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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you to our 20th anniversary sponsors!

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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.

Ready to run, bike, paddle, swim and have some new adventures in the upcoming race season? The 2024 calendar is packed with chances to test your mettle individually or as a team in outdoor races, runs and rides. Some dates are still TBA, and a few races have shuttered. Check race websites to confirm details and sign up. We’ll see you out there!

ROAD RUNNING

Snake River Half Marathon (March 2): A flat, paved, out-and-back course along the Snake River outside of Pullman, Wash., put on by the Palouse Road Runners. USATF certified.

St. Paddy’s Five Miler (March 10): This family-friendly event is hosted by Bloomsday Road Runners Club at Spokane Community College and is an official Bloomsday second-seed qualifier race. “Lucky Leprechaun Jig” (free) hosted for kids 6 and under.

Shamrock Shuffle (March 17): An early spring half marathon, 10k and 5k, put on by Negative Split. All distances wind through Riverfront Park; virtual options also available.

Rapid Rabbit Run (March 24): 3-mile & 5-mile runs (virtual options). Proceeds benefit East Valley High School’s senior class (Spokane Valley). The 5-miler is a Bloomsday second-seed qualifier race.

Only Fools Run at Midnight 5k (TBA; April 1): Run the streets of downtown Medical Lake starting at 11:30 p.m. Organized by Medical Lake Lions Club.

Yakima River Canyon Marathon & Half Marathon (April 6): Point-to-point USATF-certified marathon course with views of the Yakima River Canyon.

The Ta Ta Dash, 5k and 10k (April 7): Starts in Riverfront Park. This inaugural event is put on by Beyond Pink, which aims to help with efforts to prevent and screen for breast cancer. Kids’ ⅓ mile race also held.

BRRC Recycle Fun Run, 4 miles (April 10): This run benefits Bloomsday Road Runners Club’s volunteer program. Race starts near the Fish Lake Trail trailhead. Bring gently used shoes and clothing to donate to local high school athletes.

The Split Half Marathon, 10k & 5k (April 14): Flat, scenic course through Kendall Yards, Riverfront Park, and along the Spokane River. Kids’ Challenge also offered. Negative Split event.

Jr. Bloomsday (April 14): Fun annual race for children in grades 3-7 at Spokane Falls Community College campus, with an awesome prize pack for participants. The course is just over 1 mile.

Hauser Lake 10k/5k Icebreaker Run (April 20): Bloomsday second-seed qualifier with USATF-certified 10k course around the lake in Hauser, Idaho. Fundraiser for the special-needs rescue dogs at Double J Dog Ranch. Dogs and walkers welcome.

Wenatchee Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k & 5k (April 20): USATF-certified, with a Boston-qualifier marathon. Asphalt trails follow the Columbia River and offer views of the Cascades.

Run the River Marathon, Relay, Half Marathon & 5k (April 20): Beginning at Columbia Park in Kennewick, Wash., this paved course offers views of parks, the Columbia River and surrounding hills. 4-person marathon relay option available.

Spring Dash & Tot Trot (April 27): 5k, 10k and half marathon distances; the 10k is a Bloomsday second-seed qualifier. All distances start at Coeur d’Alene’s McEuen Park. Untimed Tot Trot offered for kids 10 and younger. Fundraiser for United Way of North Idaho.

Lilac Bloomsday Run (May 5): Spokane’s hallmark road race! Challenging, fun 12k for runners, walkers and wheelchair participants. A virtual option is available.

Long Bridge Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (May 11): This Sandpoint, Idaho, race on paved roads and trails includes over 3 miles of running over beautiful Lake Pend Oreille with a start at Sandpoint City Beach Park.

T9 Mermaid Run 10k, 5k & and 10-mile run (May 18): Hosted by Title 9, the Mermaid Series is a celebration of women’s movement. There’s also a 1.5-mile Mermaid Dash for kids ages 6-12. Start/finish at Riverfront Park.

One Heart 5k and Fun Run (TBA): Held at Spokane’s Manito Park; this race is organized by One Heart, a nonprofit that works to meet the needs of kids in lower income and at-risk neighborhoods.

Windermere Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k & 5k (May 19): Flat, point-to-point course along Spokane County’s Centennial Trail. Boston marathon qualifier, hosted by Negative Split. Kids’ challenge and fun run available.

Race to Remember 5k (May 25): This race to fight senior hunger is held at Fairmount Memorial Park in Spokane; proceeds benefit Second Harvest Food Bank.

Coeur d’Alene Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k & 5k (May 26): Scenic race with a start/finish at McEuen Park in downtown Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Hosted by Negative Split. Kids’ challenge and 1-mile run available.

Priest Lake Spring Fun Run, 10k & 5k (May 26): Run along the lakeshore at beautiful Priest Lake. Kids’ dash offered.

Stache Dash Half Marathon, 10k, 5k and Kids’ Race (June 8): For runners, walkers and wheelchair participants, based at Plantes Ferry Park in Spokane Valley. Fundraiser for Elevations, a children’s therapy service-provider for children with special needs.

Metaline Falls Bigfoot 5K (June 15): Takes place in the historic town of Metaline Falls in Pend Oreille County, with a course that includes mountain views and follows along the Pend Oreille River before finishing at Busta Park.

