By James P. Johnson 

Cover photo courtesy of James P. Johnson

I’m always looking for new areas to day-hike within driving distance of Spokane. The Sherman Creek Wildlife Area just west of Kettle Falls is a place I’d heard of but never hiked until last year. With several miles of trails along the west shore of Lake Roosevelt and the typical ponderosa forest so common across Eastern Washington, I expected mostly flat terrain and pleasant, but unspectacular scenery. That’s the case, but while exploring the trail system, which runs from the wildlife headquarters at the north end to Haag Canyon Campground at the south, I came across some interesting history. 

The first indication is the old, but elegant, bridge spanning Sherman Creek at one of the trailheads, much larger than necessary for a pedestrian crossing. Finding pavement underneath the pine needles on the other side, it is apparent the trail is a former road. Just a 10-minute walk from the trailhead, it ends abruptly. A long section of road, along with tons of sand and silt, now sits at the bottom of the Columbia because of a 1952 landslide.  

Thinking it’d be nice if there were interpretive signs explaining what happened, I hiked another 10 minutes on a trail that circumvents the slide and my wish was fulfilled. Photocopied pages from a United States Geological Survey (USGS) study, stapled to a wooden bulletin board, give details about multiple slides that have occurred over the years. 

Layers of sand, silt and clay were deposited here by receding floodwaters of melting glaciers at the end of the last ice age, around 12,000 years ago. These soils are susceptible to saturation during heavy snowmelt or rain. As the saturated soil approaches liquefaction, it loses structure and slides into the river. 

Though there’s evidence of a history of landslides, the first known landslide within the prone area, now part of the Sherman Creek Wildlife Area, occurred in 1894. Witnesses reported the slide reached the opposite side of the river, piling debris on shore. For about an hour, the Columbia River was blocked. Farms and orchards behind the landslide dam flooded. 

After the completion of Grand Coulee Dam and establishment of full pool in 1942, landslides have occurred more frequently. The raised water table increases the possibility of soil saturation during heavy rain or snowmelt. 

This spring, I returned for another hike after reading of a large landslide last November. According to news reports, this was the largest to hit the area in decades. I found a slide area littered with downed trees and bare, earthen slopes. The slide edge is now within 10 feet of the surviving old road.  

The landslide triggered a wall of water that crossed Lake Roosevelt, hitting an area known as Colville Flats on the other side. Water flowed onshore, and when it drained back into the lake, it took out trees, vegetation, and swept away enough soil to make the new shoreline about 150 feet farther inland than before. 

For a pleasant hike and a view of the landslide’s effects, drive about two miles on Highway 20 after crossing the bridge over the Columbia River. Turn left on Mellenberger Road and go about one mile to the trailhead at the bridge. The USGS study documenting slide activity in this area can be accessed at Pubs.usgs.gov/pp/0367/report.pdf. 

A longtime runner, James P. Johnson writes an absurdist blog about running at IMustRunEverywhere.com.  

The post Hiking and History  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.

By JP Vallières 

Cover photo courtesy of Angus Meredith

In my 20s, I’d drive a full hour on a gridlocked Long Island Expressway to rock climb. In a gym. On the long, rude drive (full of honking and middle fingers) I’d dream of someday living in distant cities that were near crags: Salt Lake City, Boulder . . . Spokane.  

Eventually, through determination and youthful recklessness, I headed west to live in a place I’d never visited. I’ll never forget witnessing all those mountains, the wild spaces, seemingly endless opportunities for adventure. Before that moment, I figured all those pictures in the magazines were lies. That was the only way I could rationalize the unimaginable beauty I was missing out on. Suffice it to say, these last 14 years, I have been climbing in the gyms and outdoors around Spokane.  

At first, I didn’t know where to begin. Climbing is weird like that. Sure, you can buy the guidebook, but often the guidebook gives you just enough information to get you lost, down some herd path, forever. The most reasonable option was to head to the local gym. It’s the best place to meet people who know when to bang a right at the pile of moose scat followed by a left where the granite’s shaped like a tea kettle. You follow them, and eventually, you’re the experienced one, knowing exactly where the best climbs are.  

In the Inland Northwest we have three great public gyms: Coeur Climbing Company, Wild Walls, and Bloc Yard as well as the non-profit Sandpoint Rock Gym open to gym members. These places are packed with people who want to tell you everything they know about the sport, even if you didn’t ask.  

