Uncrowded and Untamed, Republic-Area Snowmobile Trails Showcase Washington’s Wild Side

Republic sits in that sweet spot for Inland Northwest snowmobiling: far enough from the I-90 corridor crowds to feel like you’ve escaped, but close enough to make a long weekend realistic out of Spokane and North Idaho. In winter, the mountains in and surrounding Ferry County in the Colville National Forest offer different riding options in every direction from town, including over 200 miles of groomed routes, rolling terrain and long tours that are well suited to families and mixed-skill groups—especially riders who want scenic mileage without committing to big, avalanche-prone alpine slopes.

The small Western town of Republic makes an excellent basecamp for exploring different trail systems too. Instead of driving to a single trailhead and being locked into one loop system, you can stage from town and check out several different Sno-Parks and trail networks close to town, tailoring each day to the group, the snow conditions and the vibe you’re after. Most of the trails are on land managed by the U.S. Forest Service with Sno-Park facilities and grooming provided by Washington State Parks.

Pick Your Staging Area: Five Go-To Snowmobile Options Near Republic

Before heading out on the snowy trails, make sure you have a Washington State Sno-Park Permit, which is required at all state Sno-Parks and helps make the facilities and grooming possible (find permit info here). Once you have your permit, make sure to have all of the supplies you’ll need to be self-sufficient for a day out in the winter backcountry.

If you want the simplest “show up, unload, and ride” option closest to town, start with Hall Creek Sno-Park, which provides access to 38 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, including loop options. The Sno-Park, just off of Highway 20 east of Republic, includes a vault toilet and parking suitable for trucks and trailers.

For longer day rides and a bigger network feel, look to Empire Lake Sno-Park north of town, with 57 miles of groomed trails with several loop options and additional ungroomed routes. It’s a go-to choice for groups who want to lay down some miles exploring this mid-elevation terrain with several lakes and frequent wildlife sightings.

Farther east off of Highway 20 over Sherman Pass, the Albian Hill Sno-Park offers a 32-mile groomed route that traverses the Kettle Range mountains all the way to Boulder Creek Road and the Bulldog staging area. This higher-elevation, one trail route typically holds snow throughout the season and makes an excellent out-and-back adventure of any length, especially if you’re trying to keep a group together.

And if your crew is willing to roam a little farther west of Republic, another classic network is the Bonaparte Sno-Park. Featuring 52 miles of groomed trails, it’s the kind of place that can turn into a full day of exploring spurs, viewpoints, and out-and-back routes without feeling like you’re stuck doing the same lap over and over.

One more option worth knowing about is Scatter Creek Staging Area, a smaller, more flexible access point south of town that’s open seasonally as snow cover allows. It’s also notable because no Sno-Park permit is required there (parking availability depends on conditions, and grooming is not guaranteed at staging areas). This is a lower elevation area that also has winter wildlife closure areas that are not open to snowmobiles, so ride responsibly.

Download maps for each of these trails systems at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau website here. The site also includes links to the trail grooming schedule for each area so that you can time your trip around ideal conditions.

Staying Safe and Having Fun Snowmobiling around Republic

Snowmobiling always comes with real risk, and conditions can change fast. But the Republic area tends to shine for riders who want to keep things fun and limit exposure to avalanche terrain and challenging riding. Many of these routes follow forest-road style corridors and lower-angle terrain that can feel more approachable than steep, high-consequence mountain zones. It’s a good fit for family groups, newer riders building confidence, and anyone who’d rather make the day about views, fresh air, and steady cruising than about hunting down powder in aggressive terrain.

Make Republic Your Snowmobiling Basecamp

The best way to do this trip is to give yourself at least two ride days so you can sample different systems. Make it a choose-your-own-adventure: one day ride a shorter network to warm up and dial in the group, then spend another day on a longer system where you can stretch the mileage. Because the Sno-Parks are spread around the region, you can also chase the best snow. If one side of the range got wind-scoured or warmed up at lower elevations, pivot to another staging area instead of forcing it.

