Cover photo courtesy of Kanisku Land Trust

When I was a kid, I could wander for miles without seeing a “No Trespassing” sign. Neighbors didn’t mind me and my dog popping out of the woods, and I never thought about “public access.” It was the norm. 

Of course, not every landowner feels comfortable welcoming visitors. Some fear liability, and others prefer privacy. Idaho’s Recreational Use Statute helps ease those worries by protecting landowners who allow free public access, but, ultimately, it’s always a choice. When granted, public access on private land is a gift, one that comes with the simple expectation that guests respect rules like staying on trails, picking up after themselves and honoring boundaries. 

It’s also important to understand the difference between public land and public-access land. Public land is owned by the public and managed by government agencies. It is supported by taxes, fees or resource management. Public-access land, on the other hand, is private property where the owner voluntarily allows community use. 

Kaniksu Land Trust’s Pine Street Woods is a good example. Though privately owned by the nonprofit Kaniksu Land Trust (KLT), it was purchased through community support and is maintained for public enjoyment. Still, most of KLT’s conservation work involves protecting land through conservation easements—agreements that keep forests, farms and wildlife habitat intact, but that don’t usually allow public access. 

Whether offered formally or informally, public access is a rare and generous gift. By respecting and supporting these lands, we ensure their beauty and benefits remain for generations to come. 

The post When Public Access Is a Gift: Respecting Private Land for Community Use  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Public lands are more than just beautiful scenery or places on a map—they are living landscapes that often preserve remnants of native plant and animal ecosystems that once spread unfettered across vast expanses of wild nature. At the same time, our state and federal public lands, numbering in millions of acres here in the Inland Northwest, are a source of adventure, inspiration and solace. Whether it’s a short hike in the Dishman Hills or Pine Street Woods, a weekend up at Priest Lake, or a weeklong adventure in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, these well-loved places offer a chance for us to step away from overly curated, technology-saturated lives to rewild ourselves just a bit. Even if we aren’t aware that it’s happening, we reconnect in subtle ways to a past when the lives of humans and the billions of other incredible life forms we share this planet with were much more intertwined.  

We are so incredibly fortunate to live in a place with such easy access to the outdoors, with miles of trails and open spaces owned by all of us. But with such privilege comes the responsibility to limit our impact on often fragile relationships between all of the growing, buzzing, flying, ambling, and slithering things that make their homes where we play. It’s also our responsibility to continue moving forward conservation efforts by cultivating a “give back” ethic, whether it’s volunteering for a trail or restoration project, taking the time to lobby public lands agencies and elected officials in support of conservation initiatives, or donating to the organizations that safeguard our favorite places.  

In the following stories, four Out There Venture writers share how public lands have transformed their lives. In their stories, we see why protecting and managing these places for the greater good matters now more than ever. (OTO) 

The post How Public Lands Inspire, Heal, and Transform Lives in the Inland Northwest appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Amy McCaffree 

Cover photo courtesy of Amy McCaffree

Looking for outdoor community this summer for you and your dog? Your local off-leash dog park is one such place.  

Seriously—where else can Millennials, Gen Z, Gen X and Boomers come and go randomly, mill about and chitchat, and where formal introductions are optional? At the dog park, the only expectations are to clean up after your dog and ensure your dog plays nice, which means respecting and following off-leash park rules. There is unique camaraderie because of a shared value, a love for dogs. Dogs also inspire humans to be more like them: friendly, non-judgmental, carefree, eager to play outdoors.  

As a societal microcosm, a dog park is fascinating. My young dog, Layla, and I started going to dog parks last summer, when she was 6 months old. Visiting our local one is now part of our regular routine. I’ve had more conversations with random Boomer men than ever before, especially on weekday mornings. It’s where I regularly cross paths with people in their 20s-30s. No visit is the same. For me, the wonderful array of breeds and dog personalities is the best part. From corgis and chow chows to huskies and Newfoundlands, dogs are joyfully entertaining. And I consider providing play opportunities for Layla my dog-mom duty. 

Dog Park Etiquette 

Every off-leash park has the same general rules, which can be found online or posted on-site. Mostly common sense and etiquette stuff: only fully-vaccinated dogs allowed, clean up after your dog, no fighting. 

