Out There Outdoors // September-October 2024

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2215 W Northwest Boulevard

CenterPlace Regional Event Center

DAN KITTREDGE

BIONUTRIENT FOOD INSTITUTE

A leading advocate for nutrient-dense, sustainable farming, Dan Kittredge has dedicated his career to educating farmers globally. His innovations, including the Bionutrient Meter, highlight the vital connections between soil health, crop quality, and human health.

GRAEME SAIT

NUTRI-TECH SOLUTIONS

A globally recognized authority in sustainable agriculture, Graeme Sait is renowned for his expertise in soil, plant, animal, and human health. His contributions, including the book Nutrition Rules and the Nutrition Farming Podcast with over 500,000 subscribers, have significantly impacted agricultural practices worldwide.

LOVE OUT THERE?

BIG TERRAIN WITH SMALL-MOUNTAIN HEART

IF YOU’RE A SKI HILL in the Inland Northwest, you’ve had to adapt over the last 20 years. With less predictable winters, climate change and a fluctuating economy, many have had to get creative to meet the challenges.

49 Degrees North, located in Chewelah, Wash., has made some incredible updates to ride with the times. They’ve grown into 2,325 skiable acres, making them the largest ski resort in Eastern Washington and in the top 25 largest ski areas in the United States. They offer 90 runs: the most in the state. They’ve made significant updates to the mountain’s food, retail, rental, and demo offerings, as well as its grooming quality, lifts, and snowmaking. There are plans in the works for a world-class bike park. But what’s most impressive amid the changes is how 49° North has kept its spirit.

“Mega-resorts tend to be overcrowded, with long lines, overpriced food, and a touristy vibe. That's why places like 49° North are so special—they're like hidden gems,” says marketing coordinator Sarah Walker. “Every day we celebrate the stoke. It is easy to make friends on the slopes or in the lodge, and there are live bands and themed events on the deck to enjoy nearly every weekend. Even non-skiers and snowboarders come to enjoy the great food, music, and spectator events.”

The rate at which 49° North has been able to make improvements and enhancements over the past few years “is pretty mindblowing,” says Rick Brown, director of skier and rider services. “The most notable piece to that story is the way the ski area has been able to maintain the familyfriendly, down-to-earth, unpretentious local ski hill vibe that it’s always had.”

Known for incredible

PUBLISHERS

glade skiing, 49° North added significant terrain when they installed the Sunrise Quad Chair in the east basin of Chewelah Peak, which tacked on 700 acres of lift-accessed terrain and 18 runs from easy greens to double black diamonds. They added Angel Peak Chair to the west basin, which offered 11 new trails and more gladed skiing, upgraded Chair 2 with an extension, and added the Northern Spirit Express in 2021, a high-speed quad that cut ride time from 15 minutes to 7 minutes. Not that 49° North was ever known for having long lift lines, says Brown.

To expand into summer terrain, 49° North recently partnered with the world leader in bike park design and development, Gravity Logic out of Whistler, B.C., to do a feasibility study and create a conceptual design for a bike park on the mountain. While the plan has been submitted to the Forest Service, developing a new bike park on National Forest land in a responsible and sustainable way takes time. There are a few more steps, but Brown says they hope to have “tools in the dirt” within the next 12-18 months.

Upgrades like these—in addition to snowmaking, which allows 49° North to give skiers and riders one of the longest riding seasons in the region—are all in service of offering great terrain for any experience level. The Gold Fever conveyer in their learning area gives even the youngest skiers a low-stress environment to build confidence and skills. A gladed tree run on the beginner’s slopes gives kids a chance to experience the thrill of gliding through a forest on a blanket of snow.

“Whether it’s your first time or your 949th time at the resort, it feels like your home mountain, someplace you belong,” says Brown. “Families can ski or ride almost every zone of the mountain together regardless of difference in abilities or terrain preferences.”

With so much terrain, visitors regularly comment that it feels like they have entire runs to themselves, no matter the number of cars at the trailhead. “There’s almost always some fresh corduroy to carve or untouched powder to be found around the mountain by the end of the day,” says Brown. “Powder stashes can usually be found for several days after a big storm cycle. That just doesn’t happen at most ski areas.”

Snag a 2024-25 season pass on summer sale, or get in on the fall pass sale starting mid-September, and enjoy 49° North’s varied terrain, high-speed lift, and welcoming mountain culture. 49° North is farther north than other regional mountains, so it often sees larger snow accumulations from different storm systems and faces primarily north, giving it great snow quality and longevity. From stunning views of the Pend Oreille Valley via long cruiser trails to challenging off-piste with gorgeous views into Canada, 49° North is waiting. www. ski49n.com.

Q: What has been the biggest change in outdoor rec or conservation in the last 20 years?

Derrick Knowles: A lot of you have discovered my secret favorite spot 2 hours away: Canada!

Holly Weiler: There are more miles of new/improved trails.

Carol Corbin: Rising real estate prices have inflated conservation costs.

Bradley Bleck: Fighting climate change has gone mainstream.

Adam Gebauer: More diverse groups are working together on conservation.

TO REQUEST COPIES CALL 509 / 822 / 0123

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Derrick Knowles: 509 / 822 / 0123 derrick@outtheremonthly.com

SUBMIT CONTENT IDEAS to: lisa@outtheremonthly.com

OUT THERE OUTDOORS

Mailing Address: PO Box #5, Spokane, WA 99210 www.outthereoutdoors.com, 509 / 822 / 0123

Out There Outdoors is published 6 times a year by Out There Monthly, LLC.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher.

©Copyright 2024 Out There Monthly, LLC. The views expressed in this magazine reflect those of the writers and advertisers and not necessarily Out There Monthly, LLC.

Disclaimer: Many of the activities depicted in this magazine carry a significant risk of personal injury or death. Rock climbing, river rafting, snow sports, kayaking, cycling, canoeing and backcountry activities are inherently dangerous. The owners and contributors to Out There Monthly / Out There Outdoors do not recommend that anyone participate in these activities unless they are experts or seek qualified professional instruction and/or guidance, and are knowledgeable about the risks, and are personally willing to assume all responsibility associated with those risks.

PROUD MEMBER OF

Out There Turns 20 Will It Be Around for Another 20 Years?

11 YEARS AGO, I was saddled up to the bar at a now shuttered brewery in Kettle Falls, Wash., quenching my thirst after a bike ride in the nearby mountains when my flip phone informed me that I had a message. It happened to be from Out There Monthly founder and then owner Jon Snyder. He was responding to an earlier message from me where I let him know that I could no longer commit to being an Out There senior writer and regular contributor. I had big plans to map and promote a new longdistance hiking loop trail I’d been scheming about for several years. The route I dubbed the Inland Northwest Trail would be well over 1,000 miles long with a start and end in Spokane.

Jon’s message was short and friendly, wishing me well on my project. Then, near the end of the voicemail, he casually mentioned that he had become too busy as a Spokane City Councilmember and was looking to sell Out There. I almost dropped the phone in my beer.

Being a professional dirtbag and longdistance hiker had long been at the top on my list of career goals, but so had the job of an editor of an outdoors magazine. I had long written off the latter as pie in the sky, so

when the opportunity to take over the reins of Out There seemed possible, my trail plans took the back burner. I immediately phoned my wife Shallan to pitch her on the idea of buying the magazine. I wasn’t feeling overly optimistic, so her reply caught me by surprise. “No way, we have to do it!”

I wrote for the very first issue back in 2004 (about the now-defunct Bear and Rattlesnake Feed at the Imnaha Store and Tavern in Imnaha, Ore.) and continued contributing stories as a freelancer in most issues from there on out. Shallan had contributed photography and was on the cover once, so we both had a personal connection to the publication. I had a technical writing degree, and in an alignment of the stars, she had just finished graphic design school the week before. As it would turn out, our collective years in the non-profit world selling people on conservation campaigns translated shockingly well to selling the advertising that has kept Out There in print to this day. It took a few conversations to convince Jon to sell the magazine to us. Eventually he came to the same conclusion that we had—it was the perfect fit. Knowing almost nothing about magazine publishing meant the learning curve was steep those first few years. Like

5.11 climb, 26.2-mile run, or class IV+ rapid hard at times. Slowly the magazine grew in page count, though, thanks to advertisers who loved and believed in it. We worked crazy long hours, attended many outdoors community events, and bent over backwards to keep advertisers and readers happy.

Then COVID happened, and Out There almost didn’t make it. Down to 6 thinner issues a year, it felt like we were starting all over again, only harder this time in the shadow of the pandemic with more advertisers shifting to the screens so many people keep glued to their faces.

This issue, Out There’s 20th anniversary edition, is proof that print isn’t dead and Out There will be around for the foreseeable future thanks to our enthusiastic readers, talented local editors and contributors (not AI robots), and loyal advertisers. It’s been a wild ride and Out There would seriously never have made it this close to drinking age without you all. We are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to bring each issue of this magazine to life and watch those 34,000 copies spread across the Inland NW and into your hands.

Will Out There be around in print for another 20 years? That’s up to you. If you

own a local business or run a non-profit or event, please consider advertising in Out There, and we will do everything we can to get our 100,000 readers to support you back. If you’re a reader and avid fan of Out There, please patronize our advertisers.

To everyone reading this, we have another ask. Out There has always been 100% advertiser supported, but this year we are trying something new to make the magazine more resilient to inevitable change. We ask you to consider being a part of our new Out There Membership program that gives readers, local businesses and non-profits the chance to support more stories, art, and photography that celebrate the region’s outdoors culture, wild places, and community. Members also get some sweet deals and discounts from many of our advertisers, an invite to an annual party (see you for the first one Oct. 10), and a chance to vote on the types of content you’d like to see more of. Sign up at Outthereoutdoors.com/membership and join us in making sure Out There will be a vibrant part of our local outdoors community for years to come!

Derrick Knowles, Publisher

DISPATCHES

RED MOUNTAIN ANNOUNCES NEW BIKE PARK EVANS BROTHERS COFFEE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS

ROSSLAND, B.C.

RED Mountain Resort announced in July that construction had begun on the new RED Mountain Bike Park, marking an exciting new chapter for the resort. According to the RED, the multi-year, multimillion-dollar lift-accessed bike park will be the centerpiece in transforming the resort into a premier four-season hub for adventure.

"We are thrilled to announce the development of the RED Mountain Bike Park, marking not just a pivotal moment in our commitment to offering year-round adventure, but building upon and supporting the already deep culture of biking here in the region," says Howard Katkov, CEO and RED Mountain owner.

Partnering with Gravity Logic, renowned for being the leading expert in bike park design and development, RED plans to implement a phased approach over the next four years. This ambitious four-year plan will unfold around the Silverlode Chair, introducing an incredible variety of single

track, jump and flow trails for all skill levels. RED's vision for the bike park is to create a destination where beginners feel like experts and seasoned riders can still be humbled—a place where progression is celebrated and every rider is challenged at their level.

The official opening of Phase 1 is scheduled for summer 2025 and will feature a mix of new and refurbished trails of all experience levels. The Bike Park project is a celebration and progression of the remarkable and rich history of mountain biking in Rossland and the Kootenays. This legacy started with the early grass-roots trailbuilding days in Rossland, spanning several decades. As a result, an extensive trail network has elevated the prominence of the West Kootenays in the mountain bike industry, producing countless pro athletes and legendary trails. The development of RED Mountain’s Bike Park over the next few years will build on this foundation while continuing to look toward the future. (OTO)

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR TREE PLANTING PROJECTS

SPOKANE, WASH.

As part of its mission to preserve and revitalize our forests, waters, and wildlife, the non-profit organization The Lands Council (TLC), is organizing several treeplanting projects this fall, when the cooler weather gives newly-planted trees the best shot to establish before winter. Planting trees to create the next generation of urban forests and improve wildlife habitat and water quality in the Spokane area watershed is a great way to make a difference right in your own backyard. TLC is seeking enthusiastic volunteers of all ages to help plant thousands of trees in October. Organizers offer all necessary training and tools and ensure a rewarding experience, regardless of weather conditions.

Join in on Reforest Spokane Day on Oct.

WITH RETRO-THEMED PARTY (SEPT. 28)

SANDPOINT, IDAHO

Evans Brothers Coffee, a longtime Inland Northwest coffee roaster, is celebrating 15 years in business with a throwback retro-themed party at their roastery, located at Sandpoint's Granary Arts District, on Friday, Sept. 28. The festivities will run from 5 p.m. until late into the night, with Jupiter Jane Traveling Cafe and Eichardt's libations. Live music starts around 6 p.m. with Buster Brown, Matt Donahue & Friends, Headwaters, Biobeat beatboxing set, and trailing into the night with DJ Frost Freeze, DJ Mercury, and friends on the café dance floor. Drink and bean specials will also be offered all day at both café locations, in Sandpoint at 524 Church Street and 504 E Sherman Ave in Coeur d’Alene. (OTO)

12, where volunteers will plant native vegetation to enhance wildlife habitat and improve water quality in the Spokane and Hangman Creek watersheds. On Oct. 18, take part in urban tree plantings through the SpoCanopy and Cool Canopy programs, aimed at adding much-needed shade to neighborhoods with lower canopy coverage.

If you’re interested in receiving a free tree for your own yard, you can request one at landscouncil.org/urban-canopy. Planting a tree is not just an act of environmental stewardship but a chance to connect with nature and make a positive impact on the future. As the saying goes, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, but the next best time is now!" For more details and to sign up, visit landscouncil.org/events. (OTO)

The

divisive politics of the other Washington don’t reflect our values, yet they affect us deeply. Extremists in Congress are failing families, farmers, and businesses.

I’LL PRIORITIZE YOU.”

— Carmela

Carmela Conroy understands that making ends meet is harder than ever. In Congress, she will break through partisan gridlock, working with anyone to deliver results for Eastern Washington. As a Foreign Service Officer, she worked with Republicans and Democrats, negotiated trade deals, and helped America lead during international conflicts. As a Deputy Prosecutor for Spokane County, she supported law enforcement and held violent offenders accountable.

SHE WILL DEFEND DEMOCRACY AND PERSONAL FREEDOMS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO ORGANIZE AND TO ACCESS REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CARE.

SHE WILL WORK TO LOWER THE COST OF CHILDCARE, HOUSING, MEDICAL COVERAGE, AND PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.

SHE WILL STAND UP TO EXTREMISTS IN BOTH PARTIES AND RESTORE COMMON SENSE IN CONGRESS.

SPOKANE FALLS TROUT UNLIMITED TO HOST A FLY-FISHING SCAVENGER HUNT (SEPT. 14)

SPOKANE, WASH.

Don’t miss this free scavenger hunt with a fly rod! Experience and learn more about fishing on the Spokane River and the opportunities to catch fish right in the city and hang out with other anglers. This event is a great opportunity to learn how to fly fish from a seasoned angler, or, for those more experienced, to help someone get into fly fishing.

The Spokane River Scavenger Hunt is open to all experience levels, with participants pairing up in teams of two anglers to explore the Spokane River together with the goal of catching different species of fish and completing other objectives along the way. As an added incentive, the winner of the scavenger hunt will receive a free, guided fly fishing trip down the Spokane River with local fly fishing instructor and guide, Marc Fryt (from FlyFishSpokane.com).

The scavenger hunt will take place on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting at the Riverfront Park Clocktower. Participants can only fish along the Spokane River between the Washington-Idaho border and the boat ramp at the Spokane

Wastewater Treatment Plant. Fly fishing in Idaho or downstream of the boat ramp is out-of-bounds for the event. Anglers must then be back at the Clocktower by 4 p.m. that day. Sign up as a team of two or as an individual to be paired up with another angler ahead of the event by emailing Marc@ SpokaneFallsTU.org.

At the end of the day, the team with the most points (earned by catching different species of fish and taking a photo of them in a net) wins. The purpose is to catch different species of fish, not quantities of the same fish species. Teams can earn extra points by filling up a Spokane Riverkeeper bag with trash and finding and photographing other critters like crayfish and aquatic insects. All participants must have a valid Washington fishing license. As an added challenge, once the event begins, personal vehicles/taxis/Uber/Lyft are not allowed; however, teams are allowed to walk, use public transportation, bikes (Lime Bikes/ Scooters are allowed), in-line skates, or whatever else. Find all of the details and rules at Spokanefallstu.org. (OTO)

FIRST CASE OF CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE FOUND IN WASHINGTON

SPOKANE, WASH.

The first case of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) was recently found in Washington in Spokane County. CWD is a fatal disease that affects cervids: deer, elk, and moose. It is transferred through feces, saliva, urine, and other bodily fluids and can linger in the environment. It is a prion disease that affects the animal's nervous system, but symptoms don't appear until the late stages of the disease and include weight loss, lethargy, drooping ears, excessive salivation and urination.

CWD is currently found in 35 states as well as four provinces of Canada. Washington Department of Fish and

Wildlife (WDFW) has been preparing for its eventual spread to Washington since 1995, and, in 2021, in response to CWD detection in Idaho, put into place a CWD management plan. This plan creates a response team and an initial response area of a tenmile radius of detection, where the agency would consider reducing population numbers and increased testing.

Although the disease has not been found to affect humans, WDFW encourages hunters to get animals tested, which is crucial to help track the spread of the disease. Reach out to WDFW for more information. (Adam Gebauer)

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPOKANE TU

TURNBULL NWR SEEKS RESTORATION PROJECT

CHENEY, WASH.

VOLUNTEERS (OCT. 5)

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service needs volunteers to assist with its annual community-supported restoration effort this fall at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, happening Oct. 5 from 9 a.m. through 1 p.m. The event lines up with National Wildlife Refuge Week, which is the largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands.

Volunteers will spend a half day helping refuge staff plant native trees such as aspen, hawthorn, serviceberry and cottonwood at various locations across Turnbull. These tree plantings have been a regular occurrence on the refuge for the past two decades. Volunteers can also support local pollinator species by dispersing milkweed seeds and transplanting milkweed rhizomes in the pollinator garden maintained by the Friends of Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge.

Less than one percent of the Refuge’s habi-

tat is aspen or deciduous shrubland, according to Molly Dixon, the wildlife biologist at Turnbull. “This represents a loss of over 65% of these species’ historical presence on the refuge. By participating in this ongoing restoration, we hope to restore the landscape to a more natural distribution of habitat types, which will benefit forest-dependent wildlife,” says Dixon.

Tree planting sessions are family-friendly and open to all ages. Large groups are welcome with advance notice. Participants are asked to wear appropriate clothing (long pants, closed-toed shoes) and provide their own food and water. Refuge staff will provide all the planting equipment, including gloves. No prior experience is necessary to volunteer. To RSVP for the event, please visit The Friends of Turnbull at Fotnwr.org or call (509)-559-3034. (OTO)

DOMA COFFEE CAFÉ OPENS ALONG CENTENNIAL TRAIL

COEUR D’ALENE, IDAHO

Between miles 11 and 12 on the North Idaho Centennial Trail, in the Atlas Waterfront neighborhood west of Coeur d’Alene, there’s a new café in town. DOMA Coffee Roasting Company, a local craft coffee roaster and long-time advertising supporter of Out There Outdoors Magazine, opened the doors of its café location on August 15.

The DOMA café can now serve your preand post-adventure fuel needs in the form of excellent craft coffee, a curated food menu featuring favorite local bakers and chefs, and a great atmosphere to unwind or exchange route notes. With a sweeping view of the Spokane River and local pine-studded hills, the DOMA café provides stylish indoor and outdoor patio seating just a few steps from the North Idaho Centennial Trail.

A good café is a place to create community, somewhere to gather with friends and chat about life. “It’s an opportunity for us to contribute to our neighborhood being a rad place,” says Muir Harrison, DOMA CEO.

“We envisioned a place that would be warm and bright in the cold, gray months. Cool and light during the hotter seasons. Vibrant, full of life, art, sounds, textures and tastes.”

Some of that art and taste comes in the form of café bites made by Back Pocket Bakery, Boots Bakery, Locos, and Mimi and Frankie’s Kitchen. Local tattoo artist Jacob Redmond of Fourth Street Tattoo has tricked out the bold green La Marzocco espresso machine at the coffee bar and added art around the café space. A kid-friendly corner with a wooden toy coffee station, large windows for natural light, and enough houseplants to fill a greenhouse are a few other touches that make this a great space to gather.

Stop by the DOMA Café to experience the variety of coffee they have to offer, all brewed via dialed-in techniques and recipes. After your morning or afternoon fuel, walk along the river or continue about 3 miles to City Park beach in Coeur d’Alene. Grab a coffee, croissant, and pedal on. (Lisa Laughlin)

Undiscover this Idaho gem.

Hey there, adventure seeker! Post Falls, Idaho is calling your name. Imagine the air smelling like pine needles and pure excitement. Majestic trails? Check. Lush forests with leaves that look like they’ve been set on fire by autumn itself? Double check. And hidden riverside beaches?

Oh, you betcha. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to undiscover Idaho in the most epic way possible.

Check out our events calendar online!

NEW DOMA CAFÉ IN CDA

Harmony Yoga pilates!

SPOKANE CONSERVATION DISTRICT FARM AND FOOD SYMPOSIUM (NOV. 12-13)

The Spokane Conservation District is bringing together a community dedicated to promoting access to healthy, locally grown food, supporting local farming and advancing agriculture in the region at CenterPlace Event Center in Spokane Valley. The event is set to emphasize the reduction of synthetic applications in Northwest crops and advocate for full transparency within the food system. The event also seeks to drive home the critical message that soil health is directly linked to human health. Learn more and register at Spokanecd.org. (OTO)

GROUP RIDES AND TRAIL WORK PLANNED FOR LARCH FEST ON THE KETTLE CREST (SEPT. 27-29)

KETTLE FALLS, WASH.

Join Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and the Evergreen East chapter for the first-ever Larch Fest, a weekend of riding, trail work, and camping along the Kettle Crest in northeast Washington’s Colville National Forest this fall. This event that is open to mountain bikers from around the region will take place on some of Washington’s best backcountry singletrack. If Mother Nature cooperates, riders will be treated to the golden glow of larch trees in all of their fall color glory.

Daily group rides are planned, and

although Evergreen notes that many of the rides include considerable climbing, they also highlight many short and longer options to choose from on the event sign up page. In addition to the rides, a full day of trail work is planned for Saturday, with Evergreen providing the tools and oversight. Camping the whole weekend will go down at the Jungle Hill Campground off of Albion Hill Road just east of Sherman Pass, which will also serve as the rendezvous spot for group rides and trail work. Find more info and sign up at Evergreenmtb.org. (OTO)

SPOKANE VALLEY, WASH.

SEATTLE, WASH.

Charles Costa, a musician from the United Kingdom formerly known as King Charles, is on a mission to Run 90 Marathons in 90 Days along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in an effort to raise awareness for mental health.

Costa is running to support the invaluable work carried out by The Jed Foundation, a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults, and James’ Place, a UK-based charity dedicated to suicide prevention for men.

The cause resonates deeply with Costa after a skiing accident 10 years ago left him with a brain trauma that continues to shape his mental health journey. Through

the challenges he has faced, he has gained profound empathy for those grappling with similar struggles. Costa is now determined to turn his personal experience into a beacon of hope for others. He began his run at the Canadian border on July 20 with a goal to finish on Oct. 20 near the Mexico border.

Follow along with Costa’s journey on Instagram @charlescostaofficial and donate to the cause for The Jed Foundation on CrowdChange and for James’ Place on GoFundMe. Costa will be joined by running clubs, other athletes, students, and organizations throughout his journey. If you’d like to join him, please reach out to sarah@ treelinepr.com. (OTO)

CAMPFIRE STORIES: TALES FROM OUR PUBLIC LANDS (NOV. 14)

COLBERT, WASH.

How have you been lost and found in our public lands? Have you ever lost yourself staring at the towering walls of a river canyon? Have you ever turned a corner on the trail and found a majestic overlook? It's time again to gather and share your tales of our amazing public lands. “Campfire Stories: Tales from Our Public Lands” is a chance to come together communally and celebrate all the diverse ways we engage with our shared lands. Come gather and share stories of all the ways we have been Lost and Found, from getting turned around in Dishman Hills to feeling a bit

lost in the world and then feeling found in our natural places. Pitch your story to The Lands Council at the link below to participate.

