Thank you to our 20th anniversary sponsors!

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Ask a Spokanite what “getting outside” means to them, and you’ll get a wide range of answers: Going on hike to see the first buttercups of spring. Taking the dog for a walk after dinner. Riding a Lime Scooter at Riverfront Park. Letting the kids run and climb at a playground.

A common thread in these activities is that they all can happen at, and because of, the Spokane County parks system and its 100-plus parks. Our parks are places we can enjoy Spokane’s beautiful natural environment, even if our preferred forms of outdoor play are very different.

It was an appreciation of this diversity and commonality that led Gene Fitzpatrick, president of Spokane City Credit Union, to invent The Great Spokane Parks Challenge. In the challenge, participants pledge to visit 24 Spokane parks in celebration of the Spokane Parks Foundation’s 70th birthday.

The challenge is free and open to all, and Fitzpatrick hopes that participants will explore and appreciate Spokane parks, or even find a new park they didn’t know existed.

For the first 70 people who complete the challenge, SCCU offers the prize of a day pack and a donation of $150 to the Spokane Parks Foundation, with the goal of $10,500 total donations. They will also donate $50 for the first 70 people who complete half the challenge, visiting 12 parks.

Spokane Parks Foundation, which supports parks and related activities throughout Spokane County and its municipalities, is thrilled with the collaboration. Executive Director Terri Fortner’s wish for the Great Spokane Parks Challenge is that it will encourage people to renew their connection to Spokane parks.

“So many people have a favorite park, or special memories of parks they have visited,” she says. “And I hope the challenge creates an additional sense of ownership, a reminder that all the parks you might visit are our parks, our public lands.”

SCCU has a longstanding relationship with Spokane Parks Foundation, one of its preferred community charities. The credit union has devised creative, community-focused programs like the Great Spokane Parks Challenge to make giving back to the community a regular part of how they do business.

The Great Spokane Parks Challenge is running now, and SCCU invites everyone to join. (You don’t have to bank at the credit union to participate.) Completing the challenge requires a visit to 24 parks, and the submission of a selfie or location photo at sccu.net to document the visit. As of press time for this article, 163 people were signed up, and 17 people had already finished!

Julia Rowe, one of the earliest finishers, is particularly enthusiastic. She, her sister, and her friend visited 24 parks by March, and they are now on a mission to visit all 102 parks before the challenge ends on October 7, 2022. As a transplant to Spokane, she finds the challenge is helping her get to know the city better. She has particularly enjoyed discovering curiosities like Browns Park’s surfboard-themed climbing wall. But, she says, “The best part is the donation, of course. The more you see all the different parks, the more you understand it’s important to support them.”

During the pandemic, parks became a haven like never before, letting friends and families gather while feeling safer outside. Now, as spring arrives, and we hope for a change of seasons on many fronts, it’s the perfect time for community members to rekindle a special relationship with Spokane parks for all the different ways that we enjoy the outdoors. 

If you are interested in joining the Great Spokane Parks Challenge to benefit the Spokane Parks Foundation, go to sccu.net/parks-challenge/ to learn more and sign up.

Find stories about Spokane parks in the OTO archives.

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The Don Kardong Bridge along the Spokane County Centennial Trail, in the city’s University District has forthcoming improvements. Named for Olympic runner and Bloomsday founder Don Kardong, the bridge is a pivotal point on the Centennial Trail, connecting the north and south sides of the Spokane River, and has long been in need of some love.

Since bridge upgrades are expensive and time-consuming, the Friends of the Centennial Trail Coordinating Council has worked for years to make these repairs a reality. And now, thanks to $1.45 million of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds, allocated by the Spokane City Council, this $2.3 million project is out for construction bids.

In addition to the ARP funding, the project will rely on a $726,000 Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) grant from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office and $145,000 from local advocates and conveners, the Friends of the Centennial Trail (FCT).

FCT kicked off the project with a $55,000 grant to the Parks Department, starting the conceptual design and ensuring the project was shovel-ready for other funders.

WWRP is the largest source of trail support in the state of Washington and has funded projects throughout eastern Washington, including Dishman Hills, the Spokane River, and other projects on the Centennial Trail. Preliminary work of meeting with stakeholders, reviewing designs, and securing permits had already been done and the vote of city council for the ARP funding closed the financial gap to make this happen.

According to a press release from Spokane Parks & Recreation, repairs will include deck replacement from wood to concrete, some concrete pier repair, replacement of the bridge overlooks and guardrails, installation of a new lighting system, and bollards at each end of the bridge. Work is scheduled to be complete in spring of 2023. The bridge will be closed for renovations, with trail reroutes to be determined by the city.            

Upon its completion, runners and cyclists using the bridge will no longer have to choose between rain-slicked wooden decking and rain-slicked diamond-plate steel, and mile 22 will be even more beautiful and rider- and walker-friendly.

Find more stories about the Spokane County Centennial Trail in the OTO archives and learn about other recent trail news and improvements.

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Recreation visits spike

The data is in, and confirms recreational visits to United States Forest Service lands saw a huge jump in 2020. Dispersed recreation sites and Wilderness Areas saw the largest spike in visitors, with an increase of 25% over the previous year. The information comes from National Visitor Use Monitoring data. Hiking/walking is the top recreational activity, with 48.8% of visitors participating. “Viewing Natural Features” comes in as a close second with 44.4%.

Great American Outdoors Act proposed projects for 2022 announced

In our region, highlights include bridge replacements within the Colville National Forest and funds for addressing deferred maintenance needs on the Elkhorn Crest National Scenic Trail and within the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

Spokane County’s Conservation Futures Program accepting property nominations

The most recent round of nominations to Spokane County Park’s Conservation Futures funding program is open through July 31. Properties are currently being nominated for consideration for inclusion in the program. Once the nominations close, a public meeting will be held in early September to gather input on the nominations, which will be ranked by Spokane County Parks’ Land Evaluation Committee later this fall.

Free public hikes in the Scotchman Peaks

Check out the website for Friends of Scotchman Peak Wilderness for their free summer hiking series on “Family Fun in the Forest.” There are several family-friendly hikes in the series in July and August, along with strenuous hike offerings for those looking for a more challenging hike. These hikes are sure to fill up, so register soon!

