Cover photo courtesy of Chris Ashenbrener

On the morning of May 18, 1980, Chris Ashenbrener was pouring concrete on the edge of Lake Pend Oreille, far from his stomping grounds in the Cascade Range. Hours after he began, the sky began snowing ash. Ashenbrener retreated to his tent and watched as confused birds navigated the darkening skies, then eventually turned on the radio to hear a voice on the other side telling people to stay indoors. 

“Of course, I thought the Ruskies were coming,” Ashenbrener recalled. But it was just Mount St. Helens, making good on her recent and frequent promises. 

When St. Helens erupted in all her might, she blew out her side with such force that miles of forest around her were flattened and her once-proud summit was amputated of 1,300 feet. Fifty-seven people died, hundreds of homes and structures were lost, nearly 200 miles of road destroyed, and geological history made. 

Lawetlat’la, or Loowit, as the local Indigenous Peoples refer to her, had long been a moody mountain with evidence of prior eruptions. She is unplacated by her occasional tantrums and remains the most active volcano in the Cascade Range. When she reopened to climbers in 1987, she was one of the few volcanoes of the range Ashenbrener had not climbed. 

His interest in climbing began more than a decade earlier, though he’d say he preferred traverses to bagging peaks. After pursuing the usual path of the wayward but being maternally influenced (see: reluctant completion of a degree prior to hitchhiking around America), Ashenbrener gave up his attempts at using mind-control to get picked up by drivers and went to law school. He didn’t really intend to practice law, but meeting classmate and fellow outdoorsman, Ted Gathe, made the years of education worth it. 

The pair and various friends had been exploring the Cascade Range since the mid-1970s, when Ashenbrener moved to Spokane. Raising young families and launching their careers, most of their adventures involved cramming in as much mountain as possible somewhere between Friday and Monday, preferably with some use for their skis along the way. Mount St. Helens was no different. 

The mountain reopened to climbers in May 1987. Ashenbrener remembers it being the weekend of Bloomsday, making the decision to bail on the running race to climb instead. It was also the last weekend climbers could summit without a permit (which has been required since 1986). For the growing alpinist community of the Pacific Northwest, it was a festive affair. 

Trails had not been marked or restored, so parties were approaching from all sides. Gathe and Ashenbrener decided to begin in the lowlands, but the soft snow would slow their approach. They remedied this by bringing their Nordic skis. This got them thinking they should bring their alpine skis, too, for the descent would be long and epic. Of course, they also needed crampons, rope, ice axes, lunch, and the usual layers of mountaineering, packs, and the debris of a day out in the wild. 

They skied in through the trees and over the mushy terrain. As the slope steepened, they stashed their Nordic skis and switched to climbing boots, now only sinking to their knees. With their alpine skis and poles dangling off their packs and looking like traveling trinket salesmen, they made their clunky way across the snow.  

It was a perfect blue-sky day and the sense of celebration was real. As the men pushed toward the summit, which was now just a mile-wide rim of ice and snow, a helicopter approached them, landing nearby. It was ABC News, who had grown curious about the amount of stuff the two were schlepping up the side of a volcano and wanted to interview them for the evening news with Peter Jennings. The crew commented that the pair were the only ones carrying skis to the top. In fact, they were not.  

Mountaineering legend Kathy Phibbs also climbed the mountain that day with her skis, while wearing a red dress and a pillbox hat. Five women from Women Climbers Northwest joined her and danced the Can-Can at the top (they only made the Seattle Times). Phibbs’ pilgrimage of summits in skirts, specifically that one, sparked the annual Mother’s Day Climb on Mount St. Helens that continues to this day.

 

If Ashenbrener and Gathe were more a spectacle than the broads doing Broadway on the rim, it was the accidental result of their testosterone-fueled ambition and “Grapes of Wrath laden journey,” as he refers to it. Clanking with a flea-market load of equipment, they slogged their way to the rim while questioning their life choices. Now, they had the added pressure of getting back in time to see the evening news. The crampons and the ice axes were used in a final push, but the rope stayed in the pack. 

Upon cresting the rim, the gravity of the mountain’s history struck Ashenbrener, who recalls it looked like a “mountain with the top completely sliced off with a machete.” Along the newly formed rim were dozens of climbers peering into the crater, stepping too far out onto frozen ledges and cornices. Other climbers yelled warnings at them while Ashenbrener worried for their safety. Hundreds of feet beneath them, the crater steamed. A new lava dome had already risen out of the crater’s floor. Beyond them, where her belly had split open and poured forth, nature had been decimated.  

When Mount St. Helens erupted, 24,000 megatons of thermal energy were released, 7,000 of which occurred in the initial blast. (In a morbid comparison, this is the explosive equivalent of approximately 1,600 WWII atomic bombs.) Entire swaths of forest were flattened, thousands of acres of trees left like charred toothpicks fanning away from the mountain. The rivers of lava, snow, and mud (known as lahars) carried millions of tons of debris down the Toutle and Cowlitz rivers, wiping out bridges, lumber camps, and homes along the way. Thousands of large animals were killed, entire species of small and large mammals as well as amphibians, extirpated. 

By the time Ashenbrener made it to the rim seven years after the eruption, only patches of fireweed had begun a brave return. Stretching miles before him still lay the carnage of a landscape turned shades of gray-brown. He was struck by a sense of geological fascination and wonder, by the power within the Earth to make a whole mountain disappear. 

Not wanting to miss the evening news, the men rearranged their boots into their overloaded packs and donned their skis. “Forever, I will remember the sound of clicking into our bindings and pushing off,” Ashenbrener said. “We seemingly sailed off the top, over the heads of the climbers.” It was validation of the day’s gear-slog. In turn after turn, they descended 5,000 feet of snow, from one kind of crunchy ice to softer grains until they reached their Nordic skis, quads aflame with the burden of their descent. It’s one thing to ski down a volcano; it’s another thing to do it with a pack full of 1980s climbing gear. 

The two raced back toward civilization in search of a bar with a TV on and a phone to call their families and tell them to watch the news. But that night, Jennings was busy reporting about presidential candidate Gary Hart’s tryst with Donna Rice and the men were bumped from national evening news by a woman after all.  

“We are fortunate here in the PNW,” says Ashenbrener with charming optimism. “We don’t have cyclones, typhoons, hurricanes, flash floods. We just have the Big Burn of 1910 and the volcano of 1980.” Would Ashenbrener climb the iconic route again? “No,” he said, “I don’t do things twice.” Perhaps that is because some things can only be done once.  

Ammi Midstokke lives in North Idaho, where the hills don’t explode. This season, she’ll be traveling to the Peloponnese to climb another less volatile mound of rock. 

The post The Day Mount St. Helens Reopened  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Luis Benitez’s “Higher Ground: How the Outdoor Recreation Industry Can Save The World” is a compelling mixture of personal memoir and environmental advocacy, offering a unique perspective on the transformative power of outdoor recreation. Benitez, a renowned mountaineer and former outdoor policy official for Colorado, intertwines his life experiences with a persuasive argument for the outdoor industry’s potential to drive social changes. 

As far back as the 1958 presidential panel known as the Outdoor Recreation Resources Review Commission, both Democrats and Republicans have been trying to estimate outdoor recreation’s role and value both socially and economically: “The demand is surging. Whatever the measuring . . . it is clear that Americans are seeking the outdoors as never before. And this is only a foretaste of what is to come. Not only will there be many more people, they will want to do more, and they will have more money and time to do it with,” Benitez writes.  

