By Ryan Stemkoski

A man does not usually walk into a fly shop expecting his life to change. He comes looking for a rod, a reel, a handful of flies, and perhaps a little advice. Sometimes, he comes with curiosity and uncertainty, hoping someone behind the counter can help make sense of a sport that feels both beautiful and overwhelming. For Kevin Knight, that walk into the House of Fly inside North 40 Outfitters was exactly that. He had no idea it would become the beginning of a friendship, a mentorship, and a turning point that would quietly reshape his life.

Behind the counter stood Chip O’Brien, wearing his familiar scally cap, calm and unassuming. Kevin asked the question nearly every beginner asks. “I am on a budget. Where do I start?”

In a retail world that often equates the value of a customer with the bottom line, Chip responded differently. He did not point Kevin toward premium rods or showcase the most expensive reels. He did not overwhelm him with jargon or pressure. He listened. Then he guided him toward a modest rod-and-reel setup, something honest, affordable, and appropriate for someone just beginning.

It was a simple exchange. Professional. Respectful. The kind of interaction that feels refreshing but not yet remarkable.

What Kevin did not realize at the time was that he was standing before a fly-fishing icon. Not a casual enthusiast. Not simply a seasoned angler. Chip O’Brien had written hundreds of articles and several books. His work had appeared in respected national publications such as American Fly Fishing and Active NorCal, as well as a long list of fly-fishing magazines that anglers trust for education and truth on the water. He was, in many ways, a celebrity in the fly fishing world, a man whose words had already shaped how countless anglers understood rivers, insects, and fish. Yet there was not a trace of ego in how Chip approached Kevin. Chip genuinely wanted to help a beginner get into the sport.

To Kevin, Chip was simply a kind man behind a counter who took his question seriously.

That alone would have made the encounter positive. But what made it unforgettable came later.

A month or two passed. Kevin took his new rod-and-reel combo to the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River. He was still learning. Still fumbling. Still unsure of himself. But that day, he landed his first Westslope Cutthroat trout. The moment carried weight far beyond the fish. It marked a shift from curiosity to connection, from interest to belonging.

He returned to the House of Fly and held up his phone. Chip leaned in, studied the image, smiled, and said, “What a beaut.”

Three simple words.

For Kevin, they carried the gravity of affirmation. Those words felt like recognition. He now felt welcomed into the fly-fishing fraternity. 

They talked that day for nearly two hours, interrupted only by customers coming in for flies, leaders, and advice for the coming season. During that conversation, Kevin learned that Chip was not just knowledgeable. He was a writer. An author. A former guide. A retired school teacher. A man whose life had been built around teaching others to understand both water and words.

What Kevin could not have known then was how deeply that conversation would echo into his life.

At the time, Kevin was stepping into one of the darkest seasons he had ever known. A divorce after seventeen years of marriage had fractured his sense of identity and stability. The future felt loud, uncertain, and heavy. Fly fishing at first became an escape. Then it became something far more powerful. It became a rhythm. A place of stillness. A way to breathe again.

And Chip was his guide on that journey.

Not through dramatic gestures. Not through speeches or prescriptions. He was there through time, conversation, and shared experience. Through showing Kevin not only how to cast, but also how to slow down. How to pay attention. How to let the river become a place of restoration rather than distraction.

Fly fishing gave Kevin peace. Chip gave it structure and possibility.

Kevin would later say that Chip saved his life. More than once.

That is not a statement made lightly. It is one that reveals how deeply mentorship can shape a person when it is grounded in care and compassion. Chip never positioned himself as a hero. He simply showed up consistently, with patience and respect. With genuine care and support.

And that is the thing about Chip. He affords every person he meets the same opportunity.

Customer after customer, he smiles and offers help. He learns names. He remembers stories. He treats beginners and experts with equal dignity. In a world shaped by speed and transaction, Chip practices presence. He understands that people rarely walk into fly shops carrying only fishing questions. They carry stories. Longings. Grief. Hope. Uncertainty.

The House of Fly inside North 40 Outfitters becomes a perfect reflection of that philosophy. North 40 is a store built for work and practicality. It serves farmers, hunters, gardeners, homesteaders, and families. It sells feed, boots, tools, and equipment. And tucked inside it is a fly shop that feels entirely different in pace and tone. It is slower. Quieter. Thoughtful. It feels like a classroom and a gathering place at the same time.

Here, one of the most experienced fly fishing writers and educators in the country chooses to spend his days helping people find their footing.

