If you are dreaming of sunnier, warmer days outside, the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo is a shot of summer when we need it most in the dead of winter. It’s a lively gathering with experts in the local outdoors community, RVs and outdoor gear on display and for sale, presentations and demonstrations on a variety of outdoor topics, prize drawings, and enough engaging kids’ activities to keep families occupied for hours. Visit Spokaneoutdoorexpo.com for the full schedule and details.  

TONS OF FUN FOR KIDS & PARENTS 

The Spokane Great Outdoors Expo is a savior if your family has been spending their winter days indoors, with enough kids’ activities, entertainment and indoor bike riding to turn another winter weekend at home into an adventure! Parents will find plenty to love, including RVs and outdoor gear, outfitters and gear shops, travel destinations and a full bar. 

Extreme Halfpipe Skateboarding Demos  

Watch rippin’ skateboarders pull off sick stunts on and off the half pipe! Demonstrations happen both days indoors at the Expo courtesy of Hopper Skateboards, Yousta, and sponsor Layne Stoops State Farm, your local Spokane insurance agency. 

Kids’ Adventure Passport Activity 

Kids and parents can explore the Great Outdoors Expo, visiting multiple booths to complete learning activities, art projects and other creative and fun challenges. Kids collect stamps in a passport booklet at each station that can be exchanged for a bag of prizes for kids and parents when they finish. 

Magic Shows by Magician Matthew Vanzee 

Kids and adults will be dazzled by these shows all weekend long by talented local magician Matthew Vanzee. Last year, his shows drew a standing-room-only crowd as he performed tricks that inspired wonder, gasps and laughter. Don’t miss this show! 

Live Wild Animal Presentations 

Get up close and personal with live snakes, other reptiles, insects, and raptors including hawks and owls and learn about these amazing animals (presentations both days). 

• Reptiles Presentation: Learn about the fascinating world of reptiles by getting up close with some live reptiles in a hands-on learning experience. Gain a deeper appreciation for these often-misunderstood creatures.  

• Hawk and Owl Presentation: Discover the world of birds of prey and see some live raptors up close while learning about the hunting skills, behaviors, and unique characteristics of these impressive birds as well as the role they play in maintaining ecological balance in the wild.  

Kids’ Indoor Bike Riding Area  

Kids of all ages can try out different bikes, from Strider balance bikes for the littles to BMX bikes for “kids” of all ages including adults in an indoor riding area (all weekend long). 

Archery for Kids and Youth 

Learn about archery with local experts and get the chance to experience the art of the bow and arrow in a safe, educational environment—all indoors.  

Marshmallow Roasting 

Roast free marshmallows at our indoor “Expo Campground” around a faux campfire, complete with live music, camp chairs and games. 

Learn How to Use a Crosscut Saw 

Ever wonder what it’s like to be on the end of a cross-cut saw clearing trail? Give it a try with members of the Idaho Trails Association and learn about ways you can help keep Idaho’s wilderness trails clear and accessible while meeting other like-minded volunteers. 

Indoor Expo Campground 

Enjoy our indoor campground as you dream about next summer’s adventures! Kick back in a camp chair, roast a marshmallow, play yard games, enjoy an adult beverage, check out RVs from R’nR RV and listen to live American string music. The indoor “Campground” is also where we hold hourly drawings for thousands of dollars in outdoor gear and other prizes. 

JOIN NEGATIVE SPLIT’S 5K “SWAG RUN”  

What’s the Swag Run, you ask? If you’re even a casual runner, this is your chance to get outside on a 5K run with other smiling faces and get a morning workout on the scenic trails and pathways around Riverfront Park and the Spokane River. The cool thing about Negative Split’s Swag Run is that participants get to take home leftover swag from past races. The race starts and finishes at the Great Outdoors Expo at the Spokane Convention Center Saturday morning (Feb. 21). Runners also score a free ticket to the Great Outdoors Expo at the finish line! Sign up at Nsplit.com. 

FREE ENTRY INTO THE SPOKANE GOLF SHOW 

Your Expo ticket doubles as entry to the Spokane Golf Show going on in the same space at the convention center.  

PRESENTATIONS ON OUTDOORSY TOPICS  

Learn about wildlife, trails and natural history at presentations by local experts happening all weekend long. Past presentations have covered topics including staying safe in the outdoors around bears and other predators, wilderness survival, local trails and natural areas, navigating the different types of e-bikes and where you can ride them, identifying native birds and more. Check the full schedule at Spokaneoutdoorexpo.com. 

SCORE A FREE BONUS ADVENTURE DEAL WITH YOUR TICKET  

Choose from one of several free bonus adventure deals with your Spokane Great Outdoors Expo ticket purchase while they last. All bonus deals are redeemable only at the 2026 Spokane Great Outdoors Expo with your ticket stub. In past years, bonus deals included discounts on indoor climbing, ziplining, Stonerose Fossil Site digging, Route of the Hiawatha kids’ shuttle, skydiving and more! 

