disease. Children age 11 and younger can participate on a tandem bike, tag-along bike, or bike trailer. • Sekani Trail Run (Sept. 27): The 12th annual trail run is a 5k, 10k, or a free kids 1k at Spokane’s Camp Sekani Park, a 125-acre natural park bordering beautiful Minnehaha. The run is an adventure run/hike/walk race with 100% dirt trails and fabulous course challenges. Proceeds benefit Franklin Elementary school’s APPLE program. (Summer Hess) MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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SEVEN SUMMITS 50K, 50 MILE, 50-MILE RELAY, & 100K TRAIL ADVENTURE (JUNE 6-7): Hosted by Trail Maniacs and based at
Canfield Sports Complex in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
TRAIL MANIACS FARRAGUT TRAIL RUN 25K/10K/5K (JUNE 7): Takes place at Farragut
State Park and includes a free kids’ race.
HERRON HALF MARATHON, 10K, & 5K (JUNE 7): Based at Herron Park in Kalispell, Mont.;
includes 1k kids’ race.
KANIKSU 50-MILE / EMORY CORWINE MEMORIAL RUCK RACE / TALL TREES 29K (JUNE 13): Three events in one day in the
Colville National Forest at Frater Lake near Ione, Wash., organized by Kaniksu Ultras. Ruck Race solo runners or teams complete legs carrying 25-35 lb backpacks. MOUNTAIN MAGIC 5K, 10K, & 25K (JUNE 20): 3rd annual event at Mt. Spokane State
Park’s Nordic ski trails; funds benefit OutLive, a Spokane-based organization that helps cancer survivors
become more active outdoors. New this year is a 5k loop. RACE THE WOLF 52K, 26K, & 8K (JUNE 27-28):
Includes single-track and off-piste climbs at Schweitzer Mountain Resort. SUMMIT SURVIVORS KOOTENAY ALPINE RUNNING CAMP (JULY 3-6): Run through
the beautiful Kootenay Mountains above Red Mountain Resort and the town of Rossland, B.C., and work on your times and technique with a pro coach. The camp will take intermediate runners up to a new level with distances ranging from 10k-25k while challenging advanced runners with a 4-day total of 60-75k.
SPOKATOPIA TRAIL RUN & TRAIL RUNNING CLINIC (JULY 11): A 5k run on the single-
track trails at Camp Sekani Park at the annual Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival. $25 race fee includes festival bike and paddlesports demo pass and headband. Adult beverage garden and live music all day long.
PHOTO BY JAKE LANGE // COURTESY OF SKI TO SKI
6 Adventure Events Worth Traveling For ADVENTURE TOURISM is one of the best ways to get to know a new area. Here is our list
of 2020 races and events worth traveling for.
Saturday, August 1, 2020 Colville, WA Come enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Inland Paciic Northwest! 100 mile • 68 mile • 45 mile and a Family Fun Ride! FOOD • GAMES • CHILDREN’S AREA BEER GARDEN at Rendezvous Days! First beer is on us!
blazing100.org 26
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
• Ski to Sea (May 24): Ski to Sea is the original multisport relay race, from Mt. Baker to Bellingham Bay. Organize teams of 3-8 racers and join in the fun on Memorial Day weekend. Teammates and spectators await finishing racers in Bellingham’s scenic Marine Park and experience the Historic Fairhaven Festival, the all-day street party just up the hill. • Granite Man Off Road Weekend (June 27-28): This is one of the few off road tri/du's in Oregon. It is a weekend full of events for the whole family, including swim and paddles, mountain bike rides, and trail runs. Affordable camping available at Applegate Lake. • Tour de Whatcom (July 18): Explore the beautiful landscape of Whatcom County, in northwest Washington, with a ride distance to suit your style. Options include 22 or 44 miles, Metric Century (62 miles), or Century Ride. Start/finish in downtown Bellingham. • Mt. Baker Hill Climb (Sept. 13): This event poses a unique challenge with over 4,000 feet in elevation gain in 22 miles along the winding highway into the alpine. Riders over the age of 13 can choose from three participation categories: social, recreational, and competitive. • WaCanId International Selkirk Loop Ride (Sept. 14-19): The WaCanId is an annual Rotarian-supported bicycle tour on paved roads encircling the Selkirk Mountains of Washington, Canada, and Idaho. The 6-day event covers 370 miles and showcases the International Selkirk Loop’s spectacular scenery. And if cyclists need a lift, there is plenty of support available. • Clark Fork Adventure Challenge (Sept. 20): Participants run, row, and ride their way through some of the most scenic areas of western Montana. With two options, the original Adventure Challenge and the Adventure Challenge Lite, there is opportunity for individuals with all levels of skills to participate. (Summer Hess)
Long Bridge Swim Bay Trail Fun Run
CHAFE 150
CHALLENGE YOURSELF THIS SUMMER
Feed your competitive spirit this summer in beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho. Our signature endurance events are among the finest in the Pacific Northwest. And be sure to book extra days to enjoy time on magnificent Lake Pend Oreille, in our inspiring Selkirk and Cabinet mountains or just to experience the superb food, winery, craft breweries, and amazing live entertainment of vibrant downtown Sandpoint. See you here, this summer!
TAKE A RUN IN
Sandpoint this summer Bay Trail Fun Run • June 7
Scenic Half Marathon 2019
5k & 10k runs on the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail Race the Wolf • June 27-28 Ultra runs of 42k, 26k, 8k at Schweitzer Schweitzer Huckleberry Color Fun Run • Aug 2 2.5k & 5k family fun runs on the mountain Spokane-to-Sandpoint Relay Race • Aug 14-15 Epic relay from Mt Spokane to City Beach
Scenic Half Marathon • Sept 20
Through downtown and across the lake
BIKE IT, OR SWIM IT
Premier swim and rides Three-Quarter Minus Cykeltur • May 2
Timed gravel ride of 48 or 65 miles
CHAFE 150 Gran Fondo • June 20 One glorious ride, six spectacular routes
Long Bridge Swim • August 1 Northwest’s premier open-water swim WaCanId Bike Ride • September 14-19 370-mile supported ride into canada
Get links to Register visitor information 800-800-2106 | VisitSandpoint.com
www.RunBikeSwimSandpoint.com MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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saturday July 18, 2020
TRI Harder DU Tiger
Tiger-Tri
Tiger-Du
Colville, Washington
# swim 1.5K bike 40K run 10K
www.tigertri.com
SPOKATOPIA SUP CUP 2019. // PHOTO COURTESY OF SPOKATOPIA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FESTIVAL
MT. SPOKANE VERTICAL CHALLENGE (JULY 18): Hosted by Trail Maniacs at Mt. Spokane
State Park, courses include 50k and 25k “challenge” and 25k fun run.
THE “ORIGINAL” BARE BUNS FUN RUN (JULY 26): Annual trail run at Kaniksu
Ranch Family Nudist Park, near Loon Lake, Wash., that’s a clothing-optional 5k run/ walk, sanctioned by USATF as part of the Buns Across the Border series.
TARTARUS BACKYARD ULTRA (AUGUST 15):
New event hosted by Kaniksu Ultras and based at Riverside State Park Camp 7; described as a “Last Person Standing” race for runners and “ruckers.” SMOKECHASER RACE (SEPT. 12): 30k and 5-mile course starts from Priest Lake State Park, Lionhead; organized by Priest Lake Multisports. MOSCOW MOUNTAIN MADNESS 5-MILE & HALF MARATHON (SEPT. TBA): Features sin-
gle-track trails and logging roads; hosted by
the Palouse Road Runners club in Moscow, Idaho. WILD MOOSE CHASE TRAIL RUN (SEPT. 26):
Starts at Mt. Spokane State Park’s Selkirk Lodge; hosted by Eastern Washington University’s Class of 2021 Doctor of Physical Therapy program students. SEKANI 5K & 10K TRAIL RUN (SEPT. 27): Adventure run/hike/walk on trails at Camp Sekani in Spokane; fundraiser for Franklin Elementary School’s A.P.P.L.E. program. (See Charity sidebar on page 25.)
ROAD CYCLING
BIKE EVERYWHERE CHALLENGE (MAY 1-31):
Events and activities organized by the Spokane Bicycle Club—includes group rides, flat-fixing clinic, and daily events for Spokane Bike to Work Week, May 11-15, including Monday morning pancake breakfast at Riverfront Park (May 11) and Tuesday morning energizer stations (May 12).
Full Ironman Returns to CDA IT’S OFFICIAL—the full-length Ironman series will return to Coeur d’Alene in 2021
as part of a rotating series, and local athletes are stoked. The full Ironman distance (2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, 26.2-mile run) has been absent from the region since 2017. While Coeur d’Alene has continued to host the Ironman 70.3, the return of the full Ironman on June 27, 2021, ups the competitive spirit again in the area. “The excitement for the return of the full Ironman is in full swing,” says James Gable, president of Team Blaze Spokane, the largest triathlon training group in the Inland Northwest. “It’s a lifestyle for a lot of these athletes.” Part of that lifestyle comes from community training. Gable says his group races and volunteers at Ironman Coeur d’Alene to support an event that inspires a healthy community. “[Coeur d’Alene] is a wonderful venue, and the rotating schedule is great for athletes to experience both distances,” he says. The rotating full Ironman will take place in St. George, Utah, in 2020, Coeur d’Alene, in 2021, and a location yet to be announced in 2022. Meanwhile, this year’s Ironman 70.3 Coeur d’Alene will offer 40 slots to the 2020 Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand. (Lisa Laughlin) 28
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
KIDICAL MASS (MAY 2): Family-friendly
3-mile ride (on anything that rolls) through the Gonzaga University campus and local neighborhood, presented by Summer Parkways; starts at 1 p.m.
LILAC CENTURY (MAY 17): Ride options
include Century (100 miles), Metric Century (66 miles), 50-Mile ride, 25-Mile Ride, and 15-Mile Ride and Family Ride; organized by Spokane Aurora Northwest Rotary Club with a start/finish at Spokane Falls Community College.