To understand why that matters, you have to understand who Chip has been long before Spokane ever knew his name.

Chip grew up in the Midwest, moving between Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois. His introduction to fly fishing came almost accidentally. After his father passed away, an old bamboo fly rod was left behind in the garage. It was not a cherished heirloom yet. Just an object waiting for meaning.

That meaning came when the family moved to eighty acres outside of West Bend, Wisconsin, with their own private lake. Chip tied on a bass popper that was already attached to the line and cast it out. A bass inhaled it almost immediately. Years later, he would reflect on that moment and wonder who had really been hooked.

Around the same time, his mother planted another seed. After a strong grade on a piece of writing, she said, “Maybe you should be a writer when you grow up.” Those words ignited a spark. 

There were no fly fishing magazines then. Chip read Outdoor Life, Field and Stream, and Sports Afield, eagerly waiting for the one fly fishing article each issue might contain. He decided that someday, he would write those stories himself.

So he pursued journalism, earning a bachelor’s degree and later a graduate degree in writing. Like many young adults with clear passions, he detoured into something that promised stability. Corporate sales in Los Angeles. A good income. A predictable future.

Then one morning, he told his wife, “All I really want to do is fish.”

That sentence changed everything. It altered finances. It strained relationships. It reshaped priorities. And it led him north to Northern California, where wild trout water and possibility ran side by side.

There he began writing seriously. Fishing seriously. Learning deeply. He worked with California Trout and later guided for Clearwater House, where he met Dick Galland. It was Galland who would give him the sentence that would define his life:

“I am not looking for people who are expert fly fishers. I can teach you that. I am looking for people who love people.”

Chip carried that sentence into every role he ever held.

He spent fourteen years guiding the best waters in Northern California. He taught fly-fishing classes for beginners, intermediates, and experts. He wrote prolifically. He discovered that while teaching others brought great fulfillment, it left little time for fishing. So he pivoted again.

He became a school teacher, teaching writing during the year and guiding and fishing during the summer. He lived a life built on curiosity and service. He wrote hundreds of articles. He authored several books. He wrote about technique, entomology, equipment, conservation, history, and the fragile places that should be protected through silence.

Life took him to Oregon through love and marriage. Then, eventually, to Spokane, drawn by the powerful bond between a grandmother and her grandchildren. After retirement, he fished throughout the West. And then restlessness returned.

He began searching for fly fishing opportunities in Spokane.

That search led him to the House of Fly inside North 40 Outfitters.

Much like guiding and teaching before it, Chip discovered that working in a fly shop suited him perfectly. Fly shops are places of conversation and connection. People come for flies but stay for stories. One day, it is carp tactics. The next day, it might be Hemingway. Then entomology. Then life.

Chip writes for the House of Fly blog. He fishes weekly, year-round. His articles continue to appear in national publications. Yet he chooses to spend his days helping beginners build confidence and veterans sharpen their understanding.

Spokane’s fly fishing culture is rich, and Chip is at the center of it. He is involved with Spokane Fly Fishers, Inland Empire Fly Fishers, and Spokane Women on the Fly. He helped organize the first annual Spokane Fly Fishing Showdown, bringing clubs together in friendly competition built on community rather than money. No prize purses. Only a trophy, pride, and a year of lighthearted rivalry. Again, none of it is about ego; it is about true love for the sport.

Through it all, Chip remains the same man behind the counter. The same scally cap. The same smile. The same willingness to listen. To guide. To help. The same love for people that Dick Galland saw in him decades before.

Kevin did not walk into the House of Fly looking for healing. He walked in looking for a rod. What he found was a man who understood that fly fishing is rarely about fish alone. It is about patience. Belonging. Learning how to be present again. Fly fishing is a community, and Chip welcomed Kevin in.

Chip has spent sixty years fly fishing. But his greatest craft has never been casting or tying flies. It has been loving people well, one honest conversation at a time.

And the Spokane outdoor community is better because he has chosen to do it here!

The post Outdoor Profiles: Chip O’Brien Writer, Guide, & Fly-Fishing Expert at North 40 Outfitters appeared first on Out There Venture.

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

Go for a Hike and Check Out Local Craft Breweries

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

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

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

Explore Lesser‑known Idaho Panhandle Rail Trails by Bike

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

Photo courtesy of the Historic Wallace Chamber

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

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

Bike the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes

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

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

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

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

Tour the Crystal Gold Mine in Kellogg, Idaho

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

Ride the Route of the Hiawatha

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

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

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride at Silver Mountain Resort

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

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

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

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

(Sponsored)

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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.  
 