Benitez’s narrative begins with his childhood asthma, a condition that confined him indoors and sparked a yearning for the outdoors. This early struggle set the stage for a life devoted to nature and adventure. His ascent from a Missouri high schooler discovering rock climbing to leading blind mountaineer Erik Weihenmayer to the summit of Mount Everest exemplifies his resilience and passion to keep moving forward.  

Beyond personal stories, “Higher Ground” delves into the economic significance of the outdoor recreation industry. Benitez highlights that the sector contributes approximately $1.1 trillion and over 5 million jobs annually to the U.S. economy, surpassing the automotive and pharmaceutical industries combined. He argues that this economic clout positions the industry as a bipartisan force capable of uniting diverse communities and driving policy change. This book is not your typical policy paper—it’s a page-turner that resonates with a broad and active audience.

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As the vibrant colors of fall blanket the landscapes of Grant County, Washington, it’s the perfect time to explore the breathtaking outdoor scenes through hiking and fishing. This guide takes you on a road trip to some of the most serene and picturesque spots across the county, with a special sidebar on the best places to stay and dine. 

The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary 

Day 1: Potholes Reservoir—Start your adventure at the Potholes Reservoir, a fishing haven known for its rich diversity of fish species including walleye, trout, and bass. As the crisp fall air sets in, the reservoir is less crowded, offering a peaceful fishing experience. Surrounding the water are numerous trails perfect for a morning hike. The unique geology of the area creates a stunning backdrop of basalt rock formations. 

Day 2: Frenchman Coulee—Next, head to Frenchman Coulee near Quincy for a day of hiking and rock climbing. The area is famed for its dramatic cliff faces and the stunning coulee that cuts through the landscape. Hike the Ancient Lakes Trail, a relatively easy trek that is especially beautiful in the fall when the low sun casts long shadows and bathes the area in golden hues. 

Day 3: Moses Lake—Conclude your road trip at Moses Lake. Anglers can look forward to catching largemouth bass and yellow perch. The Blue Heron Park is a perfect spot for a family picnic and a gentle walk along the lake. 

Where to Stay & Other Amenities 

While exploring Grant County, you have various accommodation options ranging from cozy inns to full-service hotels. 

Moses Lake: 

• Inn at Moses Lake: Offers comfortable lodging with modern amenities and easy access to the lake. 

• Ten Pin Inn: Provides friendly accommodations complete with an indoor pool and proximity to local dining, including its own Ten Pin Brewery. 

Quincy: 

• Crescent Bar Resort: Ideal for visitors heading to Frenchman Coulee, providing high-end accommodations with resort facilities. 

• Cave B Inn & Spa Resort: This upscale resort near Quincy offers luxury stays with panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. 

Ephrata: 

• Best Western Rama Inn: A comfortable and convenient option with access to local dining and close to Oasis Park fishing pond and mini golf. 

• Ephrata Inn: An affordable option with proximity to downtown amenities. 

Local Eats 

For those looking to enjoy a meal, each town has something unique to offer. 

• Ten Pin Brewery in Moses Lake is a great spot to enjoy locally crafted beers and a menu of hearty meals, perfect for fueling your adventure-filled days. Adjacent to Lake Bowl bowling alley.  

• Gard Public House in Royal City offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and a menu that reflects the agricultural richness of the area. 

• The Bookery in Ephrata provides a selection of lunch sandwiches and coffee that shares space with a bookstore.  

• Discovery Cider Company is a new space with house-made hard ciders, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration. 

Fall Events 

• Ephrata Wine Walk: Walk the streets of downtown Ephrata and stop in at local businesses participating in the fall wine walk on Oct. 19. Event includes live music, a costume contest, souvenir wine glass, and after party. 

• Moses Lake Fall Harvest Festival: Enjoy local produce, crafts, and pumpkin-themed activities perfect for families Oct. 26. 

• Moravida Festival: Celebrate life and honor ancestors Oct. 26 in Moses Lake at this vibrant family-friendly event inspired by Dia de Los Muertos. Enjoy live entertainment, vendors, food trucks, and a community altar. 

A road trip through Eastern Washington’s Grant County is a unique way to experience the desert beauty of fall in our region. Whether you’re casting a line in the shimmering waters or hiking through colorful sage-steppe landscapes, the region offers a refreshing escape into nature, complete with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and rural stay. Pack your hiking boots and fishing rods and prepare for adventure in the heart of the Inland Northwest. 

Sponsored

The post Fall Adventure Guide: Hiking and Fishing Road Trip Through Grant County, Washington  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy Shallan Knowles

Don’t let summer pass you by: use this roundup of things to do in the mountains, lakes, rivers, trails, and small towns around our beautiful corner of the Northwest. 

1. Attend the Fur Trade Festival May 18 at the Kettle Falls Historical Center. Take a step back in time while enjoying a living history encampment and learn about the Pacific Northwest fur trade from reenactors discussing how traders lived, trapped, hunted, dressed, and communicated in the 1800s. 

2. Rent a boat from Carefree Boat Club of North Idaho and go tubing, water skiing, or wake surfing. 

3. Tube, kayak, or raft the mellow rapids of the lower Spokane River below downtown Spokane once the river level drops and the water warms up, typically in late June or early July. Be sure to end your trip at the TJ Meenach Bridge area to avoid large, more dangerous rapids downstream. Simplify your float by booking a shuttle and renting tubes from FLOW Adventures (509-242-8699). 

4. Take a good book on a walk to a public park or natural area near you and relax and read from a real paper book or copy of Out There. 

5. Ride or hike part of the Ferry County Rail Trail near Republic in Northeast Washington, then hit Curlew State Park for a swim. 

6. Use public transit to go on a hike from your house. Get creative with the hiking and bus routes to pull off an all-day wander.   

7. Paddle Echo Bay near Farragut State Park on Lake Pend Oreille and bring a spotting scope or binoculars to look for the resident mountain goats that are sometimes spotted on and around Bernard Peak. 

8. Run in your birthday suit (or fully clothed) at the clothing-optional Bare Buns Fun Run July 28. This annual tradition happens at the Kaniksu Ranch north of Spokane near Deer Lake.  

9. Hike the 4-mile roundtrip Similkameen Trail near Oroville, Wash., a beautiful rail-trail with amazing scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. 

10. Round up some friends and take turns riding mountain bikes together at Spokane’s Riverside State Park for 24 hours at the 24 Hours of Riverside event May 25. 

11. Ride the bike park at Big White Resort near Kelowna, B.C., and then taste wine in B.C.’s renowned Okanagan Valley on your way back to the states. 

12. Take advantage of the some of the hottest or smokiest days of the summer to escape indoors to build on your rock-climbing skills at the Coeur Climbing Company gym in Post Falls. 

13. Spend a day giving back to the trails you love by joining a trail maintenance or construction project by one of our region’s many trail organizations. Locally, the Washington Trails Association, Evergreen East, Pend Oreille Pedalers, Idaho Trails Association, and Lake City Trails Alliance each organize trail projects all summer long that need volunteers. There are many other regional trails organizations that work in Inland Northwest wilderness and backcountry areas.  

14. Ride the new Cancourse mountain bike trails in Coeur d’Alene. 

15. Get over your fear of jumping out of a plane and sign up for a tandem skydiving trip with Skydive West Plains west of Spokane. 

16. Enjoy the traffic-free streets on Spokane’s South Hill near Manito Park for an evening of biking, walking, or rolling without watching for cars thanks to Summer Parkways, held June 18 from 6-9 p.m. 