Dad’s Day Dash (June 16): Family-friendly5k run/1-mile walk on Father’s Day. Fundraiser for SNAP, a Spokane-based community action agency.

Missoula Marathon, Half Marathon, 5k and Kids’ “Marathon” (June 28-30): A can’t-miss course, with wheelchair and handcycle divisions and events happening throughout the weekend, like a 3.1-mile Beer Run and a kids’ 1-mile untimed fun run.

Cherry Picker’s Trot and Pit Spit (July 18): This annual event, held at Green Bluff, welcomes walkers and runners for a 4-mile course on paved roads through orchard country, plus an impressive pit spit competition.

Spokenya Run/Walk 7k (July 20): A race designed to raise money for clean water acts in rural Kenya.

Wallace Huckleberry Festival 5k Walk/Run (Aug. 18): Family-friendly run in Wallace, Idaho, with vendors, music, and optional huckleberry pancake breakfast before or after. Strollers and leashed dogs welcome.

Tase T. Lentil 5k Fun Run (TBA): This 5k race is part of the National Lentil Festival in Pullman, Wash.

Newport Autumn Bloom 5k/10k Fun Run (Sept. 21): Proceeds benefit Newport Hospital’s Healthy Kids Snack Bag Program and Reach Out and Read. 

Run the Dam Half Marathon, 10k & 5k (Sept. 21): Run across Grand Coulee Dam and along Banks Lake as part of the Run the Dam Festival in Grand Coulee, Wash.

Boulevard Race (Sept. 22): This is the second year for the 4-mile race benefiting the Community Cancer Fund. Run or walk the streets of downtown Spokane on this fun (and relatively flat!) course.

Deutschesfest 10k/5k Fun Run (TBA): German community festival in Odessa, Wash., includes a parade, fun run, brats, brews and more.

Leavenworth Marathon & Half Marathon (Oct. 5): 2024 is the 20-year anniversary of this Boston Qualifier race! Starts near the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area and follows along dirt roads and trails, including Icicle Canyon Loop and riverfront trails in Leavenworth, Wash. 

Jackass Half Marathon, 5K and Kids’ Run (Oct. 5): Point-to-point, mostly downhill course along the paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes from Wallace to Kellogg, Idaho. The kid’s “half marathon” is a non-timed, non-competitive race that is a combination of logging miles on your own, then finishing the last 1.1 mile on the day of the race.

Hayden Lake Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon & 5k (Oct. 12): All distances start from the Honeysuckle Beach boat launch and offer gorgeous lake views. Virtual option available.

Spokane Marathon, Half Marathon & 10k (Oct. 13): Proceeds from this Boston Marathon qualifier race benefit local high school cross-country programs. The 10k is a Bloomsday second-seed qualifier.

Trails to Taps Relay (Oct. 13): Run with your friends around Bellingham, Wash., with 8 stops at breweries and cideries and a route that covers 35 miles of trails, roads, and parks. Leg lengths range between 3 and 6 miles.

Monster Dash 5k Kids’ Fun Run (October; date TBA): Organized by Active4Youth in collaboration with the Spokane Swifts Running Team, this event at Manito Park includes a 5k adult race and kids’ races (ages 12 and younger) of 3 lengths: 1 mile, half mile, and quarter mile; jogging strollers and dogs allowed.

Socktoberdash 10k and 5k (TBA): Run supports Teen and Kid Closet’s mission to raise money for Spokane teens and kids in need. Participants donate new packages of socks and underwear. Participants can win prizes for wearing the best, worst or most unique socks.

Halloween Hustle Haunted Half, Terrifying 10k, & Freaky 5k (Oct. 27): Spooky event in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, organized by Negative Split includes out-and-back creepy courses and prizes for best costumes.

TRAIL RUNNING

Badger Mountain Challenge 100-mile, 100k, 50-mile, 55k & 15k (March 22-23): This race offers expansive views of the Columbia Basin. Proceeds support WTA, Friends of Badger Mountain, Girls on the Run, and Team in Training, which benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Register by March 18. USATF sanctioned event.

Ancient Lakes 50-mile, 50k, 25k & 10k (April 6-7): Experience the unique desert scape of the Ancient Lakes area near Quincy, Wash., with this single-track run that includes a scenic waterfall.

Caveman Roar & Pour 5k Trail Fun Run (April 20): Run through the Cave B Winery in Quincy, Wash., overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, for the 10th year of this event (caveman/cavewoman costumes encouraged). Wine tasting afterward.

Yakima Skyline Rim 50K (April 20, tentative date): Challenging out-and-back course in the high desert of the Yakima River Canyon outside Ellensburg, Wash., with stunning views and 9,200 feet of elevation gain.

Spokane River Run (April 21): 5k, 10k, 25k, 50k and 50k team relay race at Riverside State Park; fundraiser for Garfield Elementary A.P.P.L.E. program.

Sunflower Trail Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay (April 27): Run on single-track trails and gravel roads in Washington’s Methow Valley on a point-to-point, flower-carpeted course from Mazama to Twisp.

Run Like the Wind Running Festival (April 28): 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. Challenging, rewarding race with lots of wind.