Back in town, Republic’s small, friendly main-street energy makes the off-sled hours feel like part of the experience, not just downtime. It’s easy to fuel up, grab a hot drink, swap route ideas with locals, and plan the next day—without the resort-town crowds or traffic. That’s what Republic delivers best—wild Northeast Washington scenery, uncrowded trail time, and an authentic winter sledding experience you can’t fake.

Republic has several lodging options for winter visitors looking to set up basecamp for a night or more in the winter wonderland of this historic town. Learn more about winter adventures in Republic and find lodging and other amenity info at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau’s website.

(Sponsored by the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau)

The post Snowmobile Trails and Sno-Parks around Republic, WA appeared first on Out There Venture.

Plan Your Winter Escape to Backcountry Ski, Snowshoe, Cross-Country Ski, or Fat Bike on the Trails around Republic, Wa.

The small northeast Washington town of Republic, surrounded by mountains, trails and several Sno-Parks, is the kind of place where close-to-town winter adventures come steeped in solitude that may feel like you’re 1,000 miles from nowhere. A cross-country ski outing on the Ferry County Rail Trail or up at the Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park at the top of Boulder Pass will greet you with such a still, snowy quiet that you may swear you can hear snowflakes falling. And you’re bound to see more snowshoe hare tracks than other humans on a backcountry ski tour in the Kettle Range up at Sherman Pass (the highest all-season pass in Washington).

Even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive north from Spokane, Republic, the county seat of sparsely populated Ferry County, has held onto its western mountain-town roots as a mining and logging hub. Historic buildings line the stoplight- and chain store-free main drag, housing small businesses that serve the local community and visitors alike. With a couple of hotels, local restaurants, coffee shops, a bakery and even a local craft brewery, it’s a welcome alternative to crowded resort towns and an easy place to settle into as a base camp for winter adventures.

Some of the Best Winter Adventures Around Republic

The Republic area has the winter adventure bases covered, whether you’re into snowshoeing, backcountry or Nordic skiing, snowmobiling or fat biking. For human-powered winter sports, there are several options.

The Ferry County Rail Trail offers a flat, non-motorized pathway for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or fat biking, depending on the snow conditions. Portions of the trail are groomed throughout the winter for cross-country skiing.

Up in the nearby Kettle Range Mountains, two mountain passes, Boulder and Sherman, offer backcountry and cross-country skiers and snowshoers easy access to a winter wonderland. The Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park at Boulder Pass features six miles of groomed Nordic-ski trails. Skiers with backcountry-touring gear and snowshoers have endless possibilities for exploring the open forests of the recently burned mountain slopes on both sides of the pass.

At the Sherman Pass Sno-Park, there are options for mellow snowshoe hikes and challenging peak ascents. Backcountry skiers willing to earn their turns have access to some of the best backcountry slopes in the Inland Northwest. Avalanches are possible in the mountains around Sherman Pass, and all skiers and snowshoers should come prepared with appropriate avalanche training and safety gear. A Washington Sno-Park permit is required at both trailheads.

2026 Winter Events in Republic and Ferry County

Republic and Ferry County also host several unique winter events that are worth planning a trip around.

Republic’s Winterfest celebration for 2026 is set for Friday evening and all day Saturday, Jan. 9-10. The event features a Friday evening light parade and multiple creative events and contests on Saturday, including outhouse races, a K-9 keg pull, tug-of-war and other family-friendly activities.

Nordic and backcountry skiers should have the Altai Skis Backcountry Ski & Hok Festival on their radar. Happening Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7-8, 2026 (pending Forest Service approval as of December 2025), the event offers a chance to demo backcountry ski-touring gear from Ferry County-based Altai Skis and explore the local backcountry terrain with others. The weekend-long event takes place up at the Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park near Curlew in the Kettle Range.

Another Nordic ski event popular with both locals and skiers from around the region is the annual Ferry County Rail Trail Ski Day, which takes place on a weekend in January or February, depending on snow conditions. Participants can try out cross-country ski gear and take free ski lessons. Follow the Ferry County Rail Trail Partners on Facebook for this year’s ski day details.