How to score free access to Washington State Parks

August 25 is a free entry day at all Washington State Parks.

If you or someone you know is on a tight budget, remember that many public libraries also have Discover Passes available for check-out with a library card. Spokane County Library District has 22 “Check out Washington” backpacks available by reservation too. The backpacks include a Discover Pass, binoculars, and several field guides. Patrons may use the pass for seven days of exploration at any Washington State Park.

You can also earn a free one-year Discover Pass through state parks volunteerism: Washington Trails Association, Spokane Nordic Ski Association, and Evergreen East will all be hosting volunteer trailwork events at Mount Spokane State Park this summer.

Find the schedule for upcoming volunteer days at each nonprofit’s website.

Free days at Glacier National Park

Two fee-free days are planned in August at Glacier National Park. The first is August 4, the one year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, and the second is August 25, the National Park Service birthday.

Holly Weiler writes The Trailhead column in each issue of Out There. During July and August she will be splitting her time between the garden and wilderness as she leads trail work crews into the Salmo Priest for Washington Trails Association.

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This year, the event organizers are adding a fun activity, similar to a scavenger hunt, called “Summer Parkways Search & Spot.” There will be a series of questions online, and participants will find answers along the 4-mile route, according to , according to Katherine Widing, spokesperson for Summer Parkways. The route map is posted on the Summer Parkways website and Facebook page. Participants can then submit answers online for prizes. This will be a great activity for both kids and adults, and can be done at any time during the designated Summer Parkways week, Widing says.

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Eastern Washington and North Idaho include millions of acres of public lands. Most of us have seen only a small fraction of these lands and waterways. But even the exhaustive explorer can fall into the habit of experiencing public spaces through a singular lens: as a trail runner, for example, or a mountain biker or a bird watcher.

To broaden my own lens, I sought help from people I admire to describe how they love their public lands and waterways.  

1. Learn the story of the land. 

“Within the landscape is a really interesting story,” says Nigel Davies, geologist at Eastern Washington University. Places like Palisades Park and Escure Ranch are full of basalt, whereas the granite and igneous rock at Willow Lake and Beacon Hill show intrusions that occurred more than 40 million years ago. “No one public land holding can capture the complexity of a region or geologic story.” 

2. Learn who loved this land first. 

The Salish-speaking people who inhabited the upper Columbia River watershed before it was settled by European immigrants have much to teach us about the land we live on and its natural and human history. Today, the Upper Columbia United Tribes is working to reintroduce salmon in the upper Columbia River. Their efforts remind us what has been lost and what may be recovered with community support. 

Love your public lands and waterways: Columbia River (top left), Photo: Summer Hess // Mount Spokane State Park (top right), Photo: Holly Weiler // Upper Stevens Lake (bottom left), Photo: Chic Burge // Riverside State Park (middle), Photo: Hank Greer // Kettle Range (bottom right), Photo: Holly Weiler

3. Hunt or harvest. 

This spring I accompanied local falconer, Doug Pineo, into the Palouse to hunt upland birds. Not only was it fascinating to hold and see the falcons close-up, the experience gave me insight into the way hunters might feel when they go out on the land in the early morning to hunt game. All of my sensory capacity was engaged with the land, the wind, and the hidden heartbeats of the birds.  

4. Recreate somewhere new. 

From watching the sunset at Steptoe Butte to fishing the St. Joe, paddling the Winchester Wasteway, biking along the Trail of the Coeur d’ Alenes, hiking in Riverside State Park, cross-country skiing on Mount Spokane, bird watching at Turnbull, or picnicking at Liberty Park, there are as many ways to recreate in public lands as there are acres to enjoy.  

5. Sketch the landscape. 

As natural history illustrator, Julie Zickefoose, writes, “to draw is to see, is to understand. If you would know how something is built, draw it.” Local watercolor artist, Amalia Fisch, says, “When I paint, I notice the color yellow, the shadows in a tree, how the light hits leaves and how you can see through them. Drawing requires me to be fully present.”  

6. Love the plants. 

I love hiking with my botanist friend Amy because I am forced to stop speed-walking and talking, and slow down to marvel at wildflowers, trees, and shrubs. Of the many species she has introduced to me on our walks, my favorite has been the Dog Vomit Slime Mold (Fuligo spetica), which she found one day on the bluff.   

7. Get acquainted with wildlife. 

The Inland Northwest is home to an abundance of wildlife, including deer, moose, sage grouse, foxes, coyote, wolf, turkey, porcupine, bobcats, and trumpeter swans. Some (like turkeys) are easier to spot than others, but all can be found with a little patience and persistence.  

8. Steward your land. 

One of the most satisfying ways to give love back to public lands is to steward it. Todd Dunfield, Community Conservation Manager at the Inland NW Land Conservancy (INLC), finds his passion in trail work. “I love the practicality of working with my hands and seeing a lasting impact.” Stewardship can also include picking up trash on a hike, building mountain biking trails, cleaning up the river corridor, and planting trees.  

9. Protect land and water. 

Despite legal protections, our lands and waters are increasingly threatened by development, pollution and de-regulation. Jerry White, the Spokane Riverkeeper, has been at the forefront of battles over pollution in the river and has been holding regulators accountable for upholding the laws that protect land and water. “Our laws are only as strong as we are willing to enforce them,” he says. “Water protection requires constant vigilance.” 

10. Share with someone you love. 

When I asked Carol Corbin, Philanthropy Director at INLC, how she loves her public lands, she said she likes to learn things to share with her son. “I tell stories in any way I can about how amazing (and fragile) this place is. It’s been through massive transitions and is so beautiful. I feel lucky to live here.”  

So do I. 

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As I write this, I’m waiting for a visit from one of my best friends who I met riding a tricycle in a park in Portland 21 years ago. It’s interesting what draws us together as cyclists. Sometimes it’s the places we ride or the random meet-ups on a favorite trail. A conversation turns into exchanged phone numbers and future adventures. 

Sometimes it’s purpose that draws us together, as in the case of GASUP (Get Around Spokane Using Pedals), the local commuter Facebook page where riders post notices and events, discuss advocacy issues and safe bike routes, and engage in good natured, bike oriented banter. That was how I recognized Out There’s Everyday Cyclist columnist Hank Greer when I began having run-ins with him on the morning commute.  