Priest Lake Spring Fun Run 5k, 10k & Kids’ Dash (May 26): Part of Priest Lake’s Spring Festival. Start/finish at Coolin Community Park at Priest Lake, Idaho; free 1k Kids’ Dash (ages 10 and younger).

Palouse Road Runners Summer Series (TBA): Run club in Moscow, Idaho, hosts a series of races; runners score points based on finishing place. Prizes for top male and female, highest series point totals.

Kaniksu Trail Runs (TBA): Multiple lengths available: Long Walk 100k, Kaniksu 50-mile, Blister Club (Solo Ruck), Emory Corwine Memorial Ruck Race, Sweet 50k, Tall Trees 29k, Herman’s Half, and SERE Beer Mile. Events take place in the Lower Selkirk Mountain Range of Colville National Forest.

Hiawatha Trail Run (June 9): Organized by Negative Split at Lookout Pass, Idaho. Choose from 10k, 15k, 25k and 50k timed runs on North Idaho’s Scenic Hiawatha Trail, running along crushed-rock rail trail that includes running through railroad tunnels by headlight.

Trail Rail Run 50-mile, 50-mile relay, 50k, 30k, 12k and 5k (TBA): A run from Mullan, Idaho, to St. Regis, Mont., along the old Milwaukee and Northern Pacific Railroad grades.

Race the Wolf Ultramarathon & Trail Race (June 22-23): Takes place at Schweitzer Mountain in Sandpoint, Idaho. 5-mile trail race and 1-mile “sky climb” (a run straight uphill) on June 22; trail marathon and half marathon on June 23. Part of The GRIT North Idaho trail run series.

Mountain Magic Trail Run 5k, 10k and 25k (June 30): Winding run along wide ski trails begins from Selkirk Lodge at Mt. Spokane, with peaks to summit and rewarding views.

Mud Factor 5k and family 3k (July 13): Get down and dirty at this Spokane muddy 5k obstacle course; family 3k option to run with kids ages 4-13 with the same obstacles.

The “Original” Bare Buns Fun Run (July 28): Clothing-optional 5k trail run/walk at the Kaniksu Ranch Family Nudist Park near Loon Lake, Wash.

Rams Twilight Trail Run 5k (July 31): A 5k run along the trails near Riverside High School in Chattaroy that starts at 7:30 p.m. (headlamps highly encouraged); trail marked by glowsticks. Organized by Riverside’s Cross Country Team.

Tartarus Backyard Ultra (TBA): Hosted by Kaniksu Ultras at Riverside State Park Camp 7; described as a “Last Person Standing” race for runners and “ruckers.”

Jump off Joe Marathon, Half Marathon & 10k (Sept. 7): Gravel roads on and around Jump off Joe Mountain near Kennewick, Wash., provide great views from the top of the hill; half marathon and marathon course make the summit.

Mt. Spokane Trail Run 25k, 10k and 5k (Sept. 8): This Negative Split trail run has three scenic course options that start and finish at Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park’s main lodge. 25k and 10k courses updated for 2024.

Priest Lake Marathon, Half Marathon & 50k (Sept. 14): Wilderness trail run in the Panhandle National Forest. Walkers welcome, excluding ultra. Part of The GRIT North Idaho trail run series organized by Priest Lake Multisports.

The Cougar Chase Trail Run (Oct. 6)

A new 7-mile and 5k trail run at Schweitzer Mountain Resort put on by Priest Lake Multisports.

Moscow Mountain Madness Half Marathon & 5-Mile (Oct. 6): Challenging course along technical single-track and logging roads. Hosted by Palouse Road Runners in Moscow, Idaho.

Wild Moose Chase Trail Run (Oct. 13) 25k, 10k and 5k trail runs at Riverside State Park hosted by Eastern Washington University’s PT program.

Sekani Trail Run 10k, 5k and 1k Kids’ Run (Oct. 20): Adventure run/hike/walk on trails at Camp Sekani Park in Spokane; this annual fall trail run is a fundraiser for Franklin Elementary School’s A.P.P.L.E. program.

Fall Flash 10k Race, 5k Fun Run, 1k Kids’ Run (Nov. 2): Course is a combination of paved and gravel roads and rolling hills of the Palouse countryside. Hosted by Palouse Road Runners, based in Moscow, Idaho.

ROAD CYCLING

Bike Everywhere Challenge (May; TBA): Events and activities typically include a Bloomsday bike corral, a pancake breakfast in Riverfront Park, and energizer stations for morning commuters. Organized by the Spokane Bicycle Club. Spokanebicycleclub.org.

Lilac Century & Gravel Flamdangle (May 19): A variety of road ride distances: 25k, 50k, 66k and 100 miles, plus the 32-mile Lilac Gravel Flamdangle. Organized by Spokane Aurora Northwest Rotary Club. Races start at Big Barn Brewing in Green Bluff.

CHAFE 150 (June 15): Gran fondo scenic ride—not a race—starting from City Beach in Sandpoint, Idaho, and riding along Lake Pend Oreille into Montana. Route options include 150, 80, 55, 40 or 25 miles, and a family fun ride. The addition of a 75-mile gravel route is also the second event in the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series. Organized by Sandpoint Rotary; proceeds support a literacy program benefitting Pend Oreille School District students.