APPLE CENTURY BIKE RIDE (JUNE 6): Tour the Wenatchee Valley area with a 100-, 50-, or 25-mile ride. (See Charity sidebar on page 25.) SPOKANE SUMMER PARKWAYS (JUNE 18):
SPOKANE VALLEY CYCLE CELEBRATION (JULY 26): Organized by ValleyFest, options
include a 10-mile Family-Friendly Ride, 25-mile Adventure, and 50-mile Hills Around the Valley Ride; free registration for ages 12 and younger.
BLAZING SADDLES BIKE RIDE (AUGUST 1):
Explore Northeast Washington’s highly scenic and low-traffic Colville Valley countryside with a 40, 62, or 100-mile ride. TOUR DE LENTIL BIKE RIDE (AUGUST TBA): A fundraising event for WSU Cycling Club in conjunction with Pullman’s National Lentil Festival. SPOKEFEST (SEPTEMBER 13): Based in
Kendall Yards, event includes Spokane Falls 9-mile Loop, 21-mile River Loop, and a Half Century (50 miles).
A summer solstice community event for cyclists, runners, and walkers; includes free kids’ activities and business and vendor booths along the 4-mile loop route through the Manito and Comstock neighborhoods.
MT. BAKER HILL CLIMB (SEPT. 13): 22 miles along Mt. Baker Highway, for ages 13+. (See Travel sidebar on page 26.)
CHAFE 150 (JUNE 20): Popular Gran Fondo
WACANID SELKIRK LOOP RIDE (SEPT. 14-19):
scenic ride (not a race) that starts from Sandpoint’s City Beach and goes along Lake Pend Oreille into Montana’s Cabinet Mountain river valleys. Route mileage options: 150, 100, 80, 40, or 30 miles, and family fun ride. Organized by Sandpoint Rotary, all entry fee proceeds support Pend Oreille School District’s autism program.
6-day ride over 370 miles on one of the most scenic routes in the Northern Rockies. (See Travel sidebar on page 25.)
8 LAKES LEG ACHES (JUNE 20): This longtime Spokane-area event has moved from its traditional August time frame; choose among 30-, 45-, and 75-mile routes, with the longest one touring around all 8 lakes. Proceeds benefit Spokane-based Lutheran Community Services Northwest.
BIKE MS—CYCLE THE SILVER VALLEY (SEPT. 19-20): Routes of 20-100 miles along the
SILVER VALLEY RIDE TO DEFEAT ALS (JUNE 20): Ride solo or with a team to raise funds
to fight Lou Gehrig’s disease—tandem and tag-along bikes and bike trailers allowed. Ride coincides with Walk to Defeat ALS, a fully-supported 3-mile easy walk along the trail (no entry fee; fundraising encouraged). Other regional Ride to Defeat ALS events happening in Eagle, Idaho (May 30); Mt. Angel, Oregon (July 18); and Snohomish, Washington (July 25). (See Charity sidebar on page 25.)
GLOBAL KIDICAL MASSIVE (SEPT. 19):
Family-friendly ride begins at 1 p.m. at Spark Central in Spokane (Kendall Yards), follows a 3-mile route through the neighborhood and along the Centennial Trail.
Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes with start/finish at Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg, Idaho; fundraiser for National MS Society.
RIM RIDE (SEPT. 19-20): “Rotary in Motion”
5-mile family bike ride on Saturday, followed by 15, 25, 50, and 100-mile rides on Sunday; hosted by the Rotary Club of Liberty Lake, Wash.
COEUR D'FONDO (SEPT. 19): Ride along
Idaho's Scenic Byway (Hwy 97) and finish at downtown Coeur d’Alene’s Oktoberfest; routes include 120-mile Gran Fondo; 90, 50, or 40 miles; or 15-mile Family Fun Ride.
KOOTENAI RIVER RIDE (SEPT. 20): Pedal
CENTURY CHALLENGE & CYCLE DE VINE (JUNE 20): Choose the 100-mile ride (with
along the Kootenai River and through the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge and experience some of North Idaho’s most scenic countryside on a 16k, 60k, or 100k ride.
NORTHWEST TANDEM RELAY (JULY 3-6):
MOUNTAIN BIKING/ GRAVEL GRINDERS
9,600 foot elevation gain) or 30-mile tour of Lake Chelan Valley.
Organized by Emde Sports, and based at the EWU campus in Cheney, event features tandem-friendly and fully-supported cycling routes touring the West Plains. TOUR DE WHATCOM (JULY 18): Options
include 22 or 44 miles, Metric Century (62 miles), or Century Ride; start/finish in downtown Bellingham, Wash.
EVERGREEN MOUNTAIN BIKE ALLIANCE – CLASSES & SKILLS CLINICS (MARCH DATES TBA): Events for adults and youth (ages 8-17),
from beginner to advanced mountain bikers, including family, women, and girls only classes. Schedule at Evergreenmtb.org includes all statewide regions, including Evergreen East in Spokane and alliance chapters in western and central Washington.
MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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SPOKANE
DO WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE
GRAN FONDO RACES: Ephrata (March 15), Goldendale (April 26), Leavenworth (May 17), Ellensburg (June 14), and Winthrop (Sept. 19); organized by Rideviciouscycle. com. CDA (CRAZY DAM ADVENTURE) GRAVEL 2 (MARCH 15, APRIL 26, MAY 31, JUNE 28): A
new event organized by Trek Bicycle Store in Coeur d’Alene, this series is an alternative gravel adventure. EVERGREEN EAST SPRING KICKOFF (MARCH 29): Join Spokane-area mountain bikers
to celebrate the final stage of Evergreen’s Make Beacon Public campaign with the film “Return to Earth,” adult beverages, and a silent auction. All funds go toward saving Beacon Hill. HILLY NILLY GRAVEL SERIES (MARCH 29, APRIL 11, MAY 10, JUNE 14): Free, no-sup-
port, 20-40+ mile ride series on hilly courses, with a mix of paved and gravel roads. All rides begin at 10 a.m. from Michael D’s Eatery (Sherman Ave) in Coeur d’Alene; organized by Trek Bicycle Store in Coeur d’Alene and Vertical Earth. WASHINGTON STUDENT CYCLING LEAGUE (MARCH-JUNE): Mountain biking develop-
ment program and spring race series for riders in grades 6-12, organized by the non-profit Washington Student Cycling League.
19 T P E S , Y HON T SATURDA A R A M F AL
5K | 10K |
H
Great post-race festivities & fabulous goody bags
HUB-A-PALOOZA (APRIL 3-5): Three-day
mountain bike festival at Beacon Hill/ Camp Sekani in Spokane, hosted by Velo Northwest; includes downhill races, fourstage Enduro race, and jump jam/high jump competition. New this year are e-bike race categories.
BEEZLEY BURN (APRIL 4): Organized by Vicious Cycle and based in Ephrata, Wash., race includes 8-mile laps. WEDNESDAY MTB RACE SERIES AT RIVERSIDE STATE PARK (MAY 6-JUNE 24):
For eight consecutive Wednesday evenings, this popular annual event—now organized by Gineric Productions—features a different weekly race course (7-11 miles/lap); free entry for age 17 and younger.
NORTH AMERICAN ENDURO CUP (JUNE 13):
Silver Mountain Bike Park in Kellogg, Idaho, hosts one of only eight North American races that qualifies for the Enduro World Series; includes 6 race stages and 6,000+ feet of climbing. “TRANSHANDLE” RIDE SERIES (JUNE 21, JULY 19, AUGUST 23): New event for road
and e-bikes organized by Trek Bicycle in Coeur d’Alene, includes point-to-point or out-and-back self-supported rides utilizing the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes and Northern Pacific Rail Trail (45-50 miles/ each; with last ride in series 90+ miles). 5 IN JULY AT FARRAGUT STATE PARK (JULY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29): Wednesday evening single-
track race series at Farragut State Park, in Athol, Idaho, features different weekly courses and 2-mile kids’ ride; free entry for age 18 and younger.
SPOKATOPIA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FESTIVAL BIKE DEMO DAY (JULY 11):
One the biggest bike demo events in the Northwest includes regional bike shops and reps offering unlimited mountain bike and other bike demos (with paid demo pass) and uphill shuttles for all the Camp Sekani singletrack laps you can handle. Live music and adult beverage garden with proceeds benefitting Evergreen East. NORTHWEST CUP (JULY 17-19): Silver Mountain Bike Park hosts one of the stops for this race series for ages 5+. RIDE THE PASSES (JULY 19): Now in its
second year, the approximately 60-mile “Epic Gravel Loop” self-supported ride, organized by Trek Bicycle Store in Coeur d’Alene, starts/finishes at the Northern Pacific Railroad Museum in Wallace, Idaho. Course goes over Lookout Pass, then along the Hiawatha Trail to Pearson and over Moon Pass before returning to Wallace; free entry, Hiawatha permit fee required.
BLUE GOOSE CHASE (JULY 25): A free 11-mile family bicycle ride in the Little Pend Oreille (LPO) National Wildlife Refuge, along the gravel auto tour route, to support the nonprofit Friends of the LPO. NELSON FAT TIRE FESTIVAL (AUGUST TBA):
REGISTER:
HAPPYGIRLSRUN.COM
A portion of the proceeds benefit Create Your Statement
IDAHO INTERSCHOLASTIC CYCLING LEAGUE (MAY-OCTOBER): Offers teams and race
series for youth in grades 6-12.
3/4 MINUS CYKELTUR (MAY 2): Sandpoint’s 2nd annual gravel ride includes a twohump route (72 miles) and an abbreviated 1-hump route of approximately 52 miles. Post-ride revelry at Matchwood Brewing to follow. BAVARIAN BIKE AND BREWS (JUNE 6):
Organized by Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance Central Washington Chapter. The event near Leavenworth, includes mountain biking, camping, and live music.