As with the tricycle, sometimes it’s obscure equipment choices that draw us together. In 2012 my wife pointed out a peculiar quirk that had escaped my notice, though I, too, was a participant in this odd behavior: The knowing nod of approval exchanged between riders of road bikes with flared drop bars. On most road bikes, those little flam-dangles that we call “the drops” extend straight down from the brake hoods. Flared drops, on the other hand, flare outward, offering leverage and stability for riding off the beaten path.  

These bars were rare until the recent explosion of the gravel bike, most of which come stocked with flared drop bars. I got my own first set on an early 80s Specialized Sequoia, the first ever production touring bike from a major company, that came with Wilderness Trail Bikes’ first ever production flared drop bars. I got that bike from a second hand shop in Santa Cruz, California, in 1998 and rode that thing all over the West Coast and the Rocky Mountains. Although I broke and replaced just about everything on that bike multiple times—except the bars—I still get a warm and fuzzy feeling recalling those adventures.  

About four years ago I was walking dogs by a house I had previously lived in when I happened upon a shirtless ponytailed guy working on an ancient VW diesel pickup with a flared drop bar touring bike loaded on the back. “I’m gonna be friends with that dude,” I said to myself, or perhaps out loud to the dogs. And that was how I met former EDC columnist Justin Skay, whose enormous Chaco flip-flops I am attempting to fill with my own first installment of Out There Venture Everyday Cyclist column. Those flared drops on his bike led to numerous rides down roads, up trails, and over mountains in the rain, hail, sleet, snow, and blistering sun.  

There’s something intimate about turning pedals with another human being— from two commuters pass in opposite directions on a dark street at an obscene hour to a “soul train” of good friends sailing down a jump line at Beacon Hill mountain bike park. Or it could be a group of riders sipping a cup of bike-brewed coffee with David Jones, Spokane’s own Coffee Outside meet-up organizer, at some excellent spot along the river. Whatever it is, let’s keep those pedals turning, and let’s keep the rubber side down—unless your name is Grant Breshears, who is seen upside down at the jump park as often as he’s right side up. 

Justin M. Short has recently been drafted to write the Everyday Cyclist column for OTO. Watch his “Lockdown Washington Mountain Bike Race” on YouTube—a Stay Home, Stay Healthy-inspired spoof on the 2020 XWA race. 

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Editor’s Note: Be sure to check event websites for any schedule changes, cancellations, and updates. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, events this spring and early summer have either been cancelled or rescheduled for later this year.

ROAD RUNNING 

Negative Split Half Marathon, 10k, and 5k (April 19): Run along the Centennial Trail and through Riverfront Park, starting in Kendall Yards. RESCHEDULED TO SEPT. 27, 2020 – see: https://nsplit.com/covid-19-update/

Palouse 100k Relay & Solo Run (April 19): Organized by the Palouse Road Runners club, course begins/ends in Pullman. Race divisions include 100k Ultra Relay, 100k 10-person relay, 100k 5-person relay, and 100k Solo.  

Lilac Bloomsday Run (May 3): 12k for runners, walkers, and wheelchair participants.  RESCHEDULED TO SEPT. 20 – https://www.bloomsdayrun.org/

Windermere Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5k (May 17): Organized by Negative Split, the flat, net negative course along the Centennial Trail is a Boston marathon qualifier.   RESCHEDULED TO SEPT. 6 – https://nsplit.com/covid-19-update/

Pooch & Pal Run / Walk (May 2): Pet-friendly event at Columbia Point Marina Park in Richland, Wash., includes 5k and 1-mile courses. 

Coeur d’Alene Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k & 5k (May 24): Organized by Negative Split, event is based at McEuen Park and course goes along the North Idaho Centennial Trail.  RESCHEDULED TO AUGUST 23 – https://nsplit.com/covid-19-update/

Priest Lake Spring Festival Run (May 24): Kick off the summer season at Priest Lake with half marathon, 10k, 5k, and Kids Dash distances on a mix of pavement and compact gravel. 

T9 Mermaid Run (May 30): Hosted by Title 9 and Mermaid Series for women runners, walkers, and joggers; includes a 1.5-mile Mermaid Dash, 10k, and 5k. 

Strides for Strong Bones Fun Run/Walk (May 31): Hosted by Emde Sports at Kendall Yards in Spokane, proceeds benefit Washington Osteoporosis Coalition. 

Wenatchee Valley Trail Run Series (May 9, June 6, Oct. 17): Organized by RunWenatchee, this three-race series includes Horse Lake Trail Runs (25K, 10m, 5m); Red Devil Challenge Trail Runs (50K, 25K, 10K); and Oktoberfest Trail Runs (10m, 5m).  

Stache Dash (June 13): 5k/10k run, walk, wheelchair-race to support Elevations in Spokane Valley, a therapy service-provider for special-needs children. 

Dad’s Day Dash (June 21): Event benefits SNAP, a Spokane-based community action agency, and includes a 5k run and non-timed 1.4 mile walk in celebration of Father’s Day. 

Get Out Fest Half Marathon & 5k (June 26-28): Run along the Ferry County Rail Trail for the 2^nd annual Get Out Fest in Republic, Wash. 

Missoula Marathon & Half Marathon (June 26-28): USATF-certified Boston Qualifier marathon course, 5k, and kids’ 1-mile untimed fun run.   

River Run on the Fourth 5k & 10k (July 4): Start/finish on the Apple Capital Loop Trail in Wenatchee and partake in the city’s Independence Day Celebration.  

Spokenya 7k Run/Walk for Clean Water (July 18): Fundraiser for Spring of Hope International, to support clean water projects in rural Kenya, course starts/finishes at Life Center church in northwest Spokane. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome. 

Spokane to Sandpoint Relay (August 14-15): A 200-mile overnight, 12-person relay team race starting from Mt. Spokane’s summit, down to the Spokane river, along the Centennial Trail to Coeur d’Alene, and then north to the finish line at Sandpoint’s City Beach.  

Tase T. Lentil 5k Fun Run (August 22): A USATF-certified race to celebrate the National Lentil Festival Food & Brew Fest in Pullman.  