Inland Northwest Gym to Crag Climbing Courses 

If you’re into a more structured approach on how to climb in the outdoors, check out Coeur Climbing Company’s first-ever Gym to Crag Climbing Course. Once you know basic climbing skills, learned from the Intro to Rock Climbing Course, you will plunge into a four-day accelerated path that will teach you everything you need to know. The skills, techniques, all the gear, and the cool climber lingo: gaston, dyno, crimp, sloper. And how to stay safe while having the best time of your life.  

Spokane Mountaineers Rock School has a similar annual course, where you’ll be trained in the basics and instructed by topnotch climbers who have been doing this longer than any multipitch route in Leavenworth. Meaning, you learn from them, and then you’re set free to climb the remainder of your days. Consider it the deal of a lifetime. 

Gearing Up for Outdoor Climbing 

These courses will lead you into three potential styles of climbing: bouldering, sport climbing, and traditional climbing. For all three, you’ll need a pair of climbing shoes. Get a good tight fit, like a small glove that eventually stretches. Second, chalk and a chalk bag. Now you’re set up for (arguably) the purest form: bouldering. Think of bouldering as climbing to a reasonable height, until you either get to the top or fall on your friend’s cushy “crash pad.” I can’t tell you how many climbers start off with the goal of scaling Everest but decide, after a few weeks, to stick to bouldering. It’s just that much fun.  

But for others, there’s still the lure of great heights. These folks need more gear. Harness, helmet, and a trusted climbing partner. Between the two of you, a dynamic rope, various cords / webbings, and a plethora of hardware will get you safely up any local climbing route. It might seem like a lot, at first, but you don’t need every piece of gear right away. Climbers are great at sharing, as long as you repay the favor with a future belay.  

Most people I meet in the gym are total newbs, buying their first pair of climbing shoes, a chalk bag, and just bumming around. Climbing is a very social sport, attracting all personalities, even those who claim to be antisocial. We all hang out between climbs and sit around and talk. Everyone has something to say, because we’re so happy to be here. At some point, we make plans to climb outside.  

We check the weather report and meet up on the day it’s dry and cool. After the hike in, we climb something easy, an established route, one we’ve all done before. Once we’re warm and ready, we look to test ourselves on the route we’ve been dreaming about for weeks, months, maybe years. We’re wondering if all that time in the gym has prepared our forearms for the real thing. We look at each other and ask, “So, who wants to lead?” Everyone wants to, even if we’re afraid to admit this thing we do is a little crazy.  

Humans weren’t meant to live so high up, right? But honestly, the best thing about climbing, the thing that makes us return to the crag every week, is once we grab that first hold, all life’s distractions fade away. There’s no social media or suffering economy or gridlocked traffic. Nothing left to do, nothing left to think, but climb.  

JP Vallières is the author of the novel, “The Ketchup Factory: a love story.” You can find him climbing at Q’emiln Park in Post Falls.  

The post From Gym to Crag  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Ammi Midstokke

• There are several Discover Pass fee-free days coming up! Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is holding a Free Fishing Weekend on June 7 and 8, where neither a fishing license nor a Discover Pass will be necessary to give fishing a try on our region’s waterways. All catch rules will still apply, so research gear and limits before you go. (Idaho will be hosting its own Free Fishing Day on June 14.) June 19 and Aug. 9 are also Discover Pass fee-free days on Washington’s public lands, where parking fees are not required at State Parks.  

• June marks the return of Wednesdays in the Woods with Riverside State Park Foundation. The “Hoot Show” will start the series on June 4 with both live owls and raptors, plus free ice cream. June 11 will focus on “Butterflies of Northeastern Washington.” June 18 will feature “Moose, Cougars and Bears, Oh My!” with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. June 25 will focus on “Best Spokane Area Day Hikes” and will again include free ice cream for attendees. The first three events will take place at Bowl & Pitcher’s outdoor amphitheater, and the final event will be at the picnic shelter. Discover Pass required for parking.  