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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
A 4-day festival in British Columbia, organized by Nelson Cycling Club, that showcases the area’s best downhill and crosscountry trails. SMOKE ‘N’ FIRE 400 (SEPTEMBER 9): Selfsupported approx. 400-mile loop bikepacking ride, with almost 41,000 feet of climbing. Ride begins/ends in Boise, Idaho, at Hyde Park and includes the Centennial and Harriman Trails. SILVERROXX MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL (SEPTEMBER 18-20): Hosted by Silver
Mountain Resort and includes group downhill and super-d races, and kids’ events.
THE DIRTY SPOKANZA GRAVEL GRINDER (OCTOBER 4): 3rd annual event described
as “less than half the miles and more than twice as weird as Dirty Kanza, the world’s most popular gravel race.” Begins at Big Barn Brewery in Spokane and features three route options, from 32 miles and 3,000 feet of climbing to 90+ miles and 10,000 feet. INLAND NORTHWEST CYCLOCROSS SERIES (OCT.-NOV.): USA Cycling series organized
by Emde Sports includes divisions for
women, men, pros, masters, and junior boys and girls at various race venues.
MULTISPORT: TRIATHLON/ SWIMMING/ PADDLING/ WATERSPORTS LEADMAN TRIATHLON (APRIL 18): Organized
by Kellogg Rotary Club, and based at Silver Mountain Resort, this adventure course
4 races 3 levels (“cuts”) 2 mountain ranges 1 awesome new series Don’t miss out!
The GRIT NORTH IDAHO TRAIL SERIES
May 9·Priest Lake Marathon *Short Cut: 13.1mi BIKING BETTIES AT BEACON HILL. // PHOTO BY JANE PATTEN, COURTESY BIKING BETTIES
Mountain Biking Women of Spokane MORE THAN EVER, women are helping grow the Northwest mountain biking com-
munity. “In mountain biking you can really set your own level of fun. It’s a way to get out in nature and play as an adult,” says Penny Schwyn, co-founder of the Biking Betties women’s riding group, based out of The Bike Hub in Spokane. Women age 15 to 65, and older, enjoy group rides on local trail networks, such as Beacon Hill and Saltese Flats. Schwyn, 59, started mountain biking in her 30s—her husband did it and it looked fun. After a few years, she took a riding class. “It was life changing because I understood the ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ to riding a mountain bike,” she says. “It taught me skills so I could be confident, and then I started having more fun.” Now Schwyn is on the coaching team for Evergreen East, the Spokane chapter of Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance. Biking Betties’ member Jane Patten, 37, started mountain biking 6 years ago. She appreciates how the sport provides challenges suitable for all riding styles and intensity levels, from leisure double-track rides to “lung-burning cardio on massive climbs,” she says—with technical descents and jumps optional. She tries to get more women to participate in local MTB races. “I think as a beginner the thought of doing a race can be pretty intimidating,” she says. It was the encouragement of local pro-racer Jaime Reese—co-founder of Biking Betties—who inspired Patten to try racing. “After my first enduro race I was immediately hooked. The experience was so much more than just the race—it was seeing how much you can push yourself, building a camaraderie with old and new friends as you learn the course, and just having fun and living in the moment,” says Patten. “Now so many us of inspire each other and are constantly encouraging each of us to try new events. The Wednesday Night cross-country races out at Riverside State Park is a great weekly series during May and June that's not as technical as races out at Beacon if you're looking to build confidence and ease yourself into the racing scene. These races will definitely help your endurance and cardio” Leigh Bowe, 38, a professional enduro mountain bike racer since 2015, joined Biking Betties after moving to Spokane from Colorado about two years ago. She started mountain biking in 2006 while still in the military. “I had just returned from a year-long deployment to Baghdad, Iraq, and I was looking for a way to experience some adrenaline and be healthy outside,” says Bowe. Last fall, she competed in Smoke ‘n’ Fire 400, in Boise, which inspired her to do Cross Washington (XWA) this May—a 700-mile selfsupported, mostly off-road bikepacking ride from the Pacific coast to the WashingtonIdaho border. All women are welcome to join the Biking Betties—check out its Facebook page for group ride events. On March 21 they’re hosting a spring cleaning event at Beacon Hill. (Amy McCaffree)
***Grand Cut: 50km
June 27·Race the Wolf *Short Cut: 26km **Long Cut: 52km ***Grand Cut: 52km
Aug. 15·Dig Your Grave **Long Cut: 42km ***Grand Cut: 42km
Sept. 12·Smokechaser *Short Cut: 30km **Long Cut: 30km ***Grand Cut: 30km
Register! priestlakerace.com/thegrit @thegritnorthidaho MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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22nd
Anniversary
event for solo or team competitors begins on Kellogg Peak and includes skiing/snowboarding, mountain biking, and running. (Coming in July, a Jr. Leadman for ages 13 and younger—date TBA.) SKI TO SEA (MAY 24): A multi-sport relay
Moved to June A Scenic Ride with 3 Routes30, 45 & 75 mile
adventure race that starts at Mt. Baker Ski Area and finishes in Bellingham Bay— includes cross-country and downhill skiing/ snowboarding, road and cyclocross biking, canoeing, downhill running, and sea kayaking. (See Travel sidebar on page 26.) TROIKA TRIATHLON (MAY 30): Options
include an Olympic course, collegiate Olympic course, sprint course, duathlon (5k run/40k bike/10k run), aquabike (1.5k swim/40k bike), and half distance triathlon; takes place at Medical Lake’s Waterfront Park, Wash.
June 20th, 2020 Spokane, WA
MOSES LAKE TRI—FOR THE HEALTH OF IT! (JUNE 13): Olympic, Sprint, and Family dis-
tances; organized by BuDu Racing; based at Blue Heron Park in Moses Lake, Wash.
FOR MORE INFO www.lcsnw.org/8lakesride 509.343.5020 cmckee@lcsnw.org
(See Travel sidebar on page 26.)
Presented by Kaiser Permanente & LCS Northwest to benefit vital programs for children & families
“Half ” Ironman race based at City Park in downtown Coeur d’Alene, includes 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run.
GRANITE MAN OFF ROAD WEEKEND (JUNE 27-28): Family-friendly tri/duathlon events.
IRONMAN 70.3 COEUR D’ALENE (JUNE 28):
SPOKATOPIA SUP CUP, PADDLING DEMOS, AND CLINICS (JULY 11): Second year at at
13TH ANNUAL RIDE
JUNE 20, 2O2O In Beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho
Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival for this stand-up paddling race on the Spokane River, start/finish at Boulder Beach; recreational and elite divisions. Demo kayaks, paddleboards, and other paddling gear too.
TIGER TRI & TIGER-DU (JULY 18): Organized by the City of Colville Parks & Recreation and Negative Split, this Northeast Washington triathlon includes 1k swim at Lake Gillette, 40k bike, and 10k run. There’s also a duathlon that includes a 40k bike and 10k run. LONG BRIDGE SWIM (AUGUST 1): A 1.76-
mile swim race across Lake Pend Oreille, along Sandpoint, Idaho’s iconic Long Bridge.
SWIM THE SNAKE (AUGUST 8): Swim, kayak,
or stand-up paddle across the Snake River channel between Lyons Ferry State Park and Lyons Ferry Marina, in the town of Starbuck, Wash.; fundraiser for Blue Mountain Resource Conservation and Development Council and local youth summer swim teams.
RIDING FOR OUR YOUTH! Challenge yourself by riding one of America's premier scenic long distance rides, the CHAFEE 150. Not up for 150 miles, choose from 100, 80, 40 and 25 mile routes plus our family friendly Family Fun Ride. Proceeds from the ride benefit after-school reading and literacy programs and other Rotary youth and educational activities.
FOR ROUTE MAPS, FAQS, NEWS AND REGISTRATION: PRESENTING SPONSOR:
32
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CHAFE150.ORG
TRI TOWN FLOAT DOWN POKER PADDLE (AUGUST 8-9): Paddle the Pend Oreille River
from Ione to Metaline Falls, Wash., and win prizes along the way; organized by the North Pend Oreille County Chamber of Commerce to help local veterans and cancer patients.
PRIEST LAKE TRIATHLON (AUGUST 29):
Choose between an Olympic distance triathlon or a sprint mountain bike distance; start/finish near Hill’s Resort. CLARK FORK ADVENTURE CHALLENGE (SEPT. 20): This event in Plains, Montana, includes
running, paddling on the Clark Fork River, and mountain biking; complete solo or with a team. (See Travel sidebar on page 26.) VALLEYFEST MULTI-SPORT SUNDAY (SEPT. 27): Enjoy some of the most scenic stretches
of the Centennial Trail and Spokane River on a 5k or 10k run, duathlon, or triathlon in Spokane Valley.
OUTDOORSY EVENTS
SPOKANE FLY FISHERS GEAR RAFFLE (MARCH 11): Attend the Spokane Fly Fishers fund-
raising raffle to meet other Spokane area fly fishers and for a chance to win new and slightly used fly fishing equipment (6 p.m. at St. Francis School in Spokane). BIG HORN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SHOW (MARCH 19-22): Gear and resources for fish-
ing and boating, hunting, backpacking, and shooting sports; takes place at Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds (free admission for age 6 and younger).
TUNDRA SWAN FESTIVAL (MARCH 21): Each spring thousands of tundra swans and other birds return to the lakes and rivers of Northeast Washington’s Pend Oreille County. Come celebrate the splendor of this annual migration! LEDLENSER TRAILS IN MOTION FILM FESTIVAL (MARCH 26 & APRIL 10): International film
tour makes only two stops in the region— March 26 in Wenatchee and April 10 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, at Fleet Feet.
NAT GEO LIVE! (APRIL 16): Photographer
Ronan Donovan will share images and stories from his travels in Africa and beyond.