Dog parks are highly stimulating and unpredictable; therefore, drama happens. Dogs well-suited for an off-leash park environment are “typically young (between 6 months and 2 years old), outgoing, love to play, friendly, and forgiving,” says Terry Ann Fernando, creator and host of “The Accidental Bird Dog” podcast. Less suited for the dog-park environment, according to Fernando, are:  

1. Very young puppies (4-6 months old; puppies 16 weeks or younger should not visit). 

2. Shy or aloof dogs, who might act defensive or snappy when surrounded by a group of dogs or simply prefer one-on-one play with a dog friend rather than random new ones. 

3. Adult dogs who have grown out of the playful stage of life, which varies by breed and temperament. Some seniors dogs, age 7+, are still spry and active, while some 4-5 year-olds act grumpy and tired.  

4. Small or fragile breeds, unless in a “small dog” area of an off-leash park—tiny dogs should never be in the same area as big breeds. 

5. Aggressive dogs, without exception. (Even at an off-leash area, owners are liable for their dog’s actions and any injuries or damages to other dogs or people, regardless of the dog’s behavioral history.) 

6. Under-exercised dogs, who have been confined or not walked for a stretch of time—or are infrequent park visitors—can cause trouble when they arrive “like a drunk college student at a frat party,” Fernando says. 

7. Intact males can attract negative attention from neutered males and may also attempt to dominate female dogs; also, female dogs in heat should not visit dog parks.  

It’s recommended that dogs new to off-leash play areas first visit during off-peak times, such as early morning or weekdays before 3 p.m.—same for older or less playful dogs. Be sure to know and understand “dog language” and follow park rules for a positive experience with other park visitors. 

Spokane and North Idaho Dog Parks 

Standard amenities include a double-gate entry/exit system; separate/divided sections for small and large breeds (unless otherwise noted in list below); dog bag dispensers, drinking fountains, benches, shelters and picnic tables; open dawn to dusk (typically). Use this guide to plan a day trip or for road-trip stops along the journey to a summer vacation. (Note: “Dog park” info from Yelp, Google Reviews and BringFido.com is not 100% accurate—a “dog friendly” park doesn’t mean off-leash use is allowed.) 

Spokane County 

• High Bridge Dog Park: 9.3 acres, recently renovated, layout includes three separate fenced play areas with the large area, featuring rugged terrain, best suited for large breeds. 

• South Hill Dog Park: 1.8 acres, opened fall 2024, partially paved and gravel walking path. No separate area for small dogs; no picnic tables or shelter. 

• Riverside Dog Park: triangle-size “pocket” park (.07 acre) created for residents/dog owners of downtown and Browne’s Addition. (Note: As of April 2025, both gate latches were broken, posing a safety risk.) No shelter or tables. 

• Valley Mission Dog Park: Has agility features and dog wash station. 

• Patricia Simonet Laughing Dog Park: Located at Gateway Regional Park, I-90 Stateline exit, managed by SCRAPS. 

• Cheney Dog Park: Opened in summer 2023, corner of Presley Drive & Hwy 904. 

Coeur d’Alene/Kootenai County 

• McEuen Dog Park: Located within McEuen Park. 

• Riverstone Dog Park: Walk-in only, accessible off the Centennial Trail; 0.5 acre; drivers can park at Riverstone Park. 

• Cherry Hill Dog Park: 0.68 acres. 

• Central Bark Dog Park: Located within Northshire Park. 

• Atlas Water Dog Park: ADA-accessible off-leash area within Atlas Park, along the Spokane River, includes a beach and Spokane river access.  

• Croffoot Dog Park: Located in Hayden at Croffoot Park and Sports Complex. 

Sandpoint Area 

• Dog Beach Park: Walk/bike-in only; off-leash beach located off Serenity Lee Trail, south of downtown Sandpoint. 

• Ponderay Pet Safe Dog Park: Located by Panhandle Animal Shelter, fully ADA-accessible with ramps, access points, and pathways; dog agility course. 

• Pine Street Woods: Conservation property, 180 acres, managed by Kaniksu Land Trust; dogs allowed to be off-leash if “within voice control.” 

• Sam Owen Campground (Hope, ID): Off-leash dogs allowed on the rocky beach, adjacent to the day-use area. 

Silver Valley & Missoula, MT 

• Wallace Dog Park: Opened in 2022; solar-powered lights for after dark, covered patio area. 

• Missoula: MRL Park Dog Area, Fort Missoula Regional Sgt. Bozo Dog Park, and Jacobs Island Bark Park.  