Riggins Salmon Run (Sept 12): Run through the dramatic scenery of the Salmon River canyon in Riggins, Idaho, on a 5k, 10k, half marathon, or 30-mile course. 

Newport Autumn Bloom 5k/10k Fun Run (Sept. 19): Takes place at TJ Kelly Park in Newport, Wash.; proceeds benefit Newport Hospital and Health Services Foundation programs.  

Deutschesfest 5k/10k Fun Run (Sept. 19): Celebrate the 50^th anniversary of Odessa, Washington’s tribute to everything German by burning off some brats and beer.   

Run the Dam Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (Sept. 19): Partake in the local Harvest Festival with a run across Grand Coulee Dam and along Banks Lake to North Dam Park.  

Numerica Happy Girls Run Spokane – Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (Sept. 19): For women of all ages and abilities, based at Spokane’s Mukogawa Fort Wright Institute. 

Sandpoint Scenic Half Marathon & 10k (Sept. 20): This race gets its name for a reason, with a start/finish at City Beach in beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho.  

Leavenworth Marathon & Half-Marathon (Oct. 3): USATF-certified course near the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area includes dirt roads and trails.  

Spokane Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay, & 10k (Oct. 11): Proceeds from this Boston Marathon Qualifier race benefit local high school cross-country programs. 

Hayden Lake Marathon, Half Marathon, & Quarter Marathon (Oct. 17): Start/finish at Hayden Lake’s Honeysuckle Beach; full marathon goes completely around the lake.  

Monster Dash 5k & Kids’ Fun Run (Oct. 29): Organized by Active4Youth in collaboration with the Spokane Swifts Running Team, this event at Manito Park, includes a 5k adult race and kids’ race (ages 12 and younger); jogging strollers and dogs allowed. 

Turkey on the Run 12k, 5k, and Kids Race (Thanksgiving Day): At Walla Walla Point Park in Wenatchee, Wash.—concluding event for RunWenatchee’s race season. 

TRAIL RUNNING 

Yakima Skyline Rim 50K (April 18) & 25K (April 19): Challenging out-and-back course in the high desert of the Yakima River Canyon outside Ellensburg, Wash.  

Spokane River Run (April 19): 5k, 10k, 25k, 50k, and 50k team relay race at Riverside State Park; fundraiser for Garfield Elementary A.P.P.L.E. program.  

Trail Maniacs Liberty Lake Trail Run (April 18 & 25): Two dates this year for this popular race on an 8-mile single-track loop course featuring waterfalls, a creek bed, and bridges. 

Run Like the Wind Running Festival (April 26): 5k, 10k, or 10-miler along the trails, paths, and roads at the Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility in Ellensburg, Wash.; benefits Kittitas County Search and Rescue.  

Sunflower Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, & Relay (May 2): Run on single-track trails and gravel roads in the Washington’s Methow Valley, on a point-to-point course from Mazama to Twisp. 

Priest Lake Marathon (May 9): Celebrate Mother’s Day with a wilderness trail run in the Panhandle National Forest. Events include 50k, Marathon, 25k, Half Marathon, ¼ Marathon, and family 5k. 

Priest Lake Spring Festival Half Marathon, 10k, 5k, & Kid’s Dash (May 24): Start/finish at Coolin Community Park at Priest Lake, Idaho; free 1k Kid’s Dash (ages 9 and younger).  

Seven Summits 50K, 50 mile, 50-mile Relay, & 100K trail adventure (June 6-7): Hosted by Trail Maniacs and based at Canfield Sports Complex in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. 

Trail Maniacs Farragut Trail Run 25k/10k/5k (June 7): Takes place at Farragut State Park and includes a free kids’ race.  

Herron Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (June 7): Based at Herron Park in Kalispell, Mont.; includes 1k kids’ race.  

Kaniksu 50-Mile / Emory Corwine Memorial Ruck Race / Tall Trees 29k (June 13): Three events in one day in the Colville National Forest at Frater Lake near Ione, Wash., organized by Kaniksu Ultras. Ruck Race solo runners or teams complete legs carrying 25-35 lb backpacks.  

Mountain Magic 5k, 10k, & 25k (June 20): 3^rd annual event at Mt. Spokane State Park’s Nordic ski trails; funds benefit OutLive, a Spokane-based organization that helps cancer survivors become more active outdoors. New this year is a 5k loop.  

Race the Wolf 52k, 26k, & 8k (June 27-28): Includes single-track and off-piste climbs at Schweitzer Mountain Resort. 

Summit Survivors: Kootenay Alpine Running Camp (July 3-6): Run through the beautiful Kootenay Mountains above Red Mountain Resort and the town of Rossland, B.C. and work on your times and technique with a pro coach. The camp will take intermediate runners up to a new level with distances ranging from 10k-25k while challenging advanced runners with a 4-day total of 60-75k. 

Mt. Spokane Vertical Challenge (July 18): Hosted by Trail Maniacs at Mt. Spokane State Park, courses include 50K and 25K challenge and 25K fun run. 

The “Original” Bare Buns Fun Run (July 26): Annual trail run at Kaniksu Ranch Family Nudist Park, near Loon Lake, Wash., that’s a clothing-optional 5k run/walk, sanctioned by USATF as part of the Buns Across the Border series.  

Tartarus Backyard Ultra (August 15): New event hosted by Kaniksu Ultras and based at Riverside State Park Camp 7; described as a “Last Person Standing” race for runners and “ruckers.”  

Smokechaser Race (Sept. 12): 30k and 5-mile course starts from Priest Lake State Park, Lionhead; organized by Priest Lake Multisports. 

Spokatopia Trail Run & Trail Running Clinic (Sept. 12): A 5k run on the singletrack trails at Camp Sekani Park at the annual Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival. $25 race fee includes festival bike and paddlesports demo pass and headband. Adult beverage garden and live music all day long.  (Originally scheduled for July 11.)

Moscow Mountain Madness 5-Mile & Half Marathon (Sept. TBA): Features single-track trails and logging roads; hosted by the Palouse Road Runners club in Moscow, Idaho.   

