By Chris Maccini 

Cover photo courtesy of Diane Delanoy

It was 29 years ago that Galen Chamberlain first picked up a copy of Rich Landers’ classic guidebook, “100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest.” At age 60, he’d just retired from a career in construction and was enrolled in a backpack school course through the Spokane Mountaineers. At the time, Chamberlain was far from an avid hiker.  

“I did a lot of skiing and cross-country skiing, but I never walked any more than a hundred yards in my life if I could help it until their backpack school,” he says. “I remember when I got back to the trailhead after three days, I told one of the instructors, ‘I ain’t never gonna hike again.” 

But while his feet and shoulders may have ached after that first hike, there was something that drew him back to the trail. Soon, he was hooked, and he set himself a goal to hike 500 miles per year. Chamberlain has kept track of every mile of every hike for nearly three decades, a total of more than 14,500 miles. 

Over the years, Landers’ “100 Hikes” became a constant companion. Each time Chamberlain completed one of the hikes in the book, he checked it off, often making notes on the weather, trail conditions and his hiking companions. When he returned to a hike again, he added another mark. Some hikes, like nearby Mount Kit Carson in Mount Spokane State Park (Hike #21), he has done a whopping 96 times. But it wasn’t until many years of hiking that the idea occurred to Chamberlain to try to complete all 100 hikes.  “I just started knocking ’em off,” he says. “And then after I got 50 or 60, I thought, hey, why not shoot for a hundred?” 

The trails in “100 Hikes” are spread throughout Washington, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and British Columbia. In addition to being an active outdoorsman, Chamberlain was also a pilot. He owned a small airplane, which allowed him to fly in and camp at remote airstrips, giving him easier access to some of the more remote hiking areas such as the Cabinet Mountains in Montana and the Eagle Cap Wilderness in Oregon. One by one, he checked them off in his increasingly tattered copy of the guidebook. 

The 100th Hike Attempt to Mortar and Pestle Lakes 

In the summer of 2018, Chamberlain and a group of friends set out to complete the final hike in the book, number 100: Mortar-Pestle Lakes. The hike is located in British Columbia’s St. Mary’s Provincial Park, a remote wilderness area northwest of Cranbrook, BC. As Landers’ description in “100 Hikes” puts it, “This little niche of wilderness is so far off the beaten track, it doesn’t even have an official trail in its 22,650 acres.” Landers describes a steep, sparsely marked “trail” over granite boulders and alpine larch, noting that the area was previously home to a logging operation and “there’s a good chance you will have to seek out the trail to some degree.” He rates the hike “moderately difficult” in the book.   

When Chamberlain and his friends arrived in August of 2018, they knew there was wildfire activity in the area to contend with. The day before their scheduled hike, Chamberlain called BC Parks and asked about the trail’s status. They advised him to check the website in the morning to be sure the area was not restricted. Early the next day, everything looked clear. They packed up and started the drive to the trailhead under smoky skies. They’d driven less than 10 miles outside of Cranbrook when they were met with a blockade. Apparently, a new wildfire had started overnight, and no one had taken the time to update the website. There would be no hiking that day. The group turned around and headed home.  

But Chamberlain was determined to complete the hike one day. This was the final hike he needed to complete his 100-hikes goal, after all. He decided his next attempt would be earlier in the summer to avoid wildfire danger. In 2019, he once again gathered a group of fellow hiking enthusiasts and made the drive up to Cranbrook, BC. As all good outdoorsmen should, they checked the weather forecast beforehand and noted that there was a 20% chance of light rain on the day they planned to hike. Everything seemed to be lining up for a successful attempt. This time, they made the drive into the old logging roads which accessed the trailhead and spent the night at an old horse camp in the area. 

The next morning, it was indeed raining, and the road was in rough shape. But Chamberlain and his friends figured they must be close to the trailhead, according to the directions and rudimentary map in “100 Hikes.” They set out hiking to find the trailhead and complete the hike. After six hours of hiking in the pouring rain, unable to even find the beginning of the trail they were after, they decided to give up. Afterward, Chamberlain wrote across the top of the Mortar-Pestle Lakes page in his “100 Hikes” book, “FORGET IT.” He figured the final hike would elude him forever. 

One More Try 

A few years passed. Chamberlain continued to hike all over the Inland Northwest and beyond, often with friends he met through the Spokane Mountaineers, logging his 500 miles every year. Among his frequent hiking companions were Diane Delanoy and her husband, Ken, active members of the Spokane Mountaineers. Ken had been among the group of hikers turned away in 2018 due to wildfire. So they knew about Chamberlain’s goal of completing all 100 hikes, and they knew just how challenging the final hike had proved to be. When Chamberlain approached Diane and Ken about making one more attempt at the Mortar and Pestle lakes hike in 2025, Diane sprung into action. 

“I went onto Facebook and found a British Columbia hiking group and just kind of searched through their posts trying to find any mention of Mortar Lake,” Diane says. “I came up with one. This gal had been up there. So I contacted her, and she was able to send me the GPS tracking thing that got them to the trailhead.” 

With the local knowledge and GPS data loaded onto Diane’s phone, Chamberlain set out this past September with the Delanoys and another friend, Denise Beardslee, for one final attempt. Following the GPS up the old logging roads, the group was able to successfully locate the trailhead. To their surprise, it was well-marked with signage and a logbook. They camped at the trailhead that night, excited to start up the trail the next morning. When they did, they realized Landers’ trail rating of “moderately difficult” felt like an understatement.  

“Honestly, I thought it was the hardest hike I’ve ever done,” Diane says. “Even though it was less than five miles up and back, it is straight up the whole time. You just climb up, up, up, up, up till you get to a boulder field. And then you’ve got to get through that to the ridge, where we could see the two lakes.” 

The group had planned to camp in the wilderness area another night, but after the grueling hike, they drove out and spent the night at a campground. There, they celebrated Chamberlain’s accomplishment as he checked off the final hike in his weathered copy of “100 Hikes.” As he did, Chamberlain made one edit to Landers’ description: he crossed out the word “moderately” so that the trail rating read, “difficult.”

 

Looking Ahead and Inspiring Others 

Now that Chamberlain has completed all 100 hikes, he doesn’t have another major goal he’s looking to reach. “I’m still doing [the hikes],” he says. “I wouldn’t do them all [again], but there are a few I’d like to do again.” 

Some trails he would like to return to include the Tucannon River-Diamond Peak Loop in the Blue Mountains (#82), and Lookout Mountain east of Priest Lake (#37). Apart from that, he plans to keep hitting that 500-mile-per-year goal for as long as he can. 

And, of course, Chamberlain has a big milestone coming up next summer when he turns 90 years old. He doesn’t have a grand expedition planned, but says he might rent a local grange hall to celebrate with friends or maybe take a kayak trip through Priest Lake’s Thoroughfare.  

For Chamberlain’s friends and hiking companions like Diane Delanoy, Chamberlain is a constant inspiration to continue getting outdoors and having adventures no matter your age. “He really does motivate me,” Delanoy says. “If there’s a backpack or a hike and my husband will say, do you want to go? It’s like, nah, I don’t know. But if Chamberlain’s going, I want to go. Because if he can do it, I can do it. Plus, he always brings the fun.” 

As for Chamberlain’s advice to younger hikers? “Just keep going,” he says. “Do your yoga, do your daily exercises, walk every day. You never quit. You just can’t quit.” 

Chris Maccini is a writer and audio producer based in Spokane. This winter, you can find him on the ski slopes and cross-country trails of Mount Spokane. 

The post At 89, Spokane’s Galen Chamberlain Completes the “100 Hikes” Challenge appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Twin Eagles

In a world increasingly dominated by screens, schedules and artificial stimulation, something essential is slipping through our children’s fingers. Kids today are growing up without deep connection—to the Earth, to others and to themselves. At Twin Eagles Wilderness School, we’re here to change that.  

Our summer camps offer more than just outdoor fun. Rooted in the ancient art of nature-based mentoring, we guide kids into meaningful experiences that awaken their senses, challenge their edges and nurture their spirits. Whether it’s the spark of lighting their first fire by friction, the quiet pride of carving a spoon from wood or the thrill of moving silently through the forest like a fox, our campers are invited into a deeper way of being.  

At our Wilderness Survival Day Camp and in Emerging Wild Leaders, kids dive into hands-on skills like shelter-building, knife safety, foraging and wildlife tracking. But what truly sets Twin Eagles apart is our mentoring. Our experienced guides walk alongside youth with care and curiosity, helping them grow in confidence, creativity, leadership and resilience. We foster not just competence, but a sense of connection and wonder. Over time, something begins to shift. Children return home standing taller, more rooted and alive, carrying the wild in the way they see, listen and move through the world.  