Cohosted by Out There Outdoors, KYRS, and The Lands Council, this event is also an opportunity to meet other local organizations that work to conserve, educate, and improve access to our public lands. Gather around the campfire on Nov. 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Wildland Cooperative in Colbert, Wash. Landscouncil.org/events/storytellinglost-and-found (Adam Gebauer)

CHARLES COSTA RUNNING FOR A GREAT CAUSE.

my memory from more than 30 years ago is an apt metaphor for the way I construct my ride calendar every year. The spring and early summer are packed with multiple events every weekend. I throw everything at the wall, then at some point my wife and I will sit down to nail in place the rides and races that may or may not happen.

I didn’t get to attend Climb for the Cure, a high-profile gravel race up Mount Spokane organized by Duane Ramsey, but I’m always amazed at what sticks. There’s always a brief lull in bike events during the dog days of summer, and maybe I’ll get a house project completed. Things start ramping up once again with the Midnight Century in August, and oh what a doozy that was this year. There were 60 finishers, which can only mean there were 120 lunatics at the start if the average 50% attrition rate held true. And none of us were expecting all-night rain. Look for a full report on midnightcentury.com sometime in the near future.

That was my last big ride before Big Sky Spectaculaire , a 900-mile bikepacking race out of Bozeman, Montana, later in the month. There’s always a little time travel involved in print media event coverage. I’m a little bit nervous about an event that will have already happened by the time you read this. So if you wouldn’t mind traveling back in time to tell me, “cheer up, little buddy. It’s just a bike ride,” that would be greatly appreciated.

are scrambling to get in their last hoorah for the season before the whipping winds and sideways slush storms send us reaching for our woolies and Gore-Tex. There’s an overwhelming number of one day and multi-day events to choose from. I mean, I’m still not sure if the Walla Walla Grit gravel grinder and the Cino Heroica, an overnight ride out of Kalispell, are on the same weekend, but I’d really like to attend both. I can look that up, so don’t bother time traveling to inform me with that little tidbit of information.

And while you have your time machine all greased up and ready to go, you definitely don’t want to will have missed [time travel verb tenses can get a little strange, so bear with me] the Spokane Bike Party. Organizer Erin Mensing has a fun event planned to bring the community together on bikes:

“I wanted to create a night where the mountain bikers and roadies and people who need to pull the cobwebs off their bikes can all ride together to celebrate bike joy en masse. Group rides are super fun, but they also help people become more comfortable riding on the roads, which can lead to more people using their bikes as transportation. We will be partly on roads and also using some of our amazing paved trails. We’ve rigged up a trailer with large speakers for music and are expecting a couple of other bikes with sounds systems to be joining the ride to help us out with the music as well. The route is flat and easy, and we begin and

Spokane bike party is a week away as I write this and perhaps a month or two back as you read it, so I hope to will have seen you there! You can check Erin’s socials @Spokane_rides on instagram and the Spokane Rides facebook group to see what she and her husband, Kyle, have cooking for 2025.

One of the final events of the season is the Gravel Flamdangle. It rolls out from the Big Barn Brewery on Sunday, Oct. 6, so at least I don’t have to cause a rift in the time-grammar continuum to tell you about it. You can find more information at GravelBraintrust. com. Whatever you end up doing, though,

EDC article is due for the fall issue of OTO, I’ll write about great places to see the larches on bikes. You can borrow my time machine if you need to. It’s a beat up old Timex that only transports you forward in realtime. It won’t be able to transport you back to now, but maybe that feature will come with a firmware update in the not-too-distant future.

Justin Short is going to will have been writing the Everyday Cyclist column for the as yet unforeseeable past, present, and future. And he’ll definitely be goofing off on bikes for the same duration.

SPOKANE BIKE PARTY RIDES THE STREETS. // PHOTOS: TOM Á S KELLEY LYNCH

The Trailhead Inland NW Trail & Outdoor News

By Holly Weiler

FREE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT

• Mark the calendar for National Public Lands Day on Sept. 28! It’s a fee-free day for both Washington State Parks and National Parks for those looking for an outdoor adventure to celebrate the occasion. Or make it a day of service, since many local nonprofits will be hosting volunteer opportunities on this date to give back to the public lands that make our region’s recreation opportunities so fantastic! Washington State Parks will offer an additional fee-free day on Oct. 10 to mark World Mental Health Day.

• Join Friends of Scotchman Peak Wilderness for their end-of-season ascent of Scotchman Peak on Oct. 6. They promise this hike’s pace will be “slow as an old goat,” so it’s perfect for an introduction to this gorgeous landscape, where the view from the summit could include both fall colors and Lake Pend Oreille far below so long as the weather cooperates.

CONTESTS!

• Spokane Falls chapter of Trout Unlimited and Spokane Women on the Fly are teaming up for the Spokane River Scavenger Hunt, a fly fishing adventure, on Sept. 14. Teams of two will compete for a chance to win a guided fly-fishing trip during this free event, with points awarded based on different species of fish caught and bonus points available for wildcard categories like filling a Spokane Riverkeeper bag with trash collected along the way.

• Washington Trails Association’s annual Northwest Exposure Photo Contest is a fun opportunity to share Washingtonspecific photos for a chance to win prizes and be featured in WTA’s annual calendar. There are several photo categories, with a deadline of Oct. 6.

CONSERVATION, STEWARDSHIP & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Please see each organization’s website for full registration information.

• Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance will be hosting a work party on Sept. 14 at Loup Loup Ski Bowl to do some handfinishing work behind the mini excavator on a new trail.

• Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness will be hosting a fun and informative

day of service at Morris Creek to mark National Public Lands Day on Sept. 28. The work project is easily accessible and not overly strenuous, perfect for an introduction to trail maintenance. The project will be followed by a fun outdoor barbeque to celebrate the work!

• Great Burn Conservation Alliance will be hosting a meadow restoration weekend Sept. 27-29. Working out of Kelly Creek Trailhead, volunteers will backpack to Hanson Meadows for on-going restoration and monitoring work.

• Idaho Trails Association will be hosting a weeklong backcountry project working on the State Line National Recreation Trail, a portion of the Idaho Centennial Trail, out of St. Joe Lake on Sept. 8-14. This trip has pack support to help carry tools and equipment to the basecamp.

• Inland Northwest Land Conservancy will be partnering with Friends of Palisades on Oct. 5 for a fall clean-up event. Help pack out any trash and get this popular area ready for winter.

• Pacific Northwest Trail Association will be hosting a fun introduction to trail work through a Trail Eyes 101 on Sherman Trail near the gorgeous Kettle Crest on Sept. 21. This volunteer opportunity will focus on the basics of trail maintenance in a small group setting, helping to make this trail better for everyone.

• Spokane Nordic Ski Association will be hosting a series of trail days on weekends throughout the fall in order to prepare the Nordic ski trails at Mount Spokane State Park for the snow that is sure to be better this winter than it was last year!

• Washington Trails Association will be wrapping up the backpacking trail work season in September and transitioning to day work parties, with several offerings at Mount Spokane State Park and Mica Peak Conservation Area. They will also be partnering with the Friends of Palisades Park, Backcountry Horsemen of Washington, and Inland Northwest Land Conservancy for a National Public Lands Day project in September, plus a bonus NPLD project at Fishtrap in early October.

Holly Weiler is the Eastern Washington Region Senior Coordinator for Washington Trails Association and loves to seek out fall color trails across our region.

HIKE OF THE MONTH CARNE MOUNTAIN TRAIL

CASCADE MOUNTAINS, LEAVENWORTH, WASH.

FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR A PROPER FALL LARCH MARCH, it’s hard to beat Carne Mountain Trail on the eastern flank of the Cascades. Located northwest of Leavenworth, it can serve as a day hike on a fall tourist trip, or it can be extended to serve as a fall backpack trip. The trailhead is Phelps Creek at the end of the Chiwawa River Road, which is best for SUV-type vehicles, shared use with the more popular and better-known trail to Spider Meadows.

Carne Mountain Trail breaks off the main Phelps Creek trail just 0.25 miles from the trailhead and begins a strenuous climb of 3,000’ over 3.7 miles. There are ample opportunities to stop and catch your breath along the way, as the views quickly begin to open up as you ascend.

At the 2.5-mile mark, the trail enters a meadow surrounded by subalpine larch and intersected by a small stream for easy access to water. While western larch are also gorgeous in the fall, there really is something special about the way subalpine larch glow, and this alpine meadow is surrounded with them! This makes a good turn-around point or campsite option for a shorter version of this route, although the trail continues to climb and eventually leads to the summit of Carne Mountain at 7,080’.

For a more challenging route, continue on the Carne Mountain High Route (a climber’s trail; very strenuous) to the flank of Mount Maude, and descend via the Leroy Basin Trail to complete a loop. The subalpine larch begins changing to gold in late September through mid-October, although it is highly dependent upon weather conditions each year. Watch for a favorable weather window, as snow can also come to the high country early and make conditions more difficult.

Primitive Skills

Wild Animal Creations

By Karie Lee Knoke

AS SUMMER WANES, giving way to the onset of fall, the last of the summer orchestra of songbirds migrate towards another symphonic performance in the south. The residential birds of winter, the juncos, chickadees and nuthatches, reclaim the forest, collecting seeds that will sustain them throughout winter. The squirrels are in squirrel mode, caching their stashes of nuts, pinecones and mushrooms.

We too go into squirrel mode as we reap what we sowed in our garden and start putting up food for the winter. Here in the Inland Pacific Northwest, for some of us, filling our freezers with wild game is just a part of what we do to feed our families and has been for generations. Hunting and gathering is part of our ancestral roots.

With the onset of modern conveniences and factory farms, there has been a huge disconnect between us and the food that we eat. But for those who hunt and grow their own food, there is a deep appreciation and connection, knowing where their food comes from and the hard work it took to put it on the table.

With hunting season upon us, many are preparing for the annual task of bringing home some meat and filling the freezer. Taking an animal's life is not an easy task. It is a sacred endeavor that takes time, skill, respect and responsibility. Our ancestors depended on hunting and used every part of the animal to not only feed themselves, but to make clothes, tools, musical instruments, and more.

Holistic animal processing is more than just separating muscle groups and wrapping them up for roasts and burger, it is the art and wisdom of using the whole animal so that nothing goes to waste. Bones can be cut up for bone broth or shaped into handy tools, such as an awl, needles, or a handle for a knife. Did you know that the knee bone of

an elk is a highly sought-after tool for a bow drill kit to make fire?

The sinew (tendon which connects the muscle to bone) is super useful for binding. Broken down into thin strings, sinew makes a strong thread for sewing or binding a stone knife blade to a bone or antler handle. It’s super strong and shrinks when it dries, cinching up the bone around the blade.

Of course, there is the age-old technique that my ancestors used of making buckskin or bark tanned leather out of deer hides for making clothes or a saddle bag or whatever they needed. It is nature’s material.

The hide of the forelegs of any furry ungulate can be made into beautiful hock bags or a purse. I made a backpack with Elk hocks and it formed to fit my back, comfortable and fashionable.

When carefully harvesting an animal, you can collect the blood before it coagulates to make blood sausage, which is stuffed into well-cleaned intestines. Or blood pudding baked inside of the stomach lining. The Swedish folks make Haggis, which is a savory pudding made of the sheep’s organs and spices, baked inside of a sheep stomach. I’ve heard that roasted Moose head and boiled Moose tongue is a favorite amongst the Yukon folks.

I know these may be out-of-the-norm meals for many of us and may sound kind of gross to unadventurous pallets, but believe me, they are quite delicious! During my time on “Alone,” I discovered the importance of eating the whole animal and how scrumptious and fatty the heads are.

Have you ever seen the inside of a goat stomach? It has a beautiful six-sided design, similar to a honeycomb, that can be bark tanned and made into a satchel. And the hooves of a deer are commonly made into rattles, not to mention that the hide could be turned into rawhide for making a drum or a container.

As you can see, one animal will give you more than just food on the table, but an abundance of other handy items. Using the whole animal gives a new life to its body as well as giving life to your family. I am grateful for the gifts that each animal provides.

I hope that you all have a great season of foraging and finding food for your families. And, most of all, enjoy the fall fresh air!

Karie Lee Knoke is a wilderness/primitive skills instructor and founder of Sacred Cedars Wilderness School. She was a contestant on the reality survival TV show, Alone Season 9, on the History Channel. Go to www.karieleeknoke.com for more information, or follow her on Facebook @SacredCedarsWildernessSchool or Instagram @karie_lee_knoke

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ELK HOCK BAG. // PHOTO BY KARIE LEE KNOKE.

DIY BACKPACKING COBBLER

Hiking and cobbler. Two words I don’t usually think of coexisting in the same sentence, let alone the same activity. Yet recently I stumbled across a video promising to deliver on both.

This cobbler is made using whatever berries you have on hand (I used blackberries, strawberries, and the last of my frozen huckleberries) and then dehydrated them for an easy and delicious backpacking treat. Once you’re in the middle of your awesome outdoor adventure, you simply rehydrate your cobbler and top with crushed graham crackers, granola, or oatmeal. Now every backpacking baddy can have their cobbler and eat it too.

Combine 4 cups of berries in a pot with 1/3 cup of sugar, juice from half a lemon, and one cup of water and bring to a boil. In a separate dish, create a slurry by whisking 4 Tbsp of cornstarch in 2 Tbsp water. When the berry mixture is boiling, quickly restir your cornstarch slurry and combine with the berries. Reduce heat and stir frequently until the cobbler is thick and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Dehydrate using preferred method (an oven works awesome) until the cobbler resembles fruit leather and is no longer sticky. Store with parchment paper and Ziploc bags. To prepare one serving of cobbler, break off 1/8 of a piece of leather. Tear into smaller pieces and slowly add to 1/3 cup boiling water, stirring frequently for 2 minutes. Allow to sit for 10 minutes until thick before topping with crumbled graham crackers or granola. Makes 8 servings. (Bri Loveall)

FALL NOURISH BOWL

This dish is delicious served hot, at room temperature, or chilled. Swap out squash for sweet potatoes, chicken for tofu, or pomegranate for cranberries. The options are endless!

INGREDIENTS: ¼ cup dried cranberries // warm water (to rehydrate cranberries) // 2 large sweet potatoes, diced // 1 cup mushrooms, sliced // 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved // 2 tablespoons olive oil // Salt and pepper, to taste // 2 blocks of tofu (firm or extra firm) // 1 ½ cup farro, cooked // 1/2 cup walnuts

MAPLE MISO DRESSING: 2 Tbsp miso paste // 2 Tbsp maple syrup // 2 Tbsp rice vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place dried cranberries in a bowl and cover with warm water. In a different large bowl, combine diced sweet potatoes, sliced mushrooms, and halved Brussels sprouts. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until golden brown and slightly charred on the edges. While vegetables are roasting, prepare tofu using your preferred method. Then, prepare your dressing: in a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, and rice vinegar until well combined. Finally, assemble the bowls. In each serving bowl, place a portion of cooked farro. Top with roasted vegetables and tofu. Sprinkle with rehydrated cranberries and chopped walnuts. Drizzle with maple miso dressing. (Alana Livingston)

FOUR SIGMATIC THINK GROUND COFFEE WITH LION’S MANE & CHAGA MUSHROOM

Have you been wondering about mushroom coffee? Does it taste like mushrooms? Are the health claims true?

Four Sigmatic Think Ground Coffee is composed of dark roast organic Arabica coffee, organic log-grown lion’s mane fruiting body extract, and organic chaga mushroom extract. The health benefits of these mushrooms include supporting immune and cognitive function, reducing stress, cancer prevention, and more. This blend boasts enhancing mental focus, boosting energy, and improving overall mood.

This coffee has notes of dark chocolate, nuts, and baking spices (notice it doesn’t say mushroomy). It is bold without being bitter, with a creamy balance of body and flavor. If you’re not a fan of black coffee, Four Sigmatic offers two organic creamers, several latte mixes, and teas, all infused with mushrooms and other beneficial ingredients.

As for the health claims, according to the Cleveland Clinic mushrooms have historically been linked to many health benefits, including those claimed by mushroom coffee producers. Medical professionals recommend including mushrooms in your diet; however, mushroom coffee and other mushroom drinks typically contain mushrooms processed into extracts or powders, which may degrade the benefits. That said, Four Sigmatic’s Think Ground Coffee tastes like a regular top-quality dark roast cup of joe. If you are mushroom coffee curious, it’s a great one to try! It can provide sustained energy and benefits for your next outdoor adventure or travel. (Alana Livingston)

LATE SUMMER COUSCOUS SALAD

Source these late-summer veggies from your garden, local farms or farmers’ market and toss together a fresh salad to pack on a picnic, bike ride, or use as a side dish at those last few outdoor BBQs.

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup couscous // 1 cup water // 5 Tbsp olive oil, split // .5 tsp salt // 1 tsp fresh oregano from The Corner Farm, chopped finely // 2 sweet peppers from Full Bushel Farm, sliced into thin rounds // 1 mediterranean cucumber from Royal Produce, diced // 1/4 red onion from Elithorp Farm, chopped finely // 1 heirloom tomato from Hayshaker Farm, diced // 1 clove garlic from Dogwild Farm, chopped finely // 2 Tbsp parsley from The Corner Farm, chopped finely // 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar 2 Tbsp Marinated Feta from Brush Creek Creamery

DIRECTIONS:

Bring the water to a boil in a medium pot. Add the couscous, 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, salt, and oregano. Stir, remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer it to a serving bowl. Toss in the vegetables, herbs, vinegar, and feta. Feast with the seasons!

(Courtesy of LINC Foods — The Local Inland Northwest Cooperative @ lincfoods. com.)

Upland Game Birds

By Adam Gebauer

I RECENTLY FINISHED two desert float trips where I was amazed by the amount of chukars laughing at my fly-fishing skills from the foreboding cliffs and scrub. It got me thinking of the variety of upland game birds that we have in the Inland Northwest region. Chukar partridges might seem like they are native to the dry steppe, adapted to these scraggy reaches of Eastern Washington, but, like many of the upland game birds in Washington, they were imported to this region.

Most commonly referred to as upland game birds, these birds offer more than just an opportunity to put meat on your table. They are all members of the order Galliformes, which are a diverse selection of birds, including partridge, grouse, quail, pheasant, turkeys and even chickens. These heavy-bodied, ground-feeding birds are important seed dispersers as well as both predators and prey. A variety of species from this order have been domesticated across the globe to provide important protein sources from eggs and meat.

Hungarian partridges, also called Huns or gray partridges, are closely related to chukars. Like chukars, they made their appearance from different continents. Huns were originally imported from Hungary, while chukars came from Asia and Southern Europe. Chukars have distinctive red legs and a black band across their eyes that becomes a chevron on their chest. Flocks of them will make a distinctive chuckling sound from their steep, imposing roosts. Huns are less abundant and showcase a gray body with a rust-colored head. The largest populations of both species can be found along the steep slopes and rolling hills of the Snake River.

Ring-necked pheasants are the most brightly colored galliforms running the wheat lands of Eastern Washington. These birds first made it to North America in 1881 via Washington, having been shipped to Port Angeles from China. They traveled down the coast and were released in Oregon along the Columbia River valley. Due to the rough travel, it took several introductions for these birds to flourish. The males sport a spectacular iridescent green head and both male and females have a long-pointed tail that can be over half the bird’s length. California or valley quail are perhaps the most gregarious galliforms in Washington, traveling in large, chattery, seemingly directionally-confused flocks. These birds didn’t travel far to reach Washington; their native range spans from Oregon to the Baja Peninsula. They now can be found into

Canada, Hawaii, and much of the West. They have a distinctive curved feather that bobs on the top of their head. The West is also home to the larger mountain quail with its chestnut sides and white bars on its lower chest.

It might seem like turkeys have always roamed the streets of Spokane’s South Hill or been calling in the forests of the Colville, but they too have been introduced to Washington. In the 1960s, wild turkeys were trapped in Arizona, New Mexico, and Wyoming and brought to eastern and southwestern Washington. This was part of a nationwide effort to increase turkey popula tions after over hunting greatly reduced their numbers. Introduction efforts ramped up in the ‘80s, and they now occupy every suitable habitat in the state.

It is difficult to find any studies looking at the impacts of these non-native birds on habitats. I have, however, heard griping from more than one wildlife biologist on the over ly successful introduction of turkeys, citing their impact on native forest grouse popu lations – reducing food sources and eating eggs of these ground nesters. WDFW also reports the sharp increase in nuisance calls, from turkeys aggressively stopping traffic to impacting local crops.

Opposed to the above species, all six of Washington’s grouse species are native. They are separated into four forest and two sagesteppe species. The forest grouse include rough grouse of the lower elevations, spruce in the higher elevations, and the westside sooty and the eastside dusky grouse occupy ing mid evaluation forests. These species all exist in healthy enough population to allow hunting seasons and bag limits.

Due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation from fire, our two species that occur in the sage-steppe, the Columbia sharp-tailed and greater sage grouse, are both on the endangered species list. WDFW is working to bolster the Washington popu lation by bring in birds from Canada. Grouse species engage in elaborate mating displays, presenting colored feathers and inflating bright air sacs, while sage-steppe species also perform intricate dancing displays.

The wild galliforms of Washington— native and introduced — are a diverse group of birds that occupy a variety of habitats. The habit of many of these birds to hold their position until you are almost on top of them before they explode out of the grass or brush continues to make my heart jump. It is always a treat to watch their quirky habits and listen for their distinctive calls, even in the flock of turkey descending on my yard in Spokane’s West Central neighborhood.

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Adam Gebauer is much more likely to see any of these birds while on a trail run than with a shotgun in hand. He will be keeping an eye and ear out for spruce grouse while he spends some time on the PCT this fall.

RUN WILD

Local Runner Profile Nicole Coburn

By Sarah Hauge

Nicole Coburn began running as a kid in British Columbia and has stuck with it through many seasons of life: while parenting young children, in times when she raced frequently, while going through a divorce and then dating her current husband, and in leadership with local running clubs. Nicole is Fleet Feet’s director of merchandising and coaches some of Fleet Feet’s running groups. Her husband Ken is a fellow runner. She has five children and two stepchildren.

ON HOW SHE GOT STARTED

I started running when I was in high school. I’m the oldest of 10 kids and it was a way to get out of the house, and to escape babysitting duties [laughs]. I had undiagnosed ADHD as a kid, so running was a really good way to focus my brain. I could go out for a run and come back refreshed.

ON THE WAYS HER RUNNING LIFE HAS ADAPTED

I’ve run for over 30 years and it has definitely changed through every stage of life. I think it has to ebb and flow for everybody. For me, when I was having babies and then small kids, there were 10 years when I really didn’t run at all. Then before my divorce,

my ex and I tried hard to work things out. We would go do four-hour runs together. I think that helped us get through some difficult times. Running helped us process those feelings. I think the understanding of each other’s perspective we gained on those runs let us still have a civil relationship after things didn’t work out.

ON RUNNING AFTER TURNING 50

In previous stages of life, I could do a half Ironman at the drop of a hat. I was teaching spin classes, coaching groups, and attending run clubs. That’s not where I’m at. But life balances out. The rest of my life is really happy. I have a great partner. It’s ok. I think some of those large volumes and higher achievements were coping mechanisms.

As a not-quite-empty nester, it’s different now. I have a much more open schedule but not necessarily the durability in joints and muscles. I’m truly running for the enjoyment of it and not the competitive aspects, which I thrived on in my 30s and 40s. There have been times in my life when a 10-mile run was my daily run, and now a 10-mile run is something I have to build up to. I turned 50 this year, and I’m hoping to do a 50k in the fall.

ON RUNNING AS A SOURCE OF COMMUNITY

My closest friends are people I’ve run with. We know everything about each other through what we’ve shared and overshared on runs. We’ve bonded over doing hard things and processing hard things, whether it’s relationship problems, job issues, or anything else we deal with in our lives.

ON COMPETING PRIORITIES

There were times when I prioritized my own mental health and went for a run and missed out on a bit of time with my kids when they were younger. But I think that sets an example for them too—this is one tool you always will have in your arsenal. You can get out there and use your body to help reset your brain.