Spokane Summer Parkways (June 18): A four-mile route for bikes, pedestrians, skaters, and other human-powered transportation in the South Hill Manito/Comstock neighborhoods. Family-friendly event with fun, snacks and entertainment along the way.

Cycle Chelan (June 22): There’s a route for every rider with four options of varying difficulty, including the Metric Century Challenge (100 km, with 4,000 feet of elevation gain), Lake Loop (45 miles), Cycle di Vino (30 miles), or the Butte Blast (38 miles of gravel/pavement).E-bikes welcome. Presented by Lake Chelan Rotary Club.

8 Lakes Leg Aches (TBA): Choose between 15-, 30-, 45-, and 75-mile routes that enjoy the scenery of west Spokane, Cheney and Medical Lake, with the longest route touring around all eight lakes. Proceeds benefit Spokane-based Lutheran Community Services Northwest.

Tour de Whatcom (July 20): Ride distance options include Century (100 miles), Metric Century (62 miles), 44 miles, or 22 miles. Scenic course, with start/finish in downtown Bellingham, Wash.

Spokane Valley Cycle Celebration (July 28): Organized by Valleyfest, ride options include a 10-mile “Family-Friendly” loop, 25-mile “Adventure Ride,” and the 50-mile “Hills Around the Valley.”

RIM Ride (Sept. 7-8): “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.

WaCanId Selkirk Loop Ride (Sept. 9-14): A six-day ride over 395 miles on one of the most scenic routes in the Northern Rockies. Because route includes two international border crossings (between U.S. and Canada), check WaCanId.org for event updates.

Mt. Baker Hill Climb (Sept. 15): 22 miles, with 4,462 feet of elevation climb, along Mt. Baker Highway, one of the most scenic paved roads in the country. There are three divisions—social, recreational and competitive.

CDA Fondo (TBA): This race along Lake Coeur d’Alene offers multiple distance options including Gran Fondo (116 miles), Medio Fondo (86 miles), Centro Fondo (47 miles), Piccolo Fondo (36 miles), and Family Fondo (14 miles), as well as e-bike options.

Kootenai River Ride (TBA) 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 RIDES

Echo Red to Red XC MTB Race (March 16): Cross-country mountain bike race begins in the historic town of Echo, Oregon, with most of it on trails at Echo West Ranch & Vineyard.

Hilly Nilly Gravel Series (3^rd Sundays, March 17-June 16): Self-supported free group rides each 3rd Sunday in the months of March, April, May, and June. Course and starting point out of the Coeur d’Alene area posted a week ahead at Facebook (dates subject to change).

Gran Fondo Races—Central Washington (April and May): Gran Fondo Ephrata (April 7) and Gran Fondo Leavenworth (May 19). Organized by Rideviciouscycle.com.

Washington Student Cycling League—Spring League (Spring): Co-ed mountain biking development program and spring race series for riders in grades 6-12, beginners through advanced, organized by the nonprofit Washington Student Cycling League. School-based and composite teams, with high school and middle divisions. Individuals can also participate and compete as an independent rider. Volunteer coaches are encouraged to start new teams.

Hub-a-Palooza (April 5-7): A three-day mountain bike festival with downhill and enduro races at Beacon Hill/Camp Sekani in Spokane, hosted by Velo Northwest.

Evergreen East—Classes & Clinics (April-Oct.): Mountain Bike Foundations classes start in April, with sessions offered both weekends and weeknights. Options include beginner, intermediate, freeride, technical descending, jumps classes, women-only classes, and private lessons. Classes are located at Camp Sekani unless otherwise noted. Scholarships available.

Wednesday MTB Race Series at Riverside State Park (May 1-June 26): For nine consecutive Wednesday evenings, this popular annual event features a different race course each week. Free entry for age 18 and younger.

3/4 Minus Cykeltur (May 4): The ¾ Minus Cykeltur is a gravel gran fondo: a 52-mile route on asphalt and gravel roads and a 75-mile route on asphalt, gravel and some dirt singletrack trail. Followed by a party and award ceremony at Matchwood Brewing with food, drink and live music. This is the first stage of the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series.

Idaho Interscholastic Cycling League (May-October): Race series for youth in grades 6-12.

The Lilac Gravel Flamdangle & Lilac Century (May 19): A 32-mile gravel ride, with half the course on unpaved/gravel surfaces. Start and Finish at Green Bluff’s Big Barn Brewery. Part of the Lilac Century.

24 Hours of Riverside (May 25-26): Popular Memorial Day weekend 24-hour MTB team relay at Riverside State Park with racing and camping. Can also compete as a solo rider. Race is Saturday to Sunday, with a kids’ bike parade Saturday evening.

Mt. Spokane Youth Camps & Programs (Summer; dates TBA): Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park will again host summer mountain biking day camps for all levels, from beginner to advanced. These four-day camps run Monday-Thursday.

Evergreen East—Youth Camps (June-July): Evergreen East hosts five-day Dirt Camps for Youth (ages 8-13) at Beacon Hill in Spokane, Wash. Options include co-ed beginner camps, intermediate camps, an all-girls camp, and an advanced skills camp. Scholarships available, as well as bikes and helmets for kids who do not have them.

