Garmont asserts the Karakum is made to be extremely versatile, and after an afternoon tromping around high-desert BLM lands west of Spokane (fitting for a shoe named after a Central Asian desert), I’m sold. My desert ramble included 40+ pounds of toddler, pack, and snacks on my back, a bit of an unusual load for […]
Outdoor Gear Review: Garmont Karakum GTX Hiking Boots Read More »
Fall’s cooler temperatures and the colors of the changing season make it a great time to mountain bike. Here are several recommended trails for experiencing the seasonal glories of the Inland Northwest. Coeur d’Alene The Beauty Bay Loop near Coeur d’Alene leaves from near the Beauty Bay Campground. Trails 257 and 257C join the Carlin
Favorite Fall Singletrack: North Idaho & Spokane Riders Top Trail Picks Read More »
Blossom Lakes trail receives the majority of its hiker and backpacker attention in the summer months, but those seeking a little solitude on the Idaho/Montana Divide will be well-served to wait until fall. The crowds, as well as the mosquitoes, will be long-gone, and the forested trail to the lake is at its best when
Hike of the Month: Blossom Lake (Lolo National Forest, Montana) Read More »
Just as electric-assist bikes became more widely available through bike-sharing companies, the Washington State Legislature passed SB 6434, establishing a legal framework consistent with national standards that gives the electric-assist bike (e-bike) industry greater confidence that e-bikes belong on paths and trails. However, electric-assist mountain bikes face additional challenges. By default, all single-track trails are
New Washington State E-Bike Policy Read More »
Fall can be a hard time of year for some outdoor enthusiasts. As many summer activities wind down, we begin the great switch over to winter. With colder temperatures and snow in the higher elevations, it can be difficult to find adventurous and accessible trails to explore. I usually end up re-hiking or riding the
Fall Adventures: Northeast Washington’s Ferry County Rail Trail Read More »
When I saw the 2003 film “Off the Map” that explores the life of an eccentric family that lives an extremely remote, back-to-the-land existence far away from the clamor of urban American, I couldn’t help but think of northeast Washington’s Ferry County. Butted up against the Canadian border, Ferry County is a vast and sparsely-populated
Off The Map: Ferry County is an Outdoor Adventure Mecca Read More »
The Backcountry Booty was found in 5 days! Way to go Harley. Play the Out There Venture Backcountry Booty treasure hunt contest and you get to explore different trails around the region and possibly win gift certificates for cool outdoor gear and other prizes. Here’s how it works along with a few rules you
Backcountry Booty: ENO Hammock & Doma Coffee (found 10.20.2018) Read More »
It’s not *quite* ski season, but we know there are plenty of you itching to get up to the mountain. 49* North is boosting this in-between season with a Rocktoberfest party, using the bunny hill and mountain trails for bike rides, the lodge area for live music and BBQ, and offering season pass processing so
Rocktoberfest set for October 6 Read More »
Fall is hunting season, so if you’re hiking in the backcountry or densely-forested areas be sure to wear bright colors. This makes you easily distinguishable to anyone who might be hunting in the area. This time of year the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared. In addition to the usual water, snacks, and sunscreen,
Tips for Fall Hiking in the Northwest Read More »
We’ve all been there: forced to take a break from a favorite activity. Maybe the issue is an overuse injury, bedrest during a high-risk pregnancy, hazardous wildfire smoke, or a drier-than-desired winter that’s keeping you off the ski slopes. It’s easy to get down in the dumps when you can’t do what you love. The
When You Can’t Workout: The Lost Art of Taking a Break Read More »