This summer, give your child the gift of real wilderness—a journey that lives both on the land and within. Learn more about Sandpoint, Idaho-based Twin Eagles Wilderness School and register at Twineagles.org.  

Sponsored

The post Why Real Wilderness Still Matters for Kids   appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Jon Jonckers

Long days, cool waters and mountain trails—summer in the Inland Northwest is pure magic. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or searching for serenity, you’ll find the right outdoor adventure to match your mood in this year’s roundup of summer adventure ideas.

 

Tube or Paddle the Lower Spokane River 
Nothing beats floating the Spokane River on an inflatable tube on a toasty summer day. The water is cool and the rapids are relatively tame on a float from Peaceful Valley downstream from downtown to the take out at T.J. Meenach Bridge, which avoids expert-only rapids farther down river (life jackets required). 

Local river guide and outfitter FLOW Adventures makes this classic Spokane float even easier and more enjoyable with tube rentals and a shuttle service. FLOW also rents cooler tubes for keeping your lunch and refreshments cold. Take your time to stop to look for crawdads, chill on a beach and soak up the slow summer pace of our beautiful urban river. 

Visit the Historic Kettle Falls Historical Center 
Learn about the fur trade and Native American history at the Kettle Falls Historical Center. The area, once a major trading hub, offers exhibits and a rich history of both settlers and Native Americans that gives insight into the area’s past. It’s a great way to experience both history and natural beauty in one spot. The nearby Sherman Creek Wildlife Area offers several hiking trail options to make this a history and hiking trip. 

Ride a Section of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes 
Spanning 73 miles through Idaho’s Silver Valley, the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a flat, paved trail with many trailheads to plan a ride of whatever distance your group is up for. This incredible trail includes options for swimming in Lake Coeur d’Alene on the public beach in Harrison, grabbing a bite to eat in one of several towns and viewing wildlife along the trail.  

Explore the Ross Creek Cedars 
Take a walk through one of the few remaining old-growth cedar forests in the region. Located in Montana’s Cabinet Mountains, the towering trees are a wonder to experience up close. A short loop takes hikers past informative signs where you can learn about the role old-growth forests play in the natural world. 

Raft the Clark Fork River 
The Clark Fork River offers thrilling Class III rapids only a couple of hours from Spokane, making it a perfect adrenaline-packed day on the water. Experienced rafters with their own gear should definitely get to know this Class II and III whitewater run through stunning canyons. If you aren’t set up for rafting on your own, book a guided trip with ROW Adventures to safely experience this wild and incredibly scenic whitewater. Guides will share their knowledge about the river canyon and wildlife and find the best swimming spots to cool off between rapids.  

Hunt for Real Fossils at Stonerose Fossil Site in Republic, WA 
The Stonerose Interpretive Center and Eocene Fossil Site allows visitors to split rocks and search for fossils while learning about the prehistoric past of the region. The site is rich in ancient plant fossils, making it a great destination for geology lovers and families alike. Dig your own fossils, explore the interpretive center, and discover the ancient history that shaped the land. Don’t miss the free interpretive center where you can learn all about the fossils you’ll be searching for. 

Try Mountain Biking at Riverside State Park 
Riverside State Park near downtown Spokane offers a wide range of mountain biking trails for riders of all abilities and is one of the most beginner-friendly trail systems in the Inland Northwest. The forgiving trails are perfect for trying mountain biking for the first time or getting kids introduced to singletrack riding. Trails wind for miles through pine forests and along the Spokane River and basalt cliffsides with plenty of mostly-flat trails that take it easy on lungs and legs.  

Go Fishing at Fish Lake Regional Park 
If you live near downtown Spokane, Fish Lake Regional Park near Cheney is a quiet, quick fishing getaway. Only electric boat motors are allowed, which lends to the peaceful vibe on the water that makes this 43-acre lake popular with paddlers and small boats. Landlubbers also have plenty of shoreline to explore while fishing for brook, tiger and rainbow trout among other species. The paved Columbia Plateau Trail passes above the lake and, with the exception of a several mile trail gap between the lake and Spokane, the Fish Lake Trail provides a scenic, paved option for biking to the lake for your angling outing.  

Kayak the Little Spokane River 
The Little Spokane River, known for its calm waters and largely wild shoreline, is a peaceful paddling option for kayakers and paddle boarders, especially since floating the river in tubes as well as swimming and consuming alcohol are not allowed. Paddle through the serene landscape, passing by acres of conservation and park lands that moose, elk, deer and other wildlife call home. It’s a great way to connect with nature and slow down summer. Simplify your float by taking advantage of the Spokane Parks and Recreation river shuttle. 

Learn about Downtown Spokane History on a Walking Tour 
Step back in time with a guided walking tour of some of Spokane’s little-known history and other hidden sites with Wander Spokane. Choose from different themed tours and discover the city’s rich history and beautiful trails and urban wild areas. From historic buildings to significant landmarks, tours offer a deeper understanding of Spokane’s heritage with some tours making stops at craft eateries, breweries and wine-tasting spots.  

Hike the Dishman Hills in Spokane Valley 
Choose from an extensive network of trails that lead hikers through diverse ecosystems, including ponds and wetlands, forests and grasslands. It’s an easy in-town option for a full-day hike with a picnic, or short evening or morning loop hike suitable for all abilities and ages. The area’s tranquility and beauty on the edge of the city makes a hike here feel like a wilderness experience without the long drive. The Dishman Hills Conservancy hosts regular guided hikes and other events where you can learn about this incredible urban wildland. 

Bike the Columbia Plateau Trail 
The full length of the Columbia Plateau Trail stretches 130 miles from Pasco to Cheney, offering scenic views of the surrounding channeled scablands past lakes, wetlands, forests and grasslands. Start your ride in Cheney for an out-and-back pedal, passing through a portion of Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, or arrange a shuttle from one of several trailheads to see more of this crushed-rock rail trail. Time your ride in the morning or evening for the best chance at viewing birds and other wildlife including moose and elk.  

Bike the Route of the Hiawatha  
A must-ride route that should be on everyone’s bucket list, the 15-mile Route of the Hiawatha near Lookout Pass passes through tunnels and over trestle bridges in Idaho’s Bitterroot Mountains. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and interpretive signs to learn about the history of the trail and nearby communities. It’s also a relatively easy ride with a shuttle option, making it suitable for families and groups of mixed fitness and physical ability. Trail passes are required for the Hiawatha and can be purchased online with shuttles or at Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area, where you can also rent bikes and other gear for the ride. Headlamps required.  

Pedal the Rails on a RailRider Tour 
This unique and active tour involves pedaling retired railroad tracks on a railbike near Metaline Falls in Northeast Washington. Travel through scenic areas that were once only traversed by trains. Tours typically sell out in the summer months, so plan ahead or book a fall trip. 

Go Birdwatching at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge 
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge near Cheney is a prime spot for birdwatching, with diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife. In the summer months, many birds can be observed near ponds and lakes on the 17,000-acre refuge. There are several short trails and wildlife viewing areas along the auto-tour loop with signage. 

Explore the Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge Auto-Tour Loop 
The Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge near Colville, Wash., has a 10-mile auto-tour loop that tours through diverse forest habitats. Drive or bike the loop with stops for short hikes and to read the interpretive signs. Morning and evening outings are best for wildlife viewing. There are some excellent riverside campsites too. Gravel bikers and bikepackers can connect additional forest roads for longer day rides or bikepacking adventures. 

Rent a Kayak, Sailboat, or Paddleboard on Lake Coeur d’Alene 
Rent the paddle craft of your choice right on the beach from the North Idaho College-run Sunspot at Ya-Keehn-Um Beach in Coeur d’Alene. Paddle along the lakeshore for a unique view of downtown Coeur d’Alene or explore the waters where the lake and Spokane River meet.  

Bike the Kettle River Heritage Trail in Grand Forks, B.C. 
This super scenic 17k trail just north of the border from Washington follows the path of a historic railroad between Grand Forks and Christina Lake. The rustic crushed rock trail passes through forest and grassland, including the Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park. Bring your swim suit for a dip or two in the Kettle River. Be sure to check out the spectacular Cascade Gorge Falls near Christina Lake as part of your trip. 

Kayak the Coeur d’Alene River Chain Lakes  

Paddle through a series of interconnected lakes with a good chance of seeing moose and many types of birds. Launch in Harrison, Idaho, and explore multiple connected lakes along the Coeur d’Alene River. 