ON HOW RUNNING BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER

I have friends I didn’t think I shared perspectives with until we started running together. My sister Nyla and I, part of our relationship to this day is how many miles we’ve put in together. My husband and I met through a running club and the running community. After we’d started dating, we got to know each other better by taking

WONDERS

“runcations.”

Brain chemistry studies show that strong bonds form while accomplishing hard tasks and doing hard things together like training for a first 5k, 10k, or half. You form these bonds of community and friendship that continue throughout your lives.

Editor’s Note: Interview responses have been edited and condensed for clarity.

Sarah Hauge is a writer, editor, and grant writer who lives in Spokane with her husband and children. She plans to run the Sundae Sunday 10 miler in September.

SPOKANE COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT

Stories of Trees

By Ammi Midstokke

AS SOMEONE whose spirituality is primarily limited to the worship of coffee, it may seem out of place that I’m convinced trees have souls.

I’m sure there is a more scientific explanation: tree pheromones and tree communication through root systems and diseases and parasites that make them droop and dry out as though they were as broken hearted about climate change as we are. The scientists and authors who delve into the complexities of trees are tiny flesh apostles using the vocabulary of understanding to save the forests through the persuasion of connection. We should listen to them.

For all the time us outdoor folks spend among the trees, most of us know embarrassingly little about them. We crave their shade in the summer heat, appreciate the way their roots hold the soil of our slopes in place, hear the music of wind in their boughs when camping, use the alpine ghosts of them to hang our bear bags. How do we reciprocate?

I’m not actually sure what a tree’s love language is beyond Shel Silverstein’s Giving Tree, who was arguably in an unhealthy codependent situation. Poor Shel has probably been cancelled for the promotion of the blatant exploitation of unwittingly generous trees. I have tried various attempts at affection toward trees I have planted with limited results (suggesting they are less fond of Robert Frost and more fond of a good watering). I suspect like many of us, the trees would just like to be seen and heard.

I think of Peter Wohlleben and The Hidden Life of Trees, who touched us with his anthropomorphizing of the forests. “When a tree falls in the forest,” he wrote, “there are other trees listening.” He gave trees emotions and generational relationships, not because he presumed trees have feelings, but because we humans cannot seem to appreciate anything we cannot understand through our own myopic means. For us to relate to the trees, we have to make them more like us.

As a forest, we can assign them value: commercial, environmental, visual. But reading the works of those who try to speak for the trees, I wonder if we oughtn’t develop interpersonal relationships with them as individuals. If my tree could have a conversation with me, what would it say? We would certainly commiserate about the raucous of those unruly squirrels and perhaps judge the neighbors for all their mounted game cameras. (Why not just ask the trees who has been by?)

As I peruse my new neighborhood of trees, I realize I don’t even know what kind

of trees they are, not to mention their needs. They seem to be growing too close together and those ponderosas are always like overachieving middle children: Hogging all the sunlight and growing faster than everyone else. The scraggly runts stuck below them are malnourished, unseen. The arborist says I need to thin them, but I cannot bring myself to choose who deserves to live. I am certain they each have a story.

The prolific author, Anthony Fredericks, just released a new book titled In Search of the Old Ones, in which he explores and exposes the history of some of our oldest trees and groves. What does a tree know when it has stood for fifteen centuries? What stories are in its bark? What miracles and sorrows has it witnessed?

I stand beneath a broad pine in my own forest. Before I lived here, high-schoolers came and drank Pabst in secret campouts. The tree watched their shenanigans, probably in silent prayer that they didn’t leave a cigarette butt burning. Before that, this one escaped logging for no reason other than a generous selection process. Long before that, its seed washed here in the Missoula floods. It is the grandchild of eons of migration.

I imagine how deep its roots crawl, what tangled family gatherings it has beneath the soil. I wonder what it whispers to other trees with the scents of warning: Change your smell, the beetles are coming. I think it might be a good idea to name it, because it is harder to slaughter a named thing. What name is good enough for a tree?

We should read the books of those who speak for the trees. If we learned about the trees the way we learn about civics and math, about computer science and debate, maybe we’d learn the importance of saving them. Maybe we’d recognize we have much in common (such as sharing the same planet).

A woman comes to see my new home, tucked in a small clearing of this unmanaged mayhem of forest I prune with small clippers and scissors. From the right angle and the right height, one can see a glimpse of the distant river. She dances around the patio to peer between the towering pines.

“Are you going to cut some trees for a view?” she asks.

“The trees are my view,” I say.

Having survived a years-long project of building a house, Ammi Midstokke now finds herself enjoying literature that is less about carpentry technique and more about the world beyond power tools.

GEAR ROOM

CAT INVADER HIKER WATERPROOF WORK BOOT

A near accidental amputation of part of my foot while chopping firewood last winter left a gash in my hiking boots, so I was stoked to try a pair of do-all boots from the boss of tough: Caterpillar. Yes, the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment has expanded into our outdoor adventure realm. My experiment with a pair has been praise-worthy so far, and the quality and toughness seems comparable to that of their earthmov-

ing machinery. These rugged, well-built boots have served me equally well on several hikes, home landscaping projects, and on a soggy fishing trip. Doing double-duty as work and play boots, they have kept my feet warm, dry and protected from abuse. On top of that, the tread traction is top notch, and I expect them to last for years—as long as I improve on my axe swing. MSRP: $144.95. Catfootwear.com (Derrick Knowles)

Have you ever gone backpacking and caught a wild trout in a mountain lake and fried it in a pan for dinner? Me neither (I’ve always used sticks or foil), but with this ultra-light pan from Sea to Summit I aim to give fried trout a try soon. I can say it cooks up backcountry spam and taters like a champ, and even nailed a pan-fried medium-rare steak without sticking while cooking over a backpacking stove. The hard-

anodized aluminum alloy material it’s made from boasts exceptional heat transfer. The removable, “click-safe” handle is a pretty sweet addition that ensures safe handling when sizzling hot without fear of it collapsing or giving out to the weight of a 16-oz. ribeye. Speaking of weight, the pan only weighs in at 13 ounces, so you’ll barely notice it in your pack. MSRP: $69.95. Seatosummit.com (Derrick Knowles)

This innovative chameleon of coolers comes at a time when climate change consistently serves up hotter-than-historically-usual temps that can make outdoor outings a hot mess. The Icy Breeze Ultimate Cooler will keep your drinks or snacks cold one minute, then offer up portable AC cooling for your tent, camp or boat (up to 2.5 hours). It also has a three-hour misting func-

tion. This first-ever 3-in-1 cooling system is totally portable, rechargeable, and will keep you and your provisions cool on any outdoor adventure. There’s also a USB port for gadgets. The cooler holds up to 48 cans and keeps contents cold with a durable, rotomolded construction. Wheel it around with the metal handle on its all-terrain wheels. MSRP: $499.99. Icybreeze.com (Derrick Knowles)

FORLOH BTM PRO TREKKING PANTS

I hauled a pair of these tactical trekking pants on a wilderness rafting trip in Hells Canyon this summer with the intention of testing their mettle on some of the most rugged, bush wacky, and rattlesnake- and thorn-infested trails I’ve ever walked. Regrettably, the 110* F temps meant I spent my off-boat time in shorts in or near the water. A few weeks later, I got the chance to give them a good shakedown while shore fishing and hiking on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. I was sold on the badassery of these tough and technical mountain pants by the end of that trip.

These beauties offer the best sun protection my eyes have ever experienced. The polarized, scratch-resistant lenses power up the glare reduction with removable side shields. I wore them on sun-blasted boats and splashing down sparkling rivers without a squint. They also afforded me the chance to watch smallmouth bass chase and attack my lures from their hide-

Reinforcements in the knees (also knee-pad compatible) and other high abrasion areas resist snagging. Constructed with a waxed nylon and cotton blend of ripstop fabric that is water and tear-resistant, they also move and flex with your body and breathe exceptionally well, especially when the zipper side vents are deployed. Hailing from Whitefish, Mont., Forloh makes these pants in the U.S. and they’re ideal for hardcore trekking or hunting or whatever hard-scrabble conditions you may throw at them. MSRP: $259. Forloh.com (Derrick Knowles)

This weatherproof hydration pack looks like it’s built for stealthy combat missions, making it a great choice for schlepping light trail-work gear or bike tools. Day hikers and mountain bikers will find the rolltop closure main compartment a welcome feature for keeping everything from layers to sandwiches dry, all at a pack weight of around 2 lbs. The pack comes in three tech-

outs behind giant boulders deep beneath the glimmering surface of the Snake River. These stylish legends have been around since the ‘80s, but this update to the original represents a worthy and innovative evolution with channels to divert sweat, vented adjustable nose pads, and those invaluable removable sides. MSRP: $312. Costadelmar.com (Wil Wheaton)

nical fabric variations and has four zipped exterior pockets and several external straps for securing gear, as well as a removable tool roll. The back panel is well-padded with a zippered internal compartment for the water reservoir that works with major brand bladders up to 3 liters. MSRP: $270-$280. Missionworkshop.com (Wil Wheaton)

This full backcountry or car-camping cook set comes with both 2- and 3-liter pots (each with their own lids and detachable handles), as well as two bowls and two cups. It’s ideal for camping out of a vehicle, small RV, or raft, canoe, or kayak, but it is also light and compact enough for shorter, multiperson backpacking trips if you’re into cooking real food instead of roughing it. The pots are hard-anodized aluminum alloy with a ceramic non-stick coating. They served me as well sautéing onions and peppers as they did for boil-

ing noodles without my dinner burning or sticking to the bottom (with proper stirring). “Click-Safe” handles won’t come loose when attached and reverse to hold the set in place when packed up. The food-grade bowls are a great size for cereal, salads, or your main meal. The cups come with removable sippy-type lids for added beverage preservation in case of spills. The whole package fits inside the largest kettle to minimize the space it will occupy in your grub box. MSRP: $179.95. Seatosummit. com (Wil Wheaton)

Despite my best intentions to pack all of the stuff for three humans and a hound in our campervan in a sane and organized way, our camping trips rarely unfold as orderly as planned. Gregory’s Alpaca collection can help rein in the camping chaos, and the gear we tried went a long way in that regard. Notably, the Alpaca collection that includes gear baskets, boxes, pods, totes, duffels, and a gear wagon, is backed up by Gregory’s lifetime warranty. Gregory.com (Derrick Knowles)

Alpaca 70L Gear Basket: This collapsible storage basket that can hold up to 50 pounds of whatever you want to throw (or organize neatly) in it. It also breaks down for slick stowing when not in use. The light aluminum frame keeps it rigid and strong when expanded to max capacity. The durable construction will stand up to camp life, and the zippered pocket allows for organized storage of smaller items. MSRP: $79.95

Alpaca 45L Gear Box: One of my biggest gripes about standard plastic bins is the black hole my gear always seems to disappear into. That’s what makes the Alpaca water-anddust-proof gear box so handy. The clear lid, made of Gregory’s reportedly smashproof polycarbonate Clearview material, means you can see what’s inside and find what you’re looking for without digging around like a hard rock miner. The flip-flop hinged lid allows you to open the bin from either side and secure contents for travel. Buy two or more and stack them neatly on top of each other. ($59.95)

Alpaca 10L Gear Pod: These zippable pods keep gear from looking like a yard sale in your camper or car, and the bottoms and sides are padded to better protect fragile items. The mesh lid makes finding particular items as easy as looking when you need them. MSRP: $34.95

Editor’s Note: Unless otherwise stated, product for these reviews was provided by the brand at no cost to the reviewer. Out There strives to only review quality gear and provide honest, thoughtful, and entertaining gear reviews, but readers should always do their own research.

MISSION WORKSHOP HAUSER PACK (10L AND 14L)

SEA TO SUMMIT FRONTIER UL TWO POT 6-PIECE SET

SEA TO SUMMIT FRONTIER ULTRALIGHT 8” PAN

GREGORY ALPACA GEAR ORGANIZATION COLLECTION

COSTA GRAND CATALINA SUNGLASSES

ICY BREEZE ULTIMATE COOLER & AIR CONDITIONER

The Changing Needs of a Changing Body

By Ammi Midstokke

AT 94, my grandmother tells me she’s on the “Whatever I Like” diet. As far as I can tell, it’s comprised of a buttered danish for breakfast, a boiled egg for lunch, and whatever I cooked for dinner that night (extra points if steak is involved). And always: A salad. While I clank around in the kitchen, she sips white wine with her best friend, Neva, three ice cubes per glass. I’m not sure how—what with all those ice cubes—but the bottle is empty by the time Neva drives her Crosstrek the half block home.

She did not always eat like that. For years, she survived mostly on bran muffins and Egg Beaters because her partner had a heart attack in 1984 and cholesterol was the devil. Sometimes she needed to lose weight (less treats) and sometimes she needed to gain weight (eat more often). Sometimes she tried to eat up to eleven different fruits and vegetables in a day, which is an exotic task for anyone having grown up during the Depression. She reduced red meat here, increased fiber there as her changing body had changing needs.

In a world of colliding nutrition information and competing food dogma, it is refreshing to know someone who doesn’t have a litany of inedible edibles on their growing list of taboo foods. As a nutritionist, I spent over a decade trying to teach patients that diets are therapeutic and short term. Beyond that, we’re embracing a culture of disordered eating that drowns out the clear voices of our body (and often our doctors).

Incidentally, our doctors and bodies often say the same thing: Eat more fruits and vegetables. And while that might be rather a constant for the human body, most of our other nutritional requirements are as dynamic and volatile as our hectic lifestyles, as changing as the seasons, as fickle as a politician. Yet we often find ourselves in conversations where

we are convinced (or convincing) that a particular diet or macronutrient balance is the panacea to our problems.

When we do more cardio, we need more carbohydrates. When we age (especially women), we need more protein. When we’re injured, we need more essential fatty acids. When we’re reproducing, we need more of everything. And yes, when we’re broken hearted, sometimes we need more ice cream.

As we wrap up summer and autumn comes upon us, what might we need? Well, for many of us, we probably need fewer cocktails. We’re getting less sun and may benefit from Vitamin D-rich foods (like eggs, salmon, mushrooms, almond milk, dairy). Our petri dish kids will be bringing the latest colds home from school and we could use strong immune systems and anti oxidants (like citrus, berries, carrots, beets, sweet potatoes, nuts and seeds). Our joints, battered and bludgeoned from the plethora of summer adventures, could use some help recovering (salmon for the good fats, bone broth for the protein and collagen, chia seeds for their nutrient density and minerals, beans and lentils for their protein and fiber).

Before we dive into the next thirty-day challenge or post-summer health kick, maybe we can pause and listen to what our bodies are asking for. It can be hard to hear over the noise of media and culture, but chances are if you hang out in the produce aisle long enough, it will give you some hints. And if you listen carefully, you might find that the “Whatever I Like” diet works because your body actually likes whole foods, bright colors, and variety.

Ammi Midstokke is a Functional Nutritional Therapist and lover of food. Her favorite part of autumn meals is the return of soups and stews and how the smell of cooking permeates the house on a cold day.

“The Open-Air Life”

by Linda Åkeson McGurk (Nonfiction, 2022)

Linda Åkeson McGurk's “The Open-Air Life” is a compelling guide introducing readers to embrace the concept of friluftsliv, or "open-air living." Divided into four sections based on the elements—Air, Earth, Water, and Fire—this book explores the numerous benefits of outdoor activities through real-life examples and personal anecdotes.

Each section offers practical advice and activities tailored to its respective element. McGurk emphasizes the holistic benefits of these activities, highlighting their positive impacts on socio-economic conditions, mental and emotional wellbeing, physical health, and self-reliance. For instance, the Air section encourages outdoor meetings and walks to enhance productivity and mental clarity, while the Earth section advocates for activities like barefoot walking to deepen one's connection to nature, improve stability and circulation.

The book also includes beginner-friendly guides and skills, such as fire-building techniques in the Fire section, making it accessible for those new to outdoor living. McGurk's approachable writing style and the inclusion of step-by-step instructions ensure that readers can easily integrate these practices into their daily routines.

One of the book's strengths is its suggestions for spending time outdoors beyond traditional activities. McGurk introduces unique ideas like outdoor dinner groups, encouraging readers to think outside the box and find new ways to connect with nature. It makes sense that a culture with several words to describe different types of walks—like månskenspromenad (moonlit walk) and strandpromenad (beach walk)—would be so deeply connected to the concept of friluftsliv.

“The Open-Air Life” is more than a guide to outdoor activities; it's a call to reconnect with nature and lead a healthier, more balanced life. McGurk's passion for friluftsliv is infectious, leaving readers eager to incorporate its principles into their own lives. (Alana Livingston)

“Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal World”

by Katie Arnold (Memoir, 2024)

The impetus for ultrarunner Katie Arnold’s latest memoir, “Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal World,” is a rafting accident in June 2016 when she is thrown from her raft and breaks her leg. No longer able to run, Arnold must learn to appreciate the power in stillness. What follows is both an adventure comeback story and an introduction to Zen Meditation.

Arnold’s memoir jumps forward and backward in time, which creates suspense and reminds readers that each part of any journey serves a purpose: “Each action, no matter how mundane, affects another, on and on down the line, forever.” From stories of rafting trips, running Rim to Rim to Rim of the Grand Canyon with a fever, to the practice of Zen Meditation (sitting in stillness) and the inner work that must be done to heal, Arnold shows readers that no moment is wasted, teaching that it is in the moments of stillness, when our bodies and minds are quiet, that we are perhaps most able to connect with ourselves and the world around us.

The book is organized into four parts: Rivers, Canyons, Mountains, and Sky. In each section, Arnold shares stories that correspond to the section header, but the deeper meaning is expressed through metaphor as Arnold discovers how her marriage, motherhood, training, writing, and recovery are all intimately linked to the landscape and the essence of nature.

“Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal World” concludes two years after Arnold breaks her leg when she puts her physical, mental, and emotional healing to the test by racing The Leadville Trail 100, a one-hundred-mile ultramarathon that traverses the Collegiate Range outside of Leadville, Colorado. I won’t spoil the outcome of the race. However, I will say that after this read, I’m convinced that there may be something to this whole “Zen thing” after all. (Elizabeth Graves)

Stikky Books

“Tracks” and “Night Skies”

(Nonfiction, 2023)

Stikky’s “Night Skies” book promised that I would “learn six constellations, four stars, a planet, a galaxy, and how to navigate at night in just one hour.” And their “Tracks” book, in which I expected to learn nothing, since I’ve studied and even taught about scat and tracks for years, promised I would “learn how to identify 14 animals from their tracks, poop, and other signs–in just one hour.”

There were a few things that made the Stikky format work for me. The information was simple and came with easy-toread diagrams and photos. After each new concept, diagram, or trait, the past info was restated with a chance to review. There were activities on each page that speak to brains that learn in other ways as well. The books use mnemonic devices, puns, and lots of pictures to illustrate the information being shared. Those activities, especially in the “Night Skies” book, gave a sense of real-world practice to store the information in longer lasting brain centers.

As confident as I was that the “Tracks” book had nothing new for me, I was delighted to learn the words “plantigrade” and “digitigrade.” I now know how to tell the difference between a coyote track and a dog track. And the difference between raccoon and possum. While some of the photos in the “Tracks” book were hard to make out, the illustrations equated shapes within tracks to shapes you probably learned in geometry.

I learned the most from the “Starry Skies” book. Stikky, well, made things stick. Each night this week, as I was going to sleep, I drew a star map in my head, reviewing how to find Polaris, Pleiades, and Cassiopeia in the night sky. I felt like I was surrounded by my very own celestial friends. Stikky books are a unique resource for curious learners of any age. Stikky.com. (Carol Corbin)

As STCU celebrates its 90th anniversary, we want to congratulate Out There Outdoors on 20 years of adventure and advocacy. (509) 326.1954 | stcu.org Insured by NCUA.

THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND

By Shallan Knowles

A SIGN MARKING the boundary of National Forest Land might make one think that the patch of desert or woods behind it belongs to the United States Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management, but it really belongs to all of us.

When Derrick and I started adventuring together, always on a budget, we were dedicated non-profit employees in the first decade of the 2000s. I would longingly look at resorts as we drove on by farther into the middle of nowhere. My ever-cheerful companion, on the other hand, seemed to know all the dispersed camping spots, trails and amenities that went with all types of recreation land just about anywhere we went and would snicker. It wouldn’t have mattered if we could afford the luxury room with a

pool—he was headed toward some beautiful free spot with wide-open views and plenty of fresh air out on our public lands. “Why purchase a vacation home,” he would exclaim as I looked around for the outhouse (knowing full well that a shower was not going to happen), “when we already own all of this!”

His obsessive preference for public lands camping and access to millions of acres of largely pristine country is shared among many of his adventure comrades. It took me a while though to fully appreciate the gravity of what that privileged access truly means. The vast amount of that publicly-owned land held by our federal, state, and local and regional agencies to manage and care for is a unique part of living here in the United States that we should all cherish and not take

for granted. We might pay some user fees, or amenity fees for camping (or a shower!), but really this land is owned by all of us, and we need to step up and do our part to make sure public lands are protected, funded, and taken care of as best we can.

Whether your favorite public lands trail, campground, boater access, wildlife watching or hunting spot, or vast swath of wilderness is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington State Parks, Bonner County, the City of Spokane, the National Park Service or some other entity, just paying your taxes isn’t enough to ensure these places will continue to thrive the way they should.

Our annual Public Lands Guide is a call to all of us to ask not just what the

hard-working caretakers of these precious lands and the taxes we pay can do for us, but what else we can do for the places and the wildlife that we love. We hope this guide will inspire you to learn about and get involved with some of the organizations and agencies featured here. Consider signing up for a trail work or restoration project. Put some volunteer time or a small bit of your paycheck to work for one of these non-profit conservation and outdoor recreation advocacy groups and their meaningful campaigns. This land is our land, after all.

EXPLORE AND PROTECT THE DISHMAN HILLS WITH THE DISHMAN HILLS CONSERVANCY

ESTABLISHED IN 1966, Dishman Hills Conservancy (DHC) is the oldest land trust in Washington. The conservancy’s mission is to permanently protect Dishman Hills while connecting people to nature through conservation, education, recreation, and stewardship. DHC has a lean staff, hardworking board of directors, and hundreds of members and volunteers from the greater Spokane community.

DHC offers several ways for everyone to enjoy nature and get involved. The organization offers a variety of guided hikes, philosophy walks, Yoga in the Hills sessions, volunteer opportunities, and more. As a recent donor noted, “It's part of the community and

has wonderful activities.” Check out DHC’s calendar of events at Dishmanhills.org. DHC also engages the next generation of conservationists with a Kids in the Hills program, offering hands-on activities for elementary age students to enjoy time in nature while learning about ecology and natural sciences. In 2024, over 500 students participated from elementary schools and education groups, all put on by volunteers from the conservancy’s education committee. Sept. 30 is DHC’s annual fundraising dinner. If you love the Dishman Hills, plan to join DHC for this important event or make a donation to support the organization’s mission. Visit Dishmanhills.org for more info.

WHAT SCAT IS THAT? MATT BRINKMAN FROM WA DEPT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE DURING SESSIONS WITH STUDENTS AT CAMP CARO. PHOTO: MARIE FENSKE, COURTESY OF DHC.

EAGLE CAP WILDERNESS. // PHOTO: MOLLY HEER

ABORIGINAL LANDS AND FIRE

THIS FALL, as you are enjoying the numerous recreation opportunities that our public lands have to offer, don’t forget to take a moment to acknowledge the people who have inhabited this beautiful place long before European colonization. Indigenous residents, such as the Kalispel Tribe of Indians, have survived in harmony with the natural resources this landscape produced and were not just passive occupants of this place. They were actively shaping this land. One of the tools used to modify the land was fire.

Wildfire is an incredibly scary thing. In today’s world, we don’t have a lot of room for wildfire based on how we have built into the Wildland-Urban Interface, which has increased conflict and suppression needs. Not so long ago, fire wasn’t suppressed as it is today and in fact, it was often encouraged. Fires were carefully set to manage the land for specific species of plants and animals, to clear travel corridors, to hunt game, and for other important uses.