Palouse/Whitman County 

• Pullman Pooch Park: Managed by Whitman County Humane Society; $5 day pass or paid membership required. 

• Moscow Dog Park: Located by Humane Society of the Palouse. 

Lewiston/Clarkston 

• Lewiston: Penny’s Memorial Dog Park. 

• Clarkston: Eagle Scout Dog Park and Pippin’s Island Off-Leash Area.  

Did You Know? 

• 66% of American households own at least one pet, predominately a dog. 

• 30% of pet owners are from Millennial Generation (born between 1981 and 1996; currently those age 29-44), followed by Gen X and Baby Boomers (25% each of pet-owner population) and Gen Z (20%). 

Source: American Pet Products Association’s 2025 National Pet Owners Survey 

More Dog Parks in Eastern/Central Washington 

• Moses Lake: Basin Homes Dog Park 

• Wenatchee: Hale Park Off-Leash Area 

• Ellensburg: 2 off-leash areas, Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park and Rotary Park. 

• Walla Walla: Fort Walla Walla Dog Park. 

• Yakima: Randall Park off-leash areas. 

Additional Inland Northwest Off-Leash Areas 

Offering more off-leash dog areas (OLA) is good public relations and marketing for communities. According to the “City of Spokane Dog Park Guidelines,” published in Oct. 2022, the city needs six off-leash dog parks to meet local demand. Standard planning for the people-dog ratio population is 38,000 people or 25,000 dogs per facility. Local survey data was used to project that 90% of Spokane residents are dog owners, with an estimated dog population of 150,000. In a ranked list of similar-sized cities, Boise, Idaho, is #1 for providing 16 dog parks, which equates to use ratio of 9,536 dogs per facility. (In 2022, Spokane’s ratio was over 74,000 dogs per facility.) 

With too few off-leash areas (OLA), dog-owners tend to take matters into their own hands, which results in hiking areas and other public parks becoming de facto off-leash areas—and this causes more problems. Typically, local governments enact and enforce dog-leash laws. In Washington, there is no statewide leash requirement except for one pertaining to state parks; however, there is a law prohibiting “animals at large” off private property. To meet demand for off-leash recreation, SnipSpot.com is a platform for private property owners to become a “host” and dog-owners pay an hourly fee for their dog to run around off-leash. 

Notable Dog Parks in Western Washington/Puget Sound Area Cities 

• Bellingham: Squalicum Creek Park, Fairhaven Dog Park, Arroyo Park, Lake Padden Park Off-Leash Area. 

• Everett: Howarth Park Off Leash Area, Lowell Riverfront Dog Park, Loganberry Lane Dog Park 

• Redmond: Marymoor Park (40-acres). 

• Seatac: Grandview Park (37 acres).  

• Seattle: Jose Rizal Park (Beacon Hill), Genesee Park Off-Leash Area (southeast Seattle), Golden Gardens (Ballard), Magnuson Park (Sand Point). 

• Tacoma: Point Defiance Dog Park, Swan Creek Off-Leash Dog Park. 

Resources: 

my.spokanecity.org/parks/dogs 

https://www.cdaid.org/726/departments/parks/park-list

Amy McCaffree is an OTO senior writer who has been contributing to Out There since 2016. If you see Layla and Amy at a dog park, say hello! Follow her outdoor recreation and #dogmom adventures on Instagram @adventure_amy_spokane or TikTok @pnwadventureamy. 

The post Where Paws Meet People  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo by Fiona Hicks courtesy of the Kanisku Land Trust

When a colleague mentioned seeing a small herd of exotic animals going up Highway 20 near the Sherman Creek Wildlife Area in Northeast Washington, I had to see where this story led. My colleague had grown up in this part of the state and worked for several natural resource agencies, so I listen when something sticks out as unusual—like seeing a few camels, a yak, and some goats with a minimally clad herder heading up the highway. 

I started making phone calls and sending emails to any connection I could make. Did anyone have information on this nomadic herder? I started with the WDFW at Sherman Creek Wildlife Area, but the staff I talked to hadn’t heard these stories of a few camels walking by. Then I asked the Colville National Forest. They had no direct knowledge of this person and his flock. But I did learn that recreational grazing is allowed on National Forest as long as there are no negative impacts. 