• National Trails Day is on June 7. The Friends of Palisades is hosting a geology-focused hike through Palisades Park, with advance registration required. Dishman Hills Conservancy will mark the occasion with hikes guided by Washington State Naturalists within the Dishman Hills Natural Area from Camp Caro. The hikes will begin every 30 minutes, starting at 10:30 a.m. and concluding at 2:30 p.m. with no advance registration required, so an adventurous hiker could join both outings for maximum trail time on this day celebrating trails!  

• Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness free summer hike series includes a hike at Settlers Grove followed by a visit to the Sprag Pole Museum (June 12), a hike with a whitebark pine specialist on Scotchman Peak (June 14), a backpack trip to Little Spar Lake (July 11-12), two “Hike and Read” events co-hosted by Lincoln County Library (July 18 and 25), and more! See the FSPW for full details and to register for events. 
  
  

Outdoor Culture & History Events 

This year marks the bicentennial of Fort Colville on the Columbia River just west of Kettle Falls, with several events planned throughout the year to mark the occasion. On June 20 the organizers have coordinated with the Colville Confederated Tribes to observe the Salmon Ceremony. Event carpooling meets at the Kettle Falls Historical Center at 9 a.m. Additionally, June 21 and 22 will be a Native Culture Weekend at the Kettle Falls Historical Center with history displays and presentations. 

Fundraisers & Contests 

• Okanogan Highlands Alliance will host its annual fundraiser Get Lost Trail Race at Lost Lake on July 13. There will be a service project the day before the event, with optional camping at Lost Lake Campground. This CCC-built campground is by itself worth the visit, and the race has distance options at 3 miles, 7 miles, and 11 miles to take in the views on the surrounding trails. 

• Plan a visit to Teanaway Community Forest this summer and capture photos for the annual photo contest, with the entry portal opening up in August. There will be five total categories with individual prizes, plus a grand prize. Teanaway Community Forest has several DNR campgrounds which are first-come, first-served with Discover Pass as the only fee, along with miles of trails. Follow Teanaway Community Forest on Facebook for additional details. 

Stewardship, Conservation, & Volunteer Opportunities 

• Inland Northwest Land Conservancy will be hosting bi-weekly “Waikiki Wednesdays” and “Glen Tana Thursdays” throughout much of the summer season. Keep in mind that Glen Tana is not yet open to the public, so joining a stewardship project is the best way to get a sneak peek at this fantastic future park, along with helping to make improvements to the property. See the INLC website to sign up.  

• Chelan Douglas Land Trust is hosting Weed Warrior Wednesdays in early June to tackle noxious weeds growing around Lower Sleepy Hollow. The group will meet in the morning on June 4 and will host both a morning and an evening session on June 11. Advance registration required.  

• On June 12, join Kaniksu Land Trust and Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness for an “Intro to Trail Work” evening work party at Pine Street Woods. Advance registration is required. Additional trail maintenance projects with the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness will take place throughout the summer, so be sure to check the website for the full list.  

• Backcountry Hunters and Anglers is teaming up with Idaho Trails Association for a weekend of trail work on the Fault Lake Trail in the Idaho Selkirks, July 25-27. Additionally, ITA will be teaming up with Friends of the Great Burn Wilderness to host trail work events on the Idaho Centennial Trail (on the Idaho/Montana divide) from Aug. 3-9. ITA has additional fantastic offerings throughout the state, so check the website for more. 

• Washington Trails Association will be hosting both day-long trail work at Mica Peak Conservation Area plus weekend backpacking trail work projects in the Colville National Forest. Highlights include trips to the Salmo Loop and Shedroof Divide within the Salmo Priest Wilderness. See WTA’s website for the full list and to sign up.  

The post The Trailhead: Inland NW Trail & Outdoor News — Your Guide to Outdoor Adventures in the Inland Northwest appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of USFS

If someone puts up a sign next to a hiking trail, I’ll stop and read it. If I’ve read it before, even multiple times, I’ll still stop and read it since I’m not at the top of the rankings for reading retention. 

A hiking trail with interpretive signage is a pleasant curiosity that adds enjoyment to a hike. I’m an avid hiker and often do demanding, day-long hikes that go deep into remote areas where I don’t see another person all day. But I also like interpretive trails that are close to towns, short, and can be busy with hikers. 

That’s the case with the following hiking areas. When the rare pleasant spring day comes along, combining a scenic drive in the country with a short, informative hike and a stop for food and drink can be as fun as a grueling sun-up to sundown 20-miler, though I think most people would say the scenic drive and short hike sounds a lot more fun. 