Local Tribes are once again taking an active role in the management of their aboriginal homelands. Through federal legislation like the Tribal Forest Protection Act and Good Neighbor Authority, Tribes are engaging in co-stewardship of the places they historically occupied. By working with their

partners at the state and federal levels, Tribes can bring indigenous ecological knowledge to the table when setting priorities for land management.

These are exciting times in the world of public land management. It is a massive undertaking to conserve our natural resources, but through collaboration, we can truly accomplish more. Just remember that the wild places we cherish do not exist by accident. Land managers have been active stewards of these places since time immemorial.

To learn more about the Kalispel Tribe and its efforts to protect and preserve our natural landscapes, please visit Knrd.org.

SPOKANE'S BLUFF TRAILS

The Good, The Bad and The Opportunities

THE GOOD: Surprisingly few people seem to know about the 600 acres of ponderosa forests and bunchgrass meadows that border the western edge of Spokane’s South Hill. With about 20 miles of trails, 500 feet of elevation gain, sweeping views of the western sky, and no horses or motorized vehicles, the High Drive Bluff is the perfect place for a trail run, mountain biking, or a leisurely nature walk.

THE BAD: Despite its size, the Bluff has very limited public access. There are 12 pulloffs along High Drive between 22nd and 40th Ave, but there isn’t a single parking lot along the southeast or western borders. This leads to longer drives for those living west of I-195, less access along Hangman Creek, and fewer safe trails for those with limited mobility.

Once you manage to find a trailhead, the next challenge is deciding which way to go. Even people who visit the Bluff daily often find themselves doubling back or scrambling up a questionable trail after missing their usual turn. Despite decades of use, the trails were unmapped and nameless until roughly five years ago. A joint effort between Friends of the Bluff and Spokane Parks and Recreation led to an official map in 2020 and the installation of interpretive signs earlier this year (download the map at Friendsofthebluff.org/about).

The steep slope, narrow trails, and constant erosion make passing difficult, even for the most courteous recreationalists. Ongoing trail maintenance by Friends of the Bluff, Washington Trails Association, and Evergreen East has helped, especially on the north end, but the Bluff’s sandy soil makes

trail work a never-ending task.

On top of all that, poor trail etiquette undoubtedly contributes to the Bluff’s intimidating image. Most trail users are considerate, but there are still frequent complaints of off-leash dogs and high-speed cyclists whipping around blind corners. The Bluff may seem like a great location for both activities, but they pose a significant risk to wildlife and other trail users.

THE OPPORTUNITIES: So what can be done to afford more people the opportunity to experience everything the Bluff has to offer? Friends of the Bluff, the 501c3 organization that stewards the area, has sought to address this question ever since it formed in 2012. In the time since then, the organization and its volunteer base have performed countless hours of trail work,

wildfire mitigation, and habitat restoration.

Most recently, efforts to expand public access have led to three new interpretive signs and permanent access at the base of the Bluff through the Qualchan Golf Course. The organization also hopes to install stairs at a trailhead near the 43rd and Hatch intersection and improve parking and creek-side access in Campion Park within the next year.

The Friends of the Bluff aims to make the Bluff more accessible than ever in 2025, but the small, volunteer-run organization needs all the help it can get. If you’re interested in volunteering or visiting the area, learn more at Friendsofthebluff.org.

COURTESY OF THE FRIENDS OF THE BLUFF

WALK FOR THE WILD 5K

Oct. 12

TURNBULL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE , nestled within the unique Channeled Scablands of Eastern Washington, offers a spectacular array of outdoor recreational opportunities that are sure to delight nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.

The refuge, established as a haven for migratory birds, is home to a rich variety of species, making it a prime spot for both amateur and seasoned birdwatchers. Other native wildlife such as moose, elk, otters, and beavers all call the refuge home. Recreation is limited to a 3,300-acre Public Use Area, with the remaining acreage preserved for wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to explore the refuge’s several trails, which wind through wetlands, grasslands, pine forests, and riparian habitats. Whether you're looking for an energetic outing or a peaceful retreat, Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge provides a serene oasis for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Located near Cheney and Spokane, Wash., Turnbull is one of over 500 National Wildlife Refuges, the largest system of public lands and waters in the world. Walk for the Wild is a time to celebrate our commitment to deepening human connections with nature and to protecting the thriving ecosystems

on which we depend. Join your local community to raise awareness and support of National Wildlife Refuges and their partners while we strive to get people moving a distance of 5K in nature in conjunction with National Wildlife Refuge Week, the second week of October. The goal this year is to get 100 people to participate in the Walk for the Wild who have never been to the Refuge and raise $5,000.00. We invite you to walk, volunteer, and/or donate to this fundraiser at Turnbull NWR!

Participate in the 5k on Oct. 12, 2024, at 26010 South Smith Road, Cheney, Wash.

The 5K walk on Refuge trails is free to participate. Start at the Refuge Headquarters to get a map and progress card to gather stamps along your walk. You can plan your start time for your convenience any time between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the Saturday of the event.

We invite you to also find out more about the work and programs of the Refuge and the Friends of Turnbull group, visit the Nature Store, and consider supporting the important work of providing habitat for wildlife at Turnbull NWR.

October 12, 2024 9am - 3pm at Turnbull NWR, 26010 S. Smith Rd, Cheney 99004 Walk to make sure wildlife thrives!

VOLUNTEER

TURNBULL

MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR

Spokane, Sept. 26

“MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR – SPOKANE” brings a selection of culturally rich, adventure-packed and incredibly inspiring documentary films curated from the Mountainfilm festival in Telluride, Colorado. The tour will visit Spokane at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center’s Coughlin Theater on Sept. 26, 2024 with films that explore themes connected to Mountainfilm’s mission of using the power of film, art and ideas to inspire audiences to create a better world.

“Mountainfilm on Tour – Spokane” is hosted by the Jess Roskelley Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, in partnership with the North Face. The Jess Roskelley Foundation has been organizing “Mountainfilm on Tour - Spokane” for two years. The foundation provides artificial climbing features in city, county, and state public playgrounds. Examples of the organization’s work are located in Spokane’s Riverfront Park’s Ice Age Floods playground and at Audubon Park’s children’s play area.

While hosting an inspiring collection of films, the show is also an opportunity to raise funds to support the creation of a new children’s playground featuring six artificial climbing boulders at Spokane County’s John H. Shields Park. The Jess Roskelley Foundation’s pledge of $100,000 to the city/

county project is in line with the foundation’s mission to promote public projects and outdoor activities that will benefit generations to come and provide access to the wild places cherished by Jess, while preserving his legacy as a lifelong Spokane, Washington native and elite international alpinist.

The doors open at the Coughlin Theater on Thursday at 5 p.m. Entry doors into the theater open at 6 p.m. and films start at 6:30 p.m. Tickets will be on sale at the MWPAC Box Office (509-313-2787 (ARTS)) and online at www.gonzaga.edu/TicketCenter. The cost for an adult is $20. Children 10 and under are free.

Mountainfilm is a documentary film festival that showcases stories about sporting activities and environmental, cultural, political and social justice issues. Along with exceptional documentaries, the festival goes beyond the film medium by bringing together world-class athletes, change makers and visionary artists for a multi-dimensional celebration of indomitable spirit. Mountainfilm is held every Memorial Day weekend in Telluride, Colorado. To learn more about Mountainfilm, visit Mountainfilm.org.

JESS ROSKELLEY BOULDER IN RIVERFRONT PARK'S ICE AGE FLOODS PLAYGROUND.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE JESS ROSKELLEY FOUNDATION

LOOKING BACK AND MOVING FORWARD

30 Years of Land Conservation

FOR OVER THREE DECADES, the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy has been working with our community to safeguard the special places that make the Inland Northwest area so unique. When we first started, our goal was simple: protect the land that defines the character of our region. Since then, we’ve partnered with local landowners, community members, and other organizations to do just that. Thanks to these collaborations, we’ve been able to conserve over 27,000 acres of land for wildlife, clean air and water, and connecting our community to nature.

CREATING CONNECTION WITH THE OUTDOORS

Our work isn’t just about protecting lands. The lands we conserve are the places where families hike, kids discover nature, and wildlife finds a safe haven. These are the spaces that make our region special, contributing to our quality of life and offering everyone a chance to enjoy the outdoors.

One project we’re particularly proud of is Waikiki Springs Nature Preserve, a local treasure that was once at risk of being lost to public use. Thanks to the support of our members and partners, this special place is now permanently protected and open to the community. It’s a place where people can connect with nature, relax, and find inspiration.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

As we look back on decades of conservation work, we’re also looking forward to what’s next. This fall, we are launching a plan to help us complete our most ambitious land protection project ever and to ensure that special places like Waikiki Springs Nature Preserve are around for generations to come. With your help, we’ll be able to fund new conservation projects, take even better care of the lands we’ve already protected and expand our efforts to connect people with nature. This campaign is a crucial step in ensuring we can keep doing this important work, especially in the face of challenges like climate change, urban growth, and habitat loss.

JOIN US IN PROTECTING THE INLAND NORTHWEST

Together, we can make sure the special places of the Inland Northwest are protected, building a legacy of land conservation that our kids and grandkids can enjoy for years to come. Visit InlandNWLand. org to learn how people just like you are investing in a bright, shared future for the Inland Northwest. Join us in supporting the protection of places you love far into the future.

PHOTO: JON JONCKERS / COURTESY OF THE INLC

KANIKSU LAND TRUST Keeping Idaho, Idaho

“I think people my age are concerned that the place where we grew up is going to be lost to development.” - A 23-year-old Bonner County resident.

LIVING IN SANDPOINT for decades, I’ve seen changes. The town has grown, traffic is heavier, and wild places have been developed. Yet, for the most part, Sandpoint has retained its rural character.

Kaniksu Land Trust (KLT) works to conserve the natural and cultural values of North Idaho and northwestern Montana. Through voluntary, legally binding conservation agreements, private landowners can limit development on their property, preserving its essence for future generations.

KLT’s conservation efforts prioritize working lands, wildlife habitat, water, climate resilience, cultural significance, and

community access. Land conservation doesn’t always mean public access, but it always benefits the public in some way.

KLT also owns land, including public access properties such as Cabinet View Nature Area and Pine Street Woods. To clarify, these public access properties are not “public land,” which is, by definition, land owned by a government entity. While KLT is funded through generous voluntary support, its public spaces are privately owned. The goal is connecting people of all ages and abilities to the land in meaningful ways. KLT has conserved over 4,100 acres. By supporting conservation, we can all play a role in shaping our community’s future. To learn more or support our work, visit Kaniksu.org.

NAVIGATE MOUNT SPOKANE Friends of Mt. Spokane Trail Map

PLAN A SAFE AND FUN adventure to Mount Spokane State Park this fall with a Friends of Mount Spokane full-color, waterproof, all-season trail map. Learn about park rules and regulations, trail distances, points of interest, and other tips. This map provides the most up-to-date trail information and has been developed in partnership with Washington State Parks and the State Parks Foundation.

With information about foraging, where to park, and trail use restrictions and etiquette, this map will help you and your adventure buddies be responsible users of the park all year long. Maps can be purchased at Riverside State Park Headquarters on Charles Rd., The Bike Hub, and Wheel Sport. Maps are also available for purchase online at the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy merchandise page at Inlandnwland.org/merchandise.

The Friends of Mount Spokane is a 501(c)

(3) nonprofit organization established in 1995 to enhance the programs and services of Mount Spokane State Park and to encourage general awareness, further public interest, and provide public education. The Friends of Mount Spokane was formed as a means for coordinating volunteer involvement in the park and as a vehicle for raising funds to support park projects, and all contributions to the Friends are tax deductible. The organization, run by a volunteer board, promotes the responsible use of Mount Spokane State Park and its cultural, recreational, historical, and natural resources. Friends’ meetings are open to all and offer an opportunity to present and discuss issues affecting park management, use, and protection with park staff and volunteers. Learn more at Mountspokane.org.

PHOTO: JON JONCKERS

RIVERSIDE STATE PARK FOUNDATION’S

SATURDAY, SEPT. 7 is the launch of a new fundraiser event for the Riverside State Park Foundation called Game Day, with all proceeds going to Riverside State Park for park projects and enhancements. Since 2002, the Riverside State Park Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit, has raised over $400,000 to support the park.

Game Day will feature your choice of a 5-mile mountain bike loop that’s non-technical and mostly flat (suitable for children with biking experience) or a 3-mile run/hike loop.

Each course features family-friendly games, including a bean bag poker toss, BINGO and Yahtzee at each of the five stations. Prizes for game winners and custom pint glasses will be handed out to all paying adult participants. Choose your own rolling start time for the event between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and then finish by 1 p.m. when stations and courses close. This event is not timed, just focused on enjoying the trails and giving back to a park that is such a treasure to the community. The cost to take part in this fun day out in Riverside State Park is $25 for adults and kids 17 and under are free.

This fundraising event starts and finishes at the 7-Mile Airstrip. This is a Free State Park Day, so no Discover Pass is required. Visit the Riverside State Park Foundation website at Riversidestateparkfoundation. org to learn more about the event and how to support the Foundation’s important work to help fund Riverside State Park projects.

PROTECTING OUR PUBLIC LANDS

PUBLIC LANDS are essential to our wellbeing, providing clean air, water, and habitats for diverse species, from lynx to wolves and grizzly bears. These places offer spaces for us to connect with nature and loved ones, enhancing our physical and mental health. However, the accessibility of these spaces is not guaranteed; it is the result of tireless efforts by local activists and advocacy groups.

In the Inland Northwest, we are fortunate to have natural spaces and regional nonprofits like The Lands Council (TLC) dedicated to protecting them. For 40 years, TLC has championed conservation through education and hands-on programs, playing a vital role in public lands management. By collaborating with timber companies, county commissioners, and recreationists, TLC has helped improve forest health, protect fire-

tolerant trees, and advocate for the preservation of pristine forests.

TLC’s work extends beyond advocacy to public education and outdoor experiential learning, empowering people from all walks of life to find their personal connection and love for the outdoors so they may join us in protecting the spaces we all care about. However, sustaining all of these efforts requires community support. Financial contributions and volunteer involvement are crucial for nonprofits like TLC to continue their mission, and we need your help today so we can continue to protect the Inland Northwest tomorrow. Public lands are a shared resource, and protecting them demands collective action. Join us in safeguarding these invaluable spaces for future generations. Get involved and support The Lands Council at Landscouncil.org/join.

TIMES:

Start anytime between 9:00am - 11:00am

Stations & Courses close at 1:00pm

LOCATION: 7 Mile Airstrip

COST: Adult $25.00 KIDS 17 & under FREE!

DISTANCES:

Run-Hike - 3 mile loop

Mountain Bike - 5 mile loop

SIGN UP: www.riversidestateparkfoundation.org

BINGO Yahtzee Bean Bag Poker Toss FREE Custom Pint glass for adult entrants th 7 Saturday

Family-friendly FUNdraiser for RSP Foundation

GAME DAY AT RIVERSIDE STATE PARK

PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE LANDS COUNCIL

Autumn Wine & Wanderlust

If you’re both an outdoor and wine enthusiast, the stars align in autumn in the Inland Northwest: fall colors, cool air for exploring, and crisp white wines or bold reds for making memories post-adventure. It’s the ideal season for a bit of wanderlust and a bit of wine. Hike or mountain bike around the wine valley of Lake Chelan on trails lit with soft, fall light and orange and red leaves. Near the trailhead, incredible wineries are in celebratory, wine-harvest mode, ready to invite adventurers with scenic outdoor patio spaces and an unpretentious atmosphere. Nearer the city, go for a fall cycle or hike and pair it with a guided walking wine tour from Wander Spokane for the perfect blend of outdoor activity and warming regional wines. Adventure (and great Washington wine) awaits!

Unwind at Vin Du Lac Winery after a Hike around Lake Chelan

TUCKED INTO A QUAINT HILLSIDE, with panoramic views of Lake Chelan, you'll find Vin du Lac Winery's charming estate. Here, guests are invited to enjoy locallysourced wines and farm-fresh dining, all while soaking in the breathtaking views and relaxed ambiance.

Set against the backdrop of a pristine 55-mile lake, Vin du Lac provides tastings throughout the year, showcasing elegant wines sourced from the Lake Chelan AVA (American Viticultural Area) and nearby vineyards on the Columbia River. Since its initiation in 2002 by Larry Lehmbecker, Vin du Lac Winery has been an integral part of the Lake Chelan wine industry, committed to establishing Chelan as a high-end wine destination. Whether your preference is a dry, crisp white wine or a fuller-bodied and complex red, you'll find a wine to delight your

palate at one of Chelan's original wineries. Only a short distance from several trailheads, including Echo Ridge and the Chelan Butte Trail, Vin du Lac is the perfect spot to unwind with a deserved glass of wine after a hike or winter snowshoeing through the rolling hills of the Chelan Valley. Visit in October, and you may even run into the winemaker pulling a tasting from the barrel! And no summer visit would be complete without a swim in the iconic glacier-fed lake. Just a stone's throw from Vin du Lac, you'll find Don Morse Park, the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. After getting your toes wet, there's always a chilled rosé or white wine waiting to cool you down on the patio!

Vin du Lac Winery, at 105 Highway 150 in Chelan, is open throughout the year for tastings. Visit www.vindulac.com to learn more.

Cairdeas Winery Inspires Friendship and Outdoor Play

NESTLED IN THE SCENIC Lake

Chelan Wine Valley, Cairdeas Winery offers a captivating experience for wine enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Known for its Rhone-inspired wines, Cairdeas masterfully crafts and blends varietals such as Viognier, Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, capturing the essence of the Rhône Valley in the Pacific Northwest’s stunning landscape.

Autumn at Cairdeas is particularly special, as it marks the beginning of harvest. The winery and vineyard, lush with ripe grapes, buzz with activity as harvest begins. This time of year is a celebration of the fruits of labor and an opportunity for visitors to witness the winemaking process up close. The vibrant, bustling atmosphere adds an extra layer of excitement and authenticity to the winery experience.

As the crisp fall air settles in, Lake Chelan becomes a picturesque playground for outdoor aficionados. The golden foliage and refreshing temperatures make it an ideal time for hiking. Trails like Chelan Butte and Echo Ridge offer invigorating treks

with panoramic views of the lake and valley, rewarding hikers with breathtaking vistas of the autumn landscape.

After a day of exploration, the welcom ing ambiance of Cairdeas Winery’s gambrel barn-style tasting room provides a serene retreat. Guests can unwind with a glass of their Rhone-inspired wine on their spacious patio, designed to showcase its stunning lake views.

For a unique touch, visitors can engage in a game of pétanque, a traditional French game that pairs beautifully with the winery’s French-inspired atmosphere. This casual activity adds a playful dimension to the day, allowing guests to enjoy the crisp autumn air and stunning lake views while savoring their wine.

Cairdeas, which means "friendship" in Irish Gaelic, truly embodies its name by seamlessly combining the joys of harvest, the great outdoors, exceptional wines, and picturesque surroundings. The winery promises a quintessential Lake Chelan expe rience filled with natural beauty and elevated delights, making every visit a celebration of camaraderie and enjoyment.

To plan your fall roadtrip, find winery events, and make a reservation, visit cairdeaswinery. com. The winery is located at 31 Winesap Avenue, Manson, WA, 98831.

& private walking tours!

Each tour includes several wine tastings at multiple locations, a cheese & charcuterie board, a crash course in wine tasting and tons of information about wine!

SINCE 2019, Wander Spokane has been dedicated to offering unique, on-foot experiences that showcase the vibrant heart of our city. While many Spokanites might think they know their city inside and out, we believe there’s always more to discover. It’s easy to overlook the treasures in our own backyard, assuming they’re reserved for tourists—but true locals know that the best way to fall in love with Spokane all over again is by exploring it with fresh eyes.

Wander Spokane has evolved over the years, but one thing has remained constant: our commitment to experiencing Spokane on foot. There’s something truly special about walking through the city, taking in its sights, sounds, and flavors at a leisurely pace. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer, our tours offer a deeper connection to the community and its rich history.

We offer a variety of public tours, including Food Tours, City Tours, Wine Tours, and Specialty/Holiday Tours. Our Food and Wine Tours are particularly popular, leading groups through Spokane’s streets to explore its art, architecture, and, of course, culinary bites. On a Food Tour, you’ll visit 4-5 local spots, sampling a variety of dishes that together create a satisfying, multi-course experience. Our Wine Tours take you to three local wineries or tasting rooms, where you’ll enjoy 12-15 wine samples, nibble on cheese and charcuterie, have a mini wine tasting class led by a sommelier, and insights into the Washington wine industry that you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, you might get special access to behind-the-scenes locations like the barrel room at Barrister Winery or

the rooftop of the Chronicle building, home to Terra Blanca Wine Tasting Room. Our City Tours are perfect for those who want to delve into Spokane’s past, present, and future while strolling through iconic landmarks and art installations. We guarantee that even lifelong locals will discover something new and exciting.T hroughout the year, we also offer Specialty and Holiday Tours, like our Ghost & Food Tours in October or the Winter Cheer Tour during the holiday season. These experiences are designed to add a little extra magic to your celebrations. If you’re looking for something more personalized, Wander Spokane offers Private Customizable Tours tailored to your interests. Whether you’re into food, wine, beer, art, ghosts, architecture, or even hiking, we’re here to craft the perfect experience for you.

At Wander Spokane, we’re passionate about supporting local businesses and strengthening our community. We work closely with a variety of non-profits and organizations to highlight all the layers that make Spokane such a special place.

Wander Spokane tours and events are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re planning a team-building event, a company gathering, a reward for your staff, or just looking for a unique way to show appreciation to your customers or loved ones. With the holidays approaching, there’s no better time to book a tour or purchase an experience as a gift. Give the gift of adventure and discovery—right here in Spokane.

View the full list of participating tour locations and book your tour at Wanderspokane.com.

we make wines for all your adventures from refreshing, sparkling wines to our classic, time-tested red blends.

find our wines at retailers across the Northwest & at our Spokane Tasting Room

OPEN FRIDAY and SATURDAY | 12PM to 6PM

1222 N Regal Rd. | Spokane, WA

WASHINGTON WINERY since 1998

The Case for Wanderlust These fall road trips will have you packing your

bags again.

AFTER A SLOW START to getting out there this summer, we managed to pack a ton of adventures in to the last few months. By the time we started putting this issue together in August, I was feeling ready for some down time at home, you know, finishing our three-year house painting project, finally organizing the garage, or getting out to ride our local trails that take off only a few minutes from home.

That is, until I started reading and editing many of the articles in this year’s Fall Road Trips Guide. Suddenly my September is full not with trips to Home Depot and fixing the crumbling foundation on our 120-year-old tiny home, but more adventures

in the Kootenays, Wallowas, the Colville National Forest and other to-hard-to-resist destinations only a few hours from Spokane!

Wanderlust is a thing, for sure, and I’ve I had a life-long bad case of it. No sooner do I swear off the endless packing and unpacking, deferring work and life maintenance, and shoving life’s responsibilities to the sidelines that goes along with fitting in as many trips as possible into an already-full life than I find myself scheduling another bikepacking suffer fest or hot springs road trip to British Columbia. It’s these trips, I’ve found over the years, that make life feel expansive and full of possibility, and with few exceptions, they’re always worth it.

This year’s Fall Road Trips Guide features many Northwest favorite destinations, some with new draws, like a ton of freshly-built mountain bike trails around the Nelson, B.C. area or hike recommendations close to Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort that you may never have heard of. It also covers super-intriguing celebrations of local culture, like the UMANI Festival in Moses Lake, Wash., that honors the region’s Hispanic people and heritage; music festivals like RED Mountain’s Between the Peaks fest up in Rossland, B.C.; and the ‘90s Flannel Fest, a tribute to grunge rock bands at the Grant County Fairgrounds.

The guide also highlights some fall road trip ideas that are off the beaten path, including peak-bagging with mountain goats near Sandpoint, Idaho; drinking craft beer and rubbing elbows with artists in Enterprise and Joseph, Ore.; tasting the fall harvest and experiencing the local creative scene in Twisp, Wash.; and exploring the architectural and cultural legacy of the Doukhabors, a religious community with Russian roots that immigrated to the Castlegar, B.C. area in the 1900s.