17. Ride the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes out of Wallace, Idaho, then enjoy a cold beverage and meal at City Limits Pub a few blocks from the trail. 

18. Try mountain bikes, catch shuttles to the top of the Camp Sekani trails, watch a MTB jump show, and enjoy adult beverages June 14-15 at the Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival at Camp Sekani Park. Or participate in the Spokatopia Poker Ride for the chance to win prizes (June 15).  

19. Go road biking on one of the many scenic, low-traffic back road routes around Colville, Wash. 

20. Book a rafting trip on the Clark Fork River in Montana with ROW Adventures. The fun class III rapids and plentiful swimming opportunities make for a great day trip from Spokane or North Idaho.  

21. Hunt for bigfoot in Northeast Washington then Run the Bigfoot 5K and check out the Metaline Falls Bigfoot Festival June 15-16. 

22. Take a yoga class from Harmony Yoga in Spokane (check out their ad in this issue of Out There for deals). 

23. Pedal a “RailRider” on retired railroad tracks along the Pend Oreille River near Metaline Falls, Wash. 

24. Book a multi-day rafting adventure on Idaho’s Salmon River with a local outfitter like FLOW Adventures. 

25. Park near the entrance to the 42,000-acre Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge near Colville, Wash., and ride your bike on the 10-mile auto tour loop, making stops at interpretive sites or for short hikes. 

26. Visit an Inland Northwest old-growth forest grove, like the Ross Creek or Hobo cedar groves. Find an online guide at Outthereoutdoors.com/where-to-go-to-see-old-growth-forest-in-the-inland-northwest 

27. Bike to a farmers’ market in a neighborhood near you and go shopping for fresh, local food. 

28. Ride your bike from one of the Riverside State Park trailheads to Long Lake at the Nine Mile Recreation Area and go swimming or fishing. Campsites are available if you want to make it a bikepacking overnighter. 

29. Hike the 7 miles of trails at Pend Oreille County Park between Spokane and Sandpoint off of Highway 2. 

30. Surf the world’s largest standing wave at Lakeside Surf in Chelan. Whether you are an ocean surfer, river surfer, wake surfer, or have never surfed before, you’ll love getting out on this thrilling river-style wave. Book sessions in advance online. 

31. Walk or bike the Children of the Sun Trail, a new paved path that parallels Spokane’s in-progress north-south freeway. 

32. Buy a copy of the Washington State Birding Trail Palouse to Pines map from Audubon Washington and explore some of the best bird habitat in our area, documenting and learning about different species of birds as you go. 

33. Plan a bike tour on the low-traffic back roads of Eastern Oregon, like the 130-mile loop route through the Pained Hills and John Day Fossil Beds. Find info and other route options at Visiteasternoregon.com 

34. Connect as many trails as you can in the Dishman Hills Conservancy in Spokane Valley to create an epic day hike.  

35. After work, head to Post Falls to hike the trails in Post Falls Community Forest and then have a picnic dinner at Q’emiln Park or a pint at one of the breweries in town. 

36. Hike Kamiak Butte, an island of forest in the Palouse near Pullman. 

37. Raft some of the best whitewater in America on Idaho’s Lochsa River in May during peak runoff. These class IV and class III rapids are best experienced with a seasoned rafting outfitter like ROW Adventures. 

38. Take a mountain bike road trip to Moscow and spend a day or two riding the trails at Moscow Mountain. 

39. Learn to sail on a local lake by renting a boat with other sailing friends or taking a lesson. Fun to Sail offers sailing lessons for all abilities (Funtosail.com). 

40. Spend a few days riding the many new mountain bike trails around the Sandpoint, Idaho, area, staying in town or at a nearby campground. Find trail info at Pendoreillepedalers.org. 

41. Roadtrip the International Selkirk Loop that connects scenic byways and unique small towns in Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia, Canada. 

42. Rent a campervan from Gusto Vans in Spokane Valley and live the van life for a weekend or longer while exploring iconic Northwest parks and public lands. 

43. Take a kid or anyone with accessibility or disability requirements needs fishing at Post Falls Park Pond near Post Falls, Idaho. Fish easily from a bridge, shore, or fishing platforms with great odds for catching fish at this well-stocked pond. 

44. Rally friends to pedal down old train tracks on a pedal-powered rail bike in northeast Washington with NPOV Lions Railriders. Make a reservation at Lionsrailriders.com. 

45. Ride the new giant swing coming to Zipwallace near Wallace, Idaho, along with the superman zipline, and then stay the night in one of the new rental yurts!  

46. Take a mountain biking trip to Nelson, B.C. and ride trails in the Morning Mountain and Kokanee Creek Provincial Park areas then hit the hot springs at Ainsworth. 

47. Run wild on the Mountain Magic 5/10/25K Trail Run at Mount Spokane State Park on June 30.  

48. Get up early and do yoga while the sun rises in a public park or natural area. 

49. Backpack to an alpine lake you’ve never been to before. Find plenty of options in Rich Lander’s classic guidebook “100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest.” 

50. Ride the Silver Mountain gondola in Kellogg, Idaho, to mountain bike or hike around the huge trail network at Silver Mountain Bike Park.  

51. Walk or run the Dad’s Day Dash with dad on Fathers’ Day at Spokane’s Riverfront Park, June 16. 

52. Visit 20 parks in the Spokane area to hike, bike, play or participate in other fun activities as part of the Greater Spokane Parks Challenge. Once you sign up and finish the challenge, you’ll be entered to win raffle prizes, including cash and gift cards. Scan the QR to download the app on page xx of this issue to get started. 

53. Spend part of a day exploring the challenges in Mica Moon’s aerial park with bridges, tight ropes, and more in Liberty Lake, Wash.  

54. Kayak or go tubing on a calm stretch of Idaho’s St. Joe River.  

55. Mountain bike the Empire Trails that includes new trails near Spirit Lake, Idaho.  

56. Go ziplining with Timberline Adventures in Coeur d’Alene and experience seven zip lines and two sky bridges, and then have lunch in a tree house.  

57. Hike one of the many trails on Mount Spokane and hunt for huckleberries. 

58. Kayak in a glass-bottom boat on Wallowa Lake near Joseph, Ore., to experience the underwater environment in a whole new way. You can rent kayaks or sign up for a tour, including a night tour with lighted kayaks that illuminate the fish, boulders, and lake bottom for a magical paddling experience. Info at Jopaddle.com 

59. Canoe or kayak a stretch of the Pend Oreille River Water Trail in northeast Wash.  

60. Ride the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes from Plummer to Harrison, Idaho, and go swimming at the beach.  

61. Ride the Wallowa Lake Tramway, a 3,700’ gondola ride to the peak of Mt. Howard in the Wallowa Mountains near Joseph, Ore. 

62. Ride the IMBA Epic Seven Summits mountain bike trail in Rossland, B.C. 

63. Sign your kids up for an indoor climbing camp at Wild Walls Climbing Gym in downtown Spokane. 

64. Bike to the Townshend Cellar tasting room in downtown Spokane to try some of their wines and get a “Wowler” wine growler filled to go.  