WALLACE CRAFT BEER PUB CRAWL (APRIL 18): Wallace, Idaho, celebrates Idaho's Craft
Beer Month with brewers from across America showcasing their unique craft beers in 16 different watering holes all within a convenient two block area in historic downtown Wallace. WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL (APRIL 30):
The festival that inspires activism through empowering stories and the grandeur of wild nature lands in Spokane for the annual benefit for Spokane Riverkeeper. OUTLIVE FILM FESTIVAL (MAY 9): This
Spokane-created film festival celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the healing power of the outdoors in an effort to help cancer survivors build healthy and meaning-filled lives by getting active outdoors and connected to others.
GET OUT FEST (JUNE 26-28): Second annual event based at the Ferry County Fairgrounds in Republic, Wash. (free admission for ages 17 and younger), includes tent camping, climbing wall, kids’ play area, pop-up skateboard park, free paddleboard and kayak use at Curlew Lake, half marathon & 5k races, hiking and mountain biking in the Colville National Forest, food vendors, and live music. TOP PIN ARCHERY (JULY 10-12): Family-
friendly archery competition on the back-
side of Silver Mountain, in Kellogg, Idaho, that includes navigating through a course of prop target-animals. QLISPE RIVER FEST (AUGUST 28-30): Don’t miss this second annual outdoor music festival in Northeast Washington’s Pend Oreille County. //
Editor’s Note: Did we miss your favorite race, ride, or outdoors event? Email amy@outtheremonthly.com and we will do our best to include it next year.
2020 Newport Autumn Bloom 5K & 10K Run Newport Hospital & Health Services Foundation fe
ourli y r o f
#run
10 K is a Second Seed Qualifier for Bloomsday 2021! Tourism support for 2020 Autumn Bloom is provided by City of Newport Hotel/Motel Tax Funds.
September 19, 2020 T.J. Kelly Park 9AM l
(Corner of 1st St. and Washington Ave.)
Newport, WA
Register online at RaceRoster.com or download registration form at NewportHospitalAndHealth.org Pre-registration Deadline: 9/14/2020
On-site Registration: 7:30AM - 8:30AM
Race Contact: Lori Stratton, Foundation Assistant (509) 447-7928, ext. 4373 NHHSFoundation@nhhsqualitycare.org
KAI SHARBANO WAS FEMALE WINNER AT THE SUNDAE SUNDAY IN NOV 2019 WITH HER SONS. PHOTO COURTESY KAI SHARBANO // RIGHT: JULIE LEHMAN-SMITH RACING IN IRONMAN ARIZONA, NOV 2019. PHOTO COURTESY JULIE LEHMAN-SMITH
Train Like a Mom MOST MOMS HAVE HEARD THE AIRPLANE-ANALOGY ADVICE—how she should first
put on her own “oxygen mask” before she can assist others. Well, exercise is a form of oxygen. “Running is a lifestyle [for] me and allows me to mentally decompress or to prepare for my upcoming day,” says 35-year-old Dr. Kai Sharbano, mom of two sons, ages 4 and 1.5, and member of the Spokane Swifts running club. She ran her first marathon at age 20 and has now completed nearly 40 marathons, plus a few Ironmans and 50K ultra runs. “I'm a better wife, mother, and surgeon when I run and get some ‘me’ time. Running [helps] me let my day go and be present for my children and husband. I feel mentally better about myself, and I'm a happier and more engaged mother because I run,” she says. Currently training for the Coeur d’Alene Marathon, she runs 45-55 miles per week, which requires 6-8 hours. Her workouts are typically done by the times her kids wake up for the day—sometimes starting as early as 4 a.m. “My husband is an amazing support and will always cheer me on. He knows how important running is to me,” says Sharbano. She occasionally trains while pushing her older son, Knox, in a jogging stroller, and last summer ran some 5k races this way. Another Spokane mom and Swifts member is Julie Lehman-Smith, 37— who trains year-round, has two sons (age 12 and 9), and works full-time as a physical therapist. A runner since a pre-teen, she ran her first marathon at age 24, and completed her first triathlon 8 years ago and first Ironman 4 years ago. Ironman training requires 15-25 hours a week, with 1.5 to 6 hours a day during the peak phase. “Most of the time that means getting up at 2:30 every morning to get my workouts in before I start my day. My family understands how much this sport means to me and are very supportive of what I do,” she says. Her most recent Ironman was last November, in Arizona, and she’s now training for Ironman 70.3 Washington—on September 20 in Maple Valley. “I've slowly pushed myself every year to limits I never knew I could reach…My sons see how hard I work. It teaches them how to never give up when things get tough and set your sight on your goals. My older son plans on competing in an Ironman [someday],” says Lehman-Smith. MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
Prototype shown with options. Extra-cost color shown.
Bogus Basin Bluewood Schweitzer Silver Mt. Mt. Spokane 49° North Brundage Lookout Pass
ON THE MOUNTAIN
SKI/SNOWBOARD SECTION
sponsored in part by
35 MARCH 2020 PHOTO: / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM AARON THEISEN, COURTESY OF SKI THE NORTHWEST ROCKIES
ON THE MOUNTAIN LOCAL RESORTS
PHOTOS: AARON THEISEN // COURTESY OF SKI THE NW ROCKIES
12 REASONS TO LOVE SPRING SKIING
BY AMY MCCAFFREE
BY MARCH, the urgency of the ski sea-
son has passed. First chairs, perfect lines, shin-deep tree runs have been scored. But the season is not done by any means. The mountains are still calling, and there are many ways that spring takes skiing and snowboarding to a higher level of bliss.
1. POWDER DUMPS: Sometimes the best
powder days happen in spring, making us wish the season would go longer. After a long season of making turns, your legs will be strong enough to ride powder all day long. While a lot of people move on to other sports, some of the best powder days of the season can be in March. 2. BLUEBIRD DAYS: I have yet to meet
anyone who doesn’t love mountain bluebird days. Everyone is in a better mood. Visibility is awesome. Get them when you can and don’t forget the sunscreen.
sunshine and warming air temperatures gently change the snow’s composition, he says, “This transition allows for smooth— you might even call them greasy smooth— turns before things get too slushy.”
10. FAIR-WEATHER FRIENDS: A bluebird day
6. SOFTER LANDINGS: When a bluebird day inspires you to try new tricks or send it higher, soft snow is a more forgiving cushion if you fall. Dig into those edges and tear it up.
11. GOOD VIBES: Spring takes après-ski
7. SMALLER CROWDS: As people transition
3. FEWER LAYERS: Warming temps means
4. SOFTER SNOW: Springtime’s warmth transforms the skiing experience, akin to poetry. “I love skiing on a deep snowpack that is slowly giving itself back to the earth. I especially like the way corduroy softens each morning,” says Matt Sawyer, marketing director at Lookout Pass. As
8. BETTER PHOTOS: On cold, snowy days, rarely do you want to get out your phone, take off your gloves, and record the action. Your hands freeze, your phone gets wet, and the light is flat. And on powder days, who wants to spend time futzing with a screen when you could spend more minutes skiing? But on a bluebird day, it’s more convenient to capture that family photo on the summit, video friends doing tricks in the terrain park, and take a chairlift selfie with your ski buddies.
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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
ing sunlight, rich hues of pink and purple overtake the blue sky and it can be pretty magical.
5. SKILL MASTERY: Now that you have a few months of skiing or snowboarding fitness, spring is primetime for skill advancement. Try a new black diamond. Seek out harder lines. Carpe diem all spring long before your gear goes back into storage.
to lower-altitude recreation, alpine runs as well as Nordic trails and backcountry slopes experience less traffic. Enjoy the extra elbow room out there.
you can ditch a mid-layer and slim down your usual skiwear ensemble, making it faster to get ready and easier to move. And without the need to wear a gaiter or buff, everyone can see each other’s big smiles.
9. AFTERNOON & EVENING LIGHT: With wan-
is a compelling reason for finicky friends to get back on the mountain or for the beginning skier or snowboarder who may not appreciate the cold temps of deep winter to hit the slopes. happy hour to a higher level. “The warming rays allow our posse to relax, beer in
hand, outside on a picnic table or sitting on a snowbank, under a slowly setting sun, listening to the group members relive their day’s highlight reels,” Sawyer says. “Contemplating deep thoughts helps to usher in a soft close on another perfect spring day and long winter season.” 12. MULTI-SPORTS: Ski powder in the morning and bike in the afternoon. Or crosscountry ski for a few hours before heading to the downhill slopes. The days are longer, in-town trail are drier, and opportunities abound. There are no good reasons to sit at home this spring. //
SPRING SAFETY TIPS “CHALLENGING SPRING CONDITIONS include the rapid transition from slick snow to
grabbing snow, which pushes the rider forward,” says John Batchelder, pro patrol director at Lookout Pass. “Proper stance and balance is a key to staying in control. Knee and shoulder injuries are common in this situation.” Be mindful of the “freeze-thaw-freeze effect,” according to Mt. Spokane ski patrol director Eric Ewing. “In the morning the snow is typically firm and as the sun hits the snow, it softens and gets sticky. And as the sun goes down, the snow gets firm again. This is also true for areas in the shade.” When snow starts to melt, Ewing advises also being cautious of “underlying snow obstacles, like rocks, logs, and stumps.” Lower extremity (knees and below) and clavicle or shoulder injuries are common on the slopes anytime, says Ewing. “Skiers can reduce risk by being prepared for the conditions—both physical fitness and maintaining equipment properly. Make sure your body is fueled. Have a good breakfast, don’t skip lunch, and make sure you drink lots of water.” On bluebird days, sunburn and eye burn are also risks. “Folks often forget sunscreen and expose flesh that hasn't seen the sun for a while, which burns easily,” says Batchelder. He recommends always wearing goggles, or at least sunglasses, to avoid eye injuries.
LOCAL RESORTS ON THE MOUNTAIN SPRING PASS SAVINGS
If you’ve been thinking about getting a season pass next year, now is the time to pull the trigger. Local resorts are offering their lowest pricing of the year right now. The four Ski the NW Rockies affiliated resorts below also offer free skiing for the rest of this season as an added spring pass sale perk. Get yours before the sales end (usually the end of April or early May) and save hundreds on the investment of a year’s worth of skiing or snowboarding.