Wild Moose Chase Trail Run (Sept. 26): Starts at Mt. Spokane State Park’s Selkirk Lodge; hosted by Eastern Washington University’s Class of 2021 Doctor of Physical Therapy program students.  

Sekani Trail Run 5k & 10k (Sept. 27): Adventure run/hike/walk on trails at Camp Sekani in Spokane; fundraiser for Franklin Elementary School’s A.P.P.L.E. program.  

ROAD CYCLING 

Kidical Mass (May 2): Family-friendly 3-mile ride (on anything that rolls) through the Gonzaga University campus and local neighborhood, presented by Summer Parkways; starts at 1 p.m. 

Lilac Century Bike Ride (May 17): Ride options include Century (100 miles), Metric Century (66 miles), 50-Mile ride, 25-Mile Ride, and 15-Mile Ride and Family Ride; organized by Spokane Aurora Northwest Rotary Club with a start/finish at Spokane Falls Community College.  

Bike Everywhere Challenge (May 1-31): Events and activities organized by the Spokane Bicycle Club—includes group rides, flat-fixing clinic, and daily events for Spokane Bike to Work Week, May 11-15, including Monday morning pancake breakfast at Riverfront Park (May 11) and Tuesday morning energizer stations (May 12). 

Apple Century Bike Ride (June 6): Tour the Wenatchee Valley area with a 100, 50, or 25-mile ride.  

Spokane Summer Parkways (June 18): A summer solstice community event for cyclists, runners, and walkers; includes free kids’ activities and business and vendor booths along the 4-mile loop route through the Manito and Comstock neighborhoods.  

CHAFE 150 (June 20): Popular Gran Fondo scenic ride (not a race) that starts from Sandpoint’s City Beach and goes along Lake Pend Oreille into Montana’s Cabinet Mountain river valleys. Route mileage options: 150, 100, 80, 40, or 30 miles, and family fun ride. Organized by Sandpoint Rotary, all entry fee proceeds support Pend Oreille School District’s autism program.  

8 Lakes Leg Aches (June 20): This long-time Spokane-area event has moved from its traditional August time frame; choose among 30, 45, and 75-mile routes, with the longest one touring around all 8 Lakes. Proceeds benefit Spokane-based Lutheran Community Services Northwest. 

Silver Valley Ride to Defeat ALS (June 20): Ride solo or with a team to raise funds to fight Lou Gehrig’s disease—tandem and tag-along bikes and bike trailers allowed. Ride coincides with Walk to Defeat ALS, a fully-supported 3-mile easy walk along the trail (no entry fee; fundraising encouraged). Other regional Ride to Defeat ALS events happening in Eagle, Idaho (May 30); Mt. Angel, Oregon (July 18); and Snohomish, Washington (July 25).  

Lake Chelan Century Challenge & Cycle de Vine (June 20): Choose the 100-mile ride (with 9,600’ elevation gain) or 30-mile tour of Lake Chelan Valley.  

Northwest Tandem Rally (July 3-6): Organized by Emde Sports, and based at the EWU campus in Cheney, event features tandem-friendly and fully-supported cycling routes touring the West Plains. 

Tour de Whatcom (July 18): Options include 22 or 44 miles, Metric Century (62 miles), or Century Ride; start/finish in downtown Bellingham, Wash. 

Spokane Valley Cycle Celebration (July 26): Organized by ValleyFest, options include a 10-mile Family-Friendly Ride, 25-mile Adventure, and 50-mile Hills Around the Valley Ride; free registration for ages 12 and younger.   

Blazing Saddles Bike Ride (August 1): Explore Northeast Washington’s highly scenic and low-traffic Colville Valley countryside with a 40, 62, or 100-mile ride.  

Tour de Lentil Bike Ride (August TBA): A fundraising event for WSU Cycling Club in conjunction with Pullman’s National Lentil Festival.  

SpokeFest (September 13): Based in Kendall Yards, event includes Spokane Falls 9-mile Loop, 21-mile River Loop, and a Half Century (50 miles).  

Mt. Baker Hill Climb (Sept. 13): 22 miles along Mt. Baker Highway, for ages 13+.  

WaCanId Selkirk Loop Ride (Sept. 14-19): 6-day ride over 370 miles on one of the most scenic routes in the Northern Rockies. 

Global Kidical Massive (Sept. 19): Family-friendly ride begins at 1 p.m. at Spark Central in Spokane (Kendall Yards), follows a 3-mile route through the neighborhood and along the Centennial Trail.  

Bike MS—Cycle the Silver Valley (Sept. 19–20): Routes of 20-100 miles along the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes with start/finish at Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg, Idaho; fundraiser for National MS Society. 

RIM Ride (Sept. 19–20): “Rotary in Motion” 5-mile family bike ride on Saturday, followed by 15, 25, 50, and 100-mile rides on Sunday; hosted by the Rotary Club of Liberty Lake, Wash. 

Coeur d‘Fondo (Sept. 19): Ride along Idaho’s Scenic Byway (Hwy 97) and finish at downtown Coeur d’Alene’s Oktoberfest; routes include 120-mile Gran Fondo; 90, 50, or 40 miles; or 15-mile Family Fun Ride. 

Kootenai River Ride (Sept. 20): Pedal along the Kootenai River and through the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge and experience some of North Idaho’s most scenic countryside on a 16k, 60k, or 100k ride. 

MOUNTAIN BIKING/GRAVEL GRINDERS 

Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance – Classes & Skills Clinics (Mar-Sept.): Events for adults and youth (ages 8-17), from beginner to advanced mountain bikers, including family, women, and girls only classes. Schedule at Evergreenmtb.org includes all statewide regions, including Evergreen East in Spokane and alliance chapters in western and central Washington. 

Gran Fondo Races – Central Washington: Ephrata (March 15), Goldendale (April 26), Leavenworth (May 17), Ellensburg (June 14), and Winthrop (Sept. 19); organized by Rideviciouscycle.com. 

CDA (Crazy Dam Adventure) Gravel 2 (March 15, April 26, May 31, June 28): A new event organized by Trek Bicycle Store in Coeur d’Alene, this series is an alternative gravel adventure.  