FALL FALL FALL

We live in a mind-blowing spot in this vast, wild world, and there’s never enough time to get out and explore it all. We hope this guide points you in the right direction for your next outdoor recreation or cultural adventure. It will probably be worth sidelining those real-life responsibilities like house painting (again). Now find your destination and start packing!

(Derrick Knowles)

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Worth the Journey Northeast Oregon’s “Alps”

WALLOWA COUNTY in the northeast corner of Oregon is a wonderland of wild and rugged landscapes with hundreds of miles of trails. Expansive prairie, canyon and ranchland views can be traversed by some of the most scenic back road drives in the Northwest. As if all of that wasn’t enough to make the gorgeous four-hour drive from Spokane, the authentic mountain towns of Joseph and Enterprise serve as hubs of culture and amenities that will make a visit here one you won’t soon forget.

Tour Historic Barns by Bike Northeast Oregon is a road- and gravel-riders’ dream, with miles of winding, lightly-trafficked roads spinning off in all directions from Joseph and Enterprise for cyclists to explore. The Wallowa Barn Tour is a unique ride that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure and history. The route passes by 10 of Wallowa County’s historic barns with stunning mountain and prairie scenery as the backdrop. You can also drive the tour in your vehicle.

Gape Into the Deepest Gorge in North America

One of the best ways to take in the vast wonder that is Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, is from one of several remote backroad-accessed viewpoints. The awe-inspiring canyon and Snake River that flow through it are flanked by some of the most rugged peaks in the Northwest, the Seven Devils Mountains of Idaho and the Wallowa Mountains of Oregon. Navigate your way to the Buckhorn Tower Viewpoint south of Imnaha, or the Hat Point or Hells Canyon overlooks east of Joseph to experience the wild grandeur of this spectacular canyon country for yourself.

Hike the Eagle Cap Wilderness Fall means fewer visitors and better hiking weather in

the Wallowa Mountains and Eagle Cap Wilderness. A variety of nearby day hikes and multi-day backpacking trip options afford hikers the opportunity to traverse pristine sub-alpine valleys, visit sparkling alpine lakes and scale granite peaks many of which are over 9,000 feet high.

Road Trip Worthy Fall Events in Wallowa County

• Hells Canyon Mule Days (Sept. 6-8)

This annual event honors the mules and mule skinner heritage of the Wallowa and Hells Canyon country. In addition to the chance to view these long-eared equine from all over the West up close, the event includes artisans and exhibitors, cowboy poetry, a non-motorized parade, pit BBQ dinner, Saturday night concert, and a Dutch oven cook-off.

• Terminal Gravity's Middle of Nowhere Brewfest (Sept. 14)

A day of craft beer from PNW breweries, live music, and local artists and vendors at the renowned Terminal Gravity Brewery in Enterprise.

• Wallowa Valley Festival of the Arts (Sept. 20-22)

A fine art show and En Plein Air Opening Reception kick off this weekend of arts in the Wallowas. Other events include a quick draw, live music, art exhibits, and a silent auction where you can bid on art.

• Oregon’s Alpenfest (Sept. 26-29)

This annual Swiss-Bavarian festival featuring several days of events includes live music, dancing, brats, local Terminal Gravity beer, games, yodeling and more.

FALL FALL FALL FONT: VERVeineFALL

Find event details and more outdoor adventure inspiration at Wallowacountychamber.com.

HURRICANE CREEK TRAIL.

PHOTO: JENNIFER PIPER

Ultimate Fall Road Trip

Looking for an unforgettable fall road trip destination? Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Fernie offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, rich culture and cozy relaxation. Here’s why this inviting alpine town should be your next getaway.

Easy Access from Spokane

A scenic four-hour drive from Spokane, Fernie is the perfect destination for a spontaneous weekend getaway. While accessible through the Kingsgate crossing, if you cross the border at Roosville, you’ll reach Fernie in just 30 minutes!

Great Value

With the current exchange rate, American visitors can experience Fernie at a 25-35% discount. Enjoy everything from dining to lodging at a fraction of the price, leaving more money in your pocket to spend on unique Fernie experiences!

Diverse Lodging Options

Fernie offers a wide range of accommodations for all types of travellers. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxurious hotel, or a spot to park your RV, Fernie has you covered.

Outdoor Adventures Galore

Fall is an amazing time to explore the great outdoors in Fernie. Enjoy biking and hiking through vibrant autumn landscapes, or try your luck at fishing in the local rivers. Golfers can take advantage of the mild weather to hit the greens until mid-October. The crisp fall air and stunning scenery give the perfect backdrop to a day outdoors.

Wellness + Dining

After a day of adventure, unwind with a selection of wellness activities and delicious dining. Fernie offers a variety of wellness services, from spa treatments to yoga studios. For dining, indulge in local cuisine at charming restaurants and cafes that showcase regional ingredients.

Fernie’s Only Craft Brewery

Stop at BC’s easternmost brewery and Fernie’s only craft brewery! After a day of exploration, Fernie Brewing Co. offers guests the perfect après and a great place to unwind.

Heritage + Culture

Immerse yourself in Fernie’s rich history and culture! Download the Iconic Fernie App and embark on a self-guided tour. Discover historic landmarks, explore the town’s heritage, and learn about its unique stories at your own pace (while earning rewards!).

Busy Events Calendar

Fernie’s event calendar is packed with exciting activities throughout the fall. From local festivals to live music performances, there’s always something happening in town.

Scenic Drives and Views

The drive to and around Fernie is filled with breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and colourful fall foliage. Take some time to enjoy the scenic routes, featuring picturesque spots for memorable photos and leisurely walks.

Charming Local Shops

Fernie’s downtown area offers a selection of shops. Stroll through the quaint streets, and you’ll find everything from artisanal crafts and local specialties to outdoor gear and fashion finds. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or gift to remember your trip.

So, pack your bags and hit the road for a fall adventure in Fernie, BC. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural offerings, and great value, this getaway in the Kootenay Rockies will be your ultimate shoulder season escape. 

just across the border In the Heart of the Rockies

FeRNie

on the Kootenay Rockies East Ale Trail

Fernie boasts small-town charm and big mountain adventure. Located in the southeast corner of British Columbia, it is a four-season destination surrounded by stunning scenery and a vibrant community.

Plan a road trip this fall and experience Fernie’s many outdoor activities, locally brewed craft beer, a packed events calendar, and a chance to explore this alpine town’s rich history.

YEAR-ROUND ENJOYMENT

Experience our hot springs pools and cave, contemporary guest rooms, Spirit Water Spa and Ktunaxa Grill with Executive Chef Cory Chapman. ainsworthhotsprings.com. Proudly owned by Yaqan Nukiy

Day Hikes and Hot Springs Near Nelson, B.C

NOTHING BEATS a hot spring soak after a fall day hike, and Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort (40 minutes north of Nelson, B.C.), is surrounded by some pretty spectacular options. Take your pick from old-growth forest, stream-or-lakeside strolls, challenging hill climbs, or cascading waterfalls. Then kick back and relax in the natural, mineral-rich thermal waters at Ainsworth. The vast mountainous country that sprawls in all directions contains more hikes than you could take on in a lifetime of road trips, but these are a few autumn favorites.

• Kokanee Old Growth Cedars (2.4k round trip). Located 11.7k up the Kokanee Glacier Road by Kokanee Provincial Park, between Nelson and Ainsworth, this grove of huge trees up to 800 years old is a humbling and inspiring hike that just about anyone can take on.

• Kaslo River Trail System (from 1k to a full day of wandering). Right on the edge of the village of Kaslo, this trail system has loops, red covered bridges, and streamside views of spawning Kokanee in September. Hike as far or as little as you like and keep an eye out for interpretive signs and the handiwork of local artists along the trail.

• Fletcher Falls (around 1k round trip). 6k south of Kaslo, the short but steep hike down to Fletcher Falls and the shore of Kootenay Lake rewards hikers with the pounding spray of an impressive waterfall and a gorgeous picnic and rock-skipping spot on the lake.

Book your Ainsworth hot spring session in advance (included with lodging) and do yourself a favor and make dinner reservations at the on-site Ktunaxa Grill while you’re at it. Ainsworthhotsprings.com.

Visit Twisp, WA for High Adventure and Mountain-Town Culture

LOCATED IN THE HEART of the Methow Valley, Twisp, Wash., captivates visitors with its picturesque beauty and vibrant community spirit. The town of Twisp rests on the valley floor where the pristine waters of the Methow and Twisp rivers meet. Surrounded by the rugged peaks of the North Cascades and Sawtooth Wilderness, this charming town offers an array of outdoor adventures year-round, from hiking, river rafting and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.

Twisp is renowned for its thriving creative scene, showcasing local talent through galleries, unique eateries, studios, and annual festivals that celebrate arts and culture. Join us this fall for a sensational seasonal celebration at Twisp Fest, Sept. 27 and 28. The event features a community potluck on Friday evening with weaving demonstrations from local Indigenous women and a Harvest Festival all day Saturday with live music and dancing, games, food, drinks and shopping specials.

After a late fall hike, kick off the holiday season with us this winter at Mistletoe Madness on Nov. 29 for a shopping extravaganza where you can find unique gifts for everyone on your list! With a commitment to sustainability and a deep connection to nature, Twisp attracts people seeking a serene escape amidst stunning landscapes. The town's welcoming atmosphere and small-town charm make it a beloved destination for those looking to explore the natural wonders of North Central Washington while enjoying the hospitality of its rural community. Visit www.TwispWA.com for more information and follow us on social media @TwispWA for travel inspiration.

Just Over the Border

Fall Music Fest and Free Skiing This Winter!

JUST 8 MILES across the US/Canada border is an exciting weekend fast approaching. The “Between The Peaks” Music Festival at RED Mountain Resort in Rossland, British Columbia, is set to deliver an unforgettable weekend of music and outdoor adventure. Taking place Sept. 13 and 14, this festival offers a perfect mix of world-class performances, exhilarating outdoor activities, and some serious perks for attendees reading this right now!

This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix of artists, ranging from indie rock to folk and country. Acts like The New Pornographers, WiL & Co, Leather Apron Revival, Big Fuzz, and Lake of the Axe are just some of the performers ready to take the stage. Whether you’re into danceable rock anthems, heartfelt acoustic melodies, or gritty country rhythms, there’s something for everyone at this festival packing in two days of music across two stages.

Beyond the music, the adventure opportunities are just as thrilling. Rossland is renowned as Canada’s mountain biking mecca, offering trails for all skill levels, including the new Millennial Trail Expansion and the famous EPIC-rated Seven Summits. Hikers and trail runners can explore stunning, world-class routes surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re biking through forested paths or trekking along

mountain ridges, the landscape is nothing short of spectacular.

The festival is more than just tunes and trails—it's also a fantastic deal, especially for those coming from the U.S. The strong exchange rate offers substantial savings, with festival passes priced in Canadian dollars. This makes the experience even more budget-friendly, with savings of around 25% on all purchases. Plus, for a limited time, get an additional 20% off any adult festival ticket with code OUTTHERERED24 and you’ll also get a free adult lift ticket for the 24/25 winter season, giving you a chance to return to RED Mountain’s legendary slopes at no extra cost.

Adding to the atmosphere, food trucks, craft beer, and family-friendly vibes make Between The Peaks a complete experience. From local street food to cold brews, you’ll have plenty to enjoy between sets. Whether you’re a hardcore festival-goer, an outdoor enthusiast, or both, this event combines the best of both worlds in an unforgettable weekend.

If you're looking for a festival that’s more than just music, Between The Peaks at RED Mountain Resort delivers the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and fantastic entertainment. Check out the lineup and grab tickets at Redresort.com/ betweenthepeaks.

ROCK OUT AND RIDE IN ROSSLAND, B.C. // PHOTOS: COURTESY OF RED MOUNTAIN RESORT

Fall into a Seasonal Escape

CranbRook, Bc

on the Kootenay Rockies East Ale Trail

Gear up for your next epic road trip! Embark on a cross-border adventure to Cranbrook, B.C., where craft beer meets rugged landscapes. Discover the vibrant fall colours of the Kootenay Rockies, savour local brews, and dive into an autumn escape that’s as thrilling as it is refreshing.

8 Reasons to Make Cranbrook, BC Your Next travel Destination Fall Road Tripping the East Kootenays

Surrounded by mountains and rushing rivers, Cranbrook offers endless discovery. As temperatures cool, it transforms into a fall paradise, perfect for those seeking an authentic autumn escape. With a longer summer season than many neighbouring destinations, Cranbrook remains warm and open for mountain biking, hiking, and outdoor adventures well into the fall.

Hop Across the Border

Cranbrook is just a three-and-a-half-hour drive on Route 95 from Spokane, making it ideal for an impromptu weekend escape. Plus, thanks to the favourable exchange rate, American travellers can enjoy a 25% to 35% discount on their trip!

Book a Sip + Stay

Pair your stay with a craft beer experience by booking a Sip + Stay package. Cranbrook has somewhere special for you to rest your head, from upscale resorts to historic hotels to family-run bed and breakfasts and everything in between.

Go on a Tasting Ale-Venture

Cranbrook is home to two local craft breweries, each with its unique offerings. The Heid Out restaurant is home to Fisher Peak Brewing, while Encore Brewing features a craft brewery, bowling alley, arcade, and tasting room with a full kitchen. Check out the Cranbrook Beer Fest on September 14 and the Cranbrook + Kimberley Tasting Passport from September 13 to October 31.

trekking adventures for all

With the Rocky Mountains and Purcell Ranges at Cranbrook’s doorstep, it’s the perfect spot to stretch your hiking muscles. Explore trails along lakes, waterfalls, and epic views, offering diverse treks through breathtaking landscapes.

Golden Views

Cranbrook’s autumn is a dramatic spectacle as golden larches transform the Kootenay landscapes from green to honey-toned gold. From late September through November, locals embrace the season, paddling calm waters, hiking trails wrapped in amber warmth, and taking scenic drives through the caramel-kissed countryside.

paddle mountain lakes

Whether it’s a refreshing plunge, a scenic view, or a picturesque paddle, Cranbrook offers it all with four lakes within an hour’s drive. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, these uncrowded waters are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater paddling.

Biking

Cranbrook boasts world-class riding options, from road and gravel routes to singletrack and groomed winter trails. Nestled in the Rocky Mountain Trench, it’s a prime destination for mountain biking, offering everything from quiet singletrack to challenging black-diamond descents, all just minutes from the city.

shop your heart out

Baker Street in downtown Cranbrook features bike shops, outdoor gear, clothing, books, ladies’ wear, jewellery, a chocolate shop, gifts and many independent stores. Take advantage of the artisanal crafts and local specialties, grabbing a one-of-a-kind souvenir to bring a piece of Cranbrook home with you.

Get set for an epic road trip! Cross the border to Cranbrook, B.C., where craft beer and rugged scenery await alongside an autumn getaway that’s as invigorating as it is exciting. 

Hiking and Fishing Road Trip Through Grant County, Washington

AS THE VIBRANT COLORS colors of fall blanket the landscapes of Grant County, Washington, it’s the perfect time to explore the breathtaking outdoor scenes through hiking and fishing. This guide takes you on a road trip to some of the most serene and picturesque spots across the county, with a special sidebar on the best places to stay and dine.

The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary

DAY 1: POTHOLES RESERVOIR —Start your adventure at the Potholes Reservoir, a fishing haven known for its rich diversity of fish species including walleye, trout, and bass. As the crisp fall air sets in, the reservoir is less crowded, offering a peaceful fishing experience. Surrounding the water are numerous trails perfect for a morning hike. The unique geology of the area creates a stunning backdrop of basalt rock formations.

DAY 2: FRENCHMAN COULEE —Next, head to Frenchman Coulee near Quincy for a day of hiking and rock climbing. The area is famed for its dramatic cliff faces and the stunning coulee that cuts through the landscape. Hike the Ancient Lakes Trail, a relatively easy trek that is especially beautiful in the fall when the low sun casts long shadows and bathes the area in golden hues.

DAY 3: MOSES LAKE— Conclude your road trip at Moses Lake. Anglers can look forward to catching largemouth bass and yellow perch. The Blue Heron Park is a perfect spot for a family picnic and a gentle walk along the lake.

Where to Stay & Other

Amenities

While exploring Grant County, you have various accommodation options ranging from cozy inns to full-service hotels.

Moses Lake:

• Inn at Moses Lake: Offers comfortable lodging with modern amenities and easy access to the lake.

•Ten Pin Inn: Provides friendly accommodations complete with an indoor pool and proximity to local dining, including its own Ten Pin Brewery.

Quincy:

• Crescent Bar Resort: Ideal for visitors heading to Frenchman Coulee, providing high-end accommodations with resort facilities.

• Cave B Inn & Spa Resort: This upscale resort near Quincy offers luxury

stays with panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Ephrata:

• Best Western Rama Inn: A comfortable and convenient option with access to local dining and close to Oasis Park fishing pond and mini golf.

• Ephrata Inn: An affordable option with proximity to downtown amenities.

Local Eats

For those looking to enjoy a meal, each town has something unique to offer.

• Ten Pin Brewery in Moses Lake is a great spot to enjoy locally crafted beers and a menu of hearty meals, perfect for fueling your adventure-filled days. Adjacent to Lake Bowl bowling alley.

• Gard Public House in Royal City offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and a menu that reflects the agricultural richness of the area.

• The Bookery in Ephrata provides a selection of lunch sandwiches and coffee that shares space with a bookstore.

• Discovery Cider Company is a new space with house-made hard ciders, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Fall Events

• Ephrata Wine Walk: Walk the streets of downtown Ephrata and stop in at local businesses participating in the fall wine walk on Oct. 19. Event includes live music, a costume contest, souvenir wine glass, and after party.

• Moses Lake Fall Harvest Festival: Enjoy local produce, crafts, and pumpkin-themed activities perfect for families Oct. 26.

•Moravida Festival: Celebrate life and honor ancestors Oct. 26 in Moses Lake at this vibrant family-friendly event inspired by Dia de Los Muertos. Enjoy live entertainment, vendors, food trucks, and a community altar.

A road trip through Eastern Washington’s Grant County is a unique way to experience the desert beauty of fall in our region. Whether you're casting a line in the shimmering waters or hiking through colorful sage-steppe landscapes, the region offers a refreshing escape into nature, complete with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and rural stay. Pack your hiking boots and fishing rods and prepare for adventure in the heart of the Inland Northwest.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRANT COUNTY TOURISM

Overt Dirt Three New Mountain Bike Trails in and Around Nelson, B.C.

By Vince Hempsall

MOUNTAIN BIKING wasn’t born in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia, but some might argue it was perfected there. Just ask Nelson local and three-time Red Bull Rampage winner Kurt Sorge. Or Mike Riediger, a Nakusp resident and CEO of the Kootenay Adaptive Sport Association whose trail building guidelines are now being adopted around the world.

The city of Nelson and the communities surrounding Kootenay Lake are mountain biking meccas. They’re only a three to four-hour drive from Spokane, but they’re a world away when it comes to serenity and spaciousness. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to encounter more than a few bikers on the trail systems in the village of Kaslo or on the East Shore area near the tiny communities of Crawford Bay and Riondel. Despite this, the riding in the region is world class, especially in the fall months when trail conditions are prime, and three new offerings stand out as particularly inviting for bikers of all ages and abilities.

The newest trail is Tam O’Tiger and it’s located just north of Riondel off Tam O’Shanter forest service road, which acts as the up track. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy the first purpose-built, machined mountain bike trail on the East Shore that’s brimming with berms and bridges. Tam O’Tiger flows for about a mile and advanced riders will want to tackle the offshoot trail Shamrock with its long rock roll down. The ride finishes on the multidiscipline Lower Waterline Trail, which deposits you back at the parking area.

After riding the East Shore, take the 45-minute-long ferry across Kootenay Lake to Balfour. It’s the world’s longest free scenic

ferry and offers beautiful views of the Purcell and Selkirk mountain ranges that are bejeweled in gold during the autumn months as the larch trees turn color. From the ferry landing it’s a 25-minute drive north to the quaint community of Kaslo where you’ll find one of the longest mountain bike trails in B.C.

Officially opened earlier this year, the Friendly Giant is well named because it’s a bi-directional green run that rises 4,400 feet over 11 miles. It has taken three years to complete this trail because, well, it’s huge! It’s also super fun. After reaching the summit and enjoying the views of Kootenay Lake and the surrounding mountains, ride back down the way you came and enjoy the buttery-smooth berms and rhythmic rollers. This is a great ride for the whole family as you can shuttle part way up in case little legs don’t feel up to grinding out the miles.

Where to Pre-Eat and Aprés Drink

East Shore: Hit up the artisan hub of Crawford Bay where you’ll find potters, painters and broom makers as well as good eateries. Ladybug Coffee at the ferry terminal serves the best all-day breakfast sandwich and homemade chai in the region.

Kaslo: The Bluebell Bistro makes the best cappuccino in town. For post-ride drinks, visit the local brewpub Angry Hen Brewing or the recently renovated bar in the Kaslo Hotel.

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Nelson: No less than 21 places serve coffee in the city and one of the oldest and best establishments is Oso Negro. There are also three craft breweries and plenty of restaurants serving everything from authentic tacos and wood-fired pizza to Tamil-style Indian and vegan fare.

Once you’ve gotten friendly with the Giant, you can go soak your bones at the Ainsworth Hot Springs resort 20 minutes south of Kaslo or continue down the lake to the beautiful mountain town of Nelson. There you’ll find lots of riding options including the modern flow tracks at Morning Mountain, which boasts the city’s newest trail called Rhythm and Blues. Officially opened last spring, this perfectly machined intermediate run offers a mile of smiles because the tabletops, berms, and bridges are so manicured, you feel like you’re riding a giant playground slide.

For more information about mountain biking, and all other autumn activities to enjoy around Kootenay Lake, visit Nelsonkootenaylake.com.

PETER MOYNES TAKES IN THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF KOOTENAY LAKE FROM THE TOP OF THE NEW FRIENDLY GIANT TRAIL ABOVE KASLO, B.C. // PHOTO: KARI MEDIG COURTESY OF NELSON KOOTENAY LAKE TOURISM

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Kari Medig

Road Trip to Sandpoint ... and the Mini Road Trips That Follow

LET'S HANDLE THE FIRST PART of a Sandpoint road trip this way: If your starting point is say, Spokane, then your driving time to Sandpoint will be 80-90 minutes via I-90 east to Coeur d’Alene, then Highway 95 north to Sandpoint. Pretty easy. Once you grab lodging in town for a night or three, what remains are what we might call the mini road trips: Destinations for your activities of choice.

With that as prelude, here are the road trips within a road trip to Sandpoint, to some of the autumnal activities that locals prize themselves. We're noting mileages based on a start from one of the several hotels in town, but there are also good lodging choices in adjacent Ponderay, on Schweitzer, or just across the Long Bridge from town. (Assess lodging choices at VisitSandpoint.com/Lodging.)

Lace up your boots. On the subject of hiking, the phrase “embarrassment of riches” comes to mind. There are more than 250 trails in the Cabinet and Selkirk mountains that surround town. Hikers can discover wonders on any of them, but here's the one we'll mention: Scotchman Peak (33 miles to trailhead, driving time 55 minutes). It's 7.6 miles out-and-back with a hefty 3,717 feet of elevation gain, but the payoff at the peak is big views of Lake Pend Oreille and the Cabinet Mountains … plus a darn good chance to see mountain goats on top.

Hang at the beach. If the mere thought of 3,700 feet of vertical is exhausting, here's a chill alternative. Sandpoint's City Beach (0.1 mile... walk to it from your hotel!), on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, is a terrific place to lounge on the sand; early-September days generally provide good swimming weather. To get out on the big lake, amble a few yards to the city docks and the Shawnodese, a classically-styled tour boat operated by Lake Pend Oreille Cruises through mid-September (when operations move to marinas in Hope, 16 miles/25 minutes). Also, right from City Beach there's a terrific walk on the flat-and-easy Pend d'Oreille Bay Trail two miles north along the lakeshore. In October when the fall colors go off, the birch and cottonwood trees along the trail make an awesome display.