OVER 70 OUTDOOR EXPERTS ALL IN ONE PLACE 

Talk to real human experts on all things outdoor recreation related at the Great Outdoors Expo, from nonprofit conservation groups, public lands managers and outdoor clubs to RV dealers and overlanding companies, travel destinations, outdoor gear retailers, outfitters and guides and more. 

Whether you’re planning next summer’s adventures, looking for family fun in the middle of winter or just wanting to connect with Spokane’s outdoors community, the Great Outdoors Expo is the place to be. Mark your calendar for Feb. 21–22 and get ready to explore the outdoors—indoors. Visit Spokaneoutdoorexpo.com for more info and tickets.  

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Plan Your Winter Escape to Backcountry Ski, Snowshoe, Cross-Country Ski, or Fat Bike on the Trails around Republic, Wa.

The small northeast Washington town of Republic, surrounded by mountains, trails and several Sno-Parks, is the kind of place where close-to-town winter adventures come steeped in solitude that may feel like you’re 1,000 miles from nowhere. A cross-country ski outing on the Ferry County Rail Trail or up at the Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park at the top of Boulder Pass will greet you with such a still, snowy quiet that you may swear you can hear snowflakes falling. And you’re bound to see more snowshoe hare tracks than other humans on a backcountry ski tour in the Kettle Range up at Sherman Pass (the highest all-season pass in Washington).

Even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive north from Spokane, Republic, the county seat of sparsely populated Ferry County, has held onto its western mountain-town roots as a mining and logging hub. Historic buildings line the stoplight- and chain store-free main drag, housing small businesses that serve the local community and visitors alike. With a couple of hotels, local restaurants, coffee shops, a bakery and even a local craft brewery, it’s a welcome alternative to crowded resort towns and an easy place to settle into as a base camp for winter adventures.

Some of the Best Winter Adventures Around Republic

The Republic area has the winter adventure bases covered, whether you’re into snowshoeing, backcountry or Nordic skiing, snowmobiling or fat biking. For human-powered winter sports, there are several options.

The Ferry County Rail Trail offers a flat, non-motorized pathway for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or fat biking, depending on the snow conditions. Portions of the trail are groomed throughout the winter for cross-country skiing.

Up in the nearby Kettle Range Mountains, two mountain passes, Boulder and Sherman, offer backcountry and cross-country skiers and snowshoers easy access to a winter wonderland. The Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park at Boulder Pass features six miles of groomed Nordic-ski trails. Skiers with backcountry-touring gear and snowshoers have endless possibilities for exploring the open forests of the recently burned mountain slopes on both sides of the pass.

At the Sherman Pass Sno-Park, there are options for mellow snowshoe hikes and challenging peak ascents. Backcountry skiers willing to earn their turns have access to some of the best backcountry slopes in the Inland Northwest. Avalanches are possible in the mountains around Sherman Pass, and all skiers and snowshoers should come prepared with appropriate avalanche training and safety gear. A Washington Sno-Park permit is required at both trailheads.

2026 Winter Events in Republic and Ferry County

Republic and Ferry County also host several unique winter events that are worth planning a trip around.

Republic’s Winterfest celebration for 2026 is set for Friday evening and all day Saturday, Jan. 9-10. The event features a Friday evening light parade and multiple creative events and contests on Saturday, including outhouse races, a K-9 keg pull, tug-of-war and other family-friendly activities.

Nordic and backcountry skiers should have the Altai Skis Backcountry Ski & Hok Festival on their radar. Happening Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7-8, 2026 (pending Forest Service approval as of December 2025), the event offers a chance to demo backcountry ski-touring gear from Ferry County-based Altai Skis and explore the local backcountry terrain with others. The weekend-long event takes place up at the Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park near Curlew in the Kettle Range.

Another Nordic ski event popular with both locals and skiers from around the region is the annual Ferry County Rail Trail Ski Day, which takes place on a weekend in January or February, depending on snow conditions. Participants can try out cross-country ski gear and take free ski lessons. Follow the Ferry County Rail Trail Partners on Facebook for this year’s ski day details.

Winter Road and Snow Safety

 Mountain passes around Republic including Boulder and Sherman passes may experience winter storm conditions, and visitors need to come prepared for varying road and trailhead conditions. Check out our backcountry winter guide to the Republic area for more trail and terrain suggestions for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Because the high peaks of the Kettle Crest include some avalanche terrain, be aware of avalanche risks in the area and go prepared when exploring backcountry terrain on skis, splitboard, snowshoes, or snowmobile.

Where to Stay in Republic in the winter

Republic has several lodging options for winter visitors looking to set up basecamp for a night or more in the winter wonderland of this historic mountain town. Learn more about winter adventures in Republic and find lodging and other amenity info at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau’s website.

(Sponsored by the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau)

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When the heat of summer fades and cool mornings settle into the Inland Northwest, it’s prime time to make a weekend escape to beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho. Barely 90 minutes from Spokane, nestled on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille and framed by the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains, Sandpoint can seem like a world apart. 