Evergreen East Spring Kickoff (March 29): Join Spokane area mountain bikers to celebrate the final stage of Evergreen’s Make Beacon Public campaign with the film “Return to Earth,” adult beverages, and a silent auction. All funds go toward saving Beacon Hill. CANCELLED

Hilly Nilly Gravel Series (March 29, April 11, May 10, June 14): Free, no-support, 20-40+ mile ride series on hilly courses, with a mix of paved and gravel roads. All rides begin at 10 a.m. from Michael D’s Eatery (Sherman Ave) in Coeur d’Alene; organized by Trek Bicycle Store in Coeur d’Alene and Vertical Earth. 

Washington Student Cycling League (March-June): Mountain biking development program and spring race series for riders in grades 6-12, organized by the non-profit Washington Student Cycling League.  

Hub-a-Palooza (end of May TBA): Three-day mountain bike festival at Beacon Hill/Camp Sekani in Spokane, hosted by Velo Northwest; includes downhill races, four-stage Enduro race, and jump jam/high jump competition. New this year are e-bike race categories. 

Wednesday MTB Race Series at Riverside State Park (May 6-June 24): For eight consecutive Wednesday evenings, this popular annual event—now organized by Gineric Productions—features a different weekly race course (7-11 miles/lap); free entry for age 17 and younger. 

Idaho Interscholastic Cycling League (May-October): Offers teams and race series for youth in grades 6-12.  

3/4 Minus Cykeltur (May 2): Sandpoint’s 2nd annual gravel ride includes a two-hump route (72 miles) and an abbreviated 1-hump route of approximately 52 miles). Post-ride revelry at Matchwood Brewing to follow.  

Bavarian Bike and Brews (June 6): Organized by Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance Central Washington Chapter. The event near Leavenworth, Wash., includes mountain biking, camping, and live music. 

North American Enduro Cup (June 13): Silver Mountain Bike Park in Kellogg, Idaho, hosts one of only eight North American races that qualifies for the Enduro World Series; includes 6 race stages and 6,000+ feet of climbing.  

“Transhandle” Ride Series (June 21, July 19, August 23): New event for road and e-bikes organized by Trek Bicycle in Coeur d’Alene, includes point-to-point or out-and-back self-supported rides utilizing the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes and Northern Pacific Rail Trail (45-50 miles/each; with last ride in series 90+ miles). 

5 in July at Farragut State Park (July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29): Wednesday evening single-track race series at Farragut State Park, in Athol, Idaho, features different weekly courses and 2-mile kids’ ride; free entry for age 18 and younger.  

Northwest Cup (July 17-19): Silver Mountain Bike Park hosts one of the stops for this race series for ages 5+.  

Ride the Passes (July 19): Now in its second year, the approximately 60-mile “Epic Gravel Loop” self-supported ride, organized by Trek Bicycle Store in Coeur d’Alene, starts/finishes at the Northern Pacific Railroad Museum in Wallace, Idaho. Course goes over Lookout Pass, then along the Hiawatha Trail to Pearson and over Moon Pass before returning to Wallace; free entry, Hiawatha permit fee required.   

Blue Goose Chase (July 25): A free 11-mile family bicycle ride in the Little Pend Oreille (LPO) National Wildlife Refuge, along the gravel auto tour route, to support the non-profit Friends of the LPO. 

Nelson Fat Tire Festival (August TBA): A 4-day festival in British Columbia, organized by Nelson Cycling Club, that showcases the area’s best downhill and cross-country trails. 

Smoke ‘n’ Fire 400 (September 9): Self-supported approx. 400-mile loop bikepacking ride, with almost 41,000 feet of climbing. Ride begins/ends in Boise, Idaho, at Hyde Park and includes the Centennial and Harriman Trails.  

Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival Bike Demo Day (Sept. 12): One the biggest bike demo events in the Northwest includes regional bike shops and reps offering unlimited mountain bike and other bike demos (with paid demo pass) and uphill shuttles for all the Camp Sekani singletrack laps you can handle. Live music and adult beverage garden with proceeds benefitting Evergreen East. (Originally scheduled for July 11.)

Silverroxx Mountain Bike Festival (September 18-20): Hosted by Silver Mountain Resort and includes group downhill and super-d races, and kids’ events. 

The Dirty Spokanza Gravel Grinder (October 4): 3^rd annual event described as “less than half the miles and more than twice as weird as Dirty Kanza, the world’s most popular gravel race.” Begins at Big Barn Brewery in Spokane and features three route options, from 32 miles and 3,000 feet of climbing to 90+ miles and 10,000 feet. 

Inland Northwest Cyclocross Series (Oct.-Nov.): USA Cycling series organized by Emde Sports includes divisions for women, men, pros, masters, and junior boys and girls at various race venues.   

MULTISPORT: TRIATHLON, SWIMMING, PADDLING, WATERSPORTS 

Leadman Triathlon (April 18): Organized by Kellogg Rotary Club, and based at Silver Mountain Resort, this adventure course event for solo or team competitors begins on Kellogg Peak and includes skiing/snowboarding, mountain biking, and running. (Coming in July, a Jr. Leadman for ages 13 and younger—date TBA.)  

Ski to Sea (May 24): A multi-sport relay adventure race that starts at Mt. Baker Ski Area and finishes in Bellingham Bay—includes cross-country and downhill skiing/snowboarding, road and cyclocross biking, canoeing, downhill running, and sea kayaking. Editor’s Note: 2020 race cancelled due to COVID circumstances. 

Troika Triathlon (May 30): Options include an Olympic course, collegiate Olympic course, sprint course, duathlon (5k run/40k bike/10k run), aquabike (1.5k swim/40k bike), and half distance triathlon; takes place at Medical Lake’s Waterfront Park.  

Moses Lake Tri—For the Health of It! (June 13): Olympic, Sprint, and Family distances; organized by BuDu Racing; based at Blue Heron Park in Moses Lake, WA.  

Granite Man Off Road Weekend (June 27-28): Family-friendly tri/duathlon events.  

Ironman 70.3 Coeur d’Alene (June 28): “Half” Ironman race based at City Park in downtown Coeur d’Alene, includes 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run.  