Bring your paddlecraft. For a sweet, well-protected SUP or kayak through September (before lake levels descend) launch right at City Beach and paddle up Sand Creek, under the iconic Cedar Street Bridge and north for a mile or

more. For a far more ambitious paddle, drive to the Johnson Creek boater access outside Clark Fork (31 miles, 50 minutes) and explore the many protected routes within the estuary where the Clark Fork River enters Lake Pend Oreille.

Bring your mountain bike. It's been only three years since the community forest opened at the Pine Street Woods (2-3 miles to your trailhead of choice; 10 minutes) but volunteers have developed more than 20 named MTB trails and loops for riders of all abilities. Meantime, Schweitzer (11 miles, 22 minutes) and the adjacent recreation district have more than 40 miles of trails with a range of challenges and stunning alpine views (when you dare look up).

Don't forget the binoculars. The Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge (35 miles, 55 minutes) is on the Pacific Flyway, one of the continent's great migratory waterfowl routes. In fall, the ducks, geese, swans and others are coming by the thousands to rest and feed in the refuge ponds. The migration peaks typically in early November. There are hiking trails, blinds and an auto tour route.

Giddyup. Did you know that one of the finest dude ranches in the West isn't in Wyoming or Montana … but just outside Sandpoint? Western Pleasure Guest Ranch can be a destination unto itself, with fine lodging and dining at the ranch. Or, for a day trip (16 miles, 25 minutes) in October, you can arrange in advance for a two-hour guided trail ride for all abilities or riders.

Fun for swingers. That is, “swing” as in golf club. The standout course is The Idaho Club (9 miles, 16 minutes), an 18-hole championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus amid a glorious landscape of river, ponds and mountains. Adjacent to town for a fast set of tees is the eight-hole Elks Golf Course (1 mile). Three other courses within an hour's driving time – Mirror Lake in Bonners Ferry, Priest Lake, and the Ranch Club in Priest River – offer fine swings too.

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Get details, access info and map links, to these and other road trips via the “Play” button VisitSandpoint.com. And have a fine trip.

LAKE VIEWS FROM CITY BEACH DOWNTOWN SANDPOINT

RIGHT: SCOTCHMAN PEAK LOCALS ARE KING OF THE MOUNTAIN PHOTOS: COURTESY OF VISIT SANDPOINT

don t misS tHESE fALL EVEntS!

Fall Fest @ Schweitzer • Sept 1-2

If there’s an activity-oriented road trip in your future, here’s a little secret: Autumn is just possibly the finest time for a multi-sport visit to beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho. In early September, our magnificent Lake Pend Oreille is still at full summer pool, offering superb swimming, boating and paddle sports. For hikers and campers in our high mountains, the cooling nights have

WaCanId Bike Ride • Sept 9-14

Find Your Strength 1K & 5K • Sept 14

Spacepoint Fall Equinox Party • Sept 14

Roundup at the Ranch Gala • Sept 28

Farmers Market Harvest Fest • Oct 12

Gaelic Storm Celtic Concert • Oct 23

put the chill on pesky summertime bugs. For cyclists, the occasional fall rains act to firm up our many outstanding MTB trails. And by mid October it’s the high season for fall colors All this, plus the fine dining, lodging and entertainment Sandpoint is known for. Make this autumn something special. We’ll see you in beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho.

Make this autumn special in beautiful Sandpoint

Hiking Mickinnick Trail

MTB @ Schweitzer + Pine St Woods Paddling Lake Pend Oreille

Forge Fall Adventures Your Own Way in Castlegar, B.C.

WHETHER YOU’RE on a hunt for stunning autumn foliage or a sucker for high-speed mountain thrills, Castlegar, B.C., has it all without the crowds. This small, friendly city nestled in a valley along the Columbia River just three hours north of Spokane proudly shows off its rich cultural heritage and art scene, with opportunities for outings to keep both parents and children engaged.

Fall Hikes with Views Close to Town

Castlegar is surrounded by trails for all abilities and seasons, but it’s the local fall color show starring golden swaths of larch trees in late September and peaking in October that steals the show. These two short hikes are great for hiking families and hikers with dogs.

Brilliant Overlook Trail (4+ miles, Moderate): This hike requires a bit of climbing (just over 1,000 feet of elevation) but the awesome views that look out over the Columbia River Valley make it a local’s favorite! Best for older kids and adults with hiking experience, the trail will fool you at first with its mellow grade, but rest assured, there is plenty of steep, more challenging climbing ahead. Views from the top, including the City of Castlegar, are worth the effort. See if you can spot RED Mountain Resort in the distance to the south!

Mel DeAnna Trail (3.5 miles, Easy):

This lollipop-loop hike just off Hwy 3 south of Castlegar meanders through a forest blazing with fall larch colors if you time it right. The trail creates a loop around Champion Ponds, a great place to spot birds and other wildlife, take in the quiet surroundings, and savor the crisp fall air. Check out the a-frame shelters and interpretive signs along the way. Keep an eye out for the ruins of a historic cabin, an abandoned mine, and the spur trail down to a bench with a fantastic view. The limited elevation gain on this undulating trail make it great for less experienced hikers and children.

Explore Family-Friendly Cultural Sites

Castlegar has a surprising number of cool cultural sites and public art, many with interesting activities and features to keep the whole family engaged.

The Doukhobor Discovery Center:

Learn about the Doukhobor people who settled in the region in the early 1900s. The museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Doukhobors, a communal, pacifist religious community originating from Russia. Taste a bit of their cultural heritage yourself at The Great Borshch Cook Off on Sept. 28 while sampling their traditional, beetbased soups.

Brilliant Suspension Bridge: Built in 1913 by the Doukhobors and restored in 2010, a walk across this beautiful Castlegar bridge is a trip back in time.

Sculpture Walk: Castlegar is the Sculpture Capital of Canada and every year international artists display their work throughout the city as part of the annual Sculpture Walk. Visitors can vote for their favorites and the most popular sculpture is purchased by the city to remain on display as part of its permanent collection.

Wheel Around the Mountains

There are 80 miles of mountain biking trails in Castlegar and innumerable logging roads and other tracks to enjoy, whether you’re on two wheels or four.

Mountain Biking: According to Trailforks, the best trail in the world right now is Captain Kangaroo, one of eight that make up the Merry Creek network in Castlegar. In other words, the riding is world class and should not be missed.

Moto Trails: Castlegar offers one of the region’s largest systems of trails for ATVs, side-by-sides, and dirt bikes. Choose from miles of logging roads and designated trails and ORV riding areas. A local’s favorite is the Columbia and Western Rail Trail. Shared with hikers and bicycle riders, this 100-mile-long decommissioned railway winds past lakes, over six trestles and through five tunnels with stellar scenery along the way. For more technical dirt bike trails, the KMX Motocross Track and trail system or the Rover Creek singletrack trail system close to Castlegar offer some of the best moto riding in the Pacific Northwest.

Plan your north-of-the-border escape to Castlegar, B.C., at Destinationcastlegar.com.

HIKING ALONG THE COLUMBIA RIVER. // PHOTO: COURTESY OF DESTINATION CASTLEGAR

Head to Moses Lake, Wash. for Fall Festivals, Fishing, and Hiking

PACK UP YOUR FISHING POLE, hiking boots and festival chair for a fall road trip that blends the best of Inland Northwest culture and the scenic, wide-open landscapes and uncrowded lakes surrounding Moses Lake.

Only an hour-and-a-half west of Spokane off I-90, Moses Lake makes for a quick trip. To maximize the fun, plan your adventures around one of the community’s unique fall events. Excellent in-town and nearby fishing and desert hiking mean you can get your nature fix and experience some of the coolest festivals around all in one weekend.

Moses Lake Fall Festivals

Rock out to grunge anthems, partake in an eclectic celebration of the region’s Hispanic culture, sip and stroll your way along the streets of downtown, or celebrate and taste the best of the fall harvest at one of these events.

Sip & Stroll with Art on 3rd & Car Show Sept. 14: Taste Washington wines, ciders, and spirits on this downtown wine walk with art, live music and a car show.

UMANI Festival Sept. 28: This incredible festival celebrates the area’s diverse Hispanic heritages, cultures and people from 12-6 p.m. The highlight of this 3rd annual festival is the traditional Lucha Libre wrestling in the streets of downtown Moses Lake! Masked contestants use rapid aerobatic techniques in this signature type of wrestling that originates from Mexico. Watch the action from the ringside beer garden and then listen to live Latin American music, check out the lowrider car show, browse the art and craft vendors and sample authentic eats from food trucks and vendors. Games and kids’ activities make this an excellent family event.

90’s Flannel Fest Oct. 4-5:

Take a musical tour back to the ‘90s with 10 of the Northwest’s

grunge and alternative tribute bands at the Grant County Fairgrounds in Moses Lake. Start practicing your stage dive and crowdsurfing moves and relive your grunge-era memories or experience the music from the bands you never got to see. Multiple tribute acts will be playing favorite tunes from Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Sound Garden, Foo Fighters, Tool, Green Day and more. Overnight camping is available. All festival attendees must be 21 or over (valid ID required).

Moses Lake Fall Harvest Festival Oct. 26: This family-friendly extravaganza brings together the best of the autumn season with local produce, wine tasting, music, crafts, pumpkin-themed activities and more family-friendly fun from 2-5 p.m. on the streets of downtown Moses Lake.

Fish, Hike and Explore the Columbia Basin’s Great Outdoors

Moses Lake and the nearby Potholes Reservoir offer excellent fishing. Catch a wide range of species, including the chance at some lunker smallmouth bass (some in the 5-lb.-plus size range), largemouth bass, rainbow trout, bluegill, black crappie, and yellow perch. Fish from the shore in town or head out to the Potholes for excellent angling and some hiking. Find boat launch info and other fishing tips at Tourmoseslake.com/fishing. Hikers can explore the surrounding high desert at the Desert Wildlife Area or the Columbia Wildlife Area. A wide range of wildlife call these sage-steppe landscapes home, including a variety of birds, deer, coyotes, rabbits, and rattlesnakes.

Plan your Moses Lake road trip and find the right accommodations at Tourmoseslake.com. FALL FALL FALL FONT: VERVeineFALL

Unwind fishing for largemouth bass, hiking desert trails, or exploring waterfront parks and city pathways by bike. Have your taste-buds blown sampling local wine, brews and authentic Mexican and American eateries. Then hit the local wineries, breweries, or watering holes before some quality time with your pillow at your choice of hotels, resorts, or campgrounds.

Celebrate the region’s Hispanic culture at UMANI Festival with traditional Mexican Lucha Libre wrestling, food, music, and car show (Sept. 28).

Live large and rock out at the grunge band tribute 90s Flannel Fest (Oct. 4-5)

Experience the Columbia Basin’s fall bounty at Harvest Fest with food, wine, music and vendors (Oct. 26)

20 Years of Publishing Out There By

WHAT WERE YOUR outdoor adventures in the Inland Northwest like 20 years ago when the first issue of Out There Monthly was published? Surely there were fewer of us out enjoying our favorite trails, campgrounds, fishing spots, climbing crags, and powder stashes. It’s easy to get nostalgic and even twitchy about that. But fast forward two decades and there are some pretty positive trade-offs to the increasing scarcity of elbow room and solitude.

In this special Anniversary section, we took time to reflect on how things have changed in conservation and recreation in our region since 2004. A few positives: the number of new, high-quality trails in recent decades; urban public lands (like Conservation Futures conservation and recreation lands in Spokane County); climbing area improvements; and trailhead/put-in/ access facilities across the region that likely wouldn’t have been possible without more of us advocating. It’s pretty staggering to think about the change that the growing population of outdoor enthusiasts have been able to bring about. (Read Holly Weiler’s article page 62 for that breakdown.) More invested people advocating for conservation and restoration of our public lands and fish and wildlife, including the region’s Native American Tribes and non-profit conservation organizations, have also led to some

pretty dramatic success stories. (Check out Adam Gabauer’s article in this section about the incredible work of local Tribes on page 66 and the Public Lands Guide on page 26.)

At the same time, our region has long suffered from a surplus of neglected, unmaintained trails; threatened wildlands and urban open spaces; and a dearth in advocates to stand up for them. Which is why Out There has long dedicated many pages of each issue toward educating readers on conservation and outdoor recreation topics with the goal of leaving our natural wonders better off than they were before.

We don’t shy from encouraging more readers to visit neglected trails that would benefit from improvements. The same goes for out-of-the-way destinations and communities that have become more invested in protecting their nearby natural areas and trails when their local economies have benefited from an increase in visitors. (Give our Fall Road Trips Guide a read on page 38.)

But our staff and editors have also become increasingly careful about over-promoting some of the more overcrowded trails and ecologically sensitive places.

Trade-offs like these in our rapidly-growing corner of the country can be tough to rationalize at times, especially when you’re sitting in traffic on your way out of town itching to get to the trailhead or have to pause

Ride the Kettle Crest at Larch Fest!

September 27-29

Colville National Forest

Derrick Knowles

your ride or hike over and over to let others pass. No doubt Out There will continue to grapple with these issues and do our best to adapt and evolve to best serve our local outdoors community and amenities, local economies, and the natural wonders that sustain it all in the years ahead—all while striving to provide inspiring, educational, and engaging content for a growing readership.

In this special anniversary section, we interviewed past Urban Outdoors columnist Jess Walters, asked a few of our long-time writers to reflect on the magazine or their favorite articles, and interviewed Out There founder Jon Snyder about the start of the magazine and what he thinks of it now. Here’s to 20 more years of Out There in print!

OUT THERE LAUNCHES NEW MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN

IF YOU HAVEN’T HEARD, we quietly rolled out a new Out There Membership program this summer to give our readers a chance to support our free print magazine through an annual membership. This new membership program will help Out There be more resilient to the changing tides of the advertising world that currently make the publication possible. Members also get some pretty sweet perks that are totally worth the affordable $65 a year membership dues, including an invite to an annual members’ party, exclusive discounts and deals from many of our advertisers (like Lookout Pass, Wild Walls, Alpine Haus, SOLNIX, and others). Membership also comes with the chance to vote on the types of content you’d like to see more of. Become a member today by visiting Outthereoutdoors.com/ membership and help us ensure that Out There will be around in print for the next 20 years too!

Group Rides Trail Work

Choose from several options on some of Washington’s best backcountry singletrack surrounded by larch trees in all their fall color glory!

Give back to the local trails with tools and instruction provided by Evergreen.

Camping & Camaraderie

Enjoy the weekend camping out and celebrating the days rides and work around a campfire with other mountain bikers from around the Northwest!

Sponsored by Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and the Evergreen East chapter RSVP AT EVERGREENMTB.ORG

Reflections from Long-Time Out There Writers

AMY MCCAFFREE

WRITING ABOUT OLD-GROWTH FORESTS

I had been freelance writing for “Northwest Runner” magazine for about five years when I landed my first story for “Out There Monthly” – a cover story about Nordic skiing, for the January 2006 issue. I have been a loyal contributor ever since.

Writing about the outdoors and living in Spokane are synonymous for me. New story ideas are everywhere. One of my most memorable cover stories I wrote was for the July 2008 issue—publisher Jon Snyder assigned the topic: a guide to regional old-growth forest groves with nearby campground accommodations. A fascinating topic that required me to conduct extensive research with limited sources available at that time. I didn’t grow up in the Inland Northwest, so I only started with a few place names provided by Jon. There was one guidebook about PNW old-growth forest hikes, but it mainly

focused on groves in western Washington and the Cascades. I bought and read that book; interviewed forestry experts; and scoured rudimentary U.S. National Forest webpages, news sources, blogs and discussion forums to gather as much detailed information as I could find. After I submitted my final draft to Jon, I told him, “I feel like I just wrote a guidebook.” He replied, “Well….”—and revealed that his grand plan was to maybe eventually, someday, publish guidebooks based off Out There Monthly content.

I still think of all those old-growth forest groves I wrote about 16 years ago. I’ve since hiked among a few of them with my children and have photos of their tiny bodies standing by giant cedars. With every national forest wildfire, I continue to hope these ancient groves survive. So far, the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars, near Priest Lake, has been spared, most recently by a 2021 fire.

Read “Where To Go To See Old Growth Forests in the Inland Northwest: A TreeHugging Love Affair” in the online OTO archives or at the magazine’s Issuu.com page.

Amy McCaffree is an Out There senior writer and has also worked as the managing editor (2010-2012), special sections editor, digital editor, and was “Out There Kids” columnist for many years. She lives in Spokane and enjoys walking/hiking with her dog, gardening, paddling, biking, camping and downhill skiing. Follow her on Insta @adventure_amy_spokane or TikTok @pnwadventureamy.

BRADLEY BLECK

REVISITING URBAN CYCLING IN SPOKANE

One of the earliest articles I wrote for Out There, “The Politics of Urban Cycling in Spokane,” ran in December, 2005. Nearly 20 years on, it’s worth looking at what has and hasn’t changed. One significant

change, according to census data, is bicycle commuting has risen from 0.8 percent to 1.4 percent of commutes, an increase of 75 percent. Much of this growth can be linked to expanded infrastructure and heightened appreciation for multimodal transport, including cycling. This can be traced to changes in attitude among the public, elected officials, and the city bureaucracy.

In 2008, early in my tenure on the Bicycle Advisory Board (BAB), bike lanes were added to Southeast Boulevard, one of the few developments in many years. Towards the end of my BAB tenure, the plans for the University Gateway Bridge, which opened in 2014, were in the works. Other instances of progress along the way include the City of Spokane deciding to repave streets from curb to curb when doing grind and overlay projects on bike routes. There are more bike lanes, greenways, and shared pathways than ever before. Unfortunately, some of these are more evident on maps and less so on the ground, the Manito Greenway being one example.

Indicative of improving attitudes, the City has the 2023 Vision Zero Action Plan, an effort to reduce traffic deaths and injuries among all roadway users. The action plan examines the conditions and locations where injuries and fatalities occur among road users, leading to a prioritization of mitigation efforts.

Get Out There In Your InBox

Sadly, much remains to be done. The recent death of scooter rider Danielle Littrell, where, according to police, the driver faces no charges despite having run a stop sign, indicates that many fail to prioritize the safety of vulnerable road users. Police stated there was “no negligence” on the part of the driver. This highlights the second-rate status accorded those who choose to get around by bike, foot, or scooter. Although much has changed, much more change is needed.

Bleck has been riding his bike all around the Inland Northwest, Oregon, and Montana this summer. He shared his chocolate-cream-cheese rice-cake recipe in the July/August 2024 issue of OTO. Bradley teaches English at Spokane Falls CC and continues to love nearly everything Spokane.

BRAD NACCARATO

MY VIRAL SKI BUM ARTICLE

As a contributor to Out There for the last 12 years, I’ve had the opportunity to write about a wide variety of exciting outdoor pursuits. Some were new adventures and others were lifelong passions that I loved sharing with our community. While I really enjoyed writing every one of those stories, there’s one story, albeit an odd one, that stands out to me in particular.

Derrick approached me about doing a piece on skier/snowboarder lingo. I guess he thought I was the most qualified since I was, at the time, one of the only younger writers on staff who skied. I’d definitely spent some years ski-bumming it, but, man, those years were pretty far behind me. I wasn’t sure if I could pull it off.

As with all my writing, I took a deep dive into it and just let the story happen organically. I read it aloud to myself after finishing, and honestly thought it was garbage. I mean, it was funny to me, but I’m weirdly enthralled by niche things. How is anybody outside of the ski bum world going to get this, let alone be entertained by it, I thought to myself. I submitted it anyway, thinking Oh well—they can’t all be winners.

Fast forward a few years later, in a casual conversation with Derrick, he revealed to me that of all the hundreds of articles they have archived on the website that particular story, “Talk Like a Skier: Gaper’s Guide to Ski Lingo,” remains one of the most read articles on Outthereoutdoors.com of all time.

This literally had me belly laughing. I couldn’t believe that to be true. But when I stopped to think about it, over the years, I had received a handful of messages through social media from people around the country who had somehow put eyes on the story. That hasn’t happened with regard to any of

the other articles I’ve written over the last decade.

I’m happy that my article provided a laugh to someone. As writers, at the end of the day, I believe that’s all any of us want. To know that someone out there enjoyed what we wrote and found value in it.

Thank you OTO for the all memories and adventures over the years—with the hope of many more to come!

to

JON JONCKERS

OUT THERE’S ROOTS IN THE LOCAL RECREATION SCENE

I remember the first time I met Out There founder Jon Snyder. I worked at Mountain Gear, Spokane’s long-time local outdoor gear shop, and I noticed that Jon scheduled an appointment with Mountain Gear owner Paul Fish. Soon after, Mountain Gear purchased the back cover ad spot, which they filled for years until the shop closed in 2020. I was enamored with the magazine, and I created many of those back cover ads back in the day too. Out There Monthly grew out of a rich regional outdoor recreation climate. At one time, Spokane featured several local outdoor stores, including Mountain Gear, Mountain Goat Outfitters, Fitness Fanatics and REI as well as several ski and bike shops. During that era, Rich Landers completed 2nd editions of his classic guidebooks to the Inland Northwest’s gems, and he would soon release 3rd edition guidebooks for hiking, backpacking and paddling. Around that same time, highly effective and motivated non-profits formed to advocate for our treasured parks and trails, including groups like the Friends of the Centennial Trail and Riverside State Park Foundation. It turned out that Out There Monthly had launched at the perfect time to be a voice for this golden era of local outdoor recreation culture and advocacy.

Looking back, I recall two articles I wrote that ended up getting attention around the world. The first one featured all the airplane crashes on Mt. Spokane that included not just one or two, but five aircraft, including two bombers from Fairchild AFB. The second noteworthy article featured Spokane ultramarathoner Lisa Bliss. She traveled unsupported from Death Valley to the summit of Mt. Whitney in a single push. She is the queen of pain, and I now consider her a good friend.

Bradley

Brad Naccarato is a Northwest native who has been contributing

OTO since 2012. Chasing trout, wind, waves, dirt, and IPAs keeps him sane.

Looking Back with Out There Monthly Founder Jon Snyder

By Amy McCaffree

FROM A COVER STORY about what it would be like to go rock climbing on Mars to a first-person account of Sasquatch-hunting in the Blue Mountains, Out There’s Founding Publisher Jon Snyder always aimed to keep magazine content interesting. Even if it “strained from the formula,” he says. “If I couldn’t have fun doing the magazine, I didn’t want to do it.”

After working for Fantastic Media, editing Star Wars fan magazines, and moving back to his hometown, Snyder realized, “If I wanted to work in magazine publishing (in Spokane), I needed to create my own.” And a topic that was underrepresented in 2004 was outdoor recreation.

Whenever Snyder met people not originally from the Inland Northwest, he heard the same spiel about why they chose Spokane—the proximity to trails, ski mountains and lakes, and abundant recreation opportunities. But he also observed that business and tourism bigwigs with power were mostly clueless that Spokane was a premiere destination for outdoor recreation. Their mindset didn’t consider “proximity” and “recreation opportunities” as selling points, according to Snyder. He wanted to change that, and thought, “Let’s shine a light on Spokane as an outdoor center, [with] all the [outdoorsy] people doing great things.”

Early advertising supporters that helped launch “Out There Monthly” (OTM) and its first print issue in September 2004 were Mountain Gear and the Spokane Indians baseball organization. “Mountain Gear owner Paul Fish and I wanted to help the local business community to recognize that Spokane was a great place for outdoor recreation…to help them think of recreation as an asset—and why people should relocate their businesses here, and as a reason to move here,” says Snyder. He also wanted the magazine to highlight our community’s “strong conservation ethic that unites people, across party lines”—from hikers to hunters.

Readers responded positively—here was a publication providing free, locally-focused, highly-informative guidance about hiking and biking trails, cycling and mountain biking know-how, road-trip destinations, outdoor gear, campgrounds, and much more. The people writing the stories and taking photos were all local people who had genuine personal experience about what they were talking about. Information that had only been available if you bought a hiking guidebook, or extensively searched through websites and blogs, or you knew the right local people to ask, was now easy to access.