September is warm and wonderful; October becomes crisp, and the cooling temperatures paint the landscape in golds with touches of scarlet. Autumn’s slower pace makes it easy to savor everything from mountain adventures to cozy cultural stops. Here are but a few ideas to mix-and-match for a perfect fall visit. 

Day 1: Arrival & Lakeside Wanders 

Plot your getaway for Friday after work—or heck, clock out early! Motoring north up Highway 95, farm fields give way to forested hills. As you reach the famed Long Bridge and cross Lake Pend Oreille into Sandpoint, you’ll be greeted by wonderful water and mountain views. 

After you claim your room at one of the many lodging choices, stretch your legs with a stroll along the Pend Oreille Bay Trail, a lakeside path that begins at City Beach and winds a gentle 1.5 miles along the shoreline. In September there are rocky nooks for a brisk jump in the lake; in October, the cottonwoods and birch trees create a fiery canopy. 

With your hunger properly primed, head downtown. Try one of Sandpoint’s locally-loved eateries. Connie’s Cafe offers classic American fare, or you can try the menu and craft brews at Matchwood Brewing. Both venues offer live music most weekends, as do many other establishments around town. 

Top off day one and catch a performance at the historic Panida Theater, a community gem that has been hosting films, concerts and stage productions since 1927. 

Day 2: Markets, Lake & Local Flavor 

Nothing beats waking up in Sandpoint for a languorous morning. Be sure to wander the Saturday Farmers’ Market in Farmin Park downtown, where vendors sell locally-grown produce, huckleberry jams, handmade crafts, and fresh flowers while local musicians entertain. It’s a vibrant community gathering spot that reflects Sandpoint’s creative spirit and agricultural roots. 

Next up, head for the water. Bring your kayak or paddleboard or rent in town, and explore the calm stretches of Sand Creek, which winds right through town, or venture out onto the lake from City Beach. Two more stellar paddling destinations are the Pack River Delta and the Clark Fork Driftyard, both just minutes down Highway 200 East. Paddling in fall is serene—no summer crowds, just the sound of birds and the splash of your paddle in still waters. Another excellent choice, no paddling required, is a scenic cruise with Lake Pend Oreille Cruises, offering an island and eagle watching tour on weekends through October. 

Back in town, explore the shops and galleries. Sandpoint has long been an artists’ haven, and you’ll find everything from fine art at local galleries to handcrafted jewelry, outdoor gear, and eclectic boutiques. 

As evening settles in, enjoy a fine dinner at 113 Main downtown or Sweet Lou’s, just two miles north on Highway 95. Both offer warm ambiance and menus that highlight Northwest ingredients. To cap off the day, don’t miss Sandpoint’s premier live music venue, The Hive, where both local and touring bands serve up high-energy, highly accomplished concerts. 

Day 3: Mountain Walks & Scenic Drives 

It’s departure day, but there’s ample time to experience another standout attraction, Schweitzer, a 20-minute drive from town. In autumn, Schweitzer is a prime hikers’ and mountain bikers’ destination, with an extensive trail system offering many sweeping lake and mountain views. Bring your bike or rent a bike locally. Lunch on the mountain is a splendid proposition; try the Crow’s Bench or Chimney Rock Grill. 

If you’d rather enjoy the scenery from behind the wheel, take a leisurely drive along the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway on Highway 200 east to Hope. Pullouts and picnic spots give plenty of opportunities to admire expansive lake views. Tiny Hope, 15 miles east, is perched above the lake and has some great spots for lunch to complement the views. 

Back in Sandpoint, you might linger downtown one last time for a savory bite, or browse the shops before heading home. Chances are you’ll be scheming your return visit before you even hit the highway. 

Why Sandpoint in Fall? 

Fall is fleeting in the Inland Northwest, but you’ll find the season’s beauty distilled in beautiful Sandpoint. The outdoor adventures are plentiful yet accessible—epic lake and mountain scenery without the crowds. The town itself offers the charm of historic streets, abundant live music and events, an artsy vibe and a food scene that punches above its weight. The proximity to Spokane makes for an easy weekend road trip… though frankly, it may take a few repeat visits to fit it all in. Get lodging, dining, activity info and more at VisitSandpoint.com. 

Sponsored

The post A Fall Escape to Sandpoint: Three Days of Lake, Mountain & Autumn Magic  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Many have lost their heart to the peacefulness and beauty of autumn in Montana. Dark greens and rustic browns transform into a rich palette of gold, orange, and red. The air becomes crisper, and sounds become richer. Experience fall in Whitefish, Mont., and be swept off your feet.  

Glacier National Park 

During fall, Glacier National Park offers visitors the opportunity to drive, hike, or bike amid majestic peaks, pristine waters, and magnificent wildlife without the hurried flow of summer tourists. Additionally, while you still need a park pass to enter, vehicle reservations are no longer required after Sept. 28, 2025.  