Winter Road and Snow Safety

 Mountain passes around Republic including Boulder and Sherman passes may experience winter storm conditions, and visitors need to come prepared for varying road and trailhead conditions. Check out our backcountry winter guide to the Republic area for more trail and terrain suggestions for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Because the high peaks of the Kettle Crest include some avalanche terrain, be aware of avalanche risks in the area and go prepared when exploring backcountry terrain on skis, splitboard, snowshoes, or snowmobile.

Where to Stay in Republic in the winter

Republic has several lodging options for winter visitors looking to set up basecamp for a night or more in the winter wonderland of this historic mountain town. Learn more about winter adventures in Republic and find lodging and other amenity info at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau’s website.

(Sponsored by the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau)

The post Where to Ski and snowshoe around republic, wa. appeared first on Out There Venture.

Idaho’s Silver Valley is a fall adventure hub, where crisp mountain air and golden leaves set the stage for everything from biking iconic rail trails to exploring historic mines. This stretch of the Idaho Panhandle offers a perfect mix of outdoor recreation, small-town charm, and history. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a race, pedaling through tunnels and trestles or along the Coeur d’Alene River, or hiking to alpine lakes to earn that post-hike craft beer, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the season. Here are nine adventures to inspire your fall trip to North Idaho’s Silver Valley.

Go for a Hike and Check Out Local Craft Breweries

Spend the day hiking one of the many trails in the Bitterroot Mountains above Silver Valley, and then hit up one of the valley’s craft breweries. Take your pick from these favorite Silver Valley–area hikes. Once you’ve worked up a thirst, pay a visit to Wallace’s City Limits Brew Pub, Wallace Brewing, or Radio Brewing in Kellogg.

• Stevens Lake near Lookout Pass: This 4+-mile round-trip hike climbs 1,600 feet and includes some steep sections of trail. It’s considered a challenging hike, but the subalpine lake and mountain views are worth it.
• Blossom Lakes Trail: Heading out from Thompson Pass, the 6-mile round-trip hike to Lower Blossom Lake climbs just over 1,100 feet, making it a moderate-to-difficult trek. The lush forest can make for great fall colors if you time it right.
• Revett Lake: This 4-mile round-trip hike into the high country climbs 500 feet in elevation from the trailhead at Thompson Pass but is considered an intermediate hike on a well-worn trail that’s great for hikers of all ages and abilities. Highlights include the beautiful lake, towering Granite Peak, and a waterfall.
• Pulaski Tunnel Trail: A little over a mile from downtown Wallace, the Pulaski Tunnel Interpretive Trail—the site where Ed Pulaski found his crew of 45 men trapped and surrounded by the August 1910 wildfire—is a 4-mile round-trip hike with historical signs. With around 800 feet of elevation gain, this hike is rated as an easy-to-moderate trail.
  
  

Riding the NorPac Trail near Lookout Pass. Photos courtesy of Carol Corbin

Explore Lesser‑known Idaho Panhandle Rail Trails by Bike

If you are looking for a new rail-trail route to ride this fall, spend a few days exploring the Old Milwaukee Railroad Trail, Northern Pacific (NorPac) Trail, or the Route of the Olympian. These routes offer quiet gravel or mixed‑surface rides through forest and mountains and are best ridden on mountain or gravel bikes. Find routes and other information at Friendsofcdatrails.org.

Photo courtesy of the Historic Wallace Chamber

Ride the Sierra Silver Mine Trolley and Tour a Real Mine in Wallace, Idaho

Ride an open‑air trolley through Wallace’s historic district up to the Sierra Silver Mine. Retired miners lead you into a sideways cut in the mountain. The tour typically runs through mid-October.

Bike the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes

The 73‑mile paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes unfurls across evergreen forest, autumnal wetlands, and river corridors, offering a quiet, wildlife‑rich ride through fall color. You can roll directly from your Wallace lodging, pedaling east toward Mullan or west through Silver Valley. Out‑and‑back rides are popular, or you can arrange a shuttle. Deer, elk, swans, moose and other wildlife are often spotted along the way.