Magazine growth was “slow but steady” in the beginning, says Snyder. He promoted OTM with issue-launch parties and guerilla marketing ideas, like bicycle spoke-cards featuring work by local visual artists. Topics for

Snyder’s monthly “From the Editor” column often focused on controversial topics (He liked to rock the boat!), and his writing style was engaging, witty and downright hilarious. He recalls that the first cover-feature that garnered greater attention was a climbing story about local father-son mountaineers John and Jess Roskelley—entitled “Who’s Melting the Himalayas?” and written by Derrick Knowles for the Dec. 2005 issue— with the Roskelleys’ photo on the front page. “That combination, a global issue with a local angle, really resonated with readers,” says Snyder.

Derrick, current editor-in-chief and copublisher (more on that later), has had his name in this magazine’s masthead since the beginning. Snyder and Knowles met through a mutual friend and non-profit organizations based out of the Community Building in downtown Spokane. “Derrick was then—as he is now—a lovable dirtbag with a ton of outdoor recreation knowledge,” says Snyder. “I am sure one of our early conversations got me thinking more about outdoor recreation before I started the magazine. He was one of the first people I contacted when I decided to give it a go. He contributed all sorts of great pieces starting with the very first issue.”

In 2013, after more than 100 issues, Snyder sold the magazine to Derrick and Shallan Knowles, a husband-wife copublishing team. OTM’s contributors and long-time readers were enthused (and relieved) that the magazine would continue and ownership remain local. Also in 2013, “Outside” magazine finally included Spokane in its annual list of “Best Towns” to live in America, nationally christening the city—like Snyder had long been lobbying for, regularly sending OTM copies to “Outside” editors. Meanwhile, Snyder continued his work as Spokane City Councilman and would be re-elected that year.

FROM THEN TO NOW

Now living in Tacoma, Wash., Snyder still champions the outdoors, as well as Spokane, as Director of Outdoor Recreation and Economic Development for the State of Washington. This public policy advisor position was created in 2015 by the State Legislature with overwhelming bipartisan support, according to Snyder.

“Outdoor recreation is one of the biggest industries in our entire state, and now we have the data and metrics to support that,” says Snyder. “For Spokane’s reputation, in general, it’s still amazing to me how many people dismiss Spokane or don’t even have any curiosity about it. Sometimes I think part of my job is just setting people straight and inserting myself in any policy area concerning Spokane.”

Snyder understands the complex interconnections between how cities and counties are managed and subsequent recreation quality-of-life indicators. “Outdoor recreation should be considered critical infrastructure. The number one thing that will kill outdoor recreation is sprawl— poorly-planned development,” he says. “Sprawl increases carbon emissions, and climate change will hurt recreation—wildfire smoke, less snow during winter; and [sprawl] destroys habitats and trails for recreation.”

SPIRIT OF OUT THERE

“Inclusivity—that’s the spirit of Out There. It’s not a magazine for hard-bodied dudes who climb Rainier. I don’t want anyone to say they’re not an outdoors-person. They just need to find the outdoor experience that’s right for them,” says Snyder. “We need to make sure that we get the message out that outdoor recreation is for everyone—grandparents, immigrants, people who didn’t grow up with these activities. You don’t have to be able-bodied to enjoy outdoor recreation—we need more ADA accessible trails. [Recreation must be] inclusive to all genders, races and backgrounds.”

the outdoors and enjoyed it because of something they read about in ‘Out There’ then I’m really proud of that,” he says.

magazine. I couldn’t have sold it to two better people.”

Snyder understands the full big picture— outdoor recreation is both personal leisure and business. “To me, it’s all connected. The next generation, if they haven’t had a chance

"I DON’T WANT ANYONE TO SAY THEY’RE NOT AN OUTDOORS-PERSON. THEY JUST NEED TO FIND THE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE THAT’S RIGHT FOR THEM"

to go fly fishing or skiing, they are not going to be doing those things and ‘buying into’ [recreation] 20 years from now. And the industry will suffer.”

PROUD PAPA-PUBLISHER

“Out There democratizes that information and makes it less mysterious,” he says. “There will always be people who don’t want to talk about their favorite lakes or climbing routes. We can figure out a way to manage the crowds and the use. But we can’t be telling people that it’s a secret thing that people can’t be part of. Hats off to Derrick and Shallan who have embodied the spirit of the

“I’m most proud that it still exists and is even better than when I was running it,” says Snyder. “Writers and photographers created a vision that resonated [with readers] and lasted all these years. The enthusiasm of contributors sustained the magazine during challenging financial times. Magazines die all the time. It’s really hard to coalesce around a concept that keeps people excited for 20 years.” Additionally, “If anyone ever tried to try something in

In no particular order, Jon Snyder recalls some of the most memorable stories he published: the OTM cover story about the history of snowboarding (January 2011 issue); Dan Egan’s story about Bigfoot (October 2006); Jess Walter’s hilarious stories for the “Urban Outdoors” column (2006-07); a feature about bike commuters (“Road Warriors: The State of Urban Cycling in Spokane,” March 2007); and an early guide to area lakes.

Outside of print, OTM’s presence and partnerships within the outdoors community championed environmental stewardship, helped to expand accessibility, and propelled popularity of non-motorized recreation. “It was neat to be involved with the early years of events like Spokane River Clean-Up and Spokefest, and to collaborate with Bloomsday,” says Snyder.

“I want to thank folks for supporting

independent media for 20 years. I’m talking about magazine contributors, and Derrick and Shallan who believed [in and supported Out There’s mission]. My wife, Heidi, who I couldn’t have done anything without. And advertisers—local businesses and business owners believing in this magazine. If we didn’t have the audience or no one cared, if readers didn’t value the outdoors like we did—participating in activities, recreation events, and supporting magazine advertisers—this would have been a short-lived magazine.”

Thank you, Jon, for the guts to make this local magazine a reality and entrusting us all to keep it going strong.

Amy McCaffree has been writing for Out There since 2006. Rather than move back to the Puget Sound region, she stayed in Spokane to enjoy a 4-season outdoor recreation lifestyle and raise a family.

HARD AT WORK ON AN OLDSCHOOL MAC

BELOW: SNYDER FAMILY RIDE.

// PHOTOS COURTESY OF JON SNYDER

A 20-Year Evolution of Local Trails & Natural Areas

By Holly Weiller

IN SEPTEMBER 2004, I was a relatively new teacher trying to land that elusive continuing contract at one of our local school districts. Most of my free time was spent running on local trails, but that fall I joined my first volunteer trail work crew at the urging of a friend. It’s fun to look back at that moment now, as it took a lot of convincing to get me to join that initial crew; 20 years later I’ve left the indoor classroom behind and trail building and maintenance are the main subjects I teach. I consider myself fortunate to have an insider’s view on some of the processes that lead to our region’s fantastic recreation opportunities.

CONSERVATION FUTURES PARKS EXPAND

One of the best recreation ideas for the Spokane area has actually been around for 30 years now, and it helps explain why some of my favorite local trail systems didn’t yet exist in 2004. It was 1994 when Spokane County voted in favor of a Conservation Futures tax and began to build the fund that would ultimately lead

to some of the best close-in parks in our region. By 2004, nineteen properties had been secured through this funding source; today there have been over 50 acquisitions and park expansions, with nearly 10,000 acres protected for future generations. The Conservation Futures program serves multiple purposes: from protecting larger areas of open space from development, to providing wildlife habitat and migration corridors and connectivity, to creating recreational opportunities for nonmotorized activities. In the early days of the program, the “trails” a visitor might be able to expect were generally leftover from whatever the original use of the property was. Iller Creek was already public land in 2004, but the trail system at the time was a holdover from old logging operations and the bulldozer fire lines from Firestorm ’91. The majority of my personal backyard favorite, Antoine Peak, was acquired in three phases from 2007 to 2011. It took a few extra years to establish a true parking lot for both the east and west sides (with a third parking area added for

20-YEAR TIMELINE OF LOCAL

other trail improvements and new construction have given outdoor enthusiasts more miles to pedal and wander.

Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes established. In 2010 the 73-mile trail was named one of the top 25 trails in the nation by the Rails to Trails Conservancy.

The 3.5-mile Mickinnick Trail near Sandpoint opened to the public. The land was donated to the USFS by the Pleass family in 1997, and the trail was later developed through grants and local partnerships.

Ferry County Rail Trail Partners was formed to develop the former railroad line into a nonmotorized trail for Ferry County. The group was subsequently able to secure several grants to improve the trail surface and create trailhead access points.

MICKINNICK TRAIL.

// PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS BESSLER/ SANDPOINT MAGAZINE

Etter Ranch in 2021), and the trails consisted of logging skid and haul roads, along with the summit road for access to the communications towers.

Most land managers don’t have staff with singletrack trail layout and design training, and even when they do, it can be a lengthy process to work through property acquisition to trail plan development, followed by acquiring necessary permits, and then final layout, design, and build. It can take a long time to transition a property from double track roads designed to skid trees to single-track trails designed for nonmo-

torized multi-use recreation. In the case of Iller Creek, the work was done gradually and retroactively, starting with the steepest and most heavily eroded sections. Some double track sections will likely always be a hold over on most conservation area properties, but thanks to the efforts of several local trail organizations, our trail systems have been gradually transformed to include more userfriendly and sustainable singletrack trails that have been purpose-built to minimize erosion damage while maximizing views, user safety, and fun.

By the time Spokane County Parks

LOCAL TRAIL DEVELOPMENTS 2010 2010 2010 2012

THE DOMA CAFÉ NOW OPEN

Friends of the Bluff nonprofit was established to provide education and conservation efforts dedicated to Spokane’s South Hill Bluff property.

Lake City Trails Alliance was established to coordinate work on mountain bike and hiking trails in the Coeur d’Alene area.

Spokane’s Centennial Trail was designated a National Recreation Trail. In 2016 the trail was extended 2 miles to the west with the addition of a new section near Sontag Park for a full length of 40 miles.

The owners of Sherwood Forest (outside Sandpoint) partnered with Kaniksu Land Trust to protect 140 acres of forest land in a conservation easement while allowing for rec reational access on a parcel that connects to Pine Street Woods.

PHOTO: KANIKSU LAND TRUST

2012 2014 2015 2018

The City of Colville considered declaring its Colville Mountain property surplus and available to sell for development. Due to an objection by a member of the public, the City Council passed a motion to retain the land as natural open space instead. In 2019 the city finalized a trail plan for the 256acre property and in 2022 was additionally able to purchase an adjacent parcel to create a dedicated trailhead parking area.

The Mount Spokane State Park Comprehensive Trail Plan was updated to include Trail 290, the first mountain bikespecific, directional (downhillonly) trail within the park. Over the last decade, four trail bridges have been added to make tricky water crossings safer, especially for the exploding snowshoe use the park has experienced in the winter. In 2024, Mount Spokane State Park is working on an updated and revised trail plan.

The Empire Trails near Spirit Lake opened on private land managed by Inland Empire Paper Company. The 8-mile nonmotorized trail system requires either a daily fee or an annual pass for access.

The 9B Trails nonprofit was established to create and maintain nonmotorized trails in Boundary County, with subsequent trail projects on Enchanted Forest, Riverside Park, and Section 16 near Bonners Ferry.

acquired the Phillips Creek property in Spokane Valley’s Ponderosa neighborhood in 2018, the planning process had shifted significantly through lessons learned in earlier projects. Within the first year of ownership, and before the property was open to the public, County staff was holding public meetings to gather information, working through permitting for a new trailhead, and meeting with regional nonprofit organizations to develop a trail plan. By 2019 the trail plan was finalized, and work was able to begin in 2020; by the time the trailhead opened to the public that fall, the Flying L trail was already complete through the behind-thescenes work of volunteers with the Dishman Hills Conservancy, Spokane Mountaineers, Washington Trails Association, and Evergreen East.

COMMUNITY FORESTS & OPEN SPACE PROTECTION

For areas that don’t have a Conservation Futures fund available to help grow conservation and recreation areas, land trusts and community forests are on the rise as a means of securing popular recreation sites close to towns in our region, through grassroots fundraising along with state and federal grant programs. What ultimately happens with the land and the types of recreation available to the public can vary from site to site and are at the discretion

of the community group that manages the forest.

Indian Creek Community Forest northwest of Newport was created in 2012 and is managed by the Kalispel Tribe of Indians. The trail development process for this site mirrored the later planning processes of Spokane Conservation Futures properties, with public meetings to gather community input, and a management plan focused on a light recreation touch and offering more education opportunities through scheduled forest health workshops. The site is open to hikers, snowshoers, and skiers, but closed to bike and equestrian use.

Sandpoint’s Pine Street Woods was acquired in 2019 and is managed by the Kaniksu Land Trust for a wider variety of nonmotorized use. Equestrians are discouraged but not banned (due to lack of parking for horse trailers), and dogs are allowed offleash with voice control except for a short period during the early summer to help protect young fawns.

Gold Hill Community Forest near Chewelah was acquired by the Chewelah Valley Land Trust in 2021, and the trail system was designed with mountain biking in mind. Teanaway Community Forest near Cle Elum is the largest in Washington at over 50,000 acres, a recently completed trail plan that is in the process of being implemented, and even boasts several Department of Natural

2018 2019 2019 2020

Spokane Parks and Recreation secured an 884acre addition that created a crucial connection between Liberty Lake and Mica Peak.

Rathdrum Mountain Park opened to the public with a nonmotorized trail system and a disc golf course. In 2024, a three-mile trail expansion via the StormKing Trails is in the process of being built through grant funding.

Resources-run campgrounds that are firstcome/first-served with a Discover Pass.

NATIONAL FOREST TRAILS & ACCESS

Our region’s National Forests are also figuring out new ways to both maintain existing trail systems and expand recreation opportunities when possible. But a common theme for most public lands, and especially for the United States Forest Service (USFS), is a lack of funding to help make trail improvements and additions a reality. According to a 2023 report on all USFS lands, trails are facing a maintenance backlog of over $237 million with an additional $62 million in deferred maintenance for trail bridges. Funding made available through the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) has helped and will continue to do so through at least 2025 when the funding runs out unless Congress votes to continue the program.

While GAOA funding is helping to tackle the big-ticket items in the USFS deferred maintenance backlog, it is primarily the regional nonprofits chipping away at the annual maintenance needs. Both the Idaho Panhandle National Forest and the Umatilla National Forest have staff trail maintenance crews, but the Colville National Forest (CNF) does not. If you happen to run into a trail crew in the backcountry on the CNF this summer, chances are they are with

A memorandum of understanding was signed to allow the Cancourse Trails adjacent to Canfield Mountain to become a leased city park for Coeur d’Alene. The property was originally private land at risk of subdivision, but now boasts a trail system on private land connecting to adjacent USFS land.

The VTT (velo tout terrain) was established on 100 acres of con servation ease ment land adja cent to both Pine Street Woods and Sherwood Forest. Sandpoint-area

Backcountry Horsemen of Washington, Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, Pacific Northwest Trail Association, or Washington Trails Association. Using a combination of USFS funding along with grants and private donations, and leveraging this funding through recruitment of volunteers, nonprofit partnerships have become one of the main ways annual maintenance is accomplished. For the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, Idaho Trails Association serves in a similar capacity, as does Trailkeepers of Oregon to the south.

If you’re ready to get involved as our regional land managers begin to write the next chapter, there are many opportunities to dig into this work. Sign up for the email lists and press releases, attend the public meetings, provide public comment, write letters of support for grant applications, and become a member of your favorite regional nonprofit(s). Our region’s trails will continue to improve through the next 20 years through the help of recreationists, no major career change necessary unless you dive in a little too deeply like I did!

Holly Weiler is a long-time recreationist who now helps build and maintain some of our region's favorite trails through her work with Washington Trails Association.

Regional Tribes Take the Lead on Restoration Across Their Ancestral

WHEN I WAS ASKED to write about the progress the five tribal nations of the Upper Columbia have made over the last 20 years in supporting fish, wildlife, and forests in this region, I knew it was going to be a daunting task. For well over a decade now, I have been working alongside the natural resource departments of these tribes on small subsets of these issues and have seen firsthand the vast breadth and depth of projects that each tribe has tackled. Their projects range from work to rehabilitate land directly on their reservation, working within their traditional territories (including Canada), to working collaboratively to restore salmon across their historic range.

Over the last 20 years, these tribes have bolstered their natural resource programs and created plans to support habitat protection on their reservations. The Spokane Tribe, for example, has a land management plan that supports wildlife habitat, including designating areas for restoration, areas of no timber harvest, and places to limit development. They have also set water quality standards accepted by the EPA to maintain fishable, drinkable, and swimmable levels in all water leaving and entering the reservation.

A goal of the 12 tribes of the Colville Reservation is to reintroduce the full subset of wildlife species that existed before western colonization. This is not only to allow these species to fulfill their ecological niche but also to provide tribal members opportunities for subsistence hunting. Along with the Yakama Nation, the Colville has introduced pronghorn to shrub steppe habitat. These populations have moved off the respective reservations and are breeding and occupying habitat throughout Central Washington. The

also reintroduced big horn sheep,

tion of lynx along the Kettle Crest, and have recently released wood bison onto the reservation.

The Coeur d’Alene Tribe has taken a lead role in the management of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Along with water quality issues, they have showed proof of concept that invasive northern pike suppression leads to increased trout populations. They have acquired land for habitat protection and restoration, including purchasing and/or trade of around 15 miles of the headwaters of Hangman Creek. Recently, the tribe purchased land in Spokane along Hangman where they plan to have a rearing area for chinook salmon.

The Kootenai Tribe on the Idaho Panhandle are working to restore 55 miles of riparian habitat along the Kootenai River system. They have been working to increase populations of endangered Kootenai white sturgeon and burbot, a popular sport fish. In 2017, they built a hatchery that supports both fish—the first burbot hatchery in the nation—and in January 2019 burbot fishing opportunities were open to the public.

The Kalispel Tribe has acquired and is working to restore an additional 5,000 acres of wildlife habitat and has restored the hydrologic floodplain processes to 3,000 acres within their traditional lands of the Pend Oreille waterways. They are working with the managing agencies for three dams along the Pend Oreille River — Boundary, Box, and Albeni Falls — to install fish passage. Two of these projects are in place and the Albeni project will be under bid in 2025. They are also working with different agencies including Seattle City Light, Pend Oreille County Public Utilities, the Colville National Forest, Trout Unlimited, and even The Lands Council (my employer) to restore habitat for the threatened bull trout and endemic cut-

on Fish, Wildlife, & Habitat

Ancestral Lands

By Adam Gebauer

throat trout across the watershed. To bolster habitat for these fish, they installed a coldwater syphon at Sullivan Lake, which has lowered the temperature of Sullivan Creek by an average 6 degrees Celsius. They are also trying to replicate this to lower the temperature of Priest River.

The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho and the Kalispel Tribe have a small land mass, so as much as they work on their reservation lands, they also conduct much of their habitat work on public lands within their ancestral territory. Both tribes have been working with Canadian agencies, including the Arrow Lakes Society, to restore the Selkirk Mountain Caribou herd to its historic range into the Southern Selkirks. They are also active on the interagency grizzly bear recovery task force, trying to restore genetically viable populations of this key species to the Selkirk and Yaak recovery zones.

Both the Colville and the Kalispel have leveraged the Tribal Forest Protection Act (TFPA) to conduct projects on the Colville National Forest. The Colville Tribe engaged in the Sanpoil project in Ferry County to reduce wildfire potential along the reservation boundary. The Kalispel was integral in the Trail Project, which spans six watersheds in Pend Oreille County and focuses on forest health, wildfire fuels reduction close to population centers, and improved recreation. Along with conducting prescribed burns on their forest land, the five nations are also reestablishing the practice of cultural burning, which, along with supporting forest health, can have specific objectives such as increasing huckleberry habitat or camas fields.

One of the most culturally significant and biggest lifts is the reintroduction of salmon to their historic waterways in the upper Columbia River above Chief Joesph

and Grand Coulee Dams. The nations, particularly the Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, and Colville, are in the second of three phases of a decades-long fight to bring salmon back. The current phase is studying the habitat suitability of the spring Chinook in their natal waters as well as the reservoir of Lake Roosevelt. Tribes are looking at the ability of these fish to spawn successfully in main stem and tributary waters. The tribes have released adult fish into streams such as the Sanpoil, Little Spokane, Hangman, and the Spokane and have found that these fish have been able to create redds (fish nests) in the sand and gravel. Another part of the study is looking at movement and survival of juvenile fish within Lake Roosevelt and through the dams, to the ocean and hopefully back again. These young fish need cold, swift, oxygen-rich water to make it to the ocean, and the reservoirs behind the dams make this challenging. One of the key aspects of this project is determining ways to bring salmon back while maintaining the current hydroelectric operation of the Columbia and Spokane Rivers.

This is only a small subset of all the work that these tribes have been able to accomplish in our region over the las 20 years. They are the forefront of actions to make our landscapes more climate resilient, habitats healthier, and waters cleaner. As is often quoted in tribal culture, they are looking seven generations in the past and seven generations into the future.

Adam Gebauer has been slipping and sliding in some local creeks while helping the Spokane Tribe collect data on trout and future salmon habitat. He is passing miles on the trails while enjoying the fall colors.

CONGRATULATIONS OUT THERE ON 20 INCREDIBLE YEARS!

Just

like a great cup of coffee, you’ve been brewing up adventure, inspiration, and community with every issue. Here’s to many more years of exploration and storytelling—cheers from all of us at DOMA Coffee!

PHOTOS: LORENZO MENENDEZ COURTESY OF INLC

Jess Walter Interview T he Urban Outdoors

In 2006 and 2007, a newspaper-reporter-turned-novelist named Jess Walter wrote a recurring humor column for Out There called “The Urban Outdoors.” At the time, Walter had recently published his fourth novel, “The Zero,” which was named a finalist for the National Book Award. In the nearly two decades since, Walter has written five more books of fiction, including the 2012 best-seller “Beautiful Ruins.” His most recent novel, “The Cold Millions” is set in Spokane during the labor and free speech demonstrations of 1909 and 1910.

To celebrate OTO’s 20th anniversary, we sat down with Jess Walter to look back on his brief career as an outdoor magazine columnist. Here’s our conversation with him on trail poop, a risqué sledding subculture, and how he’s now involved with the urban outdoors.

HRIS MACCINI FOR OTO: How did

“The Urban Outdoors” column originate? Don’t you usually have to have some outdoor credibility to write for such a

The funny thing is people would ask me, “What's it like living in Spokane?” I’d say, “Oh, it's an amazing outdoors place.” And really, my experience in the outdoors is, when I was a kid, what we would call camping was driving as far into

the woods as you could, shooting things with BB guns and drinking beer. So, yeah, I felt insecure about it. But then I thought, well, that's kind of funny. And the things that I wanted to write about—like, why do people keep shitting all over the trail?— I'd never seen anyone write about. So, it started to seem like a funny thing to do. I'd written a humor column in high school and in college, and I love alternative papers. I loved that Spokane was supporting an outdoors paper. But I was definitely the last

“The Urban Outdoors”

(Published August 1, 2006 in Out There Monthly)

By Jess Walter

RECENTLY I WAS CHALLENGED by a poet in Lycra bike shorts to write an entire column about bicycling without making fun of the way people look in Lycra bike shorts (which, by the way, I believe should be regulated no less strenuously than, say, automatic handguns-with permits, 5-day waiting periods and restrictions on public display.) Given my leanings toward humor that could sometimes be described as “sophomoric”-if this description weren’t so offensive to actual sophomores-this has proven to be somewhat difficult for me. The very same day, two people said to me, independent of one another, “I thought of you when I saw that raw sewage had leaked into the river,” no doubt, assuming that I am incapable of resisting brown trout jokes. (It’s catch and reflush season on the Spokane River.) But since I was planning to write about bicycling anyway, I decided to take my friend’s challenge and write an intelligent and tasteful piece about bicycling without once mentioning how men in bike shorts look like hairy boars being swallowed by Lycra snakes. And that one doesn’t count because it was in the introductory section to this column and not the actual text of the column, which begins immediately below, with these words: One day a bicyclist drafted off my car.