65. Explore some of the sites along the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail. 

66. Try kiteboarding or wing foiling on the Columbia River near Hood River, Ore.   

67. Ride your bike to one of Spokane’s smallest and coolest bars, The Baby Bar, downtown behind Neato Burrito. 

68. Run or walk the 5k at the Wallace Huckleberry Festival on Sunday, Aug. 18. 

69. Ride the 15-mile Route of the Hiawatha Trail, named “America’s Crown Jewel of the Rails to Trails.”  

70. Treat the family to a trip to Slide Waters water park at Lake Chelan in central Washington. There’s a lazy river, body slides, tube slides, surfing on the Lakeside Surf wave, downhill racer slides and more all with incredible views of the lake and mountains. 

71. Go fishing or paddling at Fish Lake Regional Park, near Cheney, Wash.  

72. Camp on Idaho’s Salmon River near Riggins, Idaho, or stay in town and go on a whitewater rafting day trip and enjoy the local nightlife in this cool river town.   

73. Go kayaking or boating on Lake Roosevelt and picnic on one of its many sandy, primitive beaches.  

74. Forage for wild berries, mushrooms, and plants that you know or use a guidebook to help you discover new ones.  

75. Hike or bike the Columbia Plateau Trail State Park through Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge from trailheads near Cheney, Wash. 

76. Go camping and tube the Touchet River at Lewis and Clark Trail State Park, near Dayton, Washington.  

77. Canoe or kayak the Little Spokane River. Use the Spokane Parks & Recreation weekend shuttle service (reservations recommended). 

78. Hunt for fossils by breaking open rocks at the Stonerose Fossil Site in the small town of Republic in northeast Washington (stonerosefossil.org) then check out the super cool interpretive center and go for a bike ride or walk on the Golden Tiger Pathway that starts in town. This is a great family outing! 

79. Spend a few days swimming and chilling on the city beaches in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint.  

80. Take a wildflower day hike on the Kettle Crest in late June, starting from Sherman Pass and hiking north toward Columbia Mountain. 

Learn About the Places Where We Play 

Join one of these educational nature outings hosted by the Spokane County Library District, including some outings led by Out There Venture writers! Unless otherwise noted, outings are for adults and registration is required. More info and sign up at Scld.org. 

81. Nature Journaling Hike: Glenrose Trail (June 13, 8–10:30 a.m.) 

Take an invigorating hike on the Glenrose trail in the Dishman Hills Natural Area with a break for a nature journaling exercise. This hike is moderately difficult along a 5.5-mile loop with an elevation gain of 1,500 feet. Led by Out There contributor Heidi Lasher.  

82. History Hike: Mt. Spokane State Park (July 9, 8–10:30 a.m.) 

Explore the upper elevations of Mount Spokane State Park and discover park history at Bald Knob Campground, the site of the Civilian Conservation Corps’ spike camp, and Cook’s Cabin Woodshed. This trail hike over uneven terrain is a 3.5-mile loop with an elevation gain of 400 feet is led by Holly Weiler, Out There contributor and board member of the Friends of Mt. Spokane State Park.  

83. Medicinal & Edible Plants Hike: Liberty Lake Regional Park (Aug. 20, 8–10:30 a.m.) 

Explore the trails at Liberty Lake Regional Park and learn about the medicinal and edible plants that grow wild along the route as well as tips for locating them. This hike is led by Karie Lee Knoke, Out There contributor and contestant on the TV series Alone.  

84. Hiking Safely Near Bears Presentation (June 12 & June 25) 

Learn how to recreate safely in bear country by taking the right precautions, plus learn grizzly and black bear identification, basic bear biology and phenology, and how to respond if you encounter a bear in the field, from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist Matt Brinkman (Cheney Library June 12, 6:30 p.m. and North Spokane Library June 25, 6:30 p.m.). 

85. Medical Lake Geo-Walk & Water Sampling: Waterfront Park (Aug. 21, 5-7 p.m.) 

Walk 3 miles along the trail around Medical Lake with Chad Pritchard, professor of Geology at EWU, and learn about the lake’s history and natural science and help gather water samples for stormwater research and pick up trash along the way (tween and teen friendly).  

The post Summer Bucket List appeared first on Out There Venture.

In this issue, we’ve included tips on how to beat the winter blues when you’re not playing on the mountain. Try winter bike commuting (with a fat bike, or studded tires, or in any case several layers), winter fishing (not ice fishing, in case our El Niño forecast holds true), or snowshoe through Yellowstone National Park. Build a snow cave that can double as survival training by using tips from our Primitive Skills column.

We’ve also included some ways to stay active indoors. Winter can be a nice season to slow down, focus on health and wellness, and read a nature-inspired book. Climbing an indoor rock wall may boost your mood when the weather is just a bit too bleak. And you can catch us at the Spokane Great Outdoors and Bike Expo on February 17-18 to enjoy outdoors- and conservation-related talks, exhibits, gear and more to start planning for 2024.

This issue also features the last Out There Kids column, which has been written by Amy McCaffree for many years. Through her column and family outdoors guides, Amy has become a valuable resource on how to get outside with kids in every season. She has shared her ups and downs, favorite kid-friendly places, recommendations for gear, and how to navigate in the outdoors as a family (or try your best). When I planned a trip to Maui with my toddler, I reached out to Amy, who gave me the gem of advice to find a “baby beach,” a place where the surf is broken on outer reef and creates a pool of calm water for kids to more safely explore. These are the sort of tips from parents who have gone before you that make it a little smoother to experience the outdoors with kids.

Whether or not you have kids, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, it’s worthwhile to teach kids how to get outside and get to know our public spaces. These kids are our future conservationists, climate activists, and recreationists who will become the heart of our community. That’s why Out There Kids will continue as a department in this magazine, sharing those hard-earned, word-of-mouth stories from other outdoor parents.

To Amy, from Derrick, Shallan, and me: thank you for your years of writing about your trials while parenting in the outdoors. You’ve inspired us and many other #outtherefamilies in our region.

To all, here’s to the coming year of outdoor excursions.

Lisa Laughlin, Managing Editor

The post Exploring Winter appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Scott Martinez

The stretch of time between the New Year and spring can be a verrrry long slog. If your New Year’s Resolution had “stay active” or “get outside my comfort zone,” at the top, don’t let gloomy outdoor conditions get in the way. Our area’s climbing and bouldering gyms offer approachable indoor workouts for beginners and experts alike. Climbing builds strength and stamina, provides mental challenges, and is a social sport that organically leads to conversation with other climbers. Each of these local climbing gyms offer climbing features for beginners, options to rent gear if you’ll need it, and drop-in availability to chat with staff and check things out. Visit each gym’s website to learn about membership options and day rates before you go.

Bloc Yard Bouldering Gym

233 E. Lyons, Spokane

www.blocyardgym.com

Bloc Yard is a bouldering-only facility that’s just under 10,000 square feet. The family-friendly gym has top-out boulders (where you climb up and stand on the top of the cliff when you reach the top—with a slide option to take down to the bottom) or a down climb area (where you climb up to the lip of the boulder, then climb back down). The shortest wall is about 7.5 feet; the highest is about 15 feet. The staff resets bouldering problems weekly; they estimate they set about 1,200 different problems every year. Two youth teams—a competitive team and a development team—are available.

New person experience: Visit the gym during any open hours. Staff will talk you through basic rules and safety and can guide climbers toward the routes that are right for their abilities. No equipment needed; climbing shoes and chalk bags available to rent.

Why try it? “It’s a great alternative to your traditional style of fitness and workouts with lifting weights and machines. It engages all of your body as well as your mind,” says owner Adam Healy. “The social aspect, the community aspect of it, is really cool. It’s a very welcoming environment. Everyone’s willing to help out, give pointers, cheer people on.”