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Mark your calendars for a paddle-powered afternoon in Spirit Lake on Saturday, June 7. Paddlers of all skill levels are invited to Fireside Park (7025 W Main St.) for the North Idaho Paddlesports Spring Opener & Gear Swap from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free, community-focused event is all about celebrating paddlesports, fostering water safety and connecting paddling enthusiasts. Expect hands-on gear demos, expert tips from experienced paddlers, and opportunities to buy, sell, or trade used paddling equipment. 

Co-hosted by North Idaho Kayaking and the Coeur d’Alene Canoe and Kayak Club, the event also features participation from Idaho State Parks and Rec, the Invasive Species of Idaho program, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 87, and the City of Spirit Lake. This is your chance to connect with North Idaho’s paddling community and dive into summer paddle sports the right way.

Find full details here.

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Last summer, sailboat racing returned to the Lake City for the first time in over 20 years. Following that successful season of Sunday morning races off the beach at North Idaho College, sailing enthusiasts formed a club to promote the sport of sailing, foster camaraderie among members, and encourage responsible stewardship of the waters of Coeur d’Alene Lake. Members of the newly-formed Coeur d’Alene Sailing Club sail several types of dinghies, but primarily the Melges 15, a 2-person dinghy first launched in 2020 that garnered Sailing World “Boat of the Year” honors for the “fun factor” and “simple design.” The M15 sails beautifully in a light breeze, but really comes to life in 10-12 knots. There are currently four Melges 15s in the local fleet, but members anticipate seeing more M15 owners this summer.   

Club members will start racing again next spring on Sunday mornings April through October. Sunday morning is an ideal time to sail, say club members, as consistent southerly winds from 8-10 knots can be counted on and it is early enough that the lake is still calm prior to the afternoon power boat traffic. In the spring and fall, the club is joined by Gonzaga Sailing Club and its four International 420 class sailboats. In addition to the Sunday racing program, the club is hosting a regatta May 17-18 with teams from throughout the region. Contact the Coeur d’Alene Sailing Club for more info or to find out how to join the club or take an M15 out for a test sail. The club is open to anyone willing to learn. More info at Cdasc.org.

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By James P. Johnson  

I noticed Fernie on a map while road-tripping through southeastern British Columbia more than a decade ago. I decided to head that way and become more Fernie-aware. 

About a half-dozen visits later, my Fernie-awareness has really increased. Hiking is my favorite activity. Whatever yours, chances are good you’ll find matches on the long list of things to do there. 

An impressive attribute Fernie has got going is prettiness. The Rocky Mountain peaks surrounding town cause me to pause often to gaze. The same happens downtown among the century-old brick buildings. The rampant beauty causes my pre-hike, coffeeshop stop to turn into extended lingering. A stroll through downtown ensues. When I arrive at the trailhead, a late finish to my hike is likely.  

Another attribute that earns Fernie gold stars are hikes starting in town or at the outskirts. For an ardent peripatetic as myself, leaving the car parked and walking to the trailhead is satisfying. 

An October summit of Mt. Fernie, (7,251 ft./5 miles roundtrip), on the north side of town was my first hike here. A snow shower hit as I reached the upper slopes. Staying low against wind and blinding snow on the summit’s narrow ridge, I had no idea how long my plunge would be if I went over the edge. I hiked Mt. Fernie again on my next visit. The drop-off was a moderately steep slope. I was never in danger of falling. 

Finding more adventure than expected became a theme on my Fernie hikes. At Island Lake, a resort with mountainous terrain open to hikers, I was attracted off trail to a rocky summit requiring steep scrambling. Nearing the top, it began to rain. Slick rock would mean big trouble. Abandoning my quest, I descended methodically and cautiously. I’ve never been so relieved getting off a rock face. 

My visits to Fernie are more than hiking up mountains. On a warm July day, I strolled through town with no purpose but to look at things. At a bike shop, a couple and their two elementary-age children looked excited as they took possession of rental bicycles. It brought a smile to me. 

I walked the paved trail that follows the Elk River from one end of town to the other. There are lots of trails through and around Fernie, both gentle and the rugged, mountainous kind, and lots of people on bicycles using them. No one was fishing the Elk River for which it’s known; however, an intermittent procession of people on tubes and rafts floated past. 

