One-hundred fifty years ago, get-rich-quick schemers struck gold in what is now Helena in southwest Montana. More recently, the dry, fir-adorned foothills flanking Montana’s capital have produced riches for mountain bikers. Tucked in a “banana belt” on the dry east slope of the Continental Divide, about a five hour drive from Spokane, Helena sees a […]
Bike Helena: Montana’s Mountain Biking Capital Read More »
It’s hard to believe that Out There Monthly has been around for a decade. I had to round up a copy of the first issue and see it again for myself. Reading through those pages was like rummaging around a time capsule. And there was the proof – that ten years can really fly by,
Ten Years Out There Read More »
On the steep overhanging side of the Half Dome Boulder, there are a few strange veins in the granite rock that come together at a singular point. Unless someone points it out, it can be tough to see. But not unlike a piece of chaotic modern art, if you stare at it long enough, you
McLellan’s Middle Finger of Fury Read More »
Fernie became my new favorite word for several weeks this summer. I really couldn’t stop talking about it, to the eventual annoyance of my wife who had to endure the brunt of my endless ranting and raving. I had always thought Fernie was too far away, but the real barrier was the fact that I
Fernie, BC – Adventure in the Canadian Rockies is Closer Than You Think Read More »
This spring, dozens of outdoor fans let go of their inhibitions and danced to support Riverside State Park. The Outreach committee of the Riverside State Park Foundation jumped on the “HAPPY” bandwagon and sent a handful of amateurs and professionals with cameras into the park to capture “happy” users. Based on the popular song by
Riverside State Park Makes Me HAPPY Read More »
Waterfront Park at Medical Lake Fed by natural springs, Medical Lake west of Spokane is a tranquil gem that’s fairly shallow, with an average summer-time water temperature of 74 degrees. Waterfront Park, located on the lake’s south end, provides a small sandy beach and roped-off swimming area, with a nearby restroom (checked daily during summer)
Lake Swim Spots for Kids: Fun Family Favorites Read More »
Need a mini-vacation? Try a sub 24-hour overnight (s24o) camping trip. The Inland NW have close-to-urban destinations for camping.
Bike-Camping: Try a Sub-24-Hour Overnight Read More »
You trained hard over the past couple of months, and you’re sporting the latest Bloomsday finisher shirt. It’s early in the running season, so what’s next? The mud runs and color runs are extremely popular these days. If you’re not signed up by now, it may be too late. Not to worry. Our area hosts
You Just Ran Bloomsday—What’s Next? 14 Races to Keep Your Feet Moving All Summer Long Read More »
I don’t remember when I started smoking, but I remember when I quit. I also don’t remember when I started riding a bike to work, but it’s the best addiction I’ve ever had, and I’m not about to stop. I get two fixes five days a week. If you’ve ever wanted to give cycling to
Bike to Work Week: Events Around the Inland NW Read More »
The McKenzie Conservation Area east of Spokane features old logging roads that volunteers transformed into hiking trails. Hike the outer loop by heading uphill from the parking area. The trail hugs the property boundary, crossing through a forest that is recovering nicely from past logging operations. The trail climbs gently, passing the intersection for the
Hike of The Month: McKenzie Conservation Area (Newman Lake, Wash.) Read More »