As far as the different disciplines of climbing, bouldering is the easiest one for first timers to get started in Healy says. “You don’t need to worry about harnesses, belay classes, anything like that. It’s a very easy way for a first timer to experience what the sport of climbing is all about.”

Wild Walls Climbing Gym

202 W. 2^nd Ave., Spokane

Wild Walls has about 12,000 square feet available for climbing, with about 8,000 of those for top-roping and lead climbing and 4,000 split between two bouldering areas. The top-roping and lead climbing walls are about 40 feet tall. For kids, a Beginner Club teaches kids how to tie knots and belay. For those who have completed Beginner Club or just want to boulder, Climbing Club is available weekly for kids ages 7-14 to advance their climbing skills.

New person experience: Beginners can drop in, rent shoes or any other equipment, and try bouldering or receive instruction in how to use the auto belays. Bouldering and auto belaying are “a low-stakes way to try things out,” says general manager Todd Mires. “The other route [for a beginner] would be to take our intro class to learn how to belay, tie the knots, everything you need to know to be self-sufficient with top-roping.”

Why try it? “If you’re bored of the traditional gym and you’re looking to try something different, it’s a really good, strenuous physical activity,” says Mires. “It’s definitely more community-focused than going to a traditional gym. You’re directly interacting with people often. It ends up being more social, more community-focused.”

Some people try climbing thinking it will be an entertaining way to pass an afternoon—but remember that it’s challenging and strenuous. “It’s not laser tag, it’s not an amusement ride—it’s just a more adventurous avenue to exercise,” says Mires.

Coeur Climbing

764 Clearwater Loop Suite 101, Post Falls, Idaho

www.coeurclimbing.com

Coeur Climbing opened in Post Falls in June of 2023. The gym’s space is mostly devoted to bouldering, and also offers top-rope climbing, lead climbing, and auto belay climbing. There is also a designated kids’ area. Climbing walls generally range from 12 to 15 feet. A variety of classes are available including belay classes, intro to bouldering, and lead climbing. This all-ages gym offers youth teams and winter and summer camps for kids too.

New person experience: Drop in during open hours, sign a waiver, rent shoes if needed, and receive an orientation to the space, as well as guidance on how to use your hands and feet for bouldering and tips on how to fall safely. Introductory courses are available (check website for schedule); no previous experience needed.

Why try it? If you’ve got a fear of heights, that doesn’t need to be a deterrent, says owner Daniel Shaw. Climbers can self-select what’s right for their current comfort and abilities. “Even on those 15-foot walls, there’s no need to go to the top.”

During winter, climbing is a great way to stay healthy, says Shaw. With its emphasis on core strength and mobility, the sport builds endurance and fitness. There’s no limit to who can try climbing. “All kinds of body styles and shapes can do it,” Shaw says. “It’s just a ton of fun.”

Three Other Inland Northwest Climbing Gyms to Check Out

Sandpoint Rock Gym, is a 900-square-foot garage-style bouldering gym with 12-foot walls run entirely by volunteers (shoes available). The gym offers memberships set up with key card access. “For somebody who wants to learn movement and who wants a place to play around, I think it’s a great option, particularly for someone who doesn’t want an overwhelming place with a ton of people,” says Katie Luthy, president of the gym’s board. To visit the gym or learn more, email sandpointrockgym@gmail.com.

The Climbing Center at the University of Idaho in Moscow has 6,000 square feet of climbing space and is set up for bouldering, top-roping, and lead climbing. All equipment can be rented, and the gym is open to the public as well as U of I students. Kids can climb during designated youth climbing hours, and all of the equipment you may need is available to rent. www.uidaho.edu/current-students/recwell/climbing-center

The Rock Shop in Richland is a bouldering gym for all ages with 16-foot walls. Bouldering routes/problems are set for all levels—beginners, experts, and children. The gym offers a series of classes for its junior program, as well as a youth climbing team. www.rockshopclimbing.com

Sarah Hauge is a long-time Out There contributor and writes Out There’s Run Wild column.

Climbing Glossary

Rock Climbing: the sport of climbing rock faces (up, as well as down and sideways).

Bouldering: an increasingly popular category of rock climbing that requires no ropes, belays, or other equipment, taking place on rock formations outdoors or on a rock wall in gyms. Crash pads on the ground provide protection in case of falls.

Top-Rope Climbing: climbing using a single rope that is fed through an anchor at the top of the climbing wall or cliff; the climber is attached to one end of the rope, and a belayer on the ground holds the other end of the rope, pulling it taut as the climber ascends.

Lead Climbing: climbing with a rope (the lead) attached to the climber, who clips the rope into pre-set anchors on the rock face, moving the lead as they progress upward.

Belay: a rope that runs between the climber and another person (the belayer) who can stop the climber’s fall; auto belays don’t require another person.

Boulder Problem: a pre-set route to be completed by a climber engaged in bouldering; can be set to varying degrees of difficulty.

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Spokane Great Outdoors Expo presentations Saturday and Sunday, February 17-18, 2024 at the Spokane Convention Center. (Presentations are free with your Expo ticket. Tickets are available here now and come with free outdoor adventure deals for indoor climbing, paddleboarding, ziplining, and more while they last. Also available at the door the weekend of the event.)

Saturday Presentations at the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo (Feb 17)

Saturday 10:10 AM: Gravel Biking in the Inland Northwest. Spokane gravel bike guru and Out There Venture “Everyday Cyclist” columnist Justin Short will attempt to answer the question: “What are these gravel bikes everyone is talking about and where do we ride them?” Short will give the goods on the recent phenomenon of multi-surface adventure riding known as gravel, covering the spectrum from bikes and gear to the skills needed to safely and confidently get lost in the woods. No doubt he’ll also cover where to go, because he really can’t help himself when it comes to talking about how great the riding is around the Spokane area.

Saturday 11:10 AM: Bugs n Snakes Live. See tarantulas, amphibians, tortoises, lizards, and snakes up close and personal! Presenters will introduce a variety of exotic reptiles and invertebrates (spiders and stuff!) and give audience members a chance to ask questions, as well as touch and/or hold some of the animals!

Saturday 12:30-1:50 PM: Behind-the-Scenes of ALONE Season 9 with Karie Lee Knoke. Join Karie Lee as she shares untold stories of her incredible experience of surviving and thriving in the wild for 75 days in the wet and freezing conditions in Labrador, Canada, with nothing but 10 items, as seen on ALONE Season 9. The experience was an opportunity to put ALL life skills to the test. Not just wilderness skills, but mental, emotional, and spiritual skills as well, without interruption of modern-day distractions. There will be time for questions and answers following her presentation.

Saturday 2:10 PM: 13 Essentials for Hiking, Backpacking, & Exploring the Outdoors with the Spokane Mountaineers. Recreating safely and responsibly in the outdoors is one of the most important teaching points from the Spokane Mountaineers. While there is always a level of risk when venturing into the outdoors, the group’s list of 13 essential items to carry with you can help mitigate those risks and be lifesavers in an emergency. Items can be tailored to your preferred outdoor pursuits from climbing to hiking to paddling.

Saturday 3:10pm-4:30 PM: The Unexplained in Our Skies—Notable UFO Sightings in Washington State and the Spokane Area. Have you ever seen lights in the night sky that you couldn’t explain? If so, you’re not alone according to presenter Dan Nims, who notes that there are thousands of reported UFO sightings in the U.S. each year. Nims is retired from the U.S. Air Force where he was a fighter pilot and a test pilot and is now Chief Investigator with the WA Mutual UFO Network (MUFON)​​. At his presentation at the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo on February 17, Nims will focus on high-profile and historic cases of UFO sightings in Washington State. Read the full Out There article about Nims’ presentation at the Expo.