My walk ended at the the visitors’ centre, also the trailhead for 7,851-ft. Mt. Proctor, a 12-mile, loop hike with 4,600 feet of elevation gain. The centre guide questioned my late start. Acknowledging such, I resisted boasting that I’ve earned kudos for dealing with late starts. 

Even with map in hand, the network of trails caused a wrong turn. I backtracked, then took a longer than necessary route to access the Mt. Proctor Trail. Eventually I got into spectacular high country, and, hiking a long, rocky ridge, arrived at the summit. Two things captured my attention—the setting with many rugged peaks, and a picnic table just below the summit. 

On my hike down, recent heavy rain had washed out a long section of trail. If it reappeared on the periphery, cutting away from the wash out, and I missed it, I’d be stranded in the woods for the night. I was pleased to spot it and arrive at the visitors’ centre at dusk. 

Evenings in Fernie, I visit places I’ve strolled past earlier. I once felt truly Canadian ordering local beer at a pub and getting drawn into a curling competition on the TVs. After conversation with a couple from Medicine Hat at a Japanese restaurant, the server informed me the departed couple paid my check. A free meal is great. The downside—not being able to express appreciation. 

The first time I hiked Three Sisters (9,147 ft.), I ho-hummed the descriptions’s suggestion to check out the cave. Forty-five minutes into the hike, I was flabbergasted. Bisaro Cave is huge and spectacular. 

Three Sisters is a 13-mile roundtrip hike with 4,750 ft. of elevation gain. The access road is rough and a high-clearance vehicle is necessary for the last two kilometers. I parked at the lot for low-clearance cars, adding three miles to the total. Hiking it again last summer, I encountered newly-made camping spots for backpackers near the tree line and plenty of people using them.  

Like other hikes, the Three Sisters came with bonus adventure. Passing through a stand of stunted trees at high elevation, a grouse stayed put despite my presence, something I’ve experienced numerous times. I snapped photos as he paced circuitously, getting closer. Then he rushed me. I jumped and hopped, trying to outmaneuver him. It turned into a scuffle. Twice I landed a solid kick. Creating a gap between us, I outran him, even as he continued chasing. 

Despite all my visits to Fernie, there are summits and lowlands I’ve yet to explore. The beauty of the mountainous terrain and the pleasantness and offerings of the downtown business district makes for a satisfying road trip each time. It’s no mystery Fernie has become one of my preferred destinations. My adventures have created memorable moments. Defending myself from a hiker-hating spruce grouse is perhaps the most unique.  

James P. Johnson is the author of “Spokane and Coeur d’Alene Freshwater Shark Attacks.” He wrote about his streak of witnessing total solar eclipses in the last issue of Out There.  

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Cover photo courtesy of Eric Deady

When I think of getting out there, especially during the summer months, I think of water, and how to get myself into it. There’s no place quite like the Idaho Panhandle when it comes to swimming opportunities, and it’s as easy as a summer breeze to find a great place to dip your toes.  

Whether we live here full time, or are just passing through, we are lucky to find ourselves in a place that Neptune himself could have designed. Lakes, rivers, creeks, springs, and ponds criss-cross and dot the landscape of North Idaho in every conceivable size and shape, and all are tantalizingly clear and fresh. So if you’re looking to spend a lazy afternoon in the water, there’s no better way than to grab a book, a towel, and some snacks, and head on over to any one of my favorite swimming spots in the region. Here are three of my favorites! 

Tubbs Hill (Coeur d’Alene) 

For an easy-to-reach spot, Tubbs Hill near downtown Coeur d’Alene is a postcard-perfect nugget of rock and trees that juts out into Lake CDA. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and swimming spots around. From any place in town, you are no more than a 15-minute walk from a dip into some of the clearest mountain water you could hope to find. There is a 2-mile trail that rings the hill, and all along the trail are spots to venture off and find a nice little piece of paradise. If solitude isn’t a priority, you can join the ever-present groups of thrill seekers jumping from the rocks near the start of the trail. 

Beaver Bay (Farragut State Park)  

If big mountain views, protected swimming areas, and world-class camping are your jam, head on over to Lake Pend Oreille, a short drive north of Coeur d’Alene, where you will find the jewel of the Idaho State Parks system, Farragut State Park. Here, Beaver Bay Beach will greet you with its emerald green waters and breathtaking views. There is a protected swimming area here, so bring the kids, set up an umbrella, and soak in some of that clear mountain water to get a taste of what makes North Idaho so special. Farragut State Park is also just a fun place to visit, with miles of challenging MTB trails, five disc golf courses, and multiple campgrounds, all situated along the largest and deepest lake in Idaho. 