The following hikes’ interpretive signage provides information about the unique natural and human history of the site. 

Pioneer Park Kalispel Heritage Trail—This recently reconstructed trail, a couple miles outside Newport, Wash., has a dozen new interpretive signs that explain the archeological finds of a former Kalispel tribal encampment on the banks of the Pend Oreille River. I found the information about how traditional Native Americans lived and used the site very interesting. Despite much reading on this topic, some facts were new to me. 

Less than a half-mile long, consisting of paths and a boardwalk, the trail is within a Forest Service campground, Pioneer Park, and accessed when the campground is open, from the Friday before Memorial Day to the last Monday in September. Unless you’re camping, there’s a day use fee of $10. During the off season, an employee at the Newport Ranger Station told me locals often park at the gated entrance to walk about the campground. You may be able to do so as well as long as you don’t block the way in case access is needed. 

Pulaski Tunnel Trail—Just outside Wallace, Idaho, this well-maintained trail has a dozen fairly new signs. The first 725 feet of the trail is ADA compliant, and you’ll find several interpretive signs; however, to reach the tunnel where Pulaski and his men sheltered from fire it’s an out-and-back hike totaling 4 miles with a few short, steep sections, several bridge crossings, and 800 feet of elevation gain. The trail follows a creek at the bottom of a deep ravine and in March, may still be snow-covered, which was the case when I hiked it, thus a hiking stick or trekking poles would be helpful. 

The signage gives details about the The Big Burn, the well-known 1910 wildfire that scorched millions of acres. Led by Ed Pulaski, a Forest Service ranger, a group of firefighters made it to a mining tunnel as the uncontrolled blaze ravaged everything around them. Sheltering in the tunnel allowed 39 of the 45 men to survive. No fee or pass required to hike. 

Waikiki Springs Natural Area—On the outskirts of Spokane along the Little Spokane River, this area gets lots of visitation. With its open ponderosa forest and southern exposure, you may find wildflowers blooming by the end of March, the earliest of all these areas. It’s about a 2-mile round trip to peruse the half dozen interpretive signs on the north side of the river. I used to live near this preserve and regularly ran there in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. The Inland Northwest Land Conservancy, with an assist by the Washington Trails Association, have since constructed more trails to go with the signs, which is a nice add-on should you opt for additional hiking. 

The site used to be a large dairy in the early 20th century. It was owned by Jay P. Graves, a wealthy landowner who donated other land for Manito Park and Whitworth University. The signage details this use as well as info about geology, wildlife, first peoples’ history, and efforts to restore the river ecosystem. A Washington State Discover pass is required for trailhead parking. 

Log Flume Interpretive Trail—Sitting next to Highway 20 a bit more than 10 miles west of Kettle Falls, Wash., this rest stop has a half-mile, paved trail. In the early 20th Century, the Kettle Range was heavily logged, and part of a log’s journey here was via a log flume, traveling downhill, pushed by water flowing in the flume. Flume remnants can be seen along with interpretive signage explaining the history of early day logging in the Kettles. No fee or pass necessary.  

Mill Pond Historic Site—About 5 miles from Metaline Falls, Wash., near Sullivan Lake, this is the site of a dam on Sullivan Creek that was built to store water for a flume that powered a hydroelectric generation plant downstream and was removed in 2017. The drained pond has been returned to its former natural condition and updates to the Mill Pond campground, day use area, trails, and interpretive signs were completed. There are no day use fees. 

A couple miles of trails run through and around the former Mill Pond. The interpretive signs give information about the site and early Metaline Falls history. 

Mullan Trail Historical Site—Adjacent to I-90 and about 13 miles east of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, remnants of the Mullan Trail can be seen, a road constructed through what was then unsettled wilderness beginning in 1859. It ran from Fort Benton, Mont., to Fort Walla Walla, Wash. The half-mile trail is in need of a little maintenance, but the signage is still readable. Just off the exit at the top of Fourth of July Pass, the site is well-wooded, but with the freeway nearby, it’s not as quiet as the other hikes. 

Unless maintenance work is being done, these sites can be accessed year-round. Information and directions for each can be found by Googling the hike name. 