Sunday Presentations at the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo (Feb 18)

Sunday 11:10 AM: Fascinating Sites on the Ice Age Floods Geologic Trail. Follow the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail that extends across parts of Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon with photos and descriptions of the well-known features such as Grand Coulee, Dry Falls, Palouse Falls and the Columbia River Gorge. Flood features in the Spokane area such as Spokane Falls, the Bowl and Pitcher, Latah Creek and the Cheney-Palouse scabland tract will also be included in the presentation sponsored by the Ice Age Floods Institute, Cheney/Spokane Chapter.

Sunday 12:10 PM: All About E-bikes. Learn about the different types of electric-assist bikes and where you can ride them from the e-bike experts at North Division Bicycle Shop. Check out some different bikes, ask questions, and learn about these amazing distance-boosting bicycles!

Sunday 1:10 PM: Playing Outside Safely in Bear & Cougar Country. Learn about the amazing wildlife we share our trails, campgrounds, and public lands with, including cougars and bears. The presentation by Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife biologist Matt Brinkman will cover techniques for safely recreating in these animals’ habitat, avoiding unwanted encounters and what to do in the rare case of a run-in with a bear or cougar in the wild.

Sunday 2:10 PM: Learn About the 2024 Metaline Falls Bigfoot Festival Speakers. This annual event in the super-scenic northeast corner of Washington State includes talks by a wide-range of bigfoot researchers from around North America; a community festival with vendors, food, and music; a 5k run or walk; opportunities to meet with presenters; and more!

Spokane Great Outdoors Expo 2024

This annual celebration of warm-weather outdoor adventure and travel in the Inland Northwest happens Feb. 17-18 at the Spokane Convention Center. Check out 60+ exhibitors, kids’ and family activities, presentations and clinics on outdoorsy topics, campervans and RVs, hourly prize drawings, games and live music, full bar and golf show access, and more! Learn more about the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo and get your tickets here. Kids 12 and under are free!

Cover photo courtesy of Rachel and Josh Photography

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Even before Coeur Climbing opened its doors in the city of 50,000 residents, Post Falls offered an impressive list of outdoor recreation amenities. The Spokane River runs through the town, offering boating, paddling and swimming opportunities in the lake-like waters above Post Falls Dam and whitewater kayaking, river surfing, tubing and fishing opportunities below the dam. At the idyllic 78-acre Q’emiln Park and the adjacent community forest (500 acres) right across the river from downtown Post Falls, a beautiful swimming beach accompanies miles of hiking and biking trails. The park’s outdoor rock-climbing crags also offer extensive adventure potential for locals and visitors alike.

The real linchpin in the Post Falls outdoor community is the North Idaho Centennial Trail. Connecting Coeur d’Alene to Spokane via Post Falls and Liberty Lake, this ribbon of asphalt, created over 30 years ago, provides a beloved connection for runners, bikers, stroller pushers and walkers. For trails users, Post Falls has become a welcome hub for a coffee, meal or local brew on outings along the 23-mile, river-hugging North Idaho pathway.

Back at the grand opening for Coeur Climbing, the weather proved perfect for games, some climbing competitions, food and coffee trucks, raffle prizes, yoga demos and—the highlight—a meet and greet with the climbing legend Alan Watts. Many climbers pressed Watts to keep the stories coming from his climbing exploits at Smith Rocks and across the Northwest. He answered loads of questions with style and panache, and his presence made the grand opening an event to remember.

Coeur Climbing has a great location right off I-90 (764 Clearwater Loop Suite 101), just around the corner from Buck Knives headquarters, and offers climbing and yoga classes for all abilities and ages. The gym features classes for beginner climbers, women-only, and programs for kids. It offers bouldering, top rope, lead and auto belay climbing, as well as a designated kids’ climbing area. Take a virtual tour of the gym and learn more at Coeurclimbing.com.

Cover photo courtesy Angus Meredith

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Born in Coeur d’Alene and raised in Spokane, Noah has always been active in the outdoors year-round, from snowboarding and mountain biking to hiking, rock climbing, and dirt biking. “Being outside is like my therapy; It makes me feel grounded,” he says. When asked how he became an RV guru of sorts, he explained that he tent camped for years, but found as he got older that he didn’t enjoy it as much. “It just wasn’t as fun or comfortable anymore and I eventually got into pop up tents a couple years ago.” Eventually, the extreme summer heat convinced him to get an RV with AC and water. “It’s not just the RVs but the whole outdoor experience I love,” he says.

There are more options than ever for a home on wheels for your adventures, from trendy camper vans, deluxe class A motorhomes, affordable travel trailers, utilitarian truck campers, light and simple tent trailers, compact class B motorhomes, and even toy haulers with living space inside. Then there are endless decisions about what amenities you want, from basic comforts and conveniences like a bed, fridge, and heat to camp luxuries like a TV, microwave, and full bathroom with hot water and a shower.

If you’re in the market for a new or different RV, we hope these tips help make the process easier and more fun!

How do you figure out which type of RV is right for you?

Noah: I think the biggest place to start is to identify what type of RV you think you need based on where you plan to go. Will you spend most of your time plugged in at RV parks or more off-grid at remote campgrounds or boondocking on the side of a mountain? Are you going to use it in the winter or just the warmer seasons? Are you going to live in it full time or for months out of the year or just occasional camping trips? Finally, how much do you want to spend? An RV that’s built better and of higher quality will cost more but will last longer.

Should I buy online or shop around in person?

Noah: Definitely shop around and look online but also be sure to look at the options in person at an RV lot to gather information. Walk around different RVs yourself and ask lots of questions.

Do I need built-in water and plumbing, or can I get by with water jugs and an outdoor shower and toilet?

Noah: There are many benefits to having a built-in water system—one or more sinks, options for a real shower, and even a flushing toilet. The drawbacks are you have to maintain it and winterize the system to avoid frozen pipes and then get it ready for summer again in the spring. An RV without a built-in water system is way easier to maintain. When I if first got into RVing, I specifically wanted an RV without water. But, after a while, I realized it was taking me several hours to set up my external shower and toilet and then a few more hours to break down camp on each trip. Having water on board is a better option if you want to save time. You can always dry camp if you get an RV with water and want to use it in the winter without freezing the plumbing too. An RV without water, on the other hand, is less expensive and easier to maintain with less things that could break.

Which power and electrical options are best?

Noah: You definitely need an electricity source to make full use of an RV. Things have come a long ways from the old days of needing a generator or shore power hook up. Lithium batteries and solar allow you to go off-grid without a generator or the need to plug in. Some lithium battery set ups even allow you to run appliances like an AC unit, microwave, and fridge. Many simple RV set ups get by fine too with less expensive AGM batteries and solar that can run some small, energy-efficient appliances. Generators have also greatly improved and are quieter and more efficient.

What are the pros and cons of having a toilet and shower in my RV?

Noah: With smaller RVs, there are a lot of combinations of toilet/shower options, from outdoor showers and toilets with tanks or dry flush options that you can set up in tents at off-grid camps, to a wet bath toilet/shower/sink combo all in the same small room in your RV. When I first saw a wet bath, I thought it was kind of weird, but, after using mine for a while now, I found it very convenient, and it’s a great way of saving space. Then there are some higher-end RVs that have porcelain toilets and full bathrooms.