Lionhead Slides (Priest Lake) 

My final swimming spot is probably my favorite! This place is very remote, requiring a multiple-hour drive and a strenuous hike before you arrive, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Situated deep within a sub-alpine valley, and ringed by towering granite slabs and cliffs, is Lion Creek, which drains into the north end of Priest Lake. This creek seems unremarkable until you hike along its wandering course for several miles and come across one of the natural wonders of North Idaho, the Lionhead Slides. Here, the cool water cascades over a series of smooth granite slabs, which are just slimy enough to allow a person to slide down them at terrifyingly fast speeds, only to be deposited unceremoniously into one of the pools at the bottom with a satisfying splash. The slides are 5 miles up a 4×4-accessible dirt road, with an additional 1.5-mile hike. The water is cold, the danger real, and the effort great, but for those willing to seek out the adventure, the memories will be lasting. // 

Eric Deady lives in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where he spends his time bikepacking, raising his kids, and exploring the endless expanses of forest around the Pacific Northwest. If he’s not on his bike, you can usually find him fixing one.  

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The Spokane River is an incredible resource that provides endless recreation and vital wildlife habitat. However, climate change and increased water demands are putting the river at risk. The Spokane River is fed in large part by warmer surface water from Lake Coeur d’Alene and cold groundwater from the Spokane Valley Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. When Lake Coeur d’Alene outflows decrease in the summertime, the river has a higher proportion of cold aquifer water. However, increased summer pumping lowers aquifer water available for maintaining cold water fish habitat. 

The combination of higher water demand and lower flows creates a perfect storm for degrading the river’s health and the recreation it supports. Warmer water temperatures reduce oxygen levels in the water, stress aquatic life, and can intensify the effects of toxins. Cold-water fish like trout and salmon are highly sensitive to temperature changes. Increased water consumption leaves less cold aquifer water that the river needs to maintain summer water temperatures, shrinking available habitat for native fish that need the colder water to thrive.  

Water conservation, particularly in outdoor watering, is a powerful tool to protect the Spokane River. The City of Spokane has a drought response ordinance that sets watering limits for residents, such as asking you to water on odd or even days of the week and avoid the peak high-heat hours of the day. Though it only applies to city residents, we can all follow these measures to protect our river.  

By reducing water consumption, we can help maintain adequate flow levels in the river, which in turn supports cooler water temperatures and healthier ecosystems. For those who love to swim, fish, kayak, or simply enjoy the river’s natural beauty, maintaining a healthy Spokane River is essential. Ensuring cooler, cleaner waters means that current and future generations can continue to enjoy the river’s benefits.  

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By Chris Maccini

Many skiers dream of the kind of extended ski trip that Paul Mignini embarked on last winter. Beginning at his home in Spokane, he spent five weeks traveling through Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California and Utah. He hit more than a dozen ski resorts across five states during one of the best snow seasons in years. But not many people would be willing to go the lengths that Mignini has in his pursuit of powder on a budget. He wasn’t staying at swanky mountain hotels or cozy AirBnbs during his trip. Instead, he spent his nights in parking lots, sleeping through snowstorms in a bright red tent.

Originally from Baltimore, Mignini first caught the skiing bug in his early 20s. During a trip out West, he stopped in Breckenridge, Colo., and ended up staying for two years.  “I was broke, so I worked for Vail resorts one day a week to get my free season pass,” Mignini says. “I supported myself with a restaurant job at night and skied every day.”

After a couple of years of the ski bum lifestyle, he moved back to the East Coast to start a career, but the spirit of the mountains never left him. He made frequent trips back to Colorado over the next decade, but grew sick of saving up all year for a week or two in the mountains. A friend in Coeur d’Alene suggested that he consider relocating to the Inland Northwest. Mignini had never been to the area, but the promise of five ski resorts within an hour and a half drive was enough to convince him. Seven years ago, he moved to Spokane sight-unseen.

Mignini got to know the mountains around Spokane, and as he did, he noticed a skiing subculture that he hadn’t seen in other parts of the country. After a day of skiing, there’d be a collection of camper vans and RVs in the parking lot, preparing to stay the night.

“I saw this really unique community of weekenders that were doing big vans and skoolie conversions,” he says. “And the Pacific Northwest is really unique in that it’s got these mountains that will let you sleep overnight in the parking lot. Colorado doesn’t have that. Utah doesn’t have anything like that, but the Inland Northwest does.”