Take a Walking Tour of Wallace, Idaho Mining Museums and Historic Sites

Wallace, Idaho, has multiple museums and historic sites in town that you can explore on foot, as well as a walking tour of the many buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Museums include the Mine Heritage Exhibition, Northern Pacific Depot Museum, Barnard-Stockbridge Museum and Wallace District Mining Museum.

Moose along the Coeur d’Alene River. Photo courtesy of Bradley Bleck

Tour the Crystal Gold Mine in Kellogg, Idaho

Step back into Idaho’s mining past with a visit to the Crystal Gold Mine in Kellogg, the first hard-rock gold mine in Idaho that opened in the 1880s. After being abandoned for nearly a century, the mine was opened to the public for guided underground tours. Visitors will see veins of gold and other minerals still visible in the rock, learn about early hard-rock mining methods, and hear the mine’s story. Kids especially enjoy the chance to pan for gold and gems at the end of the tour. Tours typically run through the end of October.

Ride the Route of the Hiawatha

This stellar 15‑mile rail‑to‑trail ride includes seven sky‑high trestles, 10 tunnels, and a spectacular journey under the Bitterroot Mountains via the 1.66‑mile Taft Tunnel. It is typically open through late September. Lookout Pass offers trail passes, bike and gear rentals, and shuttles to simplify logistics so that you can focus on riding this historic route.

Scenic gondola rides run into September. Photo courtesy of Silver Mountain Resort

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride at Silver Mountain Resort

Silver Mountain offers the longest gondola ride in North America. Just off I-90 in Kellogg, the scenic ride travels over three miles as it climbs 3,000 feet up the mountain to the Mountain House Lodge. The ride takes 20 to 30 minutes each way, and you’ll want to plan time for a hike and fall huckleberry picking. The gondola runs on a few weekends in September before closing down for the season.

For more trip planning ideas and information including lodging options in North Idaho’s Silver Valley, visit the Historic Silver Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Run the Jackass Half Marathon and 5k on Oct. 4

The Jackass Half Marathon and 5k Race offers a scenic run or walk along the Coeur d’Alene River on the paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes. Both courses are point-to-point and mostly downhill between Wallace and Kellogg. The 2025 half marathon and 5K only had a few spots left as of early September but there were spots available for the kids’ race. This is the perfect race for beginners or casual joggers or walkers and a fast course for competitive runners.  

(Sponsored)

The post Fall Adventures in Idaho’s Silver Valley appeared first on Out There Venture.

When early summer arrives in Sandpoint, Idaho, the mountains come alive with more trails to ride than you can fit into your vacation schedule. Sandpoint has been quietly adding to its trail systems that are anchored by long-time classics by building some of the Northwest’s best new trails specifically with mountain biking in mind. Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping climbs with outstanding lake views or gentle rolling trails perfect for beginners and families, Sandpoint’s diverse terrain really does offer trails for every rider.

The area’s active biking culture with trails a short pedal or drive away paired with a laid-back lake-and-mountain town to base your biking forays from make Sandpoint a top early-season mountain biking destination.

Photo courtesy of Schweitzer

Schweitzer Mountain

Schweitzer and the adjacent Selkirk Recreation District offer an exceptional and expanding trail system for mountain bikers with dozens of trails and ride variations to choose from. Many trails afford outstanding lake views to complement the heart-pumping climbs and descents, and Schweitzer provides chairlift assist to the top for 1,700’ gravity-descents on over 40 trails with options from beginner to expert.

Pine Street Woods

Located little more than two miles from downtown Sandpoint, the Kaniksu Land Trust has made the incredible Pine Street Woods trail system possible. Take your pick from more than a dozen trails, with wide routes that welcome all trail users including e-bikers, plus a large number of singletrack rides ranging from smooth-and-flowy for beginners, to technical downhill descents with ramps and jumps for advanced riders.

Gold Hill // Photo by Doug Marshall, courtesy of Visit Sandpoint

Gold Hill Trail

The 3.7-mile Gold Hill Trail is a popular local’s singletrack staple. The trail serves up a moderate to strenuous out-and-back ride that leads uphill through green walls of North Idaho forest to panoramic views of Sandpoint across Lake Pend Oreille.