Stargaze at Steptoe Butte State Park 

Rising nearly 1,000 feet above the rolling Palouse hills, stargazing in the Inland Northwest doesn’t get much better than Steptoe Butte. Drive to the summit at dusk, spread out a blanket and witness the Milky Way spread across the dark sky. The minimal light pollution and 360-degree views make this one of the region’s premier stargazing locations, especially during meteor showers. 

Rock Climb, Paddle or Swim at Q’emiln Park in Post Falls 

Q’emiln Park offers over 40 established rock-climbing routes on its quality granite walls. With options for beginners to experienced climbers, the park provides a perfect introduction to outdoor climbing in a beautiful setting along the Spokane River. After your climb, or if you don’t rock climb, cool off with a swim at the park’s beach or launch your paddleboard or kayak for a serene paddle on the still waters of this section of the Spokane River behind Post Falls Dam. Bring your bike and pedal across the bridge into town for a craft beer or bite to eat in downtown Post Falls. 

Stand-Up Paddleboard on Medical Lake 

Just west of Spokane, Medical Lake provides a perfect setting for stand-up paddleboarding with its calm waters and no-wake policy. The lake’s compact size makes it ideal for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore the entire perimeter. Early morning paddling offers the best chance to see local wildlife and enjoy glassy water conditions. 

Hike or Mountain Bike the Trails at 4th of July Pass Near Coeur d’Alene 

Located between Coeur d’Alene and Kellogg right off of I-90, this mellow trail system includes miles of rolling trails on decommissioned forest roads that are used for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. A great option for families or those looking for a close-to-town forest escape.   

Explore the Sullivan Lake Trail 

Sullivan Lake near Metaline Falls, Wash., offers a gorgeous 8.2-mile round-trip trail along the east side of the mostly undeveloped lake in the Colville National Forest. The lake is clean, clear and great for swimming at a few spots along the trail and at the campground beaches at both ends of the trail.  

Go for a Gravel Ride in the Channeled Scablands  

Explore the unique landscape of the channeled scablands on hundreds of miles of gravel roads southwest of Spokane. These quiet, lightly traveled backroads wind through dramatic coulees, past pothole lakes and across rolling farm and ranch lands. Create your own route linking up sections of gravel road with paved-road stretches by starting in Spokane for a longer ride or the college town of Cheney for more manageable options.  

Go Geocaching in Riverside State Park 

Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt in one of Washington’s largest state parks. There are plenty of geocaches hidden in Riverside to keep you busy searching using GPS coordinates. This family-friendly activity combines hiking with problem-solving and can be tailored to any fitness level, from short walks to longer day-hikes. Get started at Geocaching.com. 

Bike the Old Spiral Highway Near Lewiston, Idaho 

Experience a cycling challenge with spectacular views on the Old Spiral Highway near Lewiston, Idaho. This historic road climbs 2,000 feet via dozens of curves and switchbacks, offering increasingly panoramic vistas of the Snake River and surrounding landscape. The 7.3-mile ascent is a favorite among local cyclists looking to test their climbing legs. 

Canoe or Kayak the Lower Pack River 

This section of the Pack River near Sandpoint in the summer is a gentle float suitable for beginners and families. Expect a peaceful paddle through forest and wetlands with frequent wildlife encounters. The slow current and multiple access points make it easy to plan trips of various lengths. 

Go Gold Panning  
This summer, try your luck at recreational gold panning in North Idaho. Pick up a basic gold pan and classifier to screen out large rocks and grab a shovel. No permit is needed for most public lands, but always check current rules and avoid disturbing sensitive aquatic areas. A great option is the privately-owned Eagle City Park gold panning area near Wallace, Idaho. A fee is required to pan this former gold mining hotspot.  

Challenge Yourself on Mica Moon’s Aerial Park 

If you’re craving a treetop thrill, Mica Moon’s aerial park tucked in the mountains near Liberty Lake, Wash., is packed with swinging bridges, balance lines, and ninja-style elements to test your balance and agility. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure course perfect for families and groups of friends. Mica Moon also offers tours on its nine ziplines. 

RV Camp Where It’s Truly Wild 

Tucked into the quiet wilds of Northeast Washington, the Wilds RV Campground is where solitude seekers and outdoor lovers find their sweet spot. This remote private campground offers dispersed-style RV and campervan sites, meaning no shoulder-to-shoulder parking—so you can enjoy the stars and the sounds of the forest. Basecamp here for day trips to nearby Colville National Forest trails and lakes.  

Ride Silver Mountain Bike Park 
Silver Mountain Bike Park turns gravity into your best friend. Load your bike on the gondola, climb 3,400 feet without breaking a sweat, then drop into over 30 miles of trails ranging from beginner-friendly green trails to rooty, rowdy blues and blacks with plenty of jumps and features to challenge yourself.  

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride and a Hike at Silver Mountain 

The gondola at Silver Mountain Resort is North America’s longest, floating you quietly above the trees and canyons for expansive views of Idaho’s Silver Valley. At the top, stretch your legs with a high-country hike and hunt for huckleberries.  
 

The post 100+ Summer Adventures  appeared first on Out There Venture.

One of the most incredible things about living in the Spokane area is the diversity of public lands, trails and wildlife habitat around the city that have been preserved for the future. One of the largest and closest of those urban wild areas—the Dishman Hills—offers miles of trails and a wilderness-like escape from our busy everyday lives, just minutes from downtown Spokane and Spokane Valley. This summer, prioritize some time getting to know this special place on your own or on a group hike or other event hosted by the natural area’s local grassroots advocate, the Dishman Hills Conservancy.

Click here or scroll down for the list of upcoming DHC summer events!

A Natural Haven Within City Limits

Rising up from the valley between the South Hill and Spokane Valley, the Dishman Hills Natural Area offers forest-covered hills and mountain-top views with dramatic basalt cliffs, streams and ponds that serve as a sanctuary for diverse bird and wildlife species, and miles of serene, flowy trails. Spanning over 3,200 acres, these protected public lands are jointly managed by the Dishman Hills Conservancy (DHC), Spokane County Parks and the Washington Department of Natural Resources.

This extensive urban wild area is made up of three distinct zones of public land: Dishman Hills Natural Area, Glenrose and Iller Creek. Together they feature over 20 miles of trails and multiple trailheads with many trails open to both hikers and mountain bikers and others designated for hiking or trail running only. With options ranging from peaceful strolls to challenging climbs, the Dishman Hills offers an urban escape for everyone from Strava-tracking mountain bikers to solitary bird watchers and strolling families.

Much of the lands people refer to as “the Dishman Hills” or “Iller Creek” are protected from development and open to the public, but there are also numerous privately-owned homes and undeveloped parcels throughout the area. This means trail users need to take care to stay on designated public trails and avoid trespassing on private lands. This mix of land ownerships is also a reminder of the ongoing opportunities for future generations of hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners and rock climbers like you to not only explore and appreciate the Dishman Hills but also support the efforts of the non-profit Dishman Hills Conservancy to work with willing private land owners to protect additional properties for wildlife and future public access. Collaboration and public involvement are key to connecting and preserving enough of the Hills for wildlife and future generations.

Discover Nature’s Diversity

Dishman Hills is a local treasure trove of wildlife and natural wonder. The Iller Creek Conservation Area alone supports over 200 species of birds, insects, snakes, amphibians and mammals. This unique wildlife diversity means easy access to view a range of wildlife from porcupines, deer and raptors such as eagles and hawks to larger animals like elk, black bear and moose, a rare experience so close to a city.

The plant life is equally diverse. In the spring and early summer, wildflowers and blooming shrubs like arrowleaf balsamroot, shooting star, serviceberry and syringa paint the hillsides. This ecological richness makes the Dishman Hills both a peaceful retreat and an outdoor classroom where you can learn about native plants and ecosystems.

Protecting the Dishman Hills for Future Generations

The wild forests and trails we all benefit from today wouldn’t exist without the efforts of local residents who were passionate about protecting this unique place. Many of them joined together to create the Dishman Hills Conservancy—Washington State’s oldest land trust—which was founded in 1966 to permanently protect the Dishman Hills and connect people to nature through conservation, education and outdoor recreation. Today, that work is more relevant and important than ever as the Spokane area grows and urban development increasingly replaces once-wild natural areas and encroaches on protected areas.

Photo: Joan Rodman

Hike, Learn & Connect with the Dishman Hills Conservancy this Summer

This summer DHC is offering group hikes and other events designed to help you get to know the Dishman Hills. Outings are welcoming to newcomers, engaging for families and are an opportunity for you to deepen your connection with nature and like-minded outdoor enthusiasts. Get out for some exercise and fresh air while exploring and learning about this special place and the important conservation work of the Dishman Hills Conservancy.