Do I need a full kitchen in the RV, or should I cook and eat outside?

Noah: If you’re going to do a lot of cooking, I recommend looking for an RV with a built-in outdoor kitchen and a stove, sink, and refrigerator inside or outside. At least a cook top or BBQ outside is a great option. Smaller RVs and camper vans can also get away with setting up a simple kitchen outside, although set up and packing it all away takes time. Some higher-end RVs have microwaves and ovens or even air fryers built inside, along with a full indoor kitchen. Refrigerators and electric coolers can work off different fuel sources, including generator, solar, or shore power. Other kitchen appliances and grills can run off a mix of fuel sources from the RV’s power system or propane.

Do I need a heater?

Noah: Heaters are great for winter and shoulder season camping and travel, especially if you’ll be visiting higher elevations or different climate zones where the temps could drop considerably. Most RVs have dual-fuel options for heat so you can run your heater off electricity (shore power or a generator) or a propane tank. Other heaters can run off of your RV’s regular fuel or diesel tank.

If you have more questions for Noah Botnick, follow him and ask questions on Instagram, Tik-Tok, or YouTube (Noah’s Ark RV Adventures). He’s also the guy behind all of the RV adventures for R’nR RV on Instagram, Facebook, and Tik-Tok. //

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A Tour of Southeast British Columbia’s Wild Lakes, Backcountry, and Mountain Towns

Planning time away from daily life’s demands and executing a great road trip can be stressful and a lot of work. But a truly excellent trip can quickly and completely obliterate anxious feelings from unfinished work you inevitably leave behind. This past May, I put that theory to the test on a six-day family road trip with my wife Shallan and son Remi. Our destination was the West Koot Route a few hours north of Spokane in British Columbia, Canada. When we started out, being good Americans, we were hell bent on packing in as many experiences as possible, and I was pretty sure I’d be checking my phone too often and working late in our hotel rooms each night. But as I’ve learned from many adventures in the BC Kootenays over the past 25 years, this intensely beautiful place has a supernatural quality about it that can flip your expectations.

As we set off from Spokane, my attention fixed on last-minute, on-the-road work emails, I barely noticed the traffic thinning and the views growing wilder as we hurried toward our first stop, Rossland, BC, the mountain biking capital of Canada. The West Koot Route is just that, a route through the west Kootenay region of southeast British Columbia that connects popular outdoor adventure meccas like Nelson and Rossland with lesser known yet equally spectacular mountains, rivers, parks, and trails systems in and around the towns of Castlegar, New Denver, Nakusp, Kaslo, Ainsworth, Balfour, Crawford Bay and other communities.

The two-plus hour drive north went fast, and the border crossing, with a passport or enhanced WA State drivers’ license, is quick and easy. Ten minutes later, we arrived in Rossland and stopped in at Revolution Cycles for a free map and advice on which trails would be best for our hill- and rock-hating 8-year-old. Driving the few blocks from town to the Centennial Trailhead, we passed a dozen people on bikes—mountain bikers heading to the trails and multiple parents on e-bikes pulling trailers with kids. At the trailhead parking lot, we opened the van door and the lush smells of spring mountain air rushed in. Friendly chatter from the handful of other people heading out for a hike or bike ride mixed with unseen birds chirping away in the trees drifted around us as we unloaded bikes and geared up. The first layers of all of that work tension began to soften ever so slightly.

Rossland: The MTB Capital of Canada

Known more for its miles of challenging singletrack, including the Seven Summits Trail and dozens of other epic rides, we learned that there are still plenty of green and blue trails to keep kids and parents happy on area trails. By far the shortest day of riding I’ve ever had after years of riding in Rossland, our pedal along the Centennial Trail, Blue Elephant, and a few short connector trails had its own unique rewards, like watching my son make it up several dreaded hills and then fly the whole way down hooting and hollering like a maniac. And instead of blowing by trailside attractions and viewpoints, we took the time to stop and look and even read the historical interpretive signs. We marveled at the trees and reveled in the silence instead of checking Strava.

After our ride, we checked into our room at the Prestige Mountain Resort and quickly set off to wander the hilly streets of picturesque Rossland in search of local treasures, which we found in droves: a cool t-shirt and biking gear at Revolution Cycles; a banana-board style skateboard and stickers at a rad little sweets, toys, and gift shop called the Bombshack where Shallan immediately felt like besties with the owner; a bottle of BC wine at the liquor store; and a favorite Canadian cheese at Ferraro Foods. We wandered the streets, found the impressive skate park, and then had a wonderful Thai food dinner with some of the tourism folks in town. Even though we had just met, conversation flowed like with old friends by the end of the meal.

That night, back at our hotel, I indeed cracked open the laptop to tap away some worries for an hour or two before calling it a night, but my heart wasn’t in it. After a quick breakfast the next morning, we beelined it to the skate park, which has plenty of eye candy for non-skaters in the form of murals, sculptures, and other art. We watched Remi roll around the many features, mostly riding his new skateboard on his belly, while Shallan and I sipped coffee in the morning sunshine. We had planned to hike up KC Ridge that morning for a view of Rossland, but if there’s one thing we have learned about traveling with children, it’s to be flexible and slow down. With morning edging toward afternoon, we finally loaded up and hit the road to Castlegar.

Castlegar: An Under-the-radar Outdoor Adventure Town

While snow still clogs many of the high-country trails in April and May, there are snow-free lower elevation trails that are ready to ride or hike that time of year. And there are other benefits of a spring trip on the West Koot Route: fewer tourists, spring flowers, comfortable temps, and, as we found in Castlegar, incredible waterfalls.

A short drive from Castlegar, renowned for the city’s sculpture walk, there are several great waterfall hikes. Little McPhee waterfall and Tulip Falls are recommended, but we visited the crashing cascades of Rialto Creek a short drive upriver from town. The new out-and-back trail up Rialto Creek called Dirty Dreams was built as a mountain bike climbing trail, but, in the spring, it’s an incredible hike along the edge of the crashing creek cascades. Impressive wooden bridges and trail features will keep you hiking farther and farther up the trail, your curiosity piqued at what wonders may await around the next bend. Dirty Dreams looks like an awesome intermediate bike ride too, and mountain bikers of all abilities won’t want to miss the Merry Creek trail system south of town.  

When we first rolled into Castlegar, we stretched our legs at the sprawling Millenial Park, which features the largest bike park in the Kootenays, while we waited for a rendezvous with ChillBilly Sportfishing Charters to head out on the Columbia River in a drift boat looking to spot sturgeon. These giant, ancient fish hang out in the shallows upstream from town, and the water at times is so clear you can observe them hanging out a few feet below from a kayak or paddleboard too. We didn’t see any sturgeon on our drift boat ride that day, but our guide was a character who shared his knowledge and love for his home waters as he rowed us up and down the river.

The highlight of our stay in Castlegar, at least for the youngster, was a surprise later that night: a Spiderman-themed hotel room with an indoor pool and towering waterslide at the Castlegar Super 8. Following him down that twisting slide over and over helped wash away lingering unease over tasks left untended at home.