Lost Lake – Mineral Point Trail

This two-trailhead trail system 14 miles from town rewards riders with big views of the southern arm of Lake Pend Oreille and swimming at Green Bay. Choose from the easier loop around Lost Lake or the more challenging trail to Mineral Point with views of Lake Pend Oreille and the Green Monarchs.

Farragut State Park

Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille 30 minutes south of Sandpoint, Farragut features over 20 miles of mountain bike trails ranging from rolling beginner-friendly singletrack to more challenging blue trails. Easy access to the lake for swimming and paddling make Farragut a top choice for cooling off after a hot summer ride.

Trestle Creek // Photo by Doug Marshall, courtesy of Visit Sandpoint

More Sandpoint-Area MTB Trails

Sandpoint is an ideal basecamp for exploring other forest service and private land trails a bit farther out of town. North toward Bonners Ferry, highly-recommended trails include Brush Lake, with a moderately easy six-mile loop along the lake plus the option for tapping into the relatively-new Tungsten Mountain Trail for a magnificent 20-ish mile up-and-down rollercoaster ride; Section 16, with 11 miles of gently rolling and non-technical rides; and gorgeous trails (with a steep climb to start) at Enchanted Forest. 

Whatever your riding style, trail preference and ability level, you’ll find your perfect early-summer spin near Sandpoint. Check out all of the recommended local rides and start planning your mountain bike getaway. Combine fine days of riding with Sandpoint’s vaunted culinary and entertainment opportunities for a weekend or multi-day visit; discover those, plus an array of lodging choices, at VisitSandpoint.com.

Article Sponsored By:

The post Sandpoint’s Top Early-Season Mountain Bike Rides appeared first on Out There Venture.

With Schweitzer Mountain Resort scheduled to open in November for the 2024/2025 season and La Nina already delivering plenty of snow, now’s the time to plan your Sandpoint escape. Out There partner and advertiser Hotel Ruby Sandpoint offers a ton of amenities and easy access to Schweitzer for downhill skiing and snowboarding and Nordic skiing, as well as local snowshoe and fat bike trails, making it the best choice for where to stay. Your room comes with a free continental breakfast and access to a heated indoor pool and hot tubs, plus a ski locker room and waxing area and sleds you can use to hit the local sledding hills with the kids.

Plan Now for Your Sandpoint Winter Trip

Fall is the time to begin planning and booking your winter adventures out of Sandpoint and Schweitzer. From your base at Hotel Ruby Sandpoint, spend your days skiing or snowboarding up at Schweitzer, cruising the Schweitzer Nordic trail system, or hiking, fat biking or snowshoeing closer to town in the Pine Street Woods. The Pine Street Woods hill is a popular sledding spot and Schweitzer has a great tubing hill and snowshoeing trails. If wandering the snowy woods on snowshoes is your winter activity of choice, find the right snowshoe trail in the area in our guide to snowshoeing in North Idaho.

After having all that fun out in the snow, head back to Hotel Ruby Sandpoint and take advantage of the pool and hot tubs, on-site restaurant and bar, and comfortable dog-friendly rooms, all just a few minutes drive from Schweitzer and downtown Sandpoint. Book your trip before dates start filling up!

(Sponsored)

The post Plan Ahead for Your Winter Sandpoint Getaway              appeared first on Out There Venture.

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 in Castlegar 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.

Doukhobor Discovery Center

Explore Castlegar’s 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, beet-based 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.

Columbia and Western Rail Trail

Castlegar Mountain Bike and Motorized Trails

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.

(Sponsored Article)

The post Forge Fall Adventures Your Own Way in Castlegar, B.C. appeared first on Out There Venture.

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Fernie, British Columbia, beckons travellers and outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes, fresh mountain air, and an array of activities that make every summer an unforgettable experience. Just a winding 250-mile drive northeast of Spokane, Wash., this gem of a town offers an outdoor playground that promises thrill and serenity in equal measure. For the adventurous traveller, the family of explorers, and the seeker of nature’s quiet beauty; Fernie is your canvas for an extraordinary summer tale. 