The Whitefish Trail 

Over 47 miles of natural-surface trail and 15 trailheads offer a variety of easy-to-locate and easy-to-navigate recreation opportunities on public and private lands. The trail is perfect for surrounding yourself in color while you bike, hike, or explore by horseback.  

Fish Trails 

Hop on a cruiser bike and explore Whitefish on two wheels. Paved bike and pedestrian trails meander throughout town. A segment of the trail runs along the river between various parks and to City Beach, making it an ideal route to enjoy the fall foliage. 

Paddle 

There’s no better way to take in the brilliant fall colors than from the water. Glide across the calm surface of Whitefish Lake in a canoe, where golden aspens reflect in the glassy surface, or paddleboard with the gentle flow of the Whitefish River surrounded by vibrant foliage. 

Fishing  

Autumn fly fishing yields some of the best action of the year. Sparse fishing pressure, cooler temps, and a slew of fall hatches make for happy fish and happier anglers! Guides are available on Whitefish Lake as well as surrounding lakes and rivers.  

Sky Tours 

Take to the skies with Backcountry Flying Experience. An autumn floatplane tour over Northwest Montana offers once-in-a-lifetime views! Tours run through mid-October and depart from the docks at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.  

Downtown Whitefish 

Fall’s cooler temps mean fewer crowds—the perfect time to enjoy Whitefish’s mountain town scene. Downtown offers boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, bars, and more.  

Fall Events 

Fall events enhance the season with fun and festivities. Check out the Whitefish Songwriter Festival, Sept. 19-21, two weekends of the Great Northwest Oktoberfest, Oct. 2-4 and Oct. 9-11, or Halloween and the return of the Whitefish costume contest, Oct. 31.  

There’s no shortage of ways to savor autumn’s beauty—whether from the trails, the water, or the sky. After a day of exploration, retreat to the comfort of the Whitefish Riverfront Hotel, where cozy riverside accommodations place you amid the colors and charm of fall. Here, relaxation meets Montana’s natural beauty, making it the perfect place to fall in love with the season all over again. 

Sponsored

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Camp by the Water 

Set up camp at Osoyoos Lake Veteran’s Memorial Park, where you’ll find shady trees, a sandy beach and stunning lake views. The park’s campground is the perfect spot for both relaxation and a variety of outdoor activities, with pickleball courts, a beach volleyball setup and a boat launch. Rent paddleboards, kayaks or jet skis from the on-site water sports facility and spend the day enjoying the lake. 

Explore Downtown Oroville 

Downtown Oroville is a short walk from the campground, where local flavor awaits. Grab your morning brew at one of the cozy coffee shops, then browse through a treasure trove of thrift stores, including the largest in Okanogan County. If your day needs a little extra sparkle, unwind at a local winery like Esther Bricques. On Thursday evenings, the winery hosts music on the patio. Or catch Wine Wednesdays at Taber’s Fruit Barn. 

Play Outside 

Whether you’re into scenic strolls, two-wheeled adventures, or a casual round of golf, Oroville offers easy access to the great outdoors with options for all ages and activity levels. 

• Golf: Oroville has a great family-friendly golf course. The Oroville Golf Club is a scenic nine-hole course with a dual tee layout. It’s affordable, welcoming, and often open to walk-ons.  

• Bike: Join the growing number of cyclists who rave about biking “The Loop”—a favorite local road cycling route through the Okanogan Highlands.  

• Hiking: Oroville sits at the halfway point of the Pacific Northwest Trail. You can experience a short stretch of that long-distance trail with a hike along the Similkameen River Trail to the Girder Bridge or Enloe Dam. The hike up Cactus Mountain is another option, with lake views as a reward for the climb. 
  
  

History & Horses 

Don’t miss the Molson Ghost Town, a preserved outdoor village filled with century-old buildings and the fascinating Molson Museum. For a unique way to explore the scenic hills and valleys around town, book a guided horseback riding adventure with Eden Valley Guest Ranch. 

Summer Events 

Time your visit right and catch the Deep Bay Boom fireworks show over Osoyoos Lake on July 4, a dazzling community event put on by the Chamber of Commerce. Or check out the old-school excitement of the Chesaw Rodeo, also on the 4th. Later in the summer, the Osoyoos Lake Cup Jet Ski Races & Family Festival brings bands, food and tournaments to town. 

For a quiet town, Oroville buzzes with activity—a hidden gem where every turn offers a new way to explore. 

(Sponsored) 

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By Bradley Bleck

Cover photo courtesy of Bradley Bleck

Looking for bike rentals in Spokane or North Idaho? These Inland Northwest shops offer a wide range of rentals, from e-bikes to fat bikes. Each shop suggests reserving a bike well in advance of when you plan to ride. It’s also advisable to bring a helmet and your pedals if you prefer clipless.