PASS HOLDER PROFILES
LEFT: CHUCK KRIEGH. MIDDLE KIM CARPENTER. // RIGHT: KIM AND HER GANG. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHUCK AND KIM.
BY HOLLY WEILER
MOSES THE MOUNTAIN HOST
49 Degrees North Local Chuck Kriegh For Chuck Kriegh of Cheney, 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort has long been his home away from home. He first started skiing here over 36 years ago when his eldest son was a teenager just learning to ski. The family-friendly vibe of the resort appealed to him at the time and keeps bringing him back today. Now that his own children are grown, Kriegh is a major contributor to the family-friendly atmosphere at 49 through his involvement in the Mountain Host program. The resort added mountain hosts over 15 years ago, and Kriegh was among the initial applicants to the program. He is now the lead organizer of the group that includes 24 total volunteers whose main goal is to ensure every guest has a great day on the mountain. According to Kriegh, being a mountain host is the "best job on the mountain." Those involved with the program are frequently the first up and the last off the mountain, working in tandem with the resort's ski patrol but without the stress. Whereas ski patrol is responsible for mountain safety, mountain hosts are responsible for mountain fun. Kriegh’s main aim is to ensure "guests have a successful ski day, where at the end of the day they're happy and want to come back." As a mountain host he may meet guests in the parking lot to offer suggested runs for those new to the mountain or let visitors know about resort amenities. He may take
a run or two with a new-to-the-mountain skier, guiding them toward more or less adventurous runs depending on the skier's ability level and desires. He may even share his favorite powder runs, "if they ask nicely!" The next time you ski 49, look for the mountain hosts in their distinctive bright blue jackets. Ask for suggestions on runs to suit your ability or secret powder stashes. To meet Kriegh, just ask for "Moses" or "Pops." BETTER LATE THAN NEVER
Lookout Pass Local Kim Carpenter Kim Carpenter of Coeur d'Alene took a circuitous path to becoming a regular at Lookout Pass. When she first tried skiing as a teenager, she opted to try with friends rather than take a formal lesson. She suffered from that all-too-frequent treatment aspiring skiers receive from their peers who learned to ski at a very young age: the keep-up-or-else mentality. It wasn't fun, and after the first few tries Carpenter gave it up and refused to return to the slopes for many years. She didn't allow herself to be lured back into the sport until her 30s. At that point she had four young kids at home, and her family started to take advantage of the Idaho Peak Season Passport program that allows 5th and 6th-grade students to ski for free. By pairing free skiing for her qualifying children with other youth skiing education programs at Lookout Pass, Carpenter found skiing could
become a fun and affordable option for her family. After being abandoned at home for quite a few weekends, Carpenter 's husband picked up the family activity, too, after taking advantage of Lookout's Learn to Ski or Ride in Three Days package. The deal includes three days of tickets, equipment rentals, and lessons. Graduates of the program are able to purchase a season pass for a reduced fee and access rental equipment for the rest of the season. Soon there were a total of six skiers in the Carpenter household. Soon thereafter, Carpenter decided to switch it up by learning to snowboard. Now she does either sport depending upon conditions. She has found that she prefers snowboarding, even though her knees prefer skiing. She has made improvements to her technique over the years by meeting friends for some mid-week practice, all while continuing to ski with her family each weekend. Her eldest daughter now lives in Montana but is still able to join a family reunion on the ski hill most Sundays. Carpenter has found the biggest change and the greatest joy over the years in watching her kids surpass her on the slopes. She used to deliberately ski behind to keep an eye on them, but she's now in the back to trying to keep up with stronger skiers. This time, nobody is getting dropped, and it's all family fun. //
MT. SPOKANE: The Pass ½ Sale starts March
1 and includes skiing for free for the rest of this season. Adults $419, youth $339, senior $339, and midweek $319. And if you already have a 2019/20 pass, you pay even less for renewing.
LOOKOUT PASS: Get your 2020/21 pass and ski or ride for free into April this year and all of next season at the lowest price of the year. Adults $279, youth $219, or senior $209. Like other resorts, pass holder renewals save even more. 49 DEGREES NORTH: Ski or snowboard for the rest of this season with your purchase of a 2020/21 season pass at 49 during the spring sale on now. Adult passes are $399 and youth $299, with similar spring pass savings for seniors and other pass categories. The popular 49/Silver Combo passes are also on sale so don’t miss the opportunity to save more with access to both resorts. SILVER MOUNTAIN: As with other local resorts, scoring your pass during the spring sale comes with free skiing or riding for the rest of this season. Prices for popular pass categories include at the spring pass sale rates include $369 for adult, $259 for youth, and a family pass that includes two adults and up to three youth for $1179. Or pick up a Silver/49 Combo pass at the best price of the year. (OTO)
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ON THE MOUNTAIN SKI BUM ADVICE
COREY SMITH AND KATHY WILSON WAITING FOR AN INSTAGRAM WORTHY LUNCH. // PHOTO: SHALLAN KNOWLES
THINGS I DID NOT DO THIS SEASON BY BRAD NORTHRUP
I DON’T LIKE SETTING EXPECTATIONS, main-
Spokane Fly Fishers YOUR CHANCE TO WIN NEW & SLIGHTLY USED FLY FISHING EQUIPMENT MARCH 11 @ 6 PM Spokane Fly Fishers Fundraising Raffle
St. Francis School, 1104 W Heroy Ave Spokane
Images courtesy Kimbo May 38
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
ly because I end up being disappointed. Maybe I should try setting lower standards, and then fail to meet them. A great example would be the tradition of making that New Year’s resolution to get into shape starting Jan. 1. Not me. No, I set the date for Feb. 1, knowing full well there is no way I would start to address my woeful physical condition anywhere near the time when the holidays end and the NFL playoffs begin. Doing so would be an affront to the snack food and beer industries, and I just couldn’t have that on my conscience. Well, Feb. 1 came and went, while dust continued to collect on the weight bench and treadmill in our basement. Maybe next year. Or the year after that. You get my point. Anyway, here are some things I did not do this season, some of which I am glad I did not. SKIPPING WORK TO GO SKIING
During the dark days of November, I told myself that this will be the season when I am going to call in sick and go powder skiing if it snows more than 6 inches in the mountains the night before any given work day. Who wouldn’t want to snag first tracks mid-week when the crowds are light? Me, evidently. Nope, rather than taking a “mental health” day this past January when the snow gods smiled upon us and gave the gift of bone-dry powder, I chose to remain in my corporate enclosure and get kicked repeatedly in the nuts. Stupid responsibilities. LODGE BAR KARAOKE
Some folks can hold a tune. I am not one of
them, nor do I plan on being one of them. In fact, it would take a bottle of Pendleton to get me to even consider getting up in front of people and trying Karaoke, so no big loss there. However, I do take great pleasure in watching other people make complete fools of themselves. Nothing says après-ski party like some dude who just pounded down two pitchers of PBR and is trying to keep up with the lyrics while singing Tiffany’s “I Think We’re Alone Now.” Mad props for trying. POSTING STUFF ON SOCIAL MEDIA
I intended to take more pictures and shoot video this season for social media purposes but didn’t get much. And even if I did, I’m not sure how much I would post, mainly because there is so much good stuff already out there. The posting of epic powder video and flawless corduroy stills have become commonplace, making anything less seem unworthy. No thumbs up for me this year. But my favorite posts are the ones where people take pictures of their lunch and endlessly complain about how much it costs on the mountain, like it was an extortion racket run by the mob. I love these posts because of the snide comments they get: First World problem, bro. Yeah, who would have thought food would cost more in a resort setting? Dude, you’re wearing a $600 jacket. I think you can afford a $15 burger. Oh, and please stop posting pictures of your lunch—no one cares. Brad Northrup is a former ski racer, coach, and ski bum. A GoFundMe page has been created to buy him a better attitude about social media.
ARTIFACTS ON THE MOUNTAIN
THE ROPE TOW
MULTORPOR SKI AREA'S ROPE TOW, CIRCA 1955, PULLED SKIERS UP A STEEP SLOPE ON MULTORPOR MOUNTAIN. MOUNT HOOD, IN THE BACKGROUND, HOSTS TWO SKI AREAS, TIMBERLINE AND MT. HOOD MEADOWS. MULTORPOR SKI AREA COMBINED WITH SKIBOWL IN 1964 AND IS NOW SKIBOWL EAST. PHOTO COURTESY OF MT HOOD CULTURAL CENTER & MUSEUM.