Hiking: From Valley to Alpine 

Fernie and surrounding areas provide an extensive tapestry of trails that wind through lush valley floors, ideal for a family-friendly trek amid nature’s splendor. The energetic hiker will enjoy the challenge of climbing the elevations leading to the alpine peaks of Mount Fernie, Mount Proctor, Mount Hosmer, or the iconic Three Sisters. These paths are not just routes to incredible vistas; hiking in Fernie is a summer ritual that brings an opportunity to connect with the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. 

Mountain Biking: Trails for Every Rider 

Fernie’s love for the outdoors is reflected in the impressive number of trails that are maintained by passionate local organizations. With hundreds of trails catering to all skill levels, mountain bikers can expect a variety of exhilarating rides. Each trail tells a story etched into the rugged landscape, whether it be a gentle introduction to the sport, or a high-octane descent. Here, every pedal stroke is a fun-filled exploration of nature’s playground. Don’t fancy the effort of having to pedal up? Class1 e-bikes are allowed on Fernie’s trails, and a lift-accessed bike park is available from June 22 to September 2 at Fernie Alpine Resort.  

Dry Fly Fishing and Whitewater Adventures 

Historic coal mining towns (like Fernie), abundant wildlife, and Canadian wilderness are the setting through which the classic freestone Elk River flows, calling to anglers with its clear, cool waters and bounteous stocks of pure strain westslope cutthroat trout, monster bull trout and hybrid cuttbows. The art of dry fly fishing takes center stage here, where patience is rewarded with the dance of a fly rod and the potential catch of a lifetime. Local fly-fishing outfitters provide guided trips, intel and all the gear one may need.  

Water enthusiasts are also spoilt for choice with white-water rafting experiences churning through rapids, the serenity of SUP and kayaking excursions on gentler currents, and the nearby lakes that invite exploration and idle paddles under the summer sky. For added fun, opt for a float on a giant SUPSquatch, an oversized inflatable paddleboard for groups up to eight people. 

Golf With a View 

Swing amidst the backdrop of the towering mountains at the Fernie Golf Club—an 18-hole championship golf course. With fairways as inviting as they are challenging, golf in Fernie offers an opportunity to play the sport you love in a truly spectacular setting. Feel the mountain breeze, take in the views, and enjoy the game. 

Exploring Historic Downtown and Beyond 

Fernie’s historic downtown invites a wander along its streets, where every corner whispers tales of the past. Architecture admirers and casual explorers alike will rejoice in the century-old facades and charming storefronts. Join a guided tour or download the free Iconic Fernie mobile app to explore beyond with self-guided tours that unravel the town’s storied history and contemporary culture. 

A Vibrant Community 

Those hungry for culture and connection will see their appetite satisfied. Fernie’s events scene is bustling with live entertainment for all ages. Staple summer events include popular evening live music at Wednesday Socials; Sunday Mountain Market, featuring fresh local produce and original gifts; Fernie’s biggest indie music celebration, the annual Wapiti Music Festival; various mountain biking, gravel biking and trail running races; gallery exhibitions; art experiences and more.  

Sampling the Taste of Fernie 

The dining scene in Fernie is a testament to the town’s diverse community. From cozy pubs serving up hearty comfort food to upscale restaurants offering international flavors, and everything in between, there is something for everyone in this mountain town. Fernie is also home to an award-winning distillery, cherished local brewery, artisan bean-to-bar chocolate maker and boutique bakeries. But it’s not just about the food—Fernie’s local boutiques, galleries and artisan shops add another layer of charm and character to the town. 

A Place to Stay for Everyone 

Fernie offers bespoke lodging for the discerning traveler. Choose from boutique hotels, cozy tiny homes, innovative adventure pods, serene RV and camping spots, or spacious lodges and condos.  Each option promises comfort and proximity to the great outdoors. 