I got wind of a landowner in the Rice area who might have something, including a name, Chris. Chris had overwintered with his herd on a neighbor’s property, trading work around the property for housing his stock and himself, presumably. The neighbor reported that Chris frequently and seasonally moved his animals from the Okanogan to Northeast Oregon. I started looking for news from other forests. One fateful day, I was talking with another colleague on an entirely unrelated topic and heard about an organization that focuses on natural living, bush craft, and other close-to-the-land skills. On their website, I saw an instructor bio for Chris who taught about mixed herd management, but not too much more. Did I finally have a last name?  

Yes, I did! Another Google search and there it was, an article about Chris grazing his animals for the Kaniksu Land Trust right in Sandpoint. Chris was using his animals to graze the weeds at the popular trail system, Pine Street Woods. These animals are reducing weeds and putting back some fertilizer, all without using herbicides. 

Grazing on public can be a hot topic in the conservation world. Many of our public lands, particularly the Forest Service and BLM, are managed for multiple use and allow commercial grazing under the Taylor Grazing Act in 1934. This act broke grazing into allotments and uses a permit system to manage livestock grazing. This substantially reduced the impacts of grazing, but cattle and sheep can still have an impact on the landscape. 

In certain areas, these hooved animals can impact water quality and stream habitats. Their feces can add E. coli and other bacteria, affecting drinking water supply. They congregate along streams and water sources, mowing vegetation and trampling the shoreline. This adds to increased erosion and sedimentation in the streams affecting fish habitat. Protecting water sources with fencing and hardened crossing along with moving livestock regularly can reduce these impacts. 

Grazing can also come into conflict with predator reintroduction and management. Large predators play a key role in ecosystems: maintaining populations levels, increasing biodiversity, and helping to shape habitats. Although there are management practices that can reduce predation, it is still an economic impact to a business with tight margins. 

In many parts of the West, public land grazing helps economically support rural livelihoods, which maintains undeveloped private ranch lands—key wildlife habitat and movement corridors—from being developed. 

Virtual fencing technology is further improving range management. Think of an invisible dog fence for cows. Several members of the herd wear collars, ranchers use special cell towers and an app to draw fence boundaries. Is there a known wolf den? Keep the cows out. Want to knock down cheat grass or mow a fire break? Congregate the cows to mob graze at the optimal time to knock the vegetation down.  

This trail didn’t lead where I thought. Chris does not have much internet presence and probably likes it that way. He certainly lives an interesting life moving his small exotic herd throughout the region to improve habitat. However, this path did give me a chance to review both the support and opposition to grazing on public lands. 

This summer, Adam is on the hunt for large old trees in the region. He will try to keep up with his running into the hot weather to help with some long hikes planned. 

The post The Trail of the Nomadic Herder  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Sandpoint is a great basecamp for exploring trails throughout the Idaho Panhandle. Choose from lower-elevation trails near water that are great for swimming or high-country hikes with summer wildflowers and mountain views. Here are a few local favorites. 

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge: There are a number of easy trails at this beautiful area 45 minutes north of Sandpoint that are perfect for spotting birds and other wildlife. There’s also an auto tour route.  

Mickinnick Trail: This forested trail, only a few miles from downtown, offers several miles of hiking trails with wildflowers often lingering through June. 

Scotchman Peak Trail: This strenuous hike climbs 3,500 feet to views you won’t soon forget with the chance of viewing resident mountain goats. 

Schweitzer: Head up to Schweitzer for spectacular sub-alpine hikes. The resort recommends the 2.5-mile Nature Trail that starts near the Village. Or, take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain and hike Stewart’s Loop (0.3 mile) or the Summit View Loop (0.5 mile).  

Pine Street Woods: Just two miles from downtown, there are around a dozen wooded trails to explore with miles of hiking possibilities.  

The post Hike these Sandpoint-Area Trails  appeared first on Out There Venture.

June is the best summer month to ride most of Sandpoint’s trails for peak conditions and low trail traffic. But later in the summer as trails dry out in the high country is when most of Schweitzer’s trails really shine. Whether you’re looking for lift-served descents, mellow forested rides or routes with big lake views, these Sandpoint trails have it all. 

Schweitzer Mountain Resort: Schweitzer and the adjacent Selkirk Recreation District offer an ever-expanding system of over 30 mountain bike trails. While the trails outside of the resort require climbing back up (or using a shuttle) after a descent, Schweitzer has a great trail network with trails for a range of abilities and a chairlift assist back to the top for endless 1,700-foot, gravity-fueled rides back to the Schweitzer Village.  