BY JEAN ARTHUR
NEARLY 90 YEARS AGO the first rope tows were installed on slopes across the snowy places of the U.S. In 1937, the first rope tows in the West chugged into action at Snoqualmie Summit, Mount Rainier, and Mount Baker. The Seattle Times writers opined in the Feb. 28, 1937 edition, “Skiers are not made by climbing hills. Skiers develop proficiency by coming downhill.” The article noted that
at Mount Rainier, skiers can potentially ski 4,000 feet of vertical in a day. Of course, today, some lifts exceed 4,000 feet vertical and adept riders might reach 50,000 vertical per day. The lift-accessed record is nearly 65,000 feet skied in one day. As ski clubs formed and ski hill managers built rope tows, farmers got into the action. Harold Termaat farmed near Kalispell, Mont., but in the winter, his fields were cov-
ered in snow, so from the late 1950s through 1968, he rigged the ropes. Termaat once told me that, “I had two tows and two John Deeres going at the same time.” The rope for his homemade lifts ran around the tractor wheel. “We got 50 cents [a day] for the small hill and a dollar for the big hill. Parents said it was the cheapest babysitting they could find.” Although not many are still rigged by tractors, a surprising number are still employed around the country. "We estimate that there are approximately 670 tow ropes in the U.S. today," says Adrienne Saia Isaac, director of marketing and communications for the National Ski Areas Association. “As for historical tow ropes, we don’t have any exact record, but…the number was definitely in the thousands." My earliest memory of rope-tow riding was at Mount Hood’s Multorpor ski area, now called Mt. Hood Ski Bowl at Government Camp. The old tow wasn’t especially long, but it accessed a beginner slope full of other four- and five- year olds, outfitted in hand-me-down boots and skis, wool sweaters and long knit hats, which were dangerous—or so I found out. One wintery day as my older brothers dashed off to the t-bar, I skied the 100-foot slope with other little kids. I loved my long stocking hat, knit by my mother, green and white and pink with a white puff ball of yarn
at the end of the three-foot-long pointy cap. As I neared the top of the rope tow, my hat was pulled off, wrapped around the tow rope, and sent through the greasy mechanism before dropping like a dead raccoon. The next Saturday, a sign at the tow read “No long stocking caps allowed on rope tow. Tuck in all hair.” On another snowy day at Multorpor, my friends and I rode the rope tow once again. I had black leather mittens, which were neither waterproof nor warm, but we were having fun. Until, once again, the rope tow somehow snagged the metal hook on my left mitten. When I went to let go at the top of the tow track, I couldn’t. I was dangling from the moving rope by the mitten cuff and the metal hook. Luckily, the lift operator saw me, skis five feet in the air. He shut down the tow. My hand slipped from the mitten, and I crumpled in a pile. My dad thought it was time to learn to ride the t-bar, and that’s another story. I sometimes visit ski hills with rope tows. Still, no long-knit hats for this skier. // Jean Arthur has worn out numerous pairs of mittens riding rope tows, t-bars, poma lifts, trams, trains—and the latest at Big Sky Resort—the eight-seater Ramcharger chairlift, the first of its kind in North America. She skis and writes from Bozeman.
MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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ON THE MOUNTAIN TRAVEL
THE PERFECT RUN AT THE NATIONAL FINALS SKIJORING IN RED LODGE. // PHOTO: COLLEEN KILBANE
SPURS & SKI BOOTS BY JEAN ARTHUR
and over the 5-foot, snow-covered jump. COWBOYS AND COWGIRLS gallop their horses out of the start, snow clods flying, Despite the chaos, the horses stay focused, chaps flapping as skiers hang tight to ropes ranch animals with vibe. Some skiers and attached to saddles. Skiers and snowboardboarders don’t make it past the first jump, ers, towed behind the steeds, hit snow sometimes landing in the muck, much to the jumps built into the 700-foot loop course. pleasure of the hundreds of spectators. Kids who have been cheering their favorThis is skijoring, an old sport rejuvenated. Here in Red Lodge, Mont., near Yellowstone ite teams now trot themselves to the fire National Park, the National Skijoring Finals pits and S’mores station for warm-ups and kick and snort each March. sweets. There’s a chili cook-off, wagon rides, Skijoring teams compete for cash priza climbing wall, and live music on Saturday night at the Snag Bar. es and national titles. Cheers and laughs increase as ai15817873457_Out a horse picksThere upadspeed and the Downtown Red Lodge, all six blocks of - Feb 15th.pdf 1 02/15/2020 9:22:26 AM alpinist is flung even faster around the loop it, lines with skiers in puffy coats and cow-
folk in Wranglers. They find soft pillows at the historic Pollard Hotel, where cattle rustlers, gunslingers, and mogul mashers have snoozed. Famously, the Pollard hosted Calamity Jane, frontierswoman and professional scout. Liver-Eatin’ Johnson, who claimed to eat the liver of any man he killed, also resided at the three-story redbrick hotel, established in 1893, as did Pony Express Rider and grand showman Buffalo Bill Cody. Back then, Red Lodge, which was established in 1884 when Montana was still a territory, flourished thanks to coal mining— and 20 saloons. Reportedly, the town’s name was derived from the Crow Indians’ red clay painted council tepee, used here when the Native Americans stayed to worship and hunt. Today, Main Street merchants shovel snow from sidewalks of brick storefronts where the Swanky Fork sells high-end kitchen wares and Roscoe Outdoor offers gear and active ware for skiing, hiking, climbing, and relaxing. It’s tough to walk past City Bakery without stopping for coffee and croissants or the Red Lodge Books & Tea for good reads and hot sips. There’s the Carbon County Arts Guild and Depot Gallery with regional artists’ works. Lively bars host music and good eats such as Sam’s Tap Room & Kitchen, famous for its Red Lodge Ales like Bent Nail IPA and Rocking Horse Black IPA. During the anchor event, The Red Lodge Winter Fest when the town hosts the
National Skijoring Finals—which it’s done since 1980—family events include moonlight cross-country ski trips, the Backcountry Film Festival, a Monster Dog Pull, and dance contests. There’s pint night at Red Lodge Ales craft brewery, where Winter Fest royalty is crowned. This year’s skijoring finals will be hosted on March 14-15, but the Red Lodge Winter Fest starts on March 6 and carries on for 10 days. For a full schedule of events, visit redlodge.com. At the Red Lodge Mountain ski area just above town, costume contests, rail jams, a torchlight parade, and fantastic snow greet skiers and riders during Winter Fest. It offers 1,635 acres of terrain among the Beartooth Mountains, fluffed with light and dry snow. Lift tickets at $69/day for adults seems underpriced considering the seven lifts, mountain lodges, and 70 runs that look out over the Great Plains to the east. Steep runs, deep snow, and spring sunshine entice sliding folks to the Grizzly Peak summit at 9,416 feet where views deep into the wilderness to the south compete with sparkling double black diamond runs like Durango. Après ski spectators line the rodeo grounds on Red Lodge’s western edge, cheering on their favorite buckskins and paints, and skiers and snowboarders, too. High Plains Brewing and The Snag Bar serve beverages at the event. Entry is $10 per person for one day or $15 for both. Free shuttles from downtown allow more room for horse trailers and hay bales. // Skier: Sam Kuch. Photo: Ryan Flett
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PRIME TIME ON THE MOUNTAIN
GRANDPARENTS TED SMITH AND KATHY WILSON TAKE A SKI LESSON AT BIG WHITE SKI RESORT, INSPIRED BY THEIR 4-YEAROLD GRANDSON REMINGTON. // PHOTO: SHALLAN KNOWLES
SKI LESSONS FOR GRANDMA BY TABITHA GREGORY
I AM LEARNING to downhill ski in my sixth decade of life. Over the years, I’ve made a number of failed attempts to learn. Once on Japan’s icy slopes, thrice on Alyeska Resort’s torturously steep runs, and finally in the ungroomed backcountry of Thompson
Pass, Alaska. Those experiences scared me out of my wits and left me wholly uninterested in the sport. Then, last year upon moving to Spokane, I found myself surrounded by a half dozen beginner friendly ski areas. Along with that
inducement, my husband was ready to dial back his ski ambitions, my stepson (also a recent transplant) was enthusiastic about skiing, and our 4-year-old grandson was game. It looked like I had a troop. I resolved to try downhill skiing again. I enumerated the mistakes I’d made in the past: I’d been in too big of a hurry, I’d let peer pressure push me onto slopes that were too difficult, and I hadn’t taken the time to acquire basic skills. This time, I’d learn properly. Securing ski gear was my first item of business, so I headed to REI and came away from the store with a leased set up consisting of skis, poles, boots that seemed bearable, and a helmet. Next, my group decided to kick off the season on Mt. Spokane. The area offered an easy drive, inexpensive half-day Sunday passes, and a family-style reputation. Lastly, I signed up for a ski lesson. Nervous, I set out for what I hoped would be a successful initiation into downhill skiing. I found my class—a half dozen “adults” of whom I was the oldest by decades. Our ski instructor showed us how to tell left ski from right, how to efficiently clip in, and how to hold our poles. He taught us to mount and dismount from the chair lift. He coached us gently down the bunny slope. Amazingly, I enjoyed it. I skied in control. I didn’t careen into other humans. I didn’t tumble from the lift. Afterward, when I met up with my family, I was pompous with success and ready for more.
We hit the beginner slopes at Mt. Spokane and 49 Degrees North another half dozen times. Each time, I took it easy, practiced my nascent skills, enjoyed quiet moments riding up the swaying lift, and delighted in family camaraderie. Our group’s final day of the season was at 49. We yo-yoed the Chair 3 beginner slope several times. Then, as the day progressed, I grew ambitious. I wanted to go to the top. I mounted Chair 1. At the summit, the sun shone across miles of rolling pine-covered peaks. The groomed on-ramp to the greenrated Silver Ridge flowed away and the trail disappeared into dense trees. I pushed off, nice and slow. I made a set of turns and it felt okay. The snow was corn and my edges dug in. I descended comfortably and then, midway, I accidentally ended up on an intermediate run. My heart raced, but, determined, I sideslipped my way down—not graceful, but in control. At the bottom, I breathed a sigh of relief, took a moment, and then continued on. I cut a beautiful set of S’s through forested trails and managed a couple of parallel turns. At the lodge, I swooshed to a stop, giddy and breathless. As my enthusiastic band of family skiers high-fived me, I was already making plans for next year. // Tabitha Gregory relocated to Spokane from Valdez, Alaska, in 2018. She runs, backpacks, cross-country skis, and is now embracing the sport of downhill skiing.
MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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ON THE MOUNTAIN SKI SCHOOL
NORTHWEST CUP SLALOM RACE AT MT. SPOKANE. // PHOTO: COURTESY OF NANCY AND TOM FALTER
SKI RACING THRILLS BY WILLIAM DEXTER
SOME PEOPLE ENJOY a day on the mountain by skiing miles and miles of corduroy. Others love deep, endless powder days, and many just like being in the mountains with family and friends. For myself, skiing is crushing levels of g-forces, suits tighter than a second skin, ice, and obscenely skinny skis. I compete for the Mt. Spokane Ski Race Team as an alpine racer, and my path down the mountain, if all goes well, is one of rhythm and flow, arc-to-arc turns, and clean, powerful skiing from top to bottom. The Olympic sport of alpine racing showcases the athlete’s diverse skill set across four distinct events: slalom, giant slalom, super giant slalom, and downhill. There is (unfortunately, for my finances) a unique pair of skis required for each of these events that differ in length, stiffness, and size of turn radius. Slalom gives us the shortest, slowest, yet most rapid-paced event. You will see racers launch out of the start to arc around the hinged poles, called gates, often knocking them down in order to ski the tightest line. The short skis used for slalom (165 cm) are wide in the tip and extremely narrow underfoot, giving the skier the ability to arc a short-radius turn. Slalom is a technical event, making it a two-run race, in which each racer’s combined times are added up to determine a winner. In the next fastest event, giant slalom (GS for short), the skis get longer (193 cm), 42
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / MARCH 2020
the speeds nearly double, and the skiing changes from quick, sudden turns to longer, fluid, powerful turns. GS is also a technical event, following the same two-run format as slalom. GS is the fundamental basis of ski racing, as the skills from it are prevalent in all events. The true speed events, including the super giant slalom (super G) and downhill, are often popular with viewers due to the highway speeds and massive, soaring jumps that racers conquer as they throw their bodies down the hill. The primary differences between the speed events and GS are the higher speeds, bigger turns, and dramatic terrain. To be stable in these conditions, super G and downhill skis are incredibly long and straight, 212 and 218 cm, respectively. The athletes aren’t the only ones who experience the thrill of ski racing. So do the spectators who witness each racer charge down the hill with differing styles and ways of approaching the sport. Crashes, beautiful skiing, and epic recoveries are commonplace in racing, as well as the thrill of raw speed. Races are fun, competitive environments that showcase some of the best skiing in the area. // William “Woody” Dexter is a full-time ski racer who also works at the Spokane Alpine Haus. When not skiing, he can be found hanging with friends or playing his ukulele.
MOUNTAIN CULTURE ON THE MOUNTAIN
POND SKIMMING IN THE SKIVVIES. // PHOTO COURTESY OF SILVER MOUNTAIN RESORT
HOW TO WIN AT POND SKIMMING BY ADAM GEBAUER
IT IS THE TIME OF YEAR when Hawaiian shirts mix with ski socks and when all the skin hidden under layers of GORE-TEX and long underwear all winter is exposed. It’s also the time of year when snow and water mix in the magical end-of-season spectacle called pond skimming. At its most basic, pond skimming is the act of riding skis, snowboards, or almost any other sliding device down a snow slope with enough speed to cross a pond—but it is also so much more. There are several ways to “win” at pond skimming. Of course, you can try to make it all the way across the pond. That might get you a spot on the podium, but winning in pond skimming is all about pleasing the crowd. So I chatted with several “pro” pond skimmers to find out how to make the spectators cheers. Cameron has been riding for more than 19 years in Oregon, California, and at Mt. Spokane. He stresses style when it comes to pond skimming. If you can make it across doing flat spins or, even better, enter with a back flip and make it across the pond, “you win!” Cameron knows that having the most epic wipeout can also lead to victory. He admits that it is extremely difficult to pull off a trick and make it across the pond, but that is part of the fun. At the end of her ski-instructing season, Katrin tries skimming across several local mountain ponds. She stresses that both style and technique are required to win at pond skimming. She suggests hauling ass
on the approach and then leaning back for a moment before entering the pond. Once the skim begins, ride spread eagle, tips up. She stresses that whatever you do, don’t sit down. Brady hopes to impress the crowd by using unorthodox equipment. He has been riding a snow skate for 15 years, which is basically a skateboard deck with a mini snowboard underneath. This will be his fist time trying to pond skim on a snow skate. He hopes to use it as a hydroplane, skimming on the bottom board for as long as he can and then riding it out on the top deck. You can’t miss Mateo making S turns down the slope in his disco gold helmet, so of course he swears by wearing a memorable outfit. You might see anything from t-rex to Where’s Waldo. He could also be found wearing the proper protection: swimmies, goggles, and a life jacket. Mateo also commented on the perks of skis (faster) versus snowboards (more surface area). Here are a few more tips I picked up to help you win a pond skim. First, don’t spray ski patrol. I hear they don’t like it, but do try to spray the rest of the crowd. Getting the biggest rooster tail will get you a lot of applause. The ponds generally get longer as the day goes on, so plan your tricks for your second run. Finally, this might not help you win, but don’t forget to bring dry clothes. // Adam Gebauer has been out skiing come rain or shine and even snow this season. He last wrote about all the post-ski eats in the region. MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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LEFT: JEFF THOMPSON RIDING THE CHAIRLIFT WITH HIS AVY DOG ANNIE. // MIDDLE: ANNIE, SCHWEITZER AVALANCHE RESCUE DOG. RIGHT: LOADING THE LIFTS. // PHOTO COURTESY SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN RESORT
AVY DOGS AND RISK ASSESSMENT BY AMY MCCAFFREE
ON JAN. 7, 2020, Annie and Abbey rode the gondola to the summit of Silver Mountain Resort—their steady brown eyes conveyed the seriousness of their search and rescue mission. Each wore a ski patrol harness, red with a white cross, matching the jacket worn by dog handler Jeff Thompson, a ski patroller from Schweitzer Mountain Resort and the executive director of the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center (IPAC). Schweitzer formalized its avalanche dog program in winter 2016-17. “Finding good handlers—someone who has the capability to do this job and has the education—is harder than finding good dogs,” says Thompson, who has 23 years of patrol experience. Annie, a Labrador retriever, was only eight weeks old when Thompson got her. She is the third search and rescue dog he has trained. At that time, he was still living in Colorado and patrolling at Beaver Creek Resort. He moved to North Idaho when Annie was two. Avy dogs are “great mascots” for avalanche education and connecting and engaging with the skiing public, says Thompson. Dogs train year-round, and not only learn search and rescue skills, but also how to ride a chairlift, a snowmobile, and in a helicopter. Annie and her fellow Schweitzer avy patrol dogs, Abbey and Murphy, are sponsored by Dr. Tim’s, a pet food company, and by North Idaho Animal Hospital for vet care. After hearing the news about the inbounds slide at Silver, Thompson gathered his avalanche safety equipment and Annie and Abbey. “We weren’t there on the hasty search. We arrived about 2 hours in,” says Thompson. “The dogs were critical in finding skiers that first day. If people are buried without a beacon, an avy dog is the next best
[way to find them].” Annie alerted searchers to the location of one of the deceased skiers. The following day, Wednesday, Jan. 8, the search resumed when another skier was reported missing. Silver Mountain Ski Patrollers, Thompson and Schweitzer’s avy dogs, and patrollers from all the local mountains converged at the avalanche site. “Any time an unprecedented event like that happens, the community works together,” says Thompson. After he was able to investigate the avalanche, his preliminary report for IPAC detailed the avalanche as 300 feet wide and traveling more than 900 feet down the 16-to-1 ski run, having been releasing about 90 feet from the summit of Wardner Peak. In-bounds avalanches happen at many ski areas, most occurring in a “controlled environment with explosives and mitigation techniques” conducted by professional ski patrollers, explains Thompson who is also a certified National Ski Patrol Level 1 avalanche instructor. “Our avalanche center’s niche is the recreation side, to educate and forecast and to give the public information and tools,” he says. The center provides online resources and in-person classes tailored to backcountry users, snowmobilers, and skiers. “We never would have heard of the Silver one if it had been released during patrol’s avalanche mitigation work that day…. For whatever reason, something different happened that day.” Despite the tragedy, Thompson isn’t alarmed. “When you start to do the numbers of how many people ski and how often this happens…99.9 percent of the time it’s safe,” he says. “The reality is Mother Nature has a mind of her own, and as much as we try to manipulate the snow, it’s not enough.”
He continues, “I think it’s important for people to understand that the possibility [of avalanche] is there. Does that mean you have to wear your avalanche beacon in-bounds? No. Should you? Why not— [it] does no good sitting in your car,” he says. “Avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes are great when you make a bad decision. But the best thing is to not make a bad decision,” he says, particularly with backcountry ski terrain. “The one thing that comes to mind is slope angle—if you avoid avalanche terrain, you’re not going to get caught in an avalanche. You can ski all day and make powder turns and not be on avalanche terrain. But if you’re going on the avalanche terrain, take the tools with you. Be able to identify if you’re in a spot that could avalanche.” Angle awareness also applies to in-bounds skiing. “Usually your average blue run is tiptoeing into avalanche range. So that puts it into perspective. It doesn’t mean that there is a need to have heightened awareness. [Patrollers and mountain staff] manipulate the snow a ton, with snowcats and avalanche mitigation,” says Thompson. At Schweitzer Mountain “half of the runs are steep enough to have a slide, but most don’t have a history of slides,” he says. Patrollers begin avalanche mitigation work early each morning and continuously monitor snow conditions throughout the day, "keeping our finger on the pulse of our snowpack,” explains Thompson. The public can have confidence in professional ski patrollers who undergo avalanche training, he says. “Ski patrol at Schweitzer and Silver take their job very seriously and open the terrain when it is safe.” Stay in touch with Schweitzer’s patrol dogs on their Instagram profile @schweitzer.avydogs. //
OUTDOOR CALENDAR (March 7) Snake River Half Marathon. Where: Wawawai Canyon, Wash., near Pullman. A flat, paved out-and-back course along the Snake River. Info: Palouseroadrunners.org
(March 15) St. Paddy’s 5 Miler.
Where: Spokane Community College. This Bloomsday Road Runners Club classic is a springtime tradition with a fast, flat course. Info: Brrc.net
(March 22) Rapid Rabbit Run. East Valley High School, Spokane Valley. 3 or 5 mile run to benefit the Senior All-Knighter Class of 2020. (March 18) O’Grady’s St. Paddy’s 5K Run & Walk. Where: Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, Leavenworth, Wash. This timed 5k will start and finish at O’Grady’s Pantry, utilizing the Icicle River Trail on the Leavenworth National Hatchery land. Post-run party on O'Grady's patio. Info: Sleepinglady.com
(March 28) Spokane SuperHero Fun Run. Where: U-District PT, Spokane. 5K & 10K options along the Centennial Trail through Riverfront Park. All proceeds support CASA Partners. Info: SpokaneSuperhero@gmail.com
(April 4) 42nd Annual Only Fools Run at Midnight Run. 3.5-mile run to benefit the Medical Lake Lions Club’s sight and hearing programs begins at midnight. Info: Databarevents. com/foolsrun
BIKING (March 15) Gran Fondo Ephrata.