Capture the Essence of Fernie 

This guide merely scratches the surface of Fernie’s summer allure. At its core, Fernie is a mosaic of outdoor experiences, each providing a multitude of possibilities for play, relaxation, and the pure joy of discovering the natural world. Adventure lies in the heart of this mountain town and in the spirit of those who yearn for stories written under the open sky. 

Be it for the adrenaline rush or the peaceful retreat, Fernie calls out to all who seek to fuse their summer with adventure. From Spokane and beyond, cast your compass north, where the Canadian Rockies mark the gateway to your next great exploration. Plan your summer getaway at tourismfernie.com.  

(Sponsored by Tourism Fernie) 

The post Fernie, BC: A Treasure Trove of Outdoor Thrills  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Tucked away in the rugged beauty of the Bitterroot Mountains on the Montana-Idaho border lies the Rails-to-Trails “Crown Jewel” — the Route of the Hiawatha. This iconic biking and hiking trail traces the path of the historic Milwaukee Railroad line and offers cyclists, hikers and nature lovers from around the globe breathtaking panoramas, a glimpse into the region’s riveting past, and one of the most distinct rails-to-trails experiences in the country. 

Spanning 15 miles, this mostly downhill route provides a thrilling yet accessible adventure suitable for just about anyone. Beginning at the East Portal Trailhead, the Hiawatha travels through dense forests and alpine meadows, across expansive canyons and clear mountain streams, past cascading waterfalls and beneath towering peaks. Along the way are 10 historic tunnels — including the iconic St. Paul Pass Taft Tunnel, stretching over 1.6 miles in length — and seven sky-high trestle-bridges with panoramic wilderness views. Captivating scenery unfolds with every twist and turn. Wildlife can be spotted along the route, especially in the early hours when there are fewer people on the trail. Keep an eye out for golden-mantled squirrels, a variety of birds, and the occasional deer, elk, moose, or bear. And at the end of the trail there’s a shuttle offering rides back up to the Roland Trailhead where you can bike back through the Taft Tunnel to your vehicle. 

This scenic treasure is also steeped in history. Forty-nine interpretive signs along the way tell the story of the railway’s construction, the lives of the workers who labored to build it, the Great Fire of 1910, and more. Recreationists can explore these testaments to the old railway, providing a fascinating look into the area’s industrial heritage.

For those seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure, the Route of the Hiawatha – Scenic Bike Trail delivers an experience like no other. So, hop on your bike or lace up your hiking boots (rental bikes available on-site) and set out to discover the legendary Route of the Hiawatha, one of the few Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hall-of-Fame Trails in the nation. The trail is open for the 2024 season through September 15. Plan your trip at Ridethehiawatha.com.

(Sponsored Story)

The post Miles of Adventure appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy Alana Livingston

Boasting an impressive list of 21 self-guided ale adventures throughout British Columbia, the BC Ale Trail also includes craft community partners (ciders and distilleries), tours, attractions and accommodations. Be sure to check out some of the Squamish offerings and don’t forget to download the app for info and awards!

Howe Sound Brewing Co: The pioneer brewery of Squamish and Historic Hotel. Howe Sound is the ideal home base for your adventure, surrounded by views of the infamous Stawamus Chief Mountain, with a large, rustic brewpub that is family- and dog-friendly with delicious food and brews.

A-FRAME Brewing: The owners of this brewery were inspired by many memories and experiences shared with loved ones on the lake and in their family cabin. This inclusive and welcoming brewery offers fantastic low-alcohol (and regular brews) that leave you with plenty of energy left for the day’s adventures.

Backcountry Brewing: Amazing food, fantastic beer and an ambience you’ll never want to leave. Not to mention some of the most hilarious beer names and labels you’ve ever seen.

Raincity Distillery: Traditional artisanal methods used to produce unique spirits with influences from Europe and Asia. Enjoy beautifully crafted cocktails alongside equally delicious dumplings.

Cliffside Cider: Take in a great view of “The Chief” on the patio while partaking in freshly made cider, each with very unique blends and flavors. 

The post Continue Your Adventure Along the BC Ale Trail appeared first on Out There Venture.