Pine Street Woods and Syringa: A short ride from downtown Sandpoint, Pine Street Woods offers a mix of wide, rolling trails and more advanced options. It connects to Sherwood Forest and the VTT system to form the larger Syringa Trail System, with more than 20 miles of trails. 

Gold Hill Trail: A local favorite, this 3.7-mile trail climbs through shaded forest to sweeping views of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille. Located off Bottle Bay Road, it’s a solid intermediate ride, often tackled as an out-and-back. 

Lost Lake and Mineral Point Trails: Located 14 miles south of town, this area combines gentle singletrack and tougher climbs with stunning lake views. Riders can cool off at Green Bay’s rocky beach after looping Lost Lake or tackling the more challenging Mineral Point Trail. 

The post Mountain Bike these Sandpoint Trails   appeared first on Out There Venture.

When early summer arrives in Sandpoint, Idaho, the mountains come alive with more trails to ride than you can fit into your vacation schedule. Sandpoint has been quietly adding to its trail systems that are anchored by long-time classics by building some of the Northwest’s best new trails specifically with mountain biking in mind. Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping climbs with outstanding lake views or gentle rolling trails perfect for beginners and families, Sandpoint’s diverse terrain really does offer trails for every rider.

The area’s active biking culture with trails a short pedal or drive away paired with a laid-back lake-and-mountain town to base your biking forays from make Sandpoint a top early-season mountain biking destination.

Photo courtesy of Schweitzer

Schweitzer Mountain

Schweitzer and the adjacent Selkirk Recreation District offer an exceptional and expanding trail system for mountain bikers with dozens of trails and ride variations to choose from. Many trails afford outstanding lake views to complement the heart-pumping climbs and descents, and Schweitzer provides chairlift assist to the top for 1,700’ gravity-descents on over 40 trails with options from beginner to expert.

Pine Street Woods

Located little more than two miles from downtown Sandpoint, the Kaniksu Land Trust has made the incredible Pine Street Woods trail system possible. Take your pick from more than a dozen trails, with wide routes that welcome all trail users including e-bikers, plus a large number of singletrack rides ranging from smooth-and-flowy for beginners, to technical downhill descents with ramps and jumps for advanced riders.

Gold Hill // Photo by Doug Marshall, courtesy of Visit Sandpoint

Gold Hill Trail

The 3.7-mile Gold Hill Trail is a popular local’s singletrack staple. The trail serves up a moderate to strenuous out-and-back ride that leads uphill through green walls of North Idaho forest to panoramic views of Sandpoint across Lake Pend Oreille.

Lost Lake – Mineral Point Trail

This two-trailhead trail system 14 miles from town rewards riders with big views of the southern arm of Lake Pend Oreille and swimming at Green Bay. Choose from the easier loop around Lost Lake or the more challenging trail to Mineral Point with views of Lake Pend Oreille and the Green Monarchs.

Farragut State Park

Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille 30 minutes south of Sandpoint, Farragut features over 20 miles of mountain bike trails ranging from rolling beginner-friendly singletrack to more challenging blue trails. Easy access to the lake for swimming and paddling make Farragut a top choice for cooling off after a hot summer ride.

Trestle Creek // Photo by Doug Marshall, courtesy of Visit Sandpoint

More Sandpoint-Area MTB Trails

Sandpoint is an ideal basecamp for exploring other forest service and private land trails a bit farther out of town. North toward Bonners Ferry, highly-recommended trails include Brush Lake, with a moderately easy six-mile loop along the lake plus the option for tapping into the relatively-new Tungsten Mountain Trail for a magnificent 20-ish mile up-and-down rollercoaster ride; Section 16, with 11 miles of gently rolling and non-technical rides; and gorgeous trails (with a steep climb to start) at Enchanted Forest. 

Whatever your riding style, trail preference and ability level, you’ll find your perfect early-summer spin near Sandpoint. Check out all of the recommended local rides and start planning your mountain bike getaway. Combine fine days of riding with Sandpoint’s vaunted culinary and entertainment opportunities for a weekend or multi-day visit; discover those, plus an array of lodging choices, at VisitSandpoint.com.

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The post Sandpoint’s Top Early-Season Mountain Bike Rides appeared first on Out There Venture.