Summer 2025 Dishman Hills Events & Outings:

All events and outings are open to the public but pre-registration is often required. Check out the DHC events page for current event info and to register here: Dishmanhills.org/Events

Open House in the Hills
Saturday, August 9, 9 AM-12 PM
Come learn about the Dishman Hills and the important conservation work of the Dishman Hills Conservancy while meeting other like-minded hikers and nature lovers.

Cougars, Bears, and Moose, Oh My!
Thursday, August 21, 6-7:30 PM
Join DHC at the Spokane Valley Library for a presentation from local wildlife biologist Matt Brinkman. Learn how to stay safe around wildlife like moose, cougars and bears while exploring the areas we share with them. Brinkman will show a slide presentation covering the behavior of cougars, bears, and moose and will also have some skulls, scat models and pelts to show. After the presentation, don’t miss a bear spray demonstration outside.  

Dishman Hills Conservancy Meet-up at Steady Flow Growler House
Saturday, August 23, 12-6 PM
Stop by Steady Flow Growler House in Spokane Valley to learn about the latest developments with Dishman Hills Conservancy.

Wild at Heart Fundraiser Dinner
Saturday, September 27
Save the date for the Dishman Hills Conservancy’s annual fundraiser dinner at Center Place Event Center in Spokane Valley! Enjoy a great meal, hear about the latest developments with DHC, meet other members and supports, and listen to guest speaker Rob Curley, editor of The Spokesman Review.

How to Get Involved with the Dishman Hills Conservancy

The future of the Dishman Hills and work of the Dishman Hills Conservancy depends on the next generation to get involved. There are many opportunities to to be a part of DHC’s work that includes land acquisition, trail construction and maintenance, habitat restoration and putting on educational programs like Kids in the Hills, which introduces local youth to ecology and outdoor discovery.

Getting involved is easy—and meaningful. Here’s how you can make a difference:

• Become a Member: A $50 annual donation gets you member benefits, including newsletters, special event invites and the satisfaction that you’re helping protect a cherished community natural area.

• Volunteer Your Time: Trail work, event support, and educational outreach all need helping hands. Whether it’s a one-time effort or a long-term commitment, your time goes a long way.

• Stay in the Loop: Sign up for DHC email newsletter and follow along on social media to stay informed about new trail openings, events and conservation successes.

Dishman Hills is more than just a beautiful place to hike. It’s a powerful example of how communities can come together to protect nature close to home. Lace up your boots or biking shoes and take a walk or ride in Spokane’s urban wilds. Then become a DHC member, attend an event or sign up to volunteer. The Dishman Hills Conservancy has made it easy to fall in love with this special place—and to help protect it for future generations.

The post Explore the Dishman Hills Summer 2025—Spokane’s Urban Wilds appeared first on Out There Venture.

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. 

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

Sponsored

The post Worth the Journey: Northeast Oregon’s “Alps”   appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of ROW Adventures

There’s nothing like a multi-day wilderness river rafting trip for unwinding from the stress of our daily lives and re-connecting with nature, but such trips are a big time commitment that won’t always work out with busy summer schedules. Fortunately, Montana’s Clark Fork River, just over two hours from Spokane, offers a day trip version of longer rafting adventures with the same whitewater thrills and serenity of floating through wild, beautiful landscapes. 

Named after William Clark of the Lewis & Clark expedition, the Clark Fork, which begins in the Rocky Mountains near Butte, Mont., eventually makes its way west to its terminus at Lake Pend Oreille. The Alberton Gorge section of the Clark Fork offers up a fun, family-friendly ride with roller coaster waves and intermediate (Class II-III) rapids. In between the frequent splashy rapids with names like Boat Eater, Fang, Cliffside, and Tumbleweed, there’s plenty of time to soak up the summer sun and swim in the calmer stretches or just kick back and relax while contemplating the river slowly passing by. While the Clark Fork remains accessible along much of I-90, most of the trip floats between deep canyon walls with towering, multi-colored cliffs that offer peace and solitude. This escape gives rafters the feeling of being far removed from the worries and responsibilities they may have back home. 

Local outfitter ROW Adventures offers one-day whitewater rafting trips down the Clark Fork River from July through September. In the summer months the river temperature is warm and idyllic for swimming, the rapids are at peak fun levels, and the weather is often sunny and hot, all making for an inviting day on the river. ROW’s trips meet and end at Superior, Mont., right off of I-90, and the downriver journey typically takes place in 13-foot paddle rafts where the passengers get to help propel the craft by paddling, per the guide’s instructions, through the rapids.  

Since the river carves its way through the mountainous country of western Montana, the surrounding forests are as beautiful as you’d expect, and sightings of many species of birds and other wildlife are likely and range from osprey and eagles to deer and other critters. Once you’re off the river, your sun-kissed, river-rocked body will feel lighter and more relaxed than before. Don’t be surprised to feel “Zenned-out” on the short drive back home that evening. A day on the Clark Fork with friends or family will be one of the highlights of your summer! Call 208-770-2517 to book a trip or visit Rowadventures.com for more info.

The post Close-to-Home Rafting on the Clark Fork  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Free Outdoor Entertainment 

• Chelan-Douglas Land Trust is hosting a free Hike for Health series each month throughout the year. The mid-summer outings are at Chelan River Trail on July 20 and Stormy Creek Preserve on Aug. 17. For each event, participants can choose between a guided interpretive walk or a self-guided hike and will receive a ticket for a raffle drawing for health-centered prizes. 
• Aug. 4 is the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, a fee-free day for entry to all National Parks. 
• Start indoors on Aug. 17 with a showing of the film The Big Burn at the Rex Theatre in Thompson Falls to mark the 114th anniversary of the 1910 wildfires, then follow it up with a hike on the Pulaski Trail outside Wallace on Aug. 18 with Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness. Friends of Scotchman Peaks will be offering several other free summer outings in July and August, ranging from foraging to family camping to strenuous backpack trips.  

Fundraisers 

• Okanogan Highlands Alliance will be hosting their annual Get Lost trail race and camping weekend July 6-7. Enjoy beautiful Lost Lake and learn more about OHA on Saturday, then lace up for Sunday’s trail race with distance options of 3, 7 or 10 miles. 
• Support Kaniksu Land Trust’s Pine Street Woods in Sandpoint at “In a Landscape — Classical Music in the Wild” the evening of Monday, July 29. Pianist Hunter Noack will play a grand piano, and the audience is encouraged to wander through Pine Street Woods while listening via wireless headphones. Tickets are $40. 

Conservation, Stewardship & Volunteer Opportunities 

• American Hiking Society is hosting a week-long volunteer vacation in the Hurricane Creek drainage of the Eagle Cap Wilderness, Aug. 10-17. Due to grant funding for this project, there is a reduced registration fee of $250 for this pack-supported backpack trip with meals and snacks provided by AHS. 
• Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance will be hosting a volunteer work party at Jungle Hill near the Kettle Crest on July 20-21 as a portion of their Kettle Fest event. 
• Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness will be leading several trail work projects throughout the summer, including work on their namesake trail on July 13 and an overnight trip to Star Gulch July 27-28. 
• Hells Canyon Recreation Collaborative and Idaho Trails Association will be partnering for a project at the historic Kirkwood Ranch in Hells Canyon on July 15-17. Volunteers will receive jetboat transportation to and from the project location each day, along with materials that need to be staged for a bridge replacement project. The work will consist of helping move materials closer to the project site.  
• Idaho Trail Association has a full summer schedule, with highlights including a Fault Lake daytrip on July 13, multi-day offerings like their Pend Oreille Divide project Aug. 15-18, and week-long adventures like their project at Heart Lake in the Mallard Larkin Pioneer Area from Aug. 4-10. See their website for the full list.  
• Pacific Northwest Trail Association will add trail maintenance projects to the volunteer calendar throughout the summer, including unique opportunities to help pack in supplies for backcountry professional trail crews. One such opportunity is in support of the Whistler Canyon crew on Aug. 10-11. Traditional trail work events will also be available. 
• Wallowa Mountains—Hells Canyon Trails Association will be moving trail projects to the high country for the summer season, including projects at North Fork Catherine Creek July 14-18 and North Minam Meadows Aug. 2-6.  
• Washington Trails Association will be hosting Spokane-area daytrip projects at Mica Peak and Mount Spokane throughout the summer months, as well as backpacking trips including the Salmo Loop Aug. 1-4 and the Shedroof Divide at Shedroof Mountain Aug. 16-19.  

The post Inland NW Trail & Outdoor News  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Emerson was my first companion. An all-white Siberian husky—a dog breed I specifically chose for its high energy and athletic endurance—Emerson came into my life at a pivotal time. I was 24 years old, recovering from heartbreak, and had read that having a pet decreased stress and one’s risk of depression. I also wanted a running partner.  