Spokane

Hillyard Bicycle (part of North Division Bicycle) offers over 50 rentals, including mountain, gravel, hybrid, fat, and electric bikes. Rentals start at $45 a day for hybrid/comfort bikes, $50 for a hardtail mountain bike, and $60 for fat bikes. E-bikes start at $100 a day. Racks and helmets are available. northdivision.com

Spoke ‘n Sport rents flat-bar road bikes and kids’ bikes along with bike racks, starting at $40 a day. Each rental includes a helmet. Tire repair kits, locks, and tubes are available. A deposit is required. Rentals are for paved road use only; ideal for urban riders and families. spokensportinc.net

Bike Hub stores on the South Hill and in Spokane Valley have e-bikes that start at $65 a day or $325 for the week. Gravel bikes are $75 a day and $375 a week. Mountain bikes range from $75 to $100 a day and $375 to $500 for a week. Electric mountain bikes are $150 a day or $750 for the week. Weekend pricing is available. thebikehub.com

Idaho Panhandle

The Coeur d’Alene Bike Company has e-bikes starting at $65 for four hours. Comfort, gravel, and road bikes start at $40 for four hours. Tandem bikes, beach cruisers, and children’s bikes are also offered for a variety of riders. For The Route of the Hiawatha, rentals from the Kellogg location are for a full day at $65 for a comfort bike and $50 for a kids’ bike. No e-bikes are available for The Route of the Hiawatha. Lights are $10 for each bike. cdabikeco.com

Spokehaus in Wallace offers only electric bikes, perfect for exploring the Silver Valley. For Route of the Hiawatha use, the bikes cannot be placed on the shuttle, so must be ridden back up the trail. Tailgate protector pads are available for pickup trucks. Transport of the bikes is available by reservation. Daily rental prices start at $100. Bikes for the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes and Silver Valley/Wallace are available starting at $35 for two hours. thespokehouse.com

The Cycle Haus Bikes and Brews in Harrison, Idaho, has several electric models available, starting at $40 for two hours. Standard pedal bikes and step-through models start at $30 for two hours. thecyclehaus.com/bikes/bike-rentals

Sandpoint’s Syringa Cyclery has cross-country, downhill, fat, and gravel bikes with one e-mountain bike available for half-day, full-day, or weekly rental. All mountain bike rentals are full-suspension for trail-ready performance. Prices start at $50 for a half-day, $90 for a full day, and $450 for a week. syringacyclery.com

Bicycle Adventures and Bike Wallace are partnering with the Stardust Motel to provide shuttles up to the Route of the Hiawatha. Rates start at $90 a day for mountain and fat bikes and $125 a day for gravel and e-bikes. Helmets, water bottles, and lights are provided. bikewallace.com

Bradley last wrote about professional mountain biker Hannah Otto and the improving cycling scene in Spokane in the Spring issue of Out There. He’ll be spending the summer riding one of his bikes in the Inland Northwest and beyond.

The post Where to Rent Bikes in Spokane and North Idaho appeared first on Out There Venture.

A festival highlight is the chance to demo the latest mountain bikes from top brands, with support from Spokane’s local bike shops and outdoor retailers. It’s the perfect opportunity to test ride new gear and discover what fits your style and terrain.

It’s also the only day of the year that you can skip the climb and take a shuttle to the top of Camp Sekani Park’s trails for all-downhill mountain biking action. This perk alone draws riders looking for flowy, fast fun with less pedaling (with a shuttle pass available here).

Participate in the popular Spokatopia Poker Ride, where you’ll pedal local singletrack to designated trail checkpoints and collect cards for the chance to win outdoor gear prizes. It’s part scavenger hunt, part social ride, and all fun. Get your poker ride ticket here.

Throughout the festival, enjoy a beer garden supporting Evergreen East and regional trail development. It’s a great place to hang out with friends, cool off post-ride, and support local trail advocacy.

Hourly raffles will feature high-quality outdoor gear and mountain biking prizes from festival sponsors. Be sure to stick around—you never know when your number will be called.

Don’t miss the thrilling mountain bike Dirt Jump Show, where some of Spokane’s best riders will throw down big air stunts, tricks, and raw talent in front of the crowd.

Learn more and get your shuttle and poker ride tickets at Spokatopia.com! General admission and bike demos are free but RSVP here if you plan to go.

The post Celebrate 10 Years of Spokatopia: Spokane’s Premier Mountain Biking Festival – June 21 appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Derrick Knowles

Honestly, the musical genre barely registered when Out There Venture publisher Derrick Knowles invited me and several other riders to bikepack from Spokane to Medical Lake, Washington, for the 2024 Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in August. It takes very little for me to say “yes” to bikepacking, and since my weekend was free, it was a no-brainer. But the promise of a homegrown, small-town feel with some of the best bluegrass bands around added to the appeal. And I discovered that a music festival has some great perks as a bikepacking destination.

The Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in Medical Lake, WA, has welcomed musicians and fans from across the U.S. since 2022. World-class bluegrass music is offered at this modest but memorable festival, with camping fees that spoke to my dirtbag heart. The festival’s proximity to Spokane’s urban core promised a pleasant, scenic pedal to buzzing Medical Lake Waterfront Park.