Where: Ephrata, Wash. Ride 50 or 80 miles along primitive back roads with over 2,700 feet of elevation gain. Info: Rideviciouscycle.com.
(March 25) Hilly Nilly Gravel Series. Where: Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Free, no support 20-40 mile pavement/gravel rides. The first in a series of four rides. Info: Trekcda.com
(March 29) Evergreen East Spring Kickoff. Where: Washington Cracker Co. Bldg., Spokane. Join the local mountain bike community to learn about and help support the final stage of the "Make Beacon Public" campaign and celebrate spring. Event includes silent auction, food, drinks, and the premier of the film "Return to Earth." All funds go toward protecting the trails at Beacon Hill from further development. Space is limited so get your tickets early. Info: Evergreeneast.org
WINTER SPORTS (March 7) Doug E. Fresh Banked Slalom. Where: Silver Mountain Resort. This race is hand dug and weaves its way down the terrain park with the finish line ending next to the Grand Teton Brewing beer garden. Info: Silvermt.com
(March 7) 6th Annual Snowskate Contest. Where: Lookout Pass. Hosted by Boyd Hill Snowskates out of Coeur d'Alene, this event is held in the Rolling Thunder Natural Terrain Park with binding-free boards. Info: Skilookout.com
(March 8) Spokane Nordic Challenge 20/30/50k Loppet. Where: Mount Spokane State Park. The Spokane Nordic Challenge Loppet has options for 20, 30 or 50 kilometer distances. "Loppet" is the traditional term for a long-distance cross country ski event that can be either recreational or competitive. Info: Spokanenordic.org/challenge
(March 14) Snowshoe & Brews. Where: Mt. Spokane. Join Spokane Parks & Recreation on a 2-3 mile snowshoe trek at Mount Spokane State Park, followed by a visit to Big Barn Brewery in Green Bluff. Gear and transportation included. Info: Spokaneparks.org (March 28) 2400 Feet of Schweitzer. Where: Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Ski 2,400 feet for cystonosis research. Info: Schweitzer. com
OTHER (March 13) No Man’s Land Film Festival. Where: EWU Spokane Riverpoint Campus. When: 6 p.m. The No Man’s Land Film Festival seeks to “undefine” what it means to be a woman in adventure, sport, and film. Stay after to win raffle prizes. Info: Nomanslandfilmfestival.org
(March 19-22) Big Horn Outdoor Adventure Show. Where: Spokane County Fair & Expo Center. Explore exhibitors, seminars, and entertainment featuring hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Info: Bighornshow.com
(March 21) Orienteering at Manito Park. Where: Spokane. Learn about orienteering, a sport of navigating quickly using a map and compass. Info: Ewoc.org
(March 21) Tundra Swan Festival.
Where: Newport, Wash. Hundreds of tundra swans make the Pend Oreille River Valley their migration pitstop each spring. This festival celebrating these beautiful birds includes a tour of swan and other wildlife viewing locations on the privately owned Calispel Lake. Info: Porta.us
S I X M O N T H E V E N T C A LE N D A R RUNNING (April 5) Hauser Lake 10K Icebreaker Run. Where: Hauser Lake, Idaho. The Ice Breaker run is an annual 10k race the first Sunday in April. It is an official Bloomsday Second Seed race benefits special needs dogs at the Double J Dog Ranch. Info: Facebook.com/hauserlake10kicebreakerrun
(April 19) Negative Split Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K. Where: Kendall Yards, Spokane. Negative Split’s signature race is the best way to kick off your running season. Boasting three great distances and scenic courses, this race is full of energy and swag! Info: Nsplit.com
(April 19) Spokane River Run.
Where: Riverside State Park. Annual trail run held through beautiful pine forest along the Spokane River. Courses range from 50k to 5k. Info: SpokaneRiverRun.com
(May 3) Lilac Bloomsday Run. Where: Downtown Spokane. Spokane’s most famous run. Run or walk this 12K community event. Info: BloomsdayRun.org (May 9) Priest Lake Marathon. Where: Priest Lake, Idaho. Five distances all off-pavement on forest roads that allow for a highly scenic and fully supported race. Choose from the marathon, half marathon, 50K, 25K, or family 5K. Info: Priestlakerace.com
(May 17) Windermere Marathon & Half Marathon. Where: Centennial Trail, Spokane. A fast, flat course with scenic views of the beautiful Spokane River. Info: Nsplit.com
(May 24) Coeur d'Alene Marathon. Where: McEuen Park. The Coeur d’Alene Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K runs offers one of the most spectacular events in the country in scenic Coeur d’Alene. Info: Nsplit.com (May 24) Priest Lake Spring Festival Run. Kick off spring at Priest Lake with a half marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Dash. Other festivities make this a great weekend event. Info: Priestlakerace.com
BIKING (May 17) Lilac Century Bike Ride.
Where: Spokane Falls Community College. Choose from a 100, 66, 50, 25, or 15-mile family friendly ride length. Info: Lilaccentury.com
(May 2) ¾ Minus Cykeltur. Where: Sandpoint, Idaho. The 2nd annual gravel ride with 52 and 72-mile routes with plenty of climbing and postride fun. Info: Syringacyclery.com
OTHER (April 4) Lakeview Ranch Hike. Where: Odessa, Wash. Enjoy this guided 5-6 mile desert hike through interesting geological formations and ancient lakes along with spring flowers and wildlife. Guides, transportation, and hiking poles provided. Info: Spokaneparks.org
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(July 11) Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival. Where: Camp Sekani Park & Boulder Beach, Spokane. Bikes, paddleboards, kayaks, music, beer garden, group rides, trail run, SUP race, and more! Info: Spokatopia.com MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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LAST PAGE The Cost of Playing Outdoors
THE AUTHOR'S BACKPACKING SETUP. HE IS HOLDING A TOMATO FROM HIS SANDWICH
BY THE RULES OF THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY,
I shouldn’t have been having fun. I was picking my way over boulders in Missouri’s Cathedral Canyon, and I didn’t have a lick of fancy gear. Backpack, tent, sleeping bag, down coat— all of it was back home in Washington. I left it there when I came to St. Louis to visit my folks for the holidays, not expecting a college friend to invite me on an impromptu overnight backpacking trip in the Ozark Mountains. But I wasn’t about to turn down an old
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friend, and so the gear would have to sort itself out. I rummaged through my parent’s basement and found my dad’s old external frame pack from his Boy Scout days—1960s vintage. Then I dug up the foam pad and sleeping bag that had served me so well during my own stint as a Scout in middle school. After I scrounged an old nylon coat from the attic, the ensemble was complete. All I needed now was food, which I grabbed from a gas station en route to the trailhead—a footlong Italian meat sub, paired with a Clif Bar. From the trailhead, we hiked to an icechoked creek and followed it upstream past a line of icicle-covered limestone cliffs. We picked our way across rocky glades of blockshaped rhyolite boulders and crossed a log bridge to our campsite beside a tiny waterfall. For dinner, I ate half the sub. The next morning, we watched the sun come up from an open bluff-top vista, and I ate the other half for breakfast. We had a blast. But in the eye of the outdoor recreation media, we were pariahs. “We will not run photos of hikers wearing jeans, and sneakers, nor clothing that is out of date (more than 5 years old),” read the photography guidelines for submissions to “Backpacker,” one of the nation’s most popular outdoors magazines. Even if I had
By Paul Chisholm submitted my Cathedral Canyon photos, they wouldn’t have stood a chance in the magazine. We violated every single rule. You don’t need to be wealthy to enjoy the outdoors. But national media outlets—fueled by an unquenchable thirst for advertising revenue—don’t want you to believe that. They want you to think that the only people who are truly “outdoorsy” are thin, athletic 20-somethings wearing thousand-dollar outfits and Instagram-worthy smiles. They’ve perpetuated a lie, and it’s hurting our sport. I’m as guilty as anyone. I’ve wasted countless hours wandering aimlessly through online gear stores. I’ve sifted through hundreds of listings for jackets, hats, tents, and sleeping bags, mistakenly believing that these items are the key to unlocking happiness outdoors. If only I had this rain jacket, or that backpack, I say to myself, imagine all the things I’d do… imagine all the places I’d go. It’s a misplaced idea. True, many outdoor pursuits do require a lot of stuff, and having good gear can make a trip more enjoyable. But generally, I already own that gear. It’s not brand new, but it works. And if I’m unhappy with my life as an outdoor recreationalist, it’s probably not because I don’t own the latest jacket. More likely it’s because I’m spending
too little time in the mountains. After all, expensive gear by itself won’t bring you to the top of that Facebook-famous peak—despite what the manufacturers want you to believe. John Muir, for one, didn’t have the benefit of space-age insulation or waterproof, breathable fabric, and he never had a problem having fun outside. To prepare for a long backcountry trip, Muir simply “rolled up some bread and tea in a pair of blankets with some sugar and a tin cup and set off.” This is ultralight backpacking, before the dawn of Gore-Tex. Ultimately, the outdoors is for everyone. Come as you are with what you have, and leave with a better appreciation for the world we live in. Chances are, you’re going to encounter an outdoor gear ad in the near future. You’ll probably see a happy looking person with a lot of expensive gear. There’s nothing wrong with happy people, or expensive gear. Just do me a favor—don’t assume they’re related. // Paul Chisholm is currently training for a 50-mile trail race from his new home in the Black Hills of South Dakota. He wrote about the Wallowas for the October 2019 issue of Out There.
www.spokatopia.com MARCH 2020 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM
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