Although research hasn’t proven that pet ownership prevents anxiety and depression, studies have shown that dog owners are more physically active. More exercise and time spent outdoors improves mental health. Emerson became my outdoor buddy not only for long-distance running, but also for hiking and mountain biking. With an always-ready, enthusiastic recreation companion, I was motivated to get out there no matter the weather. Emerson inspired confidence, a sense of protection, and kept me company on every run, even the 16- and 20-milers while I was marathon training.  

When Emerson was four years old, he moved with me from the Seattle area to Spokane. Everywhere I went outdoors, Emerson came along, from backpacking in Oregon’s Eagle Cap Wilderness to biking along the Centennial Trail. Through grad school and early married life, he was a faithful companion, despite his mischievous tendencies and stressful situations that became funny stories. 

When Emerson was almost nine years old, my husband, Judd, and I adopted another all-white husky. Kenai energized old Emerson. With two outdoor buddies, we prioritized recreation and adventure travel where our dogs could come along. Naturally happy and calm, they helped me through hard times. And while huskies are confidently independent, Kenai was especially attuned to my emotions—and wasn’t an escape-artist like Emerson. 

A couple of years later, babies started joining our family pack. As Emerson approached his 13^th birthday, his health quickly declined. This was my first experience making the dreaded decision. I worked through my grief while staying busy with mothering and caring for Kenai, then three. Especially heartbroken, Kenai would howl when left alone at home; thereafter, she came with us wherever dogs were allowed.  

Kenai became my companion for everything outdoors: walking kids to school, sledding and snowshoeing, following me around while I gardened, going on hikes and long walks around the neighborhood. Inside, she always laid by my feet while I worked on my writing; overnight she slept in the kids’ bedrooms. Kenai loved camping. Even though she wasn’t a natural “water dog,” she did not like being left behind while I was paddleboarding or kayaking. It was doable because she was petite, weighed only 40 pounds, and wore a doggy lifejacket. 

Too soon, my kids grew into tweens and Kenai, now deaf, was becoming increasingly frail due to an inoperable lipoma on her hip. There was no way to protect my kids from the most horrible day of their young lives. Witnessing their grief compounded my own. I felt gutted. My children had never lived without a dog; I had never lived without one in Spokane. After nearly 15 years together, Kenai’s absence was disorientating, an inconsolable ache, as if my compass was gone. Throughout all the ups and downs of marriage, pregnancy, parenthood, and my outdoor adventures, Kenai was there.  

As the family dog, she was our constant common bond, despite diverging interests and activity schedules as the kids grew older and more independent. Kenai’s affection and unconditional love was a daily source of joy and reassurance for each of us. Our devotion to Kenai kept us connected; giving her the best life was our shared purpose.  

“Once you have had a wonderful dog, a life without one is a life diminished,” wrote Dean Koontz. Which explains why we felt out of sorts without Kenai, fractured by the emotional and mental fallout. It was as if her death broke the family. My husband and I, especially, couldn’t imagine loving another dog as much as her.  

Without a dog, heartbroken from loss, I wasn’t compelled to spend time in my backyard. After 23 years as a “dog mom,” I felt adrift. Long gone were my daily walks with Kenai, but I was also missing all the subtle ways that backyard time, my nature sanctuary—even just being among the trees—stimulated my senses and enhanced my mood. I didn’t realize how much of the everyday outdoors I had been missing without a dog until I stepped out my back door and into deep snow that first dog-less winter.  

More than a year later, opportunity and timing aligned this past February for us to adopt an 8-week-old puppy—a mini-Australian shepherd and Labrador mix, aka an Aussiedor. Layla is cuddly, affectionate, whimsically playful, smart, and occasionally feisty, yet easy to train. My teens are learning new levels of responsibility, selflessness and cooperation by raising a puppy—they have a new shared purpose. There is way less angst and a lot more laughter with a family dog. Layla makes them act like little kids again. And we’re all getting outside with renewed purpose.  

A year without a pet revealed that my outdoorsy life is best lived with a dog by my side. Being a dog-mom boosts and sustains my emotional and mental well-being. Once again, I spend hours upon hours in my backyard—playing with Layla, supervising her, and simply being there as she explores. 

As a family, we’re also spending more time together because of Layla. Whether playing with her on the grass, throwing balls, running around trees, or lounging in our hammock and chairs on sunny days. This summer, Layla will come along everywhere we go outdoors: on hiking trails, camping trips, and lake days.  

Never truer is what my favorite poet (and fellow dog-lover) Mary Oliver proclaimed: “Because of the dog’s joyfulness, our own is increased. It is no small gift . . . what would the world be like without music or rivers or the green and tender grass? What would the world be like without dogs?”  

For my world to be most wonderful, I need nature, outdoor recreation, and daily walks—each best shared with a four-legged companion.  

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Amy McCaffree is a senior writer for Out There and has been contributing to this magazine for more than 18 years. Find her on Instagram and see videos and photos of her dogs @adventure_amy_spokane. 

The post The Dogs Who Helped Me Love the Outdoors appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Jean Arthur

By the time my family and I finished snowshoeing around Mammoth Terraces in Yellowstone National Park, we’d tromped 1.5 miles, observed colorful formations like Orange Spring Mound and Angel Terrace, and laughed at our kids’ descriptions of the park’s famous thermal features exuding sulphureous belches.

“Eww. Dad. Do you have to do that here,” jokes my son, who’s well-versed in Yellowstone’s thermal world. The rotten-egg malodor derives from solfataras, hydrogen sulfide gas, chemical reactions where the pH below “1” can dissolve the soles of snowshoes, so acidic it is. Add heat, and Yellowstone provides habitat for thermoacidophiles—acid- and heat-loving microbes.

At Mammoth Terraces, the 200+ degree water dissolves limestone and forms glistening white calcium carbonate, travertine. Here, buffalo roam. Elk bugle. Bears sleep. Wolves howl. We adventure.

Back in the truck, parked along the Mammoth-to-Norris Road, the heater blasts, and our toes and noses defrost. The frigid mist from the evaporating thermal springs flock our mittens and hats with lovely crystals. Here at the Upper Terrace area, the road closes to automobiles for winter and opens to snowcoaches, over-the-snow tracked vehicles that shuttle visitors to backcountry trailheads and on to Old Faithful, our next trip.

Through the steam, we see a bull bison using his massive head to shovel snow aside as he searches for grasses in subnivean hibernation. While we worry that the 2,000-pound vegetarian might starve, we learn from the Visitor Center’s rangers that the ungulates, bison, elk, deer and pronghorn, evolved to survive on few calories in winter despite minus-20-degree days and even colder nights.

Elk wander the Lower Terrace area between the 37-foot-tall Liberty Cap formation, which resembles a torpedo—the kids add less savory descriptions—and the Mammoth Hot Spring Historic District. We tumble into the elegant Mammoth Hotel lobby where a roaring fire, pianist on the baby grand, and coffee shop warm hands and hearts. The hearty hot chocolate helps. Winter is a magical place for Yellowstone visitors.

Trail Etiquette and How to Explore the Park

Access to America’s first national park, established in 1872, includes a handful of snowshoe trailheads, one interior open road, and snowcoach routes, which are excellent options. Day excursions lead from cozy and elegant lodgings where après treks include crackling fires, hot or cold refreshments, and local lore.

The Gardiner and Mammoth area’s lodgings and libations offer an excellent launch for winter trips because the road from Gardiner, Mont., to Mammoth and on to Cooke City, Mont., is plowed. On other visits, we’ve skied and snowshoed the challenging 8-mile Blacktail Plateau Trail, the 2.5-mile easy Tower Falls out-and-back route, and the easy 3.5-mile Barronette Trail near Cooke City. Blacktail Plateau and Barronette trails have two trailheads and can be snowshoed one way if a group has a two-vehicle shuttle.

Trail etiquette includes giving right of way to the uphill traveler when encountering oncoming snowshoers, allowing speedier travelers to pass by stepping to trail’s side, and never snowshoeing on the skier track, which damages the trail for skiers. And, of course: leave no trace, only tracks.

Trails vary with challenges, from elevation (above 7,000 feet) to skill, wildlife hazards and limited daylight. (At winter solstice, sun sets just after 4 p.m.) Other than Gardiner lodgings, restaurants and outfitters; the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel; and Mammoth General Store and Bear Den Ski Shop where we rented snowshoes, no services exist in winter for 50 miles. Eastward on the Grand Loop Road to the Northeast Entrance at Cooke City, lodgings, eateries and gift shops cater to winter visitors—mainly snowmobilers.

Visiting Old Faithful in Winter

Yellowstone is a curious place.