Nakusp: A Wilderness Lake Town with Hot Springs and High Peaks

We left Castlegar with so many experiences to come back for, but when the snow-capped crags of the Valhalla mountain range came into view heading north, we were ready for our next West Koot Route stop. Nakusp stands out as a lake town with some of the best sub-alpine mountain views over water that I’ve seen in North America. While Shallan had a bad migraine that unfortunately meant an early night for her in our Airbnb and no trip up to the nearby, community-owned Nakusp Hot Springs (we’ve been there before and they are awesome), Remi and I played in the yard and struck up conversations with the neighbors about a wide range of subjects, from hiking secret local old growth cedar groves to water rights on the Columbia River that we share with Canada. After dinner, Remi and I set out on a walk along Arrow Lakes on the Nakusp Waterfront Walkway two blocks away. This paved path features benches, garden areas, and gorgeous views of distant dramatic peaks. The walkway ends at a sprawling, sandy public beach where Remi found another kid his age to build a rock wall with.

 The next day we made the short drive north to the relatively new biking trails and pump track at the Mt. Abriel Recreation Area. Immediately after climbing out of the van, we made friends with a few other families from Rossland, and they invited Remi to head off with them to the pump track while we finished packing up. Once we found and joined the group of parents and kids, we spent the next several hours on the pump track and then hiding under one of the picnic shelters during occasional downpours. Once the rain let up, we pedaled along several sections of fun and flowy green and blue trails, passing and being passed by dozens of other parents and kids. There were many more miles of trails for all abilities at Mt. Abriel, but for us it was time to split for our next stop.

Heading south from Nakusp then east over the mountains from New Denver to Kaslo, it’s worth a stop at the historic mining town of Sandon. In the late 1800s, Sandon was a bustling mining burg sporting 5,000-plus residents, which is hard to imagine today given the tight canyon and limited structures. Back then, though, it was the hub of the richest silver-lead producing region in Canada. Touring the few remaining buildings, including the original City Hall and Pump House, doesn’t take long but is a great way to learn about the region’s history.

Kaslo and Ainsworth Hot Springs: Lakeside Kootenay gems

The weekend we rolled into the charming village of Kaslo, the typically quiet town was bursting at the seams with Kaslo May Days celebrations featuring logger sports competitions, music, and vendors, plus the town’s usual cool shops and restaurants. Like other communities along the West Koot Route, Kaslo has excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, but the ones here start right in town, including the Kaslo River Trail system. The paddling on Kootenay Lake from public access points in town, with enchanting views of Purcell Range peaks, is the stuff of paddleboarders’ and kayakers’ dreams. (You can rent gear or book a tour with Kaslo Kayaking if needed.)

All too soon, it was time for us to make the 20-minute drive south for our reservation at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort. Always a relaxing and restorative experience, thanks to the hot water and natural mineral content, I was about as chill as can be after a few tours through the hot springs cave with Remi. Thoughts of pre-trip life had been supplanted by dreamy meditations on distant peaks and dazzling lakes, of miles of trails out there in the lush BC forests waiting for me. After a lengthy soak, we cleaned up, thoroughly enjoyed what may have been the best meal we’ve ever had in the Kootenays at the Ktunaxa Grill at Ainsworth (see sidebar), and continued south 20 minutes to the Kootenay Lakeview Lodge in Balfour.

Balfour and Nelson: Where culture meets adventure on Kootenay Lake

The Kootenay Lakeview Lodge, perched on a forested hillside of its namesake Kootenay Lake between Nelson and Ainsworth, turned out to be a beauty of a basecamp for the remainder of our stay in Canada. We woke the next day ready for our tour down the highway a bit at Kokanee Mountain Zipline. While the rest of the family were zip-tour veterans, it was my first time on one and I wasn’t sure what I’d think. Blowing my expectations out of the water, the rides were high and blazing fast (the views flying over the Kokanee Creek canyon are carved solidly into my psyche) and the guides were real, funny and an energetic joy to trust our safety with.

After our adrenaline fix, we set out for nourishment in Nelson, with hopes of an afternoon mountain bike ride at the oft-lauded intermediate and beginner flow trail system at Morning Mountain. But Mother Nature had other plans for the day, and we ended up dodging downpours and lightning flashes inside downtown Nelson’s plethora of local outdoor gear, apparel, and other unique shops. We returned “home” to our lodge with bulging shopping bags instead of tired legs, but also happy to be free from our daily grind in such a pleasant place where the pace of life seems so much slower and sane. Thanks to a provisions stop at the Kootenay Co-op, we spent the evening’s inclement weather swilling wine and grilling local meat and veggies at the lodge’s outdoor kitchen while being serenaded by bird song and a chorus of croaking frogs.

Crawford Bay and Home

We woke the morning of our last day and departed from the official West Koot Route for our alternate course home through the Idaho Panhandle. In the community of Balfour, we lined up early at the Kootenay Lake Ferry for the free, 35-minute boat ride (the longest free ferry ride in the world). Our destination was the artisan community of Crawford Bay, BC, and while we waited to load the boat we watched bubbles whimsically floating past our windshield from a tie-died shirt and gift shop as ferry riders milled about engaged in casual conversation with just about everybody they encountered out of a vehicle or with an open window. Once we were on the ferry, we visited the snack stand for our ever-hungry child and wandered around the deck to watch the wind-blown water—which felt as wild and vast as an ocean crossing—catch sunbursts through clouds that lit up the endless mountain views.

Back on land, we drove the short distance into the village of Crawford Bay, a one-of-a-kind collection of artisan shops and homes that make up a community that feels like it’s lost in time, a living museum experience that may make you question the things you spend most of your work life doing. At the same time, the artisans who create their crafts out of roadside shops offer some sense of hope for the future. Maybe we can learn from the past that quality, handcrafted local goods are where it’s at.

Our first stop was the North Woven Broom Company that operates out of a historic log barn, where you can watch traditional brooms being made by hand. Our family had been reading the Harry Potter series out loud to each other for the past two years and was about to finish the final book while driving home later that day. It was, therefore, a surprise and auspicious timing to discover that this incredible broom shop was responsible for making brooms that were used by the Canadian publisher of the Harry Potter book series as props and prizes for book promotion events. They even sent one to the series author J.K. Rowling. We took some photos, chatted up the broom maker, awkwardly got him to sign our copy of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” and walked out of there with a small fortune of his authentic brooms for various family members and friends back home.

We continued down the road to the Forge and Furnace Gallery and Kootenay Forge, where we watched the blacksmith create metal hooks. We learned about how fabrics were once commonly made and watched traditional foot-powered loom weaving at Barefoot Weaving. Finally, we checked out the beautiful handiwork at Dog Patch Pottery. There’s also a jewelry shop, the acclaimed Black Salt Café, and other arts and crafts shops, which happened to be closed that day. In our era of instant Amazon gratification of cheaply-made, mass-produced crap, visiting Crawford Bay is a great reminder for adults, and an important lesson for kids, of how all of our basic necessities were once made.

We made one last stop as we meandered our way toward the border to check out a recommended roadside curiosity—the Glass House, which was built in the mid 1900s out of over half a million recycled embalming fluid bottles. Quirky, but cool, this place has a gift shop and optional tour of the structure.

Soon we reached the 49^th parallel with another quick and easy border crossing, this time back into the states. By this point in the trip, I could care less about all the things that had been vexing me when we began our adventure. Those stresses had been exorcised from my consciousness by the magical landscapes, friendly people, cool communities, and quality family time we experienced along the West Koot Route.

Derrick Knowles is the Publisher of Out There Venture. The trip featured in this story was partially sponsored by West Koot Route tourism partners.

The post The West Koot Route: A Family Road Trip in Southeast British Columbia appeared first on Out There Venture.