Spokatopia MTB Festival (June 14-15): New dates for Spokatopia 2024 that include a new Friday evening xc mountain bike race to the top of Beacon Hill and a family-friendly Saturday poker ride with prizes. This annual celebration of mountain biking includes bike demos, uphill shuttles, clinics, live music and brews, kids’ camps, a bike jump show and more!

Climb for the Cure (June 15): A new Spokane gravel and mountain bike race that starts at East Valley High School and ends at the top of Mount Spokane, a 29.5-mile ride with an ascent of 5,450 ft. This first-year event is designed to raise awareness and money for the work being conducted by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

North American Enduro Cup (June 15-16): Silver Mountain Bike Park in Kellogg, Idaho, hosts one of the North American races that qualifies for the Enduro World Series. Many race categories and levels of difficulty; no beginner category.

Monarch Grind (June 29): This gravel gran fondo starts and ends just outside of Clark Fork, Idaho, and loops behind the green Monarch Mountains, iconic peaks overlooking Lake Pend Oreille. This 70-mile ride has a lot of climbing and elevation changes on forest service roads. This is part of the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series.

The Last Best Ride (July 28): Ride the gravel backroads of Whitefish, Mont., with challenging terrain and stunning views on a short or long course, TBA.

Northwest Cup (Aug. 2-4) Silver Mountain Bike Park hosts one of the stops for this seven-race series across the Northwest.

Smoke ‘n’ Fire 400 (Sept. 4): Self-supported approx. 400-mile loop bikepacking ride, with almost 41,000 feet of climbing. Ride begins and ends in Boise, Idaho, at Hyde Park. No registration fee.

Silverroxx Mountain Bike Festival (TBA): Hosted bySilver Mountain Resort, this festival includes group downhill and super-d races, plus kids’ events.

The Night Shift Cyclocross Race Series (TBA): Wednesday night cyclocross race series in Riverside State Park typically held in September.

TRIATHLON/WATERSPORTS/MULTISPORTS

Leadman Triathlon (April 20): 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.

Ski to Sea (May 26): A multi-sport relay adventure race with teams of 3-8 people. Starts at Mt. Baker Ski Area and finishes in Bellingham Bay. Legs include: cross-country ski, downhill ski/snowboard, running, road bike, canoe, cyclocross bike and sea kayak.

Medical Lake Trailblazer Tri/Du/5k (June 15): Sprint distance triathlon with 350-meter swim, 12.2-mile bike, and 2.9-mile run; Duathlon with 1-mile run, 12.2-mile bike, and 2.9-mile run; and 5k Fun Run. Teams welcome. Starts from Coney Island Park in Medical Lake, Wash.

Ironman 70.3 Coeur d’Alene (June 23): Half Ironman race based at City Park in downtown Coeur d’Alene includes 1.2-mile lake swim, 56-mile bike ride and 13.1-mile run.

Hayden Sprint Triathlon (July 13): Swim, run and bike solo in this sprint triathlon, or register with a team of two or three to compete in the relay.

Long Bridge Swim (Aug. 3): A 1.76-mile swim race across Lake Pend Oreille, aside the Sandpoint, Idaho, iconic Long Bridge.

PORPA Sprints (Aug. 3): A day of non-motorized watercraft fun with races for all ages and abilities at the Priest River Recreation Area (Mudhole) in Priest, River, ID.  

Post Falls Sprint Triathlon/Duathlon (Aug. 4): 0.5k swim, 19k bike, and 5k run in Post Falls, Idaho.

Coeur d’Alene Triathlon (Aug. 10): Three registration options for this Coeur d’Alene event: Olympic triathlon (swim 1.5k, bike 40k, run 10k), scenic sprint triathlon (swim 0.5k, bike 20k, run 5k), or duathlon (run 5k, bike 40k, run 10k).

Tri-Town Float Down Poker Paddle (TBA): Paddle the Pend Oreille River from the town of Ione to Metaline Falls, Wash. Event tentative; check Facebook for details.

Swim the Snake (TBA): An open water swim, kayak or stand-up paddle across the Snake River channel between Lyons Ferry State Park and Lyons Ferry Marina near the town of Starbuck, Wash. Fundraiser for Blue Mountain Resource Conservation and Development Council and local youth summer swim teams.

Priest Lake Triathlon (Aug. 24): Choose between a sprint off-road triathlon or the sprint road bike course. Compete individually or as a team; start/finish near Hill’s Resort.

Jen McKenna Paddle and Run (Sept. 7): Kayak 1.6 miles (start at Higgens Point), then run 4 miles along the Centennial Trail in this Coeur d’Alene Event that honors Jen McKenna, who died of complications from cystic fibrosis. Proceeds from the event will be donated to All Heart Infusion of Spokane and Coeur d’Alene and to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association.