“Dad! I’ll race you to Old Faithful! Ready, set,” the kids dash ahead before my husband and I even think about trotting on snowshoes. On a spellbinding winter trip into the Old Faithful area, we ride a snowcoach from Mammoth, bumping over the snow-covered road, arriving four hours later at the world’s most famous geyser.

While several companies operate snowcoaches, we opt for the Yellowstone Park Lodges operator, which offers winter shuttles and interpreted and guided day tours to experience thermal features.

Sundogs dance their crystalline shimmer, just out of my reach, always just ahead of my family, who has left me in the powdery dust between our hotel, Old Faithful Snow Lodge, and the geyser, which rangers estimate will blast soon. Old Faithful, so named because regular eruptions gush every 35 to 120 minutes, attracts global visitors year round.

The Bear Den in Old Faithful Snow Lodge rents winter gear and sells whatever item, from hat to handwarmers, visitors neglected to bring—even ice skates for the pond outside the door. The Bear Den crew offers trail advice, guiding and even lessons.

After an excellent dinner at the lodge, we saunter out once again to witness a nighttime blast of Old Faithful by headlamp, nearly bumping into a herd of bison. We about-face and head back inside for live music and hot drinks by a roaring fire, satisfied that Old Faithful can wait til daylight. Our reward: wolves howl outside, much to visitors’—and our—delight.

Recommended West Yellowstone Trails

On other trips, we’ve lodged and supped in West Yellowstone, Mont., where we would dip into the park from our hotel.

The gentle Riverside Ski Trail departs from Boundary Street trailhead on town’s east edge. The one-mile connector cruises eastward to the Madison River and the Downriver and Upriver Trail loops. A section of Downriver Loop, on the Madison River’s bank, tromps over Barnes Hole Rd., thus wide enough to snowshoe side-by-side and avoid the ski tracks. Snowshoers can spend as long as they want among the trees, Canada geese, occasional swans and bald eagles.

While the trail roams over small hills, it only gains a few feet elevation over the 7.7-mile trail, yet West Yellowstone’s elevation at 6,664 feet may challenge lungs and fitness. Trekkers may encounter bison, elk, owls and wolves, while the big carnivores, grizzly bears and black bears, mostly nap throughout the winters. Occasionally, male bears wander outside winter dens and groggily sniff around before returning to beds in a state of torpor and not true hibernation.

The trails here are not patrolled and seldom groomed. Skier and snowshoer tracks are easy to follow, but visitors should use an app such as onX, which offers trail information both online and offline. Spotty cellphone access available in communities is generally inaccessible inside the park.

Dazzled by the sundogs—hexagonal ice crystals that form a column of spinning ice mist—we thrive in winter’s solitude. The prism refracting the sun’s rays for diamond-like sparkles in the ten-degree morning is Yellowstone’s magic. Yellowstone National Park passes are required for all visitors (www.nps.gov/yell). Find additional regional tourism information at Visityellowstonecountry.com/. //

Jean Arthur has only written one adventure story from a chairlift, yet does snowshoe and XC ski from the door of her Montana office. The second edition of her book, Top Trails: Glacier National Park, will be published spring 2024 by Wilderness Press with new photography, new trails and lots of updates from both Glacier and Waterton National Parks.

Cover photo courtesy of Jean Arthur

The post Snowshoeing Yellowstone appeared first on Out There Venture.

Go Surfing

Wake surfing is a water sport in which a rider is pulled behind a boat, riding the boat’s wake without being directly pulled by the boat. The big difference between wake surfing and water skiing is the speed. For wake surfing, the boat only goes about 8-10 MPH, unlike water skiing at 20-40 MPH. This makes it much easier for children or older adults to enjoy the sport. After getting up on the wake, you can drop the rope, and ride the wave’s peak in a fashion reminiscent of surfing. The only types of boats safe to surf behind are those with the propeller located beneath the boat rather than behind the boat. You can also try the growing sport of hydrofoil surfing on lakes.

Hike The Lake

Whether it’s an all-day hike around or up to a lake, or a short hike from your car to the beach, the idea is to get out and look around.

The Enchantments are considered one of the most beautiful and scenic wilderness areas in the Pacific Northwest and home to Inspiration Lake, Perfection Lake, and Crystal Lake, where nature has carved out an alpine paradise of granite worn smooth by glaciers.

Spirit Lake in Idaho has a relatively new hiking and biking trail system around the lake.

Dusty Lake and the Ancient Lakes, located in the Quincy Wildlife Recreation Area, are famous for their unique beauty, deep coulees, and even a waterfall, all in a desert landscape.

Lower Gospel Lake in the Gospel Hump Wilderness in Idaho’s Wind River Range has remained somewhat off the radar for hikers, it’s tough going, but you’ll be rewarded with an uncrowded lake and excellent trout fishing.

All three of these websites will help you find great hikes around lakes according to your desired location and related activities.

• The Washington Trails Association (Wta.org)
• Fat Map (Fatmap.com)
• All Trails (Alltrails.com)

Boat in for Happy Hour and Dining

There’s nothing better than pulling your boat up to the dock and hopping off for a happy hour, lunch, or dinner. Here are a few lakeside favorites worth trying.

Cedars Floating Restaurant or Tony’s on Lake Coeur d’Alene serve an array of drinks and dining options. The Cycle Haus in Harrison is also a great boat-in favorite.

The Raven on Flathead Lake in Montana is a premier spot for dockside dining.

The Floating Restaurant in Hope on Lake Pend Oreille (ID) has been a local landmark for over 35 years.

The Dock n Duck on Kootenay Lake in Balfour, BC offers great dining and comfy lodging.

The Blue Diamond Marina and Resort on Priest Lake (ID) offers lakeside lodging and The Waterfront Restaurant & Wine Bar.

Check out Dockwa.com to find marinas with dining options, just about anywhere! Dockwa.com

Explore Nature and Wildlife

There is an endless amount of wildlife to explore in the greater Inland NW. The most common animals found around lakes include fish, snakes, herons, otters, beavers, muskrats, turtles, frogs, ducks, eagles, and salamanders. However, depending on where you are, there may be more. It’s best to check websites for the National and State Park Services, Fish and Wildlife, and Fish and Game if you’re interested in exploring the wildlife on your next trip to a lake. Here are a few suggestions worth learning more about.

Potholes Reservoir, located in central Washington, is in the Columbia Basin Wildlife Area.

Wild Horse Island Unit at Flathead Lake State Park in Montana is known for its wildlife including wild horses, bighorn sheep, mule deer, eagles and falcons.

Wallowa Lake in Oregon is known for its diverse wildlife, nearby including black bears, badgers, cougars, coyotes, elk, lynx, minks, and wolverines.

Learn about Tribal Lands and Heritage

There are seven Inland NW tribes that at one time made part of their living off the bounty provided by nearby lakes. The Colville, Kalispel, and Spokane in Washington, the Kootenai, Coeur d’Alene, and Nez Pearce in Idaho, and the Flathead in Montana. Learning about the heritage, culture, and experience of Native Americans in your area is a wonderful way to learn about the contributions of the region’s first Americans.

Go Skydiving

Take the leap with Sky Dive Chelan and get a whole new perspective on the beautiful vineyards of the region around Lake Chelan. The scenic ride to altitude provides stunning views of Lake Chelan, the Cascade Mountains, and the Columbia River. After your adventure, swing by your favorite tasting room for a much-needed glass of wine!

Join A Boat Club

The Carefree Boat Club on the Spokane River in Post Falls, Idaho, is all about boating without owning. To join the club, you’ll need to pay an initial fee and annual dues. You can use just about any type of boat, all geared up for you and ready to go! They even have kayaks, jet skis, or paddle boards. You don’t have to worry about insurance, maintenance, or storage, and you can try different types of boats. You don’t have to know how to boat, because membership includes training by certified instructors.

Go Wine, Beer or Cider Tasting by the Lake

These websites will get you started in your search for places to find local wines or beers on your next lake destination. By going to local wineries or breweries you can relax, meet new friends, and grab some supplies for the rest of your trip.

Washingtonwine.org

Lakechelan.com/drink/wine-tasting

Visitidaho.org/travel-tips/how-to-tour-northern-idahos-award-winning-wine-country

Glaciermt.com/wineries

Bigskybrewscruise.com

Glacierparkcollection.com/glacier-national-park/stories/the-best-breweries-in-flathead-valley

Visitnorthidaho.com/stories/breweries

Washingtonbeerblog.com/eastern-washington-breweries

Go Fishing

There’s a song by Van Morrison that says it all, “Hands are full of a fishin’ rod, and the tackle on our backs; Yeah, we looked at the swim and we jumped right in; Oh, the water!”