While it would be easy enough to load up the bikes with gear and pedal straight to Medical Lake, there are enough scenic options between downtown Spokane and the lakefront to encourage gravel-centric bikepacking routes through the West Plains and around nearby lakes. Our bikepacking route from Spokane took us south on the Fish Lake Trail, then west through Cheney and Four Lakes, popular areas for gravel biking in Eastern Washington. While spending hours on Ride with GPS finding the best routes isn’t my cup of tea, I’m grateful to have lots of adventure buddies who love this aspect of trip planning and always find interesting, challenging, beautiful routes to take.

Approaching Silver Lake from the east was sobering, as evidence of the 2023 catastrophic wildfires greeted us. Though many homes are being rebuilt, the blackened trees and scorched earth were a stark contrast to the sparkling lake. It’s easy to pedal along, spinning out about the increasing impact that wildfires are having on our beautiful, pedalable home.

With four riders, lots of gear, and plenty of time, we took snack and drink breaks and paused to enjoy wildflowers. I’m assuming the others waited patiently for me to catch up. While much of the weight on my bike was vital camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, festival chair), I needn’t have packed so much food. The best part of bikepacking to a music festival was discovering the diverse food trucks at the venue—an unexpected culinary bonus after a long ride. From Feast World Kitchen’s tofu pad thai to a truck selling hot coffee in the morning, my freeze-dried meals just couldn’t stack up, so they stayed packed away. Since Medical Lake is a delightfully small town with wide streets, it wouldn’t have been hard to pedal into town for a bite or beverage if needed.

Live bluegrass music filled the air all day, from regional acts and local players in the afternoon to national headliners in the evening. The Saturday night headliners, New Dangerfield, were introduced by the festival organizer who calmly assured the audience that in 22 years, they’d never been rained out … even as the inevitable thunderclouds that follow me everywhere gathered on the horizon and rumbled over the rolling hills. My travel companions glared at me as they pulled out their rain jackets. But, I did warn them.

Knowing at least some rain was on the way, our cozy campsite right on the water’s edge was secured with rain flies zipped and bags packed away. We kicked back, enjoyed the music, and watched festival staff and volunteers scramble to right the canopy sheltering the sound system as gusts of wind brought the storm ever closer. The musicians, professional performers, carried on with their set, bringing the audience to their feet with toe-tapping tunes and classic sounds of Appalachia.

Most people camping for the weekend were using trailers and RVs, but those of us sleeping in tents were relieved when Mother Nature left just a few drops and carried the thunder and lightning north instead of raining on our parade. The next morning, as we packed to leave, I was pleased to see musicians young and old gathering at picnic tables and under trees for a series of music workshops—generations sharing their art and carrying on the language of string-based bluegrass for new audiences to discover.

Pedaling away from the bustle of the campground reminded me that bikepacking truly is my favorite way to adventure. The freedom of circumventing crowded parking lots and lines of vehicles, carrying everything I need on my bike, pedaling until I’m tired, then sleeping, then pedaling again, is my perfect adventure. Sharing conversation, suffering, and camaraderie with others turning pedals with (or usually far ahead of) me—there’s just nothing like it.

The 2024 Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival (August 8–10 in Medical Lake, WA) is just one of many bikeable music festivals in the Inland Northwest. The region boasts a lineup of events for various genres, schedules, camping experiences, and price points. These festivals are well-supported, with camping, restrooms, concessions, and other comfort amenities. They offer community and something to look forward to during your miles of pedaling—and they’re typically close enough to “somewhere” that you can access an easy exit strategy if things go sideways.

If bikepacking has been on your “want to try” list, find a fun, local festival, pull whatever bike you have out of the garage for a quick tune-up (at least lube the chain and pump up the tires), throw a tent and a sleeping bag in a backpack or some panniers, and get out there—bikepacking to festivals is the perfect blend of adventure, music, and outdoor culture.

Carol Corbin is looking for ways to monetize the rain that follows her on all her outdoor adventures, having recently achieved international notoriety by breaking an unseasonable dry spell with four days of biking in England.

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By Cindy Pope, Co-founder of the Range to Ranch Retreat 

As summer takes hold in the Northern Rockies, a gathering of vehicle-assisted adventure travelers will converge at Swenson Butte Ranch for the Range to Ranch Retreat. Nestled between the rugged Sawtooth Mountains and the Lost River Range, this event offers a blend of off-road exploration, community connection, and outdoor adventure in one of Idaho’s most scenic landscapes.  

To drive through the Lost River Valley is an experience unlike any other. I was captivated by the watercolor-like quality of some of the slopes, and the rugged peaks towering over a flat, wide plain. This massive desert fault-block range holds the highest peaks in Idaho, rising a vertical mile from the valleys on either side, and it’s a primitive and little explored region. Most of the mountaineering and hiking there is focused on Borah Peak, the high point of Idaho, leaving the rest of the range an infrequently-visited wilderness of steep terrain, talus fields, and deep canyons. 