Explore these summer outdoor music festivals in the Pacific Northwest that you can bikepack to and camp at—or drive and bring your bike for day rides between music sets. For gear and route planning tips, visit Bikepacking.com, a top resource for adventure cyclists.

Kettle River Music Festival – Curlew, Washington (August 1–3, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Republic via the Golden Tiger Pathway and Ferry County Rail Trail, or ride sections of the trail system from the festival grounds. More ambitious riders can head up to the Kettle Crest for epic singletrack.
kettlerivermusicfestival.org

Yellow Pine Harmonica Festival – Yellow Pine, Idaho (July 31–August 2, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from McCall, Idaho, over a steep mountain pass and along the South Fork Salmon River to reach this remote Idaho mountain music festival. For an incredibly scenic day ride or overnighter from the festival, pedal 33 rugged miles to the community of Big Creek for an excellent meal at the Big Creek Lodge near the airstrip. Then ride back or stay at one of the nearby campsites.
yellowpinefestival.org

National Oldtime Fiddlers’ Contest & Festival – Weiser, Idaho (June 17–21, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from New Meadows or McCall, Idaho, incorporating the 84-mile-long Weiser River Trail, one of Idaho’s top rail trails. Or, day-ride this scenic route directly from the festival.
fiddlecontest.org

Juniper Jam – Enterprise, Oregon (August 30, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepackers looking for an epic challenge can start from Asotin, Washington, or farther south at Heller Bar on the Snake River and ride gravel and two-track trails climbing through the Chief Joseph Wildlife Area to the rim above Hells Canyon—a 100+ mile journey with incredible camping along the way. Less zealous riders can enjoy scenic day rides from the festival on gravel roads into the Zumwalt Prairie and surrounding Wallowa Mountains.
juniperjam.com

Festival at Sandpoint – Sandpoint, Idaho (July 24–27 and July 31–August 3, 2025)
BIKE IT: Create your own custom bikepacking route to Sandpoint, Idaho, mixing trails, gravel, and pavement from your home base. The nearby trails at Pine Street Woods are an easy ride from the festival for day trippers.
festivalatsandpoint.com

The Gorge Amphitheatre – George, Washington (Multiple 2025 Festivals)
Beyond Wonderland (June 20–22)
Watershed Festival (August 1–3)
Bass Canyon Festival (August 15–17)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Spokane on the Palouse to Cascades Trail to the Gorge Amphitheatre, one of the most iconic outdoor music venues in Washington. Or use the trail for a day ride during your festival weekend.
gorgeamphitheatre.com

Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival – Medical Lake, Washington (August 8–10, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Spokane via the Fish Lake Trail and scenic back roads to this lakeside bluegrass festival near Spokane. Explore miles of quiet roads and countryside around Medical Lake between music sets.
bluewatersbluegrass.org

Shambhala Music Festival – Salmo, British Columbia (July 25–28, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Spokane and connect with the International Selkirk Loop bike route, then continue on to Salmo for this legendary BC electronic music festival in the Kootenays. Or ride from Nelson, BC, on the Nelson-Salmo Great Northern Trail for outstanding day rides from the festival. Don’t forget your passport!
shambhalamusicfestival.com

The post NW Music Festivals You Can Bikepack To (Or Day Ride From) 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.

From easy, flat walks suitable for all abilities to strenuous mountain climbs that reward hikers with panoramic views and potential wildlife encounters, the Sandpoint area’s trail system provides diverse opportunities to take it all in. Whether you’re seeking prolific lupine displays, beargrass meadows, or the chance to spot mountain goats, moose, and eagles, these trails offer wonderful discoveries for wildflower and wildlife enthusiasts. Visit the links below for driving directions and other info for each of the hike and wildlife-viewing destinations.

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

Although wildlife generally avoids humans, Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge near Sandpoint offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, especially during spring bird migrations. The 2,774-acre refuge’s wetlands, meadows, riparian, and coniferous forests provide sanctuary primarily for migrating waterfowl. During spring, when birds are moving along the Pacific Flyway, thousands of ducks, geese, and swans may be resting and foraging at the refuge ponds.

Over 300 species of wildlife have been observed here: 22 species of fish, 7 species of amphibians, 6 species of reptiles, 45 species of mammals, and over 223 bird species. You’ll see waterfowl and raptors such as eagles and osprey, while moose, deer, and even bear frequent the refuge. The refuge has easy and flat hiking trails, wildlife blinds, and a driving route offering multiple ways to experience the wildlife and its beautiful location in the Kootenai River valley.