Diamond Tri Your Best Triathlon (Sept. 7): Event aims to inspire young people to be more physically active. Takes place at the Cowles Scout Reservation in Diamond Lake, Wash. SuperSprint, ages 11+, includes a 200-yard swim, 6-mile bike, and 1.5-mile trail run. Sprint Tri, ages 18+, is a 400-yard swim, 12-mile bike, and 3-mile trail run. New for 2024: Olympic Tri, ages 18+: 1,600-yard swim, 23-mile bike, 6-mile trail run. Proceeds benefit Inland Northwest Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Hi 5k Charity Run, 5k and Wheelchair 5k (Sept. 9): Course starts at Gonzaga, goes through Riverfront Park, and ends back at Gonzaga. Donations support ParaSport Spokane, providing training, recreational, and competitive opportunities for youth and adults with physical disabilities.

Valleyfest 5k/10k Run, Duathlon & Triathlon (Sept. 22): All races start and finish at Plantes Ferry Sports Complex in Spokane Valley, Wash. Duathlon includes 5k run, 11-mile bike, 5k run. Triathlon is boat/bike/run—paddle 1.5 miles (canoe or kayak) on the Spokane River, bike 11 miles, run 3 miles. Individual and 2-3 person teams allowed for du and tri events. The 5k and 10k runs are Bloomsday second seed qualifiers.

OUTDOORSY EVENTS

Big Horn Outdoor Adventure Show (March 14-17): Gear and resources for fishing and boating, hunting, backpacking, and shooting sports. Hosted by Inland Northwest Wildlife Council at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center.

Spokane Bike Swap (April 20): The biggest bike sale event of the year. Buy or sell used bikes and check out biking and outdoor recreation booths at the Spokane Fairgrounds. All proceeds benefit local cycling-related non-profit projects.

Wild & Scenic Film Festival (April 25): The 10^th annual festival of films that celebrate the natural world and those who protect it at Spokane’s Garland Theater is a fundraiser for Spokane Riverkeeper.

Top Pin Archery (July 13-14): Family-friendly archery competition on the backside of Silver Mountain in Kellogg, Idaho.

GAME DAY at Riverside State Park (September 7)

This event is a Riverside State Park Foundation annual FUNdraiser with proceeds going to Riverside State Park for park projects. This event features your choice of a 5-mile MTB loop or 3-mile Run/Hike loop with each course featuring family-friendly Bean Bag Poker Toss, BINGO and Yahtzee at each of the 5 stations. Prizes for game winners and custom pint glasses will be handed out to all paying adult participants! 

Choose your own rolling start time, between 9:00am and 11:00am. Participants must finish by 1:00pm, when stations and courses close. This event is not timed, it’s all about family fun. The Mountain Bike course is non-technical and fairly flat, and suitable for children with cycling experience.

Adults $25.00 and KIDS 17 & UNDER ARE FREE!

For more information: www.riversidestateparkfoundation.org

Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/WA/NineMileFalls/PokerHikeBikeRun

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

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

It was easier then, in retrospect, for my husband and I to take our kids on outdoor excursions. We carefully packed all the right things (diapers, extra set of clothes, kid-friendly snacks) and our two kiddos happily came along with whatever adventure idea we planned. They had no choice. 

Now that they’re adolescents, it’s not so easy. We sometimes struggle to cajole them to go on a bike ride (“My legs are tired—can we get an e-bike?”) or be happy hikers.

Despite occasional (or even regular) adolescent angst and “lazy” tendencies, I hope their memories and future outdoor experiences add up to maintain a lifelong mindset that appreciates nature and adventures. They will become voters who make decisions that can promote natural resource conservation, climate change solutions, and environmental justice.

 With this in mind, here are five ideas for motivating older kids to keep loving the outdoors with you.

1. Camping in National Forests: Forgo a state park and its relative comforts and stay a week (or even a few days) at a rustic campground. Something magical happens—teens forget about devices and wifi, adopt a “messy hair, don’t care” attitude, and enjoy the only entertainment available: playing. Be intentional with conversations around a campfire, stargazing together after quiet hours, and having your kids plan the food menu and join you for pre-trip shopping. They’re less likely to complain about what’s for dinner if they help prepare it.

• Pack Fun Stuff: Teens like to chill in hammocks; play cards and goofy games (try “Pass the Pigs”); and throw around a Frisbee disc (try a light-up one). And older kids, especially, need lots of food and their favorites. My husband got a Camp Chef oven for his portable grill so we can bake pizzas (kids prep their own) and chocolate-chip cookies.

• Huckleberry Picking: Whether it’s Mount Spokane State Park or trails along Priest Lake, once they taste this succulent wild berry they will be inspired to hike farther for this treasured fruit. Cook in pancakes back at camp, take home and top vanilla ice cream, or simply eat right off the bush for instant gratification.

• Adventure Summer Camps: Whether local day camps or week-long camps farther from home, socializing with peers and making new friends is more exciting than the idea of hanging out with parents. They’ll return home more excited to go ziplining or mountain biking with you.

5.    Other Outdoor Families: Invite another family to meet up. Planning can be tricky with busy schedules and varying kid ages and genders, but enjoying the outdoors with a like-minded family can amp up the fun. It can also reduce family tension and sibling squabbles, deepen relationships, and improve individual social-emotional wellbeing.

Some of my family’s most memorable camping trips were experienced with one or more other families. We shared supervision duties and meals; our kids inspired each other to try new physical activities and create silly games, skits, and songs; and we talked and laughed around the campfire long into the night.