You may ask how I decide which locations to host overland basecamp events and the answer is simple. I want to gather with those weird “overlanders” in beautiful, unique, remote locations. Boy does this fit the agenda. When I got a call from my now event partner Noah from Spokane and learned that he wanted to host an overland gathering here, it was like the universe was giving me a sign.  

Fast forward to today, our dream is becoming a reality. Range to Ranch Retreat ticket sales are underway, and the excitement is palpable. Tents will be pitched, campfires will crackle, and people from all walks of life will gather to share their love for adventure and exploration.  

Each day will bring a new opportunity to discover the wonders of this hidden gem. Trails beckon the intrepid to venture deeper into the wilds, where stunning vistas await at every turn. Workshops and clinics offer the chance to learn new skills or refine old ones, all while making lifelong connections with fellow enthusiasts.  

In the evenings, stories of the day’s adventures will be shared over hearty meals and laughter with the starry skies above. It’s a time to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature and community.  

As the sun sets behind the majestic peaks, there is a profound sense of gratitude for the beauty and solitude of this remarkable place. The Range to Ranch Retreat is more than an event; it’s a celebration of the spirit of adventure and the joy of coming together in one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth.  

Range to Ranch Retreat Activities & Excursions  

Whether you’re an experienced explorer or new to the overlanding scene, Range to Ranch offers an exciting variety of activities, including:  

Trail Rides & Overland Routes 

The surrounding mountain ranges boast incredible trails that take adventurers through high alpine terrain, river crossings, and remote backcountry. Some notable routes include:  

• Copper Basin Loop—A breathtaking high-altitude circuit that weaves through the Pioneer Mountains.  

• Mackay Mine Hill Tour—A historical ride through old mining roads and scenic overlooks.  

• Pahsimeroi Valley Exploration—A rugged and rewarding trip into one of Idaho’s most remote regions.  

Outdoor & Off-Road Skills Workshops & Clinics  

• Photography & videography clinics  

• GPS navigation and route planning  

• Cooking on the road: campfire and overland kitchen tips  

• First aid and wilderness survival essentials  

• Panel discussions with industry experts  

Evening Gatherings & Community Events  

• Giveaways by our sponsors  

• Fireside storytelling & adventure film screenings  

• Live music under the stars  

Vendors & Industry Presence  

Range to Ranch Retreat brings together a curated selection of vendors catering to the overland, off-road, and adventure travel communities. Attendees can expect to see:  

• Custom vehicle outfitters showcasing the latest in off-road modifications.  
• Adventure gear retailers with everything from rooftop tents to recovery kits.  

• Local shops and outfitters offering goods and services inspired by the Idaho wilds.  

Watch for our growing vendor list, to be released soon. Get in touch if you think that exhibiting at this event is right for you and your brand.  

The Range to Ranch Retreat Venue  

Swenson Butte Ranch, owned by Hyndman Peak Beef & Cattle Co., is a first generation regenerative-based operation specializing in grass fed and finished Highland beef. Situated in the Big Lost River Valley, the ranch is surrounded by BLM land and 360-degree views of the Lost River Range and Pioneer Mountains. 

Swenson Butte Ranch serves as the central hub for the retreat, offering attendees a well-equipped yet remote basecamp for their adventures. Surrounded by rolling sagebrush, towering peaks, and open skies, this working cattle ranch provides a one-of-a-kind setting for overlanders and off-road enthusiasts to settle in, swap stories, and plan their next excursion.  

Amenities at Basecamp  

• Spacious, rustic camping areas for rooftop tents, adventure vans, campers, trailers, and ground tents  

• Fully outfitted glamping tents ready to keep you comfy all weekend long  

• Community fire pit for evening gatherings  

• On-site vendors offering gear, outfitting and adventure essentials 

• Workshops and clinics focused on overland travel skills, photography, vehicle recovery, and navigation.  

• Food trucks and local beverages to fuel the adventure  

• Live music and happy hour nightly  

Nearby Attractions—Exploring Sun Valley & Mackay  

While the retreat itself provides an action-packed itinerary, the surrounding region offers plenty of opportunities for exploration.  

Sun Valley, Idaho: A world-class outdoor destination, Sun Valley is known for its epic mountain landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and year-round recreation. Visitors can:  

• Hike or mountain bike the scenic Bald Mountain trails  

• Soak in the area hot springs  

• Paddle the waters of Redfish Lake  

• Explore the charming mountain town’s restaurants, breweries, and shops  

Mackay, Idaho: A hidden gem for adventure seekers, Mackay is a hub for high-mountain off-roading and historical exploration. Highlights include:  

• Mackay Reservoir—A pristine spot for fishing, kayaking, and camping  

• Mine Hill Ghost Town—A historic mining district with remnants of Idaho’s Gold Rush days  

• The Lost River Range—Home to Mt. Borah, Idaho’s tallest peak, and stunning alpine vistas  

Why You Should Join the Tribe  

Overlanding isn’t just about the places you visit—it’s about the people you meet along the way. Range to Ranch Retreat brings together a tight-knit community of vehicle-based adventurers who share a passion for travel, exploration, and self-sufficiency. Whether you’re looking to test your rig on challenging trails, gain new skills, or simply relax in a beautiful setting, this retreat is an opportunity to connect, learn, and adventure in one of the most spectacular locations in the West.  