Tiger Tri & Tiger-Du (July 18): Organized by the City of Colville Parks & Recreation and Negative Split, this Northeast Washington triathlon includes 1k swim at Lake Gillette, 40k bike, and 10k run. There’s also a duathlon that includes a 40k bike and 10k run.  

Long Bridge Swim (August 1): A 1.76-mile swim race across Lake Pend Oreille, along Sandpoint, Idaho’s iconic Long Bridge. 

Swim the Snake (August 8): Swim, kayak, or stand-up paddle across the Snake River channel between Lyons Ferry State Park and Lyons Ferry Marina, in the town of Starbuck, Wash.; fundraiser for Blue Mountain Resource Conservation and Development Council and local youth summer swim teams. 

Tri–Town Float Down Poker Paddle (August 8-9): Paddle the Pend Oreille River from Ione to Metaline Falls, Wash., and win prizes along the way; organized by the North Pend Oreille County Chamber of Commerce to help local veterans and cancer patients. 

Priest Lake Triathlon (August 29): Choose between an Olympic distance triathlon or a sprint mountain bike distance; start/finish near Hill’s Resort.   

Spokatopia SUP Cup, paddling demos, and clinics (Sept. 12): Second year at at Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival for this stand-up paddling race on the Spokane River, start/finish at Boulder Beach; recreational and elite divisions. Demo kayaks, paddleboards, and other paddling gear too. (Originally scheduled for July 11.)

Clark Fork Adventure Challenge (Sept. 20): This event in Plains, Montana, includes running, paddling on the Clark Fork River, and mountain biking; complete solo or with a team.  

Valleyfest Multi-Sport Sunday (Sept. 27): Enjoy some of the most scenic stretches of the Centennial Trail and Spokane River on a 5k or 10k run, duathlon, or triathlon in Spokane Valley. 

OUTDOORSY EVENTS 

Spokane Fly Fishers Gear Raffle (March 11): Attend the Spokane Fly Fishers fundraising raffle to meet other Spokane area fly fishers and for a chance to win new and slightly used fly fishing equipment (6 p.m. at St. Francis School in Spokane). 

Big Horn Outdoor Adventure Show (March 19-22): Gear and resources for fishing and boating, hunting, backpacking, and shooting sports; takes place at Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds (free admission for age 6 and younger).  CANCELLED FOR 2020

Tundra Swan Festival (March 21): Each spring thousands of tundra swans and other birds return to the lakes and rivers of Northeast Washington’s Pend Oreille County. Come celebrate the splendor of this annual migration!  CANCELLED FOR 2020  

Ledlenser Trails in Motion Film Festival (March 26 & April 10): International film tour makes only two stops in the region—March 26 in Wenatchee and April 10 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, at Fleet Feet.  

Nat Geo Live! (April 16): Photographer Ronan Donovan will share images and stories from his travels in Africa and beyond.  CANCELLED

Wallace Craft Beer Pub Crawl (rescheduled for Sept. 19; originally April 18): Wallace, Idaho, celebrates Idaho’s Craft Beer Month with brewers from across America showcasing their unique craft beers in 16 different watering holes all within a convenient two block area in historic downtown Wallace.  

Wild & Scenic Film Festival (postponed – originally scheduled for April 30): The festival that inspires activism through empowering stories and the grandeur of wild nature lands in Spokane for the annual benefit for Spokane Riverkeeper.

OutLive Film Festival (rescheduled for Sept 25; originally May 9): This Spokane-created film festival celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the healing power of the outdoors in an effort to help cancer survivors build healthy and meaning-filled lives by getting active outdoors and connected to others. 

Get Out Fest (June 26-28): 2^nd annual event based at the Ferry County Fairgrounds in Republic, Wash. (free admission for ages 17 and younger), includes tent camping, climbing wall, kids’ play area, pop-up skateboard park, free paddleboard and kayak use at Curlew Lake, half marathon & 5k races, hiking and mountain biking in the Colville National Forest, food vendors, and live music.  

Top Pin Archery (July 10-12): Family-friendly archery competition on the backside of Silver Mountain, in Kellogg, Idaho, that includes navigating through a course of prop target-animals.  

Qlispe River Fest (August 28-30): Don’t miss this 2^nd annual outdoor music festival in Northeast Washington’s Pend Oreille County.

Editor’s Note: Did we miss your favorite race, ride, or outdoors event? Email amy@outthereventure.com and we will do our best to include it next year. 

The post Inland NW Race, Ride, & Event Guide – 2020 appeared first on Out There Venture.

Bike Everywhere Challenge (May 1-31): To celebrate Bike Everywhere Month, Spokane Bicycle Club hosts special events and rides to encourage cycling for both transportation and recreation. Events and activities include the Bloomsday Bike Corral on race day, group rides on local bike paths and trails, flat-fixing clinic, and other events (spokanebikes.org). Record your biking mileage at lovetoride.net/washington.

Kidical Mass (May 11): A family-friendly 3-mile neighborhood ride (using anything that rolls) starting from Chief Garry Park, in west Spokane, near Spokane Community College. Sponsored by Summer Parkways and Christ the King Church.

Spokane Bike to Work Week (May 13-17): Spokane Bicycle Club hosts events all week, including Monday morning pancake breakfast; Tuesday morning energizer stations around the city; Ride of Silence; and Friday’s celebration of Bike to Work Day. Full event details at spokanebikes.org.

Apple Century Bike Ride (June 2): Tour Wenatchee, the “Apple Capital of the World,” with a ride to help local Sunrise Rotary Club charitable projects.

CHAFE 150 (June 15): A popular Gran Fondo scenic ride (not a race) starting from Sandpoint’s City Beach and going along Lake Pend Oreille into Montana’s Cabinet Mountain river valleys. In addition to the 150-mile route, there are 5 other options: 100, 80, 40, and 30 mile routes, and a family fun ride. Organized by Sandpoint Rotary, all money collected from entry fees goes directly to the Pend Oreille School District’s program serving children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

Summer Parkways (June 20): Now in its 10^th year, this summer solstice family-friendly community event is for cyclists, runners, walkers, skaters, and anyone else with human-powered recreation to enjoy a 4-mile loop in the Manito and Comstock neighborhoods. Streets are closed from 6-9 p.m.; event includes free kids’ activities and business and vendor booths.