One day a bicyclist drafted off my car.

This has probably happened to you-blithely tooling along on some vital mission (it was visitors day at my brother’s rehab clinic) in your “polar-icecap-destroying

person I would have picked to write it.

OTO: Do you still consider yourself an urban outdoorsman or has your relationship to the outdoors changed in the past two decades?

WALTER: I'm probably even more of an urban outdoorsman than I was then. I've committed more to riding my bike. I go for

a walk every night. I still snow ski. I play golf at Downriver. I’ve given up swinging and sledding like I used to, and it’s been a couple of years since my brother and I did our annual river float. But yeah, most of the outdoor stuff I do is within the city limits.

OTO: In your first column, you wrote that your chief complaint was encountering “man

scat” during your walks along the Spokane River. It's been almost 20 years—Would you say you encounter more or less man scat on the trails these days?

WALTER: When I wrote that, I think there was a mad shitter about, actually. Everywhere I went, I kept finding these big turds. And I really worried about the guy's health. It's like, your diet is really troubling me. Maybe I've stopped doing the scouting thing where I dropped to my knees and tried to determine whose it was. But yeah, I don't think we've solved that problem, clearly.

I STILL REMEMBER ONE OF THE MOST STUNNING THINGS IN THE RESEARCH FOR “THE COLD MILLIONS” WAS FINDING OUT THAT PEOPLE USED TO TAKE THEIR GARBAGE DOWN TO THE RIVER AND JUST DUMP IT.

OTO: In a winter edition of the column, you wrote about an encounter you had on a plastic sled with another man's wife. This led you to ponder a potential “sledding swingers community.” Have you discovered any other urban outdoors subcultures in your time since?

WALTER: The urban fishermen are the thing that I've seen the most of. One of my neighbors catches beautiful redband trout out of the Spokane River. There used to be a guy who would bring a bucket of golf balls and hit them into the river. I wanted to say something to him like, you're gonna hit somebody. But he was so terrible that I was almost embarrassed for both of us. I've yet to find anyone as edgy as the swinging sledding community. I'm sure they're out there, though.

OTO: One of your columns was about floating the river every summer with your brother. You predicted that the increased development nearby might actually be good for the river's health. Now, the river is much cleaner than it used to be. The City of Spokane just finished a big stormwater project. The Spokane Riverkeeper has done so much cleanup work. The redband trout you mentioned are being conserved. Local tribes are even doing some salmon reintroduction. Does having a cleaner Spokane River make us more like those smug Montanans you wrote about with their “gin-clear” rivers? Do you long for the days of seeing “brown trout” floating down stream?

WALTER: No, I mean, imagine if the salmon ever came this far again! Steelhead is my very favorite food. If I could fish for steelhead in Spokane, that might just tip me over into being a real outdoorsman because I love eating it so much. I still remember one of the most stunning things in the research for “The Cold Millions”

was finding out that people used to take their garbage down to the river and just dump it. As the river fell, all this garbage would show up and it would stink so badly. So the solution was to put trap doors in the bridges. Trucks would pull up with construction debris, and they would just open that hatch and throw it in. This was like 1909, 1910. Then they had a big mound of garbage in the center of the river for a while. Even growing up here in the ‘70s and ‘80s, all the restaurants and hotels had no

motor vehicle” when an FOE (friend of the environment) suddenly settles in behind you, perched over his handlebars, gliding in the slipstream of your car.

For me, it was a moment of pure camaraderie, the bicyclist recognizing a fellow FOE temporarily encased in aluminum, and I welcomed him as though he were wearing the yellow jersey and I were the pack at the Tour de West Central. Settle in, my pedaling friend, I thought, and let my combustion engine do the work for us both. I even felt a burst of ecological pride: my car gets only twenty miles per gallon, but between the two of us we were getting forty.

Then the light changed and I had to stop.

Done with me, my bicycle buddy quickly veered around me, went up on the curb and zipped across the crosswalk. This is something I occasionally do, too. I bristle at the way drivers in Spokane don’t treat me as a legitimate vehicle on my $10 bike, but then, when it suits my interest, I don’t hesitate to become a pedestrian. This is known, in the bicycling world, as bad form.

It turned out this bicyclist was stopping at the same coffee shop as me. He came in wearing a pair of Lycra shorts that were…um…well, they looked…um…just fine. Really …aerodynamic.

“Hi,” I said.

And bike guy said, “That’s a pretty crappy car for someone so famous.”

I was driving my wife’s newer Subaru, so I wasn’t sure where to start, with his flawed definition of the word “crappy” or his complete misunderstanding of the word “famous.” But I let it go because he was a fellow bicycling enthusiast and we had a nice conversation about bikes. And that’s all I have to say about bicycling.

“Hey buddy,” I yelled as he pedaled away. “Nadia Comaneci called. She wants her leotard back.”

windows looking over the river. It really wasn't seen that way. So the development and cleaning up the river is part of this long process that really began with Expo ’74. There's still so far to go, but the Riverkeeper has been such an amazing development. And yeah, the more people who are swimming, kayaking, rafting, fishing, the more we'll also demand a cleaner river.

OTO: You've written about Spokane in several of your books. How has your conception of the Inland Northwest as a literary setting changed in the past twenty years?

WALTER: “Citizen Vince” had been probably my most “Spokane” novel before I wrote those columns for Out There Monthly. And it really captures Spokane at that moment when I became aware of it as a place, the 1980s. It was the place where you could hide guys in the witness protection program, and no one would ever find them. In “Over Tumbled Graves” or “Land of the Blind,” I wrote about how Spokane was the kind of place you had to move away from. And

I think that's how I felt. I had this long period of coming to appreciate the place that first was, “Oh, this place isn't any worse than anywhere else.” But then the next breakthrough was thinking, “Oh no, this place is incredible.” Like for me, working on “The Cold Millions” felt like I discovered these amazing stories that people didn't know about. Stories I can tell that are illustrative of the time we're living in. I suppose my sense of the place has evolved to the point where, if anything, I almost have to push myself to write about other places because I know this place so well. But I still love going out and writing about Rome in “The Angel of Rome” and then coming back and writing about Gino's Pizza and Gonzaga University.

Jess Walter’s latest book is the short story collection, “The Angel of Rome.” www.jesswalter.com

Chris Maccini is a writer and audio producer from Spokane. When he’s not hassling the local literati, you can find him on the trails and waters of the Inland Northwest.

A Blast from the Past

Looking back at the early years of Out There Monthly

Like the world around it, Out There Monthly was a much different publication back in 2004 when the first issue was published. OTM had a regular music column and covered sometimes eccentric and even controversial topics such as hopping trains, covert mountain culture, and urban foraging. That alternative, counter-culture coverage in those early years of the new millennium always made for a fun and entertaining read. You never knew what was going to be on the cover or what cool, new cultural artifact or bold idea you might unearth in the pages of a new issue. Enjoy these flashbacks from stories that sparked in our memories or caught our attention as we dug through bins of old, dusty copies from the archives! (OTO)

“Bike Races We’d Like To See”

Five Fantasy Rides That Could Become Reality

(Originally published in the February 2009 Issue of Out There Monthly)

By John Speare

JUST OVER A MONTH AGO, representatives from the USA Cycling organization flew into Spokane to evaluate our fair city as a potential site for the 2009 and 2010 Cyclocross National Championships. The day they came, our city was buried under about two feet of snow, the temperature was hovering around zero, and downtown was dead. Needless to say, we didn’t land the cyclocross event. Rumor was that if the races were to end up here, Riverfront Park was on the short list of race venues. Imagine that. I can picture a cold November day, with some wispy snow falling on a pack of nervous and jittery racers as they await their names in the pre-race roll call. Maybe start and finish the race at the clock tower. A huge, cowbell-laden, rosy-cheeked crowd would line the course, 3 or 4 people deep. Riverfront Park, with its bridges, long sections of paved path, and grassy fields would provide a perfect pallet for a world-class cyclocross course. All the usual food and beer garden vendors would set up shop, and cyclist spectators would come in from all over the region to hang out and celebrate and watch. There’s no reason such an event couldn’t garner the same kind of recognition and economic impact to Spokane that the Ice Skating Championships provide.

Chatting about the potential for such an event with friends brought out a few other races we’d like to see in Spokane.

MALL RAT CRITERIUM

My buddy Jon told me about an idea that Dave Rier and the late Dave Moffit had: criterium races at the Northtown Mall parking garage. You set this up for a night time race, after all the cars and shoppers are gone. With all the lights on and super smooth long expanses of concrete, you would have a fast race. The ramps and sharp corners that connect the floors would be great spectator spots. And if you kept the races on the bottom floors, you have a covered, year-round track.

HIGH DRIVE TRAILS TIME TRIALS

The trails off High Drive are a blast to ride. I especially like riding the long swoopy trails that run parallel to High Drive. Since these are narrow single track with basically zero opportunity to pass, you can’t really race head-to-head on these trails. But you could set up a course for time trials and see who can complete them the quickest. I think taking the top trail from 37th Ave. to where it

pops out on 22nd Ave. would be a great route. It’s a slight downhill grade and requires a wee bit of technical chops to ride fast. Having a fixed gear class for this run would be especially exciting.

THE HANGMAN LOOP ROAD RACE

This race pretty much happens a few times a week at 6 AM during the summer months. But it would be fun to make it official. Who are the king and queen of the Hangman Loop? This race would be in early Fall after the Early Morning Riders pushed all summer long. Putting the finish line at 57th and Hatch would make for a great spectator experience, as any space along Hatch hill would be a great place to watch. Afterwards, maybe have an Oktoberfest/Fall Harvest Dinner type celebration in the church parking lot at the top of the hill.

PLAYFAIR RUMBLE

Ride what you got. The Playfair race track is a mess. There are big divots and washouts. There are soft sandy spots and hard rocky stretches. Running dragstyle races on that track would be great: short and fast once around the track. This would be a technical ride. A strong rider on a mountain bike might do OK, but my money would be on the nimble and skillful cyclocross types that are good at bunny hopping and riding lightly. These would be shirt-sleeve races that would run weekly on summer nights: maybe Wednesday, start racing at 8 pm, after the Checkerboard closes.

SPOKANE SCAVENGER SPRINT

My favorite idea is from my buddy Ken. I like this idea because it requires a practical bike to win. In this race, you are given a list of locations. At each location, you must pick up an item and carry it with you. By the end of the race, you’ll be carrying a heavy and awkward load of stuff. So, maybe you start from Riverfront Park, and then you ride to Corbin Park, where you pick up a cinder block. Then you race to Audubon Park, where you pick up a bicycle wheel. From there, you ride to Bowl and Pitcher and pick up a rake. On the way back into town, you stop at Dutch Jake’s Park in West Central and pick up a 15-pound stack of newspapers. This race would run quarterly: to test the mettle of the riders and their bikes in all seasons. //

TAKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME

Have you been to Republic, Wash. lately? In the 20 years since Out There first went to print there have been some changes in this small mountain mining town. The beautiful rugged scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities are still here and the opportunities for tourism with a focus on history have taken off!

AUTUMN ADVENTURES

Cooler weather and fall colors make the autumn months the perfect time to bike, hike, fish, ATV, or take a scenic drive in Ferry County right on the edge of town.

WILD NORTHEAST

CORNER AROUND REPUBLIC, WA!

DIG FOR ANCIENT FOSSILS

STONE ROSE

Find fifty-million-year-old fossils at Stonerose Interpretive Center & Eocene Fossil Site! Don’t miss the Stonerose annual auction fundraiser Sept. 14.

STONE ROSE

INTERPRETIVECENTER & EOCENEFOSSILSITE

HISTORIC SITES

Visit the interpretive panels in the town’s cemetery that holds the grave of Ranald MacDonald, Japan’s first native English teacher.

Bike or hike the Ferry County Rail Trail and learn about the history of the former Great Northern Railroad at an interpretive marker on the 700-foot trestle across Curlew Lake.

Take a tour of the historic Ansorge Hotel with the Kettle River History Club, or visit the Ferry County Historical Society museum.

STAY A WHILE

Enjoy handcrafted ales, sodas, and eclectic live tunes at Republic Brewing Company. Savor a cup of coffee from a local roaster. Shop mom & pop merchants, enjoy a hearty meal, and then call it a night at a historic hotel all on Main Street.

Editorial: Going Green Goes Bad

(Originally published in the January, 2008 issue of Out There Monthly)

By Jon Snyder

I HOPE MY WIFE DOESN’T READ THIS.

I’m proud of our compost pile. Our family has been able to divert a boatload of food waste away from our trashcan in the last five years. It’s cold compost pile. We don’t turn it, use worms, or aerate it much. We just dump scraps on top and once a year we pull some coffee grounds-looking material out from the bottom for planting.

Everything was cool until I noticed a few mice living in the compost a couple of months back. In retrospect I’m surprised we hadn’t attracted them earlier; the compost is warm, has tons of rotting food, and provides protection from the legion of cats on our block.

I needed to discourage these pestilential rodents from living in the compost, lest they try to eventually enter the house and give the kids hantavirus. So I started turning the pile more and then watered it down with a hose. Just adding water showed that my “couple of mice” was actually a colony of a dozen plus. Wet mice were jumping everywhere. The calico next door was over the fence in a heartbeat.

I didn’t see any mice after that. Had they left for more hospitable digs? A couple of weeks ago, in sub-freezing weather, I had to dump a tub filled with water and rotting apples in the compost. The pile erupted with wet mice. I stopped counting after fourteen. I left the top off the compost hoping the cats would run them out.

The next morning I saw one little frozen mouse, right next to our decaying Halloween pumpkin. I used a stick to break open the orange globe. Inside were ten other hypothermic mice. I knew right then that I’d read the kids too many mouse books—Redwall, The Rats of N.I.M.H., Abel’s Island and more—because my brain started anthropomorphizing in high gear. The expired mice had their paws around each other, as if cuddling together for warmth in their final moments.

No one else in the family knows about this. I was just trying to help the environment and instead I caused the Great Mouse Massacre. Was I too lazy? Should I have turned the pile more? Should I even care? There are no easy answers. Pest control is Dad’s burden in our family, and with it comes a reminder of how hard it is to disconnect your modern life from nature. //

Out There Monthly ran an eclectic music column for a while by a mysterious reviewer known only as Dr. Oslo Norway. Enjoy this blast from the past re-printed in part from the full column in the November, 2005 issue! (OTO)

Music Reviews By Dr. Oslo Norway

RYAN ADAMS 29 (Lost Highway)

If we pool our collective Ryan Adams purchases of 2005, we might just come up with one really fantastic album. Here's to takin' your time in '06, Mr. Adams. Everybody's waiting to hear that one album of which we all know you're capable. In the meantime, we'll still be buying the rest of it, and, hey, in the future we might even be talked into purchasing a live disc if it's packed with all that great onstage banter—you were a kick in the pants at the Sandpoint Festival this summer.

This vocal pairing strikes me as a match cooked up in some sonic heaven—erstwhile Belle & Sebastian song-waif Campbell and former Screaming Trees growler Lanegan complement each other beautifully. With its road-weary, love-lorn covers—Hank Williams' "Ramblin' Man" and the traditional "St. James Infirmary"— it's thematically and stylistically very similar to Lanegan's excellent solo work. Although slight (with only four modest songs), this EP should whet your appetite for the full-length disc, due to hit stores in February.

ROCKY VOTOLATO Makers (Barsuk)

I've always wanted an older brother, and I think if I could have my pick of any fella I might just choose Rocky Votolato. His music rocks my world, he seems pretty tight with little bro Cody (of Blood Brothers and Rocky-fronted Waxwing), and from what I can tell I'm pretty sure he is just one outstanding gentleman. Seattle-based Votolato just made a well-deserved switch over to Barsuk and his first release on the label is another dose of some of his best. It's not strikingly different than recent work like Suicide Medicine—which is to say that it's pretty damn incredible on every level that matters. //

ISOBEL CAMPBELL AND MARK LANEGAN Ramblin' Man (V2)

In the debut issue of Out There Monthly, September 2004, the cover story featured the dream of building a whitewater park in the Spokane River near Peoples’ Park for kayakers and river surfers. As then editor Jon Snyder wrote of the story later, “The Whitewater Park was effectively dead until we ran this article—and then it was added to the Great River Gorge Priority Projects list, where many dedicated folks have pushed it closer to reality.” Unfortunately, the idea faced opposition and stalled out long ago. Is it time to revive it again? (OTO)

Downtown Kayak Park Impossible Dream?

A New Era of Recreation on the Spokane River Is Within Reach

(Excerpts from September 2004 Issue)

By Jon Snyder

TOM GRANT IS NOT A KAYAKER. Tom Grant doesn’t even live in Washington State anymore. Yet when I reached him by phone at his new job, news director for Wyoming’s biggest television station, and asked him about the idea of a kayak park in downtown Spokane, the electronic impulses of our interstate phone connection seemed barely able to contain his enthusiasm.

“Spokane has a wild river running through it. It’s our greatest natural resource. A kayak park would attract attention to the greatest highlight of the city,” says Grant. He is quick to point out that the kayak park idea was not his, but one that came from kayakers. He incorporated the kayak park into the platform of his failed mayoral bid last year, where it received some publicity, because he believed it was something that could be done right now to boost Spokane. “The capital expenditure is not huge,” he says, noting that other cities have created whitewater parks for as little as $250,000 to 1.5 million dollars, “but the image creation for Spokane would be invaluable. Every tourist that came to town would have to take pictures of the colorful kayakers.” . . .

“WE NEED TO BE one of the first, not the last, to do this, says Grant, noting that Spokane could be the first city in the Northwest to have a major urban kayak park. “Those parks are coming up in more and more communities,” says Sally Lodato. “There are at least 18 cities across the U./s. with whitewater parks on the drawing board,” says Glenn Bernard. Surely someone in the Mayor’s office is following these developments and making sure Spokane isn’t the last riverfront city in the country to explore a whitewater park? . . .

In the January 2006 issue, the Last Page featured pro and con letters to the editor of OTM about a recent Critical Mass cycling rights demonstration in Spokane and Out There’s earlier coverage of the event. Here are a few quotes pulled from two of the letter-to-the-editor communiques. (OTO)

Should Critical Mass Continue?

WHAT’S THE FUTURE of Inland Northwest cycling? Last month’s article, “The Politics of Urban Cycling” garnered some of the biggest reader response we’ve ever had at OTM. We asked two of the most eloquent letter writers to participate in this follow-up forum.

CON: MARGARET WATSON

“We have seen more acceptance and courtesy from motorists while cycling on the roadways…rural or urban. The Critical Mass movement, in my opinion, creates more ill will and sets back our goals, which are to provide safe and pleasant experiences. Granted, there are some bicyclists who do not follow the “rules of the road,” who ride against traffic, sometimes erratically. Some do not wear helmets, ride on the sidewalks, which are meant for pedestrians, and fail to yield or stop at signals or stop signs. And yes, there are a few rude and sometimes dangerous motorists driving on our roads.”

PRO: PAUL HAEDER

“I’m pleased to see Out There devoting some space to the confrontational politics of bicycling rights, in this case, the River City’s version of Critical Mass…. “While this is only Spokane, and the recent Critical Mass (CM) events have drawn a paltry few, the cops’ hard-ass tactics during the second and the third events show exactly why bicycling is considered a radical choice in this car-dominated culture. So, as one CM participant, I consciously galvanize solidarity for all repressed bicyclists around the world whenever I ride.”

THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE may be public interest. The kayak park needs a strong champion, or an active steering committee similar to one that exists in Bend, Oregon, currently exploring a whitewater park for that city. Both Hastings and Reese acknowledge that at this point there is a good chance that the kayak park will probably not be included in the master plan for the Great Gorge Park. “Unfortunately there’s a whole plate full of projects right now. Which one should we put our energy behind?” says Reese. Kayak park advocates will need to make their voices heard.”

Where were you 20 years ago, fall of 2004? What was your favorite outdoor activity? What part of the world did you live in? What stage of life were you at? In September of 2004 this magazine was born at a locally-owned printing press in Spokane, Wash., into a world that was much different than it is today. A monthly publication with an innate passion for getting out and exploring, it was aptly named Out There Monthly. Starting out small yet spirited, Out There took its first steps out into the Inland Northwest outdoors community to great fanfare.

In its early years, many of Out There’s pages were black and white, and advertisers had to pay more for color. It went through some awkward pre-adolescent times, suffering through a depressed episode during the Great Recession (2007-2009), but made it through and continued to blossom. Out There grew in page count and stature in the community, and began to mature into a well-loved, fun-loving part of many of us outdoorsy folks’ lives.

As an established newsprint publication with a do-gooder bent, it was printed on recycled content paper with soy-based ink and did all it could to showcase the region’s outdoor recreation potential. It also dedicated many pages to the non-profit organizations and causes that make our community better, including efforts to safeguard our natural areas and recreational gems. Out There also worked its butt off to get results for its advertisers—the small businesses and organizations that have always been the foundation for its existence. And during those early adolescent years, there was also some risky experimentation (adding events like Spokatopia, the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo and new sections of the magazine) and identity questioning when in 2018 Out There Monthly changed its name to Out There Outdoors.

Out There felt like it was in the prime of its young life, growing thicker by the year, and possibilities for the future seemed endless. That is until an unexpected mid-life crisis hit in March of 2020. The world suddenly got scary for a while and people and our community suffered. Those stressful times gave Out There some premature balding (losing four issues a year), but the publication made it through those challenging times mostly intact. Since then, some things—like the way we engage with one another—never quite felt the same again.

Smart phones and social media that had barely existed when Out There was born had come to dominate the general public’s attention more than ever in the post-pandemic world, and the Internet that was at best an unreliable resource for outdoor adventure seekers back then had become monolithic. Some of Out There’s best friends moved on in those years, including Mountain Gear, Rambleraven, Fitness Fanatics, and others, which was hard. But the magazine continued to make new friends and the number of you picking up and reading each issue blew up despite the insistence by some marketing pundits that print was dead and pummeling people with endless ads on screens was the only way to go.

Fortunately for Out There, most active and outdoorsy grown-ups—you readers— still value the unplugged, blue-light-free experience of holding a publication like Out There in their hands. Out There’s core of advertisers run ads that are relevant to your lives. And they see that the type of quality niche print Out There has grown into may be even more relevant today given the rate that many outdoorsy folks tune out and scroll on by the endless stream of digital ads they are bombarded with.

It's hard to believe that Out There is turning 20 with this issue. Leading up to our big birthday party bash this fall, the publication and its people have thought long and hard about how to adapt and continue to thrive in this ever-changing world. We want Out There in print for another 20 years in a sustainable way. We hope you do too, and our big idea for the future involves you readers. It’s a new Out There Membership Program, where you get to help us write the next chapter of Out There’s life. For only $60 a year, your annual membership will help make more pages of Out There possible. The magazine, and our community, will benefit from pages dedicated to quality storytelling, informative and engaging articles, and more images and art from local creatives. Out There will also keep pace with the times, offering our contributors and staff fair compensation for their creative contributions.

We hope this membership program will feel like a community. Out There’s Membership Program comes with some pretty sweet perks for signing up, too. For starters, Out There Members get an invite to an annual party with drinks and music and the chance to celebrate with our local outdoors community. (See you for the first one October 10!) Members also get VIP treatment with some of our advertisers in the form of discounts and deals from our friends at SOLNIX, Wild Walls, Lookout Pass, Alpine Haus, and many others. Another important Out There Membership benefit is the chance to vote on the type of content you would like to see more of in the print magazine. To take advantage of all of that, and keep this ever-growing community going, you need to become a member!

Out There needs your membership investment to continue to mature into a healthy, middle-aged print magazine. One who’s still into doing all the outdoor things, but has come around to the fact they need to warm up and stretch a bit more first. We invite you to join the Out There community and see where we can go together. Scan the QR code or visit Outthereoutdoors.com/membership to learn more. Sign up, then we’ll see you at Out There’s 20th Birthday bash in October!

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Out There Outdoors Magazine

20 Year Scrapbook