Fishing in the lakes of Inland NW are some of the best fishing experiences in the world. It’s an angler’s paradise. Whether you’re lying on the bank watching them jump, learning about hatcheries, or fishing from a kayak, you can never go wrong making fishing part of your lake experience. Before you go, learn about the type of fishing you’d like to do, take lessons, get the right equipment, and study the regulations for the area. Here are links to the fish and wildlife sites. Expert tip, check out the ‘tournament section,’ for contests and cash prizes.

Wdfw.wa.gov

Idfg.idaho.gov

Fwp.mt.gov

Dfw.state.or.us

Go for a Scavenger Hunt

You can look for scavenger hunts in your area, or you can create your own. Showing your kids or grandkids that you love the outdoors will teach them to appreciate it as much as you do. Teaching them to be observant and to notice nature will carry over into other aspects of their lives. There are websites for buried treasure, ghost towns, and geocaching, or you can create your own scavenger hunt by hiding items in your boat, camp, or car and seeing who can find them based on clues provided throughout your trip.

Enjoy Live Music

If you have a guitar, harmonica, or recorder, bring it along and serenade your friends and family, or join in with the frogs. There’s nothing better than playing music while floating along in a canoe. However, you can also enjoy plenty of live music at some of these great music festivals.

• Bluewaters Bluegrass Festival on Medical Lake (Bluewatersbluegrass.org)
• Kaslo Jazz fest on Kootenay Lake (Kaslojazzfest.com)
• Bands on Boats Coeur d’Alene Lake (Cdacruises.com/bands-on-boats)
• Under the Big Sky Fest, MT (Underthebigskyfest.com)
• Whitefish Songwriter’s Festival, MT (Whitefishsongwriterfestival.org)
• Sunbanks Rhythm & Blues Festival, Grand Coulee (Sunbanksfestival.com)

Participate in Lake Clean-up Days

It’s always important to clean things up and leave everything as you found it, but a great way to do your part and teach your children the importance of keeping our natural surroundings beautiful is to participate in a volunteer clean-up day. All the lakes have them. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Flathead Lake Flathead Waters Clean Up
• Stewards of Wallowa Lake Clean Up
• Lake Pend Oreille Clean Up Day
• Priest Lake Spring Clean Up

Discover a Lake Monster

In McCall, Idaho, there’s a lake monster known as “Sharlie.” The Native Americans were said to fear the calm, seemingly bottomless waters of the Big Payette Lake and told stories of an evil spirit that lurked in its hidden depths.

Sightings report a creature at least 35 feet long, with a dinosaur-type head, pronounced jaw, humps like a camel, and shell-like skin. The infamous monster has been supposedly seen many times, and in 1954 McCall residents had a contest to name the monster, now fondly known as Sharlie.

See Fireworks on the Water (16)

Many of the lakes have firework displays on the 4^th of July, but here are some of the biggest ones.

• Lake Chelan’s Rockin Fireworks Display
• Festival of America at Grand Coulee
• Lake Couer d’Alene has the largest Fourth of July celebration in northern Idaho
• The Fourth of July Mountain Music Fest on Payette Lake in McCall

Go Ziplining

Soaring along the treeline is an exciting way to see the lake and the beauty that surrounds it! Here are some thrilling, action-packed zipline tours to explore.

• The zipline tour at Tamarack Resort at McCall Lake includes eight zip lines and two suspension bridges. (Tamarack, Idaho.)
• Experience the feeling of flight while overlooking the sparkling Columbia River from the high mountain cliffs at Tunnel Zip Lines, Castle Vineyards (Lake Chelan, Wash.)
• Mica Moon Zip Tours include the thrills of ziplining while visiting old moonshine camps. (Liberty Lake, Wash.)
• Soar high above the trees with views of the lake while you zipline or explore the sky bridge and treehouse ad Timberline Adventures (Coeur d’Alene, Idaho).
• Soar hundreds of feet above the trees on Montana’s longest zipline tour with views of Glacier National Park. (Whitefish, Mont.)

Do the Chain Lakes

Coeur d’Alene River Chain Lakes are made up of ten small lakes. Anderson Lake is about 1,183 acres and holds the state record for the biggest largemouth bass; Thompson Lake is one of the smallest chain lakes at 380 acres; Blue Lake and Swan are only accessible by boat; Cave Lake is the largest at 1,640 acres and includes caves; Medicine Lake features several undeveloped camping spots; Killarney Lake includes Popcorn Island; Bull Run Lake is small and marshy; and Rose Lake is a quiet and stocked with channel catfish annually.

Have A Picnic

In your boat, at the dock, floating along under the big blue sky, nothing tastes better than food on the water. There are stores with ready-made sandwiches and salads sprinkled around the lake, or you can get creative with your own charcuterie to go. Whatever you do, don’t forget the picnic blanket. In a kayak, canoe, or paddle board? Don’t forget to pack your picnic in a dry bag.

Be A Pirate

Legends say that pirates arrived in Lake Chelan in 1812, and the Lake Chelan Pirate Fest happens every July. You can also take the Lady of the Lake Pirate Cruise, including events for kids and a pirate costume contest. Be sure to visit Captain Dan Mimmack, well-known to locals as the Sandpoint Beach Pirate (ID), who offers free boat rides aboard his authentic-looking pirate ship, called the “Wild Spirit.”

Lakechelanpiratefest.com

Visit A Castle

Stay at the Schweitzer Castle & Château de Melusine, a unique vacation rental near Schweitzer Mountain near Sandpoint, Idahom or the Idaho Castle overlooking Hope. Both are located near Lake Pend Oreille.

Paddle All Day

There are many ways to paddle at the lake, whether in a kayak, a canoe, or on a stand-up paddleboard. Spending your day enjoying the water while paddling is not only fun but also a great workout. Additionally, you can paddle in just about any lake, rentals are inexpensive and easy to transport, you can do it alone or with friends/family, and it’s quiet and peaceful.

If you’re just getting started with paddling, it’s recommended you start by taking lessons. The Spokane Canoe and Kayak Club Sckc.club is a great place to begin. Their first priority is safety, next they will teach you the skills you’ll need to fully enjoy the art of paddling. There are paddle clubs in most recreational water areas. To find one near you I recommend exploring the American Canoe Association Americancanoe.org website.

Things to do while paddling:

Fishing from a canoe or kayak isn’t new, but what about a paddleboard? Fishing paddle boards are equipped with mounts to attach rod holders, bait trays, down riggers, fish finders, and more.

Yoga on any paddle board is possible, but for the most comfort try an inflatable paddle board with a spacious deck pad.

Take your pet! Many motorized boat rentals will not allow you to bring a dog, but bringing your dog along for a peaceful paddle, if done safely, can be wonderful. Remember, they too need a personal flotation device (PFD).

Explore wildlife while you quietly paddle close to shore or through wildlife sanctuaries. Not only will you see birds and plopping frogs, you might also see beavers, muskrats, turtles, and soaring eagles.

Resources:

The Spokane Alpine Haus has everything you’ll need for your paddling adventures, including rentals, clothing, and gear. Specializing in Hobie Cat kayaks and peddle kayaks. Thespokanealpinehaus.com

Rambleraven Trader in Spokane has an expansive selection of both new and used equipment and rentals. Their website allows you to select different categories to see what’s available and schedule rentals. Rambleraven.com

Breakwater Expeditions provides custom expeditions, such as teen trips, women’s retreats, and full moon paddles. Unique and fully customized, these personalized expeditions are perfect for families (or groups of friends) who want to experience paddling together. “Different people have different comforts outdoors,” explains Angie Roberts, one of the owners, “if you allow yourself to try something new, you’ll find you’re quite capable of doing quite a lot.”

Breakwaterexp.com

Go Berry Picking

In the summer, roadside stands line the lakes, selling fruits and vegetables throughout the day, but why not pick your own? Cherries are especially sought after around Flathead Lake in Montana, and eastern Washington and North Idaho are legendary for their huckleberries. Research berry picking safety before you go, because bears like them too!

Do Some Magnet Fishing

Magnet fishing is all about searching for metal objects you can pull up with a strong neodymium magnet. This cult hobby/environmental treasure hunting trend has become quite popular and allows you to remove large debris such as discarded bicycles and tire rims from bodies of water. Initially started by boaters to recover fallen keys, magnet fishing has uncovered some interesting artifacts. Magnet fishing is legal in WA, ID, OR and MT. Considering the Spokane and Columbia Rivers were once important transportation routes for early settlers in the Inland NW, there’s potential for some great finds.