8 Lakes Leg Aches (June 22): A new, earlier date this year for a popular ride. Choose among 30, 45, and 75-mile routes, with the longest one touring around all 8 Lakes along the course through the Channeled Scablands west of Spokane. Proceeds benefit Spokane-based Lutheran Community Services Northwest.

Silver Valley Ride to Defeat ALS (June 22): Starting in Kingston, Idaho, from the Enaville Trailhead of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, participants age 12+ ride solo or as part of a team to raise funds to fight Lou Gehrig’s disease. Children age 11 and younger can participate on a tandem bike, tag-along bike, or bike trailer.

Century Challenge & Cycle De Vine (June 22): Scenic course through orchards and vineyards surrounding Lake Chelan, Wash. Choose the 100-mile ride (includes 9,600’ elevation gain) or the 30-mile tour of the Lake Chelan Valley.

Tour de Whatcom (July 20): Explore the beautiful landscape of Whatcom County, in northwest Wash., with a ride distance to suit your style. Options include 22 or 44 miles, Metric Century (62 miles), or Century Ride. Start/finish in downtown Bellingham.

Spokane Valley Cycle Celebration (July 28): ValleyFest organizes three rides for all ages, including a 10-mile Family-Friendly Ride, 25-mile Adventure, and 50-mile Hills Around the Valley Ride. All begin at the Centennial Trail Mirabeau North trailhead. Free for riders age 12 and younger.

Blazing Saddles Bike Ride (August 3): Explore the low-traffic and highly-scenic Colville, Wash. area countryside with a 40 (the “Colville Loop”), 62, or 100-mile ride. This fully-supported ride kicks off in Colville, Wash., and utilizes some of the best road biking routes in the Northwest.

Tour de Lentil Bike Ride (August 16-17): A fundraiser for WSU Cycling Club, held in conjunction with Pullman’s National Lentil Festival, this ride features 50, 100, and 150km routes through the Palouse.

SpokeFest (September 8): Based in Spokane’s Kendall Yards neighborhood, this 12^th annual bicycling event includes 3 ride routes: Spokane Falls 9-mile Loop, 21-mile River Loop, and a Half Century (50 miles). SpokeFair includes interactive booths and vendors.

Mt. Baker Hill Climb (Sept. 8): A timed race, with two non-competitive divisions (social and recreational), cyclists will grind up 4,098’ in 22 miles along Mt. Baker Highway.

WaCanId Selkirk Loop Ride (Sept. 9-14): One of the most scenic routes in the Northern Rockies, encircling the Selkirk Mountains of Washington, Canada, and Idaho, the 6-day ride covers 370 miles.

Global Kidical Massive (Sept. 14): Local children will join thousands worldwide on this day. In Spokane, the family-friendly ride begins at 1 p.m. at Spark Central in Kendall Yards and follows a 3-mile route through the neighborhood and along the Centennial Trail.

Bike MS, Cycle Silver Valley (Sept. 14-15): This fundraiser for the National MS Society offers a 1 or 2-day journey with looping routes along the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes; start/finish at Silver Mountain Resort.

RIM Ride (Sept. 15-16): “Rotary in Motion” 5-mile family bike ride on Saturday, hosted by the Rotary Club of Liberty Lake, Wash., followed by 15, 25, 50, and 100-mile rides on Sunday.

Coeur D’Fondo (Sept. 21): Course includes Idaho’s Scenic Byway (Hwy 97) and finishes at downtown Coeur d’Alene’s Oktoberfest. Options include: 120-mile Gran Fondo; 90, 50, or 40 miles; or the 15-mile Family Fun Ride.

The post Inland NW Race, Ride, & Event Guide 2019: Cycling appeared first on Out There Venture.

After chatting easily for a mile, we drifted apart without exchanging contacts, realizing we would meet again, no doubt in much the same fashion. What I couldn’t have predicted those five years ago was that I would one day put down some roots here in Spokane and accept the honor and challenge of writing the Out There Everyday Cyclist column while he rolls out on one of those wild bike trips.

Acknowledging that I am unlikely to achieve his robust stature in the Spokane cycling community, or be able to even palely mimic his signature wit, I can only hope some measure of my own passion for all forms of cycling can achieve a similar goal: more butts on more bikes.

There is no shortage of fuel for those passions here in the Inland Northwest. From scenic rolls on the Centennial Trail or winding backroads, to winter night rides on Beacon Hill or the endless trails maintained by singletrack fanatics, there is a ride for every tire size and skill level.

Like the city itself, the cycling community seems accessible and down-to-earth. I have jumped in on group rides knowing no one, and invariably left with at least one new riding buddy. I have been approached on the street, including while delivering this magazine downtown Spokane, by fellow curious cyclists.

With one such easy acquaintance I now call a friend, I traversed a sizeable portion of our extensively trailed city, from Audubon Park to the bar at Luna on the South Hill for Easter brunch, our tires barely touching pavement. You know how when you’re falling for someone, it can be traced back through a series of small, revealing moments? An unexpected smile, an unspoken understanding, an intentional touch. That ride was one of those in my burgeoning affection for Spokane. I cite it often when people wonder why I contentedly call this city home, having travelled through more than a handful of places.

I admit to previously playing the field a bit. Raised in the infinite cornfields of Iowa, I’ve lived at least a year in South Carolina, Louisiana, Japan, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Seattle, Denver, and— for the last five years— I’ve lived in Spokane. I have never felt so at home as I do here. It might be in some small way related to my internal clock, but it is largely that I’ve found a place that’s just the right mix of self-awareness and resolve. I don’t feel a need to be the weirdest, most outspoken, fastest, or a world-saving overachiever here. I only need to be true to my passions, or to be always in search of them, to find fast friends and new trails.

Taking over the reins of this column as Greer heads out on a long cycling adventure, I am thrilled to get the chance to spread awareness of this city’s and region’s unparalleled cycling opportunities, from shore-side picnics to endless mountain tours. I hope to be able to offer just a bit of insight, and to provide some inkling of inspiration for those considering cycling as a viable means of transportation, recreation, and exercise. As I’ve learned, Spokane is the kind of special place where you just might meet a Hank Greer out there, then get to be him.

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