Mickinnick Trail

One of the most rewarding spring hikes near Sandpoint, the Mickinnick Trail is a challenging route that rises more than 2,000 feet in its 3.5-mile length to the topmost overlook (7 miles roundtrip). Even in the lower, easier reaches, the wildflowers are varied and glorious in spring and early summer. The trail wends through big granite features amid open forests and, in spring and early summer, profuse displays of many different kinds of wildflowers.

The trail ends on a rocky knob commanding a view of Sandpoint, the Long Bridge, the Cabinet Mountains, and Lake Pend Oreille. On warm summer days, the east-facing aspect of the trail makes it more user-friendly in the afternoon.

Scotchman Peak Trail

Looking to spot mountain goats in the wild? The Scotchman Peak Trail, a top-rated challenging hike near Sandpoint, offers a strenuous climb with rewarding wildlife encounters and panoramic lake views. About 30 minutes’ drive east of town, the trail ascends more than 3,700 feet over roughly 4 miles to the highest point in Bonner County at 6,872 feet. A resident herd of mountain goats frequents the peak, affording a good chance of seeing the amazingly sure-footed mountain climbers up close. Hikers are asked to keep a distance of 100 feet for their safety as well as the goats’.

Pine Street Woods

Just over two miles from downtown Sandpoint, Pine Street Woods offers family-friendly hiking trails with prolific lupine blooms in late spring and early summer. More than a dozen trails provide miles of hiking opportunities through this unique place where the numerous off-leash dogs and varied terrain create a welcoming outdoor experience.

Photos courtesy of Visit Sandpoint

Round Lake State Park

Round Lake State Park, located 12 miles south of Sandpoint, features 7 miles of easy hiking trails through towering pines and lakeside wetlands—perfect for birdwatching and springtime wildlife viewing. Visitors often spot wildlife as Canada geese pass over the park’s pine, hemlock, and larch trees and ospreys plunge for perch. Hikers may discover beaver lodges and catch a glimpse of a resident moose, while along the lake in summer, they may hear a chorus of bullfrogs and spot ducks and Red-winged Blackbirds among other birdlife.

Gold Hill Trail

The Gold Hill Trail is a popular 3.7-mile hike near Sandpoint that climbs to sweeping views of Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk Mountains, ideal for spring and fall hikes. Most start at the trailhead on Bottle Bay Road, about 8 miles south of Sandpoint, making this mountain hiking at its best in the Pacific Northwest.

Schweitzer Trails

Beginning in June, the beargrass make lavish displays along Schweitzer’s many trails. Schweitzer Mountain Resort features over 20 miles of dedicated hiking trails, with alpine wildflowers and panoramic views of Lake Pend Oreille, ideal for summer hiking in North Idaho.

Recommended Schweitzer Hikes:

Nature Trail: This 2.5-mile one-way trail ascends approximately 1,700 feet, leading hikers through forests and meadows to the summit. At the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Pend Oreille and the surrounding mountains. Hikers can choose to descend the same way or take the Great Escape Quad chairlift back down.

Picnic Point: Ideal for families and those seeking a moderate hike, this 3-mile round-trip trail offers sweeping vistas with minimal elevation gain.

Additional Hiking Trails in the Sandpoint Area:

• Evans Landing Trail: A moderate 2-mile forested hike to a secluded beach on Lake Pend Oreille—perfect for spring picnics and birdwatching.
• Maiden Rock Trail: A steep and scenic 2-mile trek through deep forest to a hidden cove on Lake Pend Oreille’s western shore.
• Lost Lake & Mineral Point Trail: This 6-mile trail system offers panoramic views of Lake Pend Oreille and the Green Monarchs, with loop options ideal for spring wildflower hikes.
• Farragut State Park: Farragut State Park, just 40 minutes from Sandpoint, boasts over 45 miles of scenic hiking trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to challenging forest hikes. Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille, it’s a crown jewel of Idaho’s state parks.

You’ll find your perfect spring hike near Sandpoint to soak in the season’s sights, sounds, and serenity. Check out all of the spring trail recommendations and start planning your wildflower and wildlife spring getaway. Combine fine days outside with Sandpoint’s vaunted culinary and entertainment opportunities for a weekend or multi-day visit; discover those, plus an array of lodging choices, at VisitSandpoint.com.

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