Mark your calendars for June 19-22, 2025, load up your rig, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Range to Ranch Retreat! Tickets and more info available at Northologyadventures.com/event/rrr. 

(Sponsored) 

The post Range to Ranch Retreat June 19-22   appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Justin Short

The Great Spokane Shop Ride (GSSR) is a sort of hair scramble event in which riders gather on the second Saturday in April (the 12th this year) at the Riverfront Park clock tower to receive a stamp card, and at the stroke of 10 a.m. they scatter in all directions to get their cards stamped at every bike shop in town by whatever route they choose. There is a finish line ceremony at Brick West Brewing where riders will have the opportunity to hoist the Banana of Victory as they tell war stories, laugh, and sip fizzy beverages. There is a banana for the fastest time, one for the most efficient route, one for the most elevation (my personal favorite), and a banana for the Red Caboose (last rider in), which was hoisted last year by Charlie Greenwood, the nutty professor of Spokane cycling.  

The forecast can look grim in early spring, so don’t be at all surprised when you see only two riders standing by the clock tower 15 minutes before the kickoff. Within minutes, though, the numbers will swell into the double digits—we had 13 last year. There’s no sign-in sheet, no entry fee, and no rules other than be safe and have fun.  

Dan Webber, the instigator-in-chief of GSSR, will be there with Sue Craigmile, the chief-administrative-instigator, to pass out stamp cards in protective Ziplock sandwich bags so they don’t dissolve in the threatening rain, because rain is always threatening this time of year.  

It still seems like Spokane has an awful lot of bike shops, even though we’ve lost a few. Wheelsport North, Fitness Fanatics, and the downtown Bike Hub have closed, as well as Rambleraven Gear Trader, and this town really misses Rambleraven. If we lose any more, we may have to combine the Spokane Stairmaster with this event. (What the hell is that, you ask? That’s another Dan Webber creation that involves carrying your bike up 25 staircases in 20 miles.) Though, Spokane Alpine Haus will now be carrying bikes at both of their locations for 2025, and by the time you read this the brand-new Hillyard Bicycle shop will be up and running just a stone’s throw from the Children of the Sun Trail, adding three more shops into the fray.   

The whole inspiration behind GSSR is to step inside each shop, yuck it up with the folks therein, and perhaps have them throw a beer or a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies at you. It’s a community building effort of sorts. Our bike community and shop culture here is the stuff of greatness, and it’s not often that we get to pop into each and every one to say “hi all” in a single day.  

So where do we go when the proverbial gun goes off? As I mentioned, riders scatter in all directions. I like to get the climbing out of the way early, and north is always uphill, so I usually head north to REI, home shop of the aforementioned instigator-in-chief, and in keeping with tradition no one in there will have any idea about GSSR or where the stamps might be: at the front register? In the bike department in the back? Hidden in a tent display? It’s always a mystery.  

Sometimes riders like to go south first and get the South Hill out of the way, as though south could possibly be uphill. We have two destinations up there. Wheelsport and Spokane Alpine Haus, which may still have all their skis on display at that point in the season. But if there’s a single bike in there, that castle is going to get stormed.  

The ride itself ranges from around 42 miles for the most efficient route to somewhere around 56 miles for my adventure route, that for all three editions has climbed over Beacon Hill through the mountain bike park. That’s a big day for most riders this early in the season, so be sure to pace yourself.  

This year GSSR coincides with the Hubapalooza mountain bike race once again. If there’s one way to take seeing all your bike shop friends in one day up a notch, it’s running into a bunch of your mountain bike friends in race mode, and perhaps sharing a fizzy beverage in the beer garden, for those 21 years or older of course. Non-alcoholic options have come a long way, which is usually my preference…unless I’m at the The Bike Hub in the Perry District. Come to think of it, Mojo Cyclery out on Argonne has expanded its floor space and has a pass-thru window into Badass Backyard Brewing. Mojo is the shop that got me into the weird stuff I’m doing these days—riding, not drinking.  

When riders come crawling into the finish line festivities at Brick West, that’s when we find out who lost a limb trying to rub the shop cat’s belly at North Division Bike Shop, that’s when you’ll shoot fizzy beverages out of your nostrils from laughing about all the absurd things that happened, and that’s when you’ll know why the Great Spokane Shop Ride is so great.  

Justin Short is a long-time writer for OTO and keeps his finger on the pulse of the bike community in the Inland Northwest so you won’t miss any of the weird cycling stuff going down.  

The post The Great Spokane Shop Ride  appeared first on Out There Venture.