Need help finding families? Ask around with current acquaintances. Make plans to attend the Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival (July 8). Join an outing with a local group like Dishman Hills Conservancy or Washington Trails Association, or register for a guided family day-trip with Spokane Parks & Recreation. //

Amy McCaffree writes the Out There Kids column each issue. She looks forward to paddling on local lakes, mountain biking with her 13-year-old son, fly fishing with her husband and both kids, and camping at Priest Lake this summer.

The post 5 Ideas to Motivate Teens to Love the Outdoors appeared first on Out There Venture.

1. Get your horseback trail riding fix with Spokane Trail Riding & Boarding just south of Spokane.
2. Tube, kayak, or SUP the lower Spokane River between Peaceful Valley and the TJ Meenach Bridge area. Ongoing construction will make river recreation access at the traditional take-out spot challenging, so consider alternatives, including taking out farther downstream at the wastewater treatment plant upstream from the Class III Bowl & Pitcher rapid. FLOW Adventures typically offers shuttles and tube rentals if you want to simplify all that.
3. Ride the 15-mile scenic stretch of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes from Plummer to Harrison, Idaho. The trail is paved and elevation lowers in that direction, making it a great choice for infrequent riders and kids. The public beach in Harrison is a welcome destination with swimming. Enjoy a sweet, shady park and several restaurants and pubs. Set up your shuttle with The Cycle Haus in Harrison or double your mileage and ride back to Plummer.
4. Take a brewery tour by bike along the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, with stops at the North Idaho Mountain Brew/City Limits Pub and Wallace Brewing in Wallace, Idaho, and Radio Brewing in Kellogg. Call the Wallace Inn for shuttle information.
5. Bike with some friends to a local park and have a barbecue dinner using the grills you can find at parks like Bowl & Pitcher in Riverside State Park in Spokane. Bring foil to protect your food from any unwanted grill contaminants.

6. Run the clothing-optional Bare Buns Fun Run July 30 north of Spokane near Deer Lake. Summer is all about being free, right?
7. Enjoy a gravity-fueled ride from Lookout Pass on the mixed-surface NorPac rail trail to Mullan, Idaho, then hop on the paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes and roll all the way to Wallace. Call the Wallace Inn for shuttle options.
8. Start a bird list of all of the amazing avian species you can find in our area. Get a regional birding app or book to help and check out the Audubon Society website.
9. Check out the Doris Morrison Learning Center at Saltese Flats near Liberty Lake, Wash., to learn about the restored wetlands. Then take a hike or ride on the Saltese Uplands trails.
10. Take a tour of urban wild areas and historic places downtown Spokane with the local tour company Wander Spokane.
11. Hike the Whistler Canyon area near Oroville, Washington. Hike options range from a few miles to all-day epics. Keep a look out for birds and other wildlife including rattlesnakes and mountain goats.
12. Find a big, beautiful tree in a natural area near your house and lay down under it for a quiet shift in perspective.
13. Crack open rocks in search of fossils at the Stonerose Interpretive Center and Eocene Fossil Site in Republic in Northeast Washington.
14. Bike the Ferry County Rail Trail near Republic in Northeast Washington, then hit the Republic Brewing Company.
15. Bike the Columbia Plateau Trail from Cheney out to Amber or Downs Lakes to go fishing.

16. Do a local long day hike across one or more linked trail systems in the Spokane area using an STA bus as a shuttle. Creative options could include sections of trails in one or more of these areas: Riverside State Park, the Little Spokane River Natural Area, the High Drive Bluff, Dishman Hills, and Mica/Liberty Lake area.
17. Get an archery set up and start learning to shoot a bow.
18. Camp at the campground at Mount Spokane or rent one of the condos if available and bike or hike for several days. Peak berry season will soon be upon us, and you can pick your limit here.
19. Set up a shuttle and mountain bike the back roads from Mount Spokane all the way down to Spirit Lake.
20. Paddleboard a quiet bay on Lake Pend Oreille.

21. Visit a fish hatchery to learn about Inland Northwest fish, including the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife one in north Spokane.
22. Take a tour of Grand Coulee Dam or one of the other dams in the Columbia Gorge.
23. Look for the elusive bighorn sheep on Lake Roosevelt in Eastern Washington via boat, back roads, or kayak.
24. Hike or trail run your own Little Spokane River shuttle instead of driving two cars. Or use the Spokane Parks & Recreation shuttle service.
25. Find a friend with a wake surfing boat or rent one and surf your favorite lake.
26. Take an urban hike happy hour, hitting up favorite bars and breweries while sticking to back streets, alleys, and pathways as much as possible.
27. Walk or bike all of the pedestrian-friendly bridges over the Spokane River in Riverfront Park downtown Spokane, including below the falls to Sandifur Bridge.
28. Take a dog for a walk from the Humane Society or from another animal shelter.
29. Visit as many parks as you can in the great Spokane area to see some pretty cool outdoor spaces and win prizes with the Greater Spokane Parks Challenge (see the article in this issue’s Dispatches section for details).
30. Join a full moon group bike ride or create your own.
31. Did you know that swinging on a swing set can help with anxiety? Go swinging at a park you’ve never been too. Try listening to some relaxing tunes or a meditation app while you do it.
32. Sign up for a women’s writing retreat in Yellowstone National Park in September with local author and Out There writer Ammi Midstokke (Wideopenwriting.com/yellowstone-2023).