Visit Lakes in Canada

Balfour, BC, is less than 4 hours from Spokane, and Kootenay Lake is one of the province’s largest lakes. Okanagan Lake spans 84 miles, north to south, and boasts long, sandy beaches. The 100-mile-long Arrow Lakes region has two hot spring resorts. There are five parks in the region including McDonald Creek, Rosebery, Summit Lake, Syringa, and Valhalla, and several private campgrounds where you can set up a tent or park an RV.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Fly with commercially licensed pilots in a colorful hot-air balloon above Lake Chelan (WA), Lake Coeur d’Alene (ID), Flathead Lake (MT), or Lake Wallowa (OR). If you really love hot air balloons, be sure to attend the Spirit of Boise Balloon Festival (Boise, Idaho) or the Great Prosser Balloon Rally (Prosser, Wash.).

Bike the Lake

Whether biking around the lake, entering a race, going mountain biking, or cruising on an E-bike, there are endless ways to get on your bike around the lakes.  

For something easy, try the Medical Lake Trail, a 2.9-mile trail east of Spokane off I-90, which can also be accessed from Waterfront Park.

For something more extensive, try the Trail of the Coeur d’Alene’s, a 73-mile paved trail that spans from Mullan to Plummer through Idaho’s chain of lakes region, connected by Lake Coeur d’Alene. The Cycle Haus, a bike shop and restaurant in Harrison along the trail, has rentals for any type of bike, including E-bikes, and a shuttle to transport you and your bike to any trailhead. All you have to do is bike back!

For bike races near lakes, consider the WaCanId (an annual bicycle tour taking cyclists on paved roads encircling the Selkirk Mountains); the Coeur d Alene Ironman; the Enduro Pescado in Whitefish, MT; Cycle Chelan (Wash.); Spokane Valley Cycle Celebration (Wash.); or the Kootenai River Ride (ID).

Helpful Resources:

WA Bikes.org Wabikes.org

TrailLink.com Traillink.com

WSDOT.wa.gov

DiscoverBicycleTours.com

AllTarils.com

Get Inspired

Impressionist painters started something called Plein air painting, which is about getting outside to ‘experience painting and drawing in the landscape,’ and what better landscape than a sparkling lake with the mountains and trees surrounding it? Next time you go on a lake adventure, be sure to bring whatever art supplies suit you and let the lake’s beauty inspire you. If painting or drawing seems too complicated, try writing instead. Whenever we went on outdoor excursions as children, we had to bring journals and were asked to write something, even if it was only a haiku, a poem with only three lines, five syllables in the first line, seven in the second, and five in the third.

Forage for Plants

Non-commercial foraging for plants is legal on most public lands and state parks, and the bounty of wild mushrooms, berries, and edible and medicinal plants in the Northwest is prodigious. There are foraging groups around the lakes you can join, such as the Wilderness Crafts & Forest Foraging Camp in Coeur d’Alene, and you can also look for foraging groups on Facebook.

Resources:

INaturalist.org

NorthernBushcraft.com

Facebook Group Inland Northwest Foraging

Washington Native Plant Society

See the Lake from the Sky

Enjoy the lake(s) from above! The bigger lakes have seaplane tours that pick you up and drop you off at the dock. Look into Brooke’s in Coeur d’Alene (ID), Backcountry Flying Experience in northern Montana, or Sandpoint Seaplane Service at Lake Pend Oreille (ID). Lake Chelan Helicopters can take you above the lake and the Cascade mountains, and the Moses Lake Airshow is one of the biggest in the West. Or, if you want something a bit more daring, try paragliding. You can go tandem with an expert or take lessons to go up on your own.

Visit Museums and Visitor Centers

Let’s face it, the best days at the lake are when the sun is shining, but if you catch a rainy day or need a break from water, seek out the local museums and cultural centers. A great place to start is the visitor center in the town you’re visiting. Most state and national parks have one as well.

View Famous Homes

Since lake property is limited, the homes around it can be rather spectacular. If you take a boat or seaplane tour, they will most likely point out some of the more famous homes. Also look for walking tours, garden tours, or historic home tours. You might even spot a celebrity!

Go Sailing

Sailing on a lake can be less intimidating than the open sea, and therefore a great place to learn. The North Idaho College Outdoor Pursuits program has a rental shop on Lake Coeur d’Alene run by students in the summer. Here you can find a variety of paddle boats, as well as sailboats and sailing lessons. The Lake Chelan Sailing Association provides lessons, rentals, and several sailing events. The Sandpoint Sailing Association features several races, and Go Sail Montana at Flathead Lake offers lessons, rentals and charters. Fun To Sail offers lessons and rentals on Spokane and North Idaho area lakes as well.

Go Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a fun way to explore the lake. Depending on how clear the water is, you may be able to see fish, shells, and other aquatic life. Snorkeling can be a great learning experience, and unlike scuba diving, which requires a certificate and expensive gear, you can go snorkeling with a good pair of goggles, a snorkel, and a pair of flippers. Lake Chelan is a great choice for this.

Swim/Tube/Float

Lake beaches are a great place to sunbathe, but the swimming is divine. The cool waters can be perfect after a long day playing at the lake—skinny dipping in a moonlit cove, cannon ball jumping off a dock, floating on your back staring at the clouds, tubing behind a boat, or riding about on a giant inflatable. Whatever or however you get into the water, always proceed with caution. The mountain waters can be cold, so always have a towel and a change of clothes. If you start to shiver, get out of the water; never swim alone; always keep your eye on the little ones; and if you’re in open water or not a strong swimmer, wear a PFD.

Learn About Wooden Boats

Wood has been a reliable material for boats, but now we live in an era of fiberglass, aluminum, and steel hulls. Traditional boat owners and historians revere wooden boats as a symbol of boating culture. Because of that, you’ll find several wooden boat events around the lakes in the summer months. Here are some of the bigger events, but you can also look for wooden boat clubs in your area.

• The Wooden & Antique Boat Festival (Sandpoint, Idaho), July 15
• Payette Lake Wooden & Classic Boat Show (McCall, Idaho), August 4,5,6
• Coeur d’Alene Antique & Classic Boat Festival (Coeur d’Alene, Idaho), August 12 & 13
• Mahogany & Merlot (Chelan, Wash.), October 6-8

Explore Wallowa Lake

Wallowa County is in Oregon’s northeastern corner and is full of snowcapped mountains, wild prairies, pristine waterways, and North America’s deepest river gorge. It’s also home to Lake Wallowa. Fed by icy snowmelt, this dazzling lake was formed by a series of Pleistocene glaciers. Here you will find fewer people, mind-boggling stars, and the Wallowa Lake Tramway that climbs 3700′ to the top of Mt. Howard with sweeping views of all four states. Enjoy hiking, biking, watersports, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, fishing, and sightseeing around the area, and the 4-day Alpenfest in September.

Ride With the Ladies of the Lake

At the top of Lake Chelan is a little town called Stehekin, a breathtaking destination nestled in the heart of the North Cascades that you can only get to by boat. The Lake Chelan Boat fleet can take you there, and consists of the Lady of the Lake, the Lady Express, and the Lady Liberty—the three ladies of the lake. Once you reach Stehekin, you’ll be surrounded by trees over a hundred feet tall as you wind your way up the one-lane road into a serene and magical place full of unique places to stay, biking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and electric boat rentals. The Lake Chelan Boat fleet also provides charters and activity packages.

Discover where the Spokane River meets the Columbia River

For thousands of years, this area was a gathering place for native tribes fishing the rapids of the Spokane River and offers plenty of great camping and outdoor activities. Area attractions include the Lake Roosevelt Reservoir, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, the Colville Indian Reservation, the Grand Coulee Dam, Steamboat Rock, Northrup Canyon, Hawk Creek Falls State Park, and Fort Spokane. A little farther north, you’ll move into the land of mountains carved from prehistoric glaciers and the Kettle Falls that plummet nearly 50 feet, carving “kettles” in the quartzite rock. To the south is the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, located along the upper Columbia River and cradled in walls of stone carved by massive ice age floods.

Find Peace

There are numerous reasons why lakes are so popular, but, for many, it’s the peace of a lake that calls to them. Most of this list is about activities you can do at, in or around a lake, but after writing it I realized there was one thing missing, and that was the feeling a lake can give you as you lay beside it, float along it, or slumber upon it and the sense of inner peace it can bestow.

“A lake is a landscape’s most beautiful and expressive feature. It is Earth’s eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.” -Henry David Thoreau

Kate A. Miner is a writer, traveler, artist, and avid gardener. She has a BA in Visual Anthropology from Bennington College and believes in living a healthy life by seeking new adventures, learning from mistakes, and greeting each day with optimism and a smile.

The post 38 Things to Do at the Lake appeared first on Out There Venture.