James P. Johnson has been using his running lifestyle blog, IMustRunEverywhere.com, as a construct for absurdist humor. Despite doing it since 2013, he continues to crave whatever chuckles it can elicit. 

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By Holly Weiler 

Cover photo courtesy of Holly Weiler

Outdoor enthusiasts know that there is no bad weather, only inappropriate gear and clothing. There is no need to put away the camping supplies just because it’s below freezing and there’s a little snow on the ground! That choice campsite that is impossible to reserve in the summer is most likely wide open for winter, and a willingness to try winter camping leads to opportunities to recreate farther afield at a low cost. 

Gear You’ll Need 

While a four-season tent is a definite upgrade for winter camping, it is also possible to use a three-season tent for all but the most challenging winter conditions. A closed-cell foam sleeping pad helps reflect and retain heat and should be placed on top of an inflatable pad if using both for extra cushion. Check the temperature comfort rating on sleeping bags against forecasted low temperatures, but the temperature rating of a three-season bag can be improved through the use of a silk or fleece bag liner inside the sleeping bag, and with a minimalist bivy over top. If car camping, there’s no reason not to toss in some extra blankets, too! 

Where to Go 

Test your gear system by trying a night in your own backyard or at a nearby campground that’s open year-round. Many campgrounds have reduced rates for winter. Here are a few fun trip ideas: 

• For those who live in Spokane, Riverside State Park’s Bowl and Pitcher campground is a great place to test winter camping gear. A standard campsite is $25 and can be reserved in advance. Hike, snowshoe, or fatbike the trail system right out of camp. Enjoy heated bathrooms and hot showers when you return from the trail. 

• Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area maintains year-round access to Spring Canyon, Fort Spokane, and Kettle Falls campgrounds. Reservations are required, with a winter rate of $11.50. The best recreation opportunities will be a short drive away from each of these sites, although shore fishing (and beach walking) are available from camp.  

• A favorite shoestring-budget ski trip to Mission Ridge includes a night at Wenatchee Confluence State Park. A standard campsite is $25. No reservations needed, seldom full, and Mission Ridge is just 30 minutes away. Nearby Squilchuck State Park is groomed for fat bikes and has a sled hill.  

• Grant County PUD maintains several campgrounds for year-round camping access, with fees ranging from $15-20 for a standard campsite. Campgrounds are located close to the Columbia River at Sand Hollow, Rocky Coulee, Priest Rapids, and Jackson Creek Fish Camp. Fish from shore or check out nearby trail systems. 

• Steamboat Rock State Park offers standard campsites at $20, with hiking available right out of camp or at nearby Northrup Canyon. 

• Many (but not all) SnoPark locations on National Forest land allow overnight parking and camping, making for great Nordic and backcountry ski or snowshoe outings. Check regulations for your favorite SnoPark location before you go. A popular spot is Sherman Pass on Highway 20, which you will need a SnoPark permit to camp at.  

Holly Weiler is the WTA Eastern Washington Regional Coordinator and “The Trailhead” columnist for Out There.  

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By Adam Gebauer 

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

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

A goal of the 12 tribes of the Colville Reservation is to reintroduce the full subset of wildlife species that existed before western colonization. This is not only to allow these species to fulfill their ecological niche but also to provide tribal members opportunities for subsistence hunting. Along with the Yakama Nation, the Colville has introduced pronghorn to shrub steppe habitat. These populations have moved off the respective reservations and are breeding and occupying habitat throughout Central Washington. The Colville also reintroduced big horn sheep, are working to establish a breeding population of lynx along the Kettle Crest, and have recently released wood bison onto the reservation.  

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

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

The Kalispel Tribe has acquired and is working to restore an additional 5,000 acres of wildlife habitat and has restored the hydrologic floodplain processes to 3,000 acres within their traditional lands of the Pend Oreille waterways. They are working with the managing agencies for three dams along the Pend Oreille River — Boundary, Box, and Albeni Falls — to install fish passage. Two of these projects are in place and the Albeni project will be under bid in 2025. They are also working with different agencies including Seattle City Light, Pend Oreille County Public Utilities, the Colville National Forest, Trout Unlimited, and even The Lands Council (my employer) to restore habitat for the threatened bull trout and endemic cutthroat trout across the watershed. To bolster habitat for these fish, they installed a cold-water syphon at Sullivan Lake, which has lowered the temperature of Sullivan Creek by an average 6 degrees Celsius. They are also trying to replicate this to lower the temperature of Priest River.  