A new bug was planted. If he could stay overnight at the mountain, he could minimize his driving time and maximize time on the slopes. It would also allow him to explore ski resorts farther away if a storm system moved through the Cascades or southern Idaho. There was just one problem. He didn’t have an RV or camper van.

The Ski Tent Setup

Because Mignini didn’t have the cash to drop on a recreational vehicle, he began looking for more inexpensive options. First, he tried sleeping in his small SUV. But that proved to be a cold, uncomfortable experience. Plus, there was nowhere to cook a hot meal, especially if a snowstorm was raging outside.

Eventually, after falling down a few YouTube rabbit holes, Mignini discovered the world of pop-up ice fishing shelters. For a few hundred bucks, he could buy a sturdy, insulated tent built to withstand the cold, snowy expanse of a frozen lake—conditions not unlike those he might experience in a mountain parking lot.

Mignini bought a tent and outfitted it with a sleeping cot, a folding table, and a portable propane heater and stove. It seemed like a cozy, safe space to ride out a stormy mountain night. But there was only one way to truly test the setup. He had to spend a night on the mountain.

His first overnight ski trip with the tent was at Mount Baker. A big snowfall was in the forecast, and he set his tent up in the parking lot, hoping that it would withstand the storm. “I got everything I wished for and more,” Mignini says. “I have pictures of this thing in a three-foot dump next to the car, and the car’s buried in snow.”

The setup wasn’t perfect, he admits. That Cascade snow was heavy and wet, and Mignini got up every couple of hours to knock snow off the tent to keep it from collapsing. At one point, he woke up freezing because his propane heater had run out of fuel. But overall, it worked. And over the course of a few more weekend trips, he ironed out the kinks.

The Big Trip

Initially, Mignini hadn’t planned on an extended ski trip. His goal was to chase storms around the region, to hit places within a five- or six-hour drive of Spokane and not have to slog all the way home after a long day of powder skiing. But in January of 2023, a series of events aligned and presented him with an opportunity he couldn’t turn down.

First, there was the snow. A strong La Niña weather cycle led to storm after massive snowstorm pummeling the Western United States. Many ski resorts—especially those in California and Utah—recorded record-breaking snowfalls during the 2022-2023 season. Mignini watched storms roll in on the Open Snow app, and longed to chase them farther from home.

Then, Mignini found himself with some unexpected time off. He works in sales and is self-employed, and in January 2023, he closed the largest deal of his career. Suddenly he could afford to take a few weeks away from work.

“We were literally having one of the best snow years ever. If ever there was a time for me to take an extended period of time off and go on this trip, it was now,” Mignini says. “I had all the equipment. I’d done it as economically as possible. I’d tested everything. I knew it could handle it. And in mid-February, that’s when the trip kicked off.”

The next five weeks were the stuff of ski hill legends. Mignini had planned a rough itinerary, beginning in the Cascades, then south through Oregon and into the Sierra Nevada of Northern California. From there, he’d head east across Nevada, into Utah’s Wasatch Mountains and back up through the Sawtooths of southern Idaho. For the most part, he stuck to that plan, but he also kept an eye on incoming storms and made a few diversions to be in the right place for an epic powder day—such as the five feet of fresh snow he caught at Dodge Ridge, a small resort in the central Sierra. In total, he skied at 14 resorts across five states.

“Almost every single mountain I hit had fresh snow that day,” Mignini says. “And it wasn’t just fresh. It was a lot of fresh. I caught three and a half feet of blower powder at Mount Hood Meadows on a windless day. There was a guy at the bottom of the lift who came out of the trees in this head-to-toe neon ski suit from like, 1983. His beard was down to his belly. He dropped to his knees and said, ‘This is the best day we’ve had in 27 years!’”

Not every ski area would allow Mignini to set up his tent in their parking lot, however, so he spent several nights in sno-parks on nearby state or federal land. He splurged for a hotel one night near Lake Tahoe too. He needed a shower, and it was a difficult area to find a place to camp. But aside from that, he spent every night in his pop-up shelter.

While he doesn’t have another extended trip planned yet, Mignini is looking forward to the upcoming winter season, and he’s keeping his options open.  “I don’t think I’m going to be doing a month-long trip,” he says. “But you can guarantee that I’ll be out there for long weekends. And I mean, if we get a perfect storm cycle that comes together, I’d have no problem doing it again.” //

Chris Maccini is a writer, audio producer, and skier living in Spokane. 

Cover photo courtesy Paul Mignini

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