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

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

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

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

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

The post Regional Tribes Take the Lead on Fish, Wildlife, & Habitat Restoration Across Their Ancestral Lands  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Free outdoor entertainment 

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

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

Contests! 

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

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

Conservation, Stewardship & Volunteer Opportunities 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our trek to Howse Pass in Banff National Park was born from a Spokane Community College senior-oriented ACT-2 seminar course. Inspired by David Thompson’s life, who was one of the greatest explorers and cartographers for the Canadian Prairies and the Inland Northwest, several class members shared an ambition to retrace Thompson’s crossing of the continental divide. Five of us, ages 64 to 79, planned a four-day backcountry trip in September of 2023 to do just that, enlisting a guide who would give us insight during the trek. 

First, a bit about Thompson. Apprenticed to the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC), David Thompson landed at the York factory on the Hudson Bay as a fourteen-year-old clerk in 1784. He rose through the fur trade business ranks, establishing trading houses on rivers throughout the Canadian prairie and applying his cartography skills by mapping the region. By 1801, Thompson was poised to cross the Rocky Mountains. After several failed attempts, the natives pointed him to an ancient trail over the Rockies. In 1807, he set out to Howse Pass from Rocky Mountain House following the Saskatchewan River to gain entry to the Inland Northwest area drained by the Columbia River. 

Rivers were the highways in Thompson’s era. Our highway was the Ice Field Parkway in Banff National Park, with the jumping off point to Howse Pass just south of The Saskatchewan River Crossing at Mistaya Canyon. We engaged a horse pack outfitter as our backcountry guide. The original Thompson trail has been neglected and quickly became a downfall-clogged path, forcing diversion to the adjacent braided Howse River flood plain. The route wound through a pristine wilderness, flanked by snow-dusted peaks. We established camp at the source of Howse River prior to ascending to Howse Pass.    

Wanting to immerse ourselves into Thompson’s culture, we asked Shaun Deller (shaundeller.com), to serve as our fur trade era cultural guide. Shaun has an extensive background in the era history as well as a myriad of practical skills common to the traders. He is a period artisan. He has participated in numerous mountain man reenactments and provided consultation for fur trade era documentaries. In 2022, he completed fur trade era interpretative murals on the Spokane House visitor center.  

While our group utilized Gore-Tex, polyester, and down, Shaun was outfitted in woolens and buckskin, with a buffalo hide for sleeping. He demonstrated the everyday skills of a fur trapper. Campfire discussions ensued to enlighten the transport of trade goods and furs between Fort William on Lake Superior and the Inland Northwest trading houses.  

By 1810, Thompson had established four trading houses: Kootanae House, near Invermere, BC; Kullyspell House on Lake Pend Oreille; Salish House near Thompson Falls, Montana; and Spokane House on the Little Spokane River. Subsequent economics resulted in the closure of three houses, with only the Spokane House remaining active until 1826 when the HBC moved trade to Fort Colville near Kettle Falls as part of the Columbia River trade network linked to Fort Vancouver. Archeological remnants remain only for the Spokane and Kootanae Houses. 

Our group’s adventure through Banff with a cultural guide provided a visual and environmental immersion that furthered our admiration for the Thompson-era outdoors explorers. The Inland Northwest has seen over two hundred years of European exploration, but Indigenous people had inhabited and traveled the area for thousands of years prior to European presence. Awareness of this history provides perspective and generational knowledge, which will enhance the current day explorer’s experience.   

Four days in the backcountry and a 40-mile round trip on horseback begged the question, who signed us up for this? Discretion became the better part of valor for a day of rest around the campfire to spin yarns. En route, visits to Rocky Mountain House, the Kootenae House site, and Canal Flats, which Thompson traversed from the Columbia River headwaters to the Kootenai River, were a highlight and amplified our understanding of Thompsons’ travels.  

Mark Longmeier has been a resident of Spokane for the last 48 years. Educated in engineering sciences and business administration, his secondary interest has been history.  

The post Following the Footsteps of David Thompson to Howse Pass   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.  

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