33. Hike as many of the Spokane Conservation Futures conservation areas as you can (find maps and directions at the Spokane County Conservation Futures website).
34. Hike the John C. Pointner Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary at Cougar Bay a few miles south of Coeur d’Alene on Highway 95.
35. Invite family or friends to ride the Route of the Hiawatha. The 15-mile (one way) crushed rock surface trail has a mellow grade. It includes a ride through nine long, dark train tunnels and across seven trestles with scenic mountain terrain all around. Shuttles and bike rentals are available along with trail tickets.
36. Join one of the many Dishman Hills Conservancy hikes and other outdoor events as a way to explore this urban wildland with other people.
37. Participate in Summer Parkways on June 21 on Spokane’s South Hill and join other people on bike and foot as they enjoy the full use of a road near Manito Park for the evening.
38. Take a hike on Spokane’s High Drive Bluff trails and then get ice cream at The Scoop on the South Hill.
39. Join an outdoor yoga class. There’s a free one for all abilities in the morning at the Spokatopia Festival at Camp Sekani Park in Spokane on July 8.
40. Set your TV up outside or a movie screen and invite some friends or neighbors over to watch an outdoor movie or documentary.
41. Go try out new mountain bikes and e-bikes at Spokatopia at Camp Sekani Park July 8, then listen to live bands and enjoy some adult beverages in support of Evergreen East and local mountain bike trails.
42. Go rollerblading on the Centennial Trail.
43. Go to an outdoor music festival or show, like the Festival at Sandpoint, the Spokane Pavilion at Riverfront Park, the Moscow Mountain Music Festival, the 90s Flannel Fest in Moses Lake, and many other great outdoor music festivals that have popped up since the pandemic.

44. Rent a raft from one of the university or college outdoor programs and take on the upper Spokane (Class II) or Clark Fork (Class III).
45. Catch brook trout on a fly rod at Fish Lake near downtown Spokane. Go on your own or book a guided fishing session with Fly Fish Spokane to get the lake dialed quick. Make a day of it by biking out to the lake on the Fish Lake Trail from downtown Spokane with your fly rod.
46. Find a new book from the library or local book store and bike to a park or natural area to read outside all day. Did you know you can also check out a Discover Pass from Spokane libraries?
47. Bike a section or the entire International Selkirk Loop that connects super-scenic sections of backroads in Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia.
48. Pick up a copy of the new-ish “Spokane Bouldering” guide and start exploring local climbing challenges with your crash pad.
49. Ride some of the new trails at Moscow Mountain in the Palouse.
50. If you’re not lucky enough to live in Sandpoint, plan a multi-day mountain biking trip or several weekends to finally ride the major trail systems near town: Syringa, Schweitzer, Mineral Point, Gold Hill, and Bernard Peak.
51. Bikepack all or part of the Adventure Cycling Association-mapped Idaho Hot Springs Loop bikepacking route, which consists of over 500 miles of mostly un-paved roads as well as 200+ miles of optional singletrack and 50 hot springs.
52. Ride all or part of the Palouse to Cascades Trail across Washington from North Bend to the WA/ID border.
53. Plan a trip to the Bonners Ferry area to bike some of the awesome mountain bike trails in the area, including the Enchanted Forest, Brush Lake, and many others you can find on Trailforks.
54. Explore some loop trails you’ve never hiked in the Dishman Hills in Spokane Valley. Centrally located, with mellow trails and a variety of loop distances, you can check out a new hike here one night after work every week or so all summer long!

55. Try different kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and other water toys at Boulder Beach as part of Spokatopia on July 8.
56. Hike to some of Spokane’s best views: Rocks of Sharon in the Dishman Hills, Mount Spokane, Antoine Peak, Palisades, the summit along the Knothead Loop in the Little Spokane River Natural Area, or the Saltese Uplands.
57. Take an early summer hike to Kamiak Butte near Pullman to marvel at the wildflowers. Set up a hammock and hang out a while.
58. Take some hikes in the Zumwalt Prairie near Joseph, Ore., and enjoy the beautiful prairie meadows and frequent wildlife sightings.
59. Hike into one of Idaho’s many natural hot springs and leave it better off than when you arrived by cleaning up any trash.
60. Rent an adventure van for a hiking, mountain biking, paddling, or climbing road trip to B.C., the Cascades, Bend, Central Idaho, or Montana.
61. Paddle the Pend Oreille River Water Trail near Newport, Wash.
62. Learn how to fly-fish. Take a class from one of several regional fly shops that offer guided trips and lessons.

63. Rent a kayak or SUP from Fun Unlimited under the Division Street bridge downtown Spokane and paddle up river for Thai food at Bangkok Thai. If you live close enough, bike on the Centennial Trail to the put-in for some extra exercise.
64. Hike a section or two of the Pacific Northwest Trail that runs from the Washington Coast to Glacier National Park to get a taste of what a thru hike would be like
65. Visit the spectacular Kootenai Falls in western Montana and take the time to hike to all of the viewpoints.
66. Pedal a “RailRider” on retired railroad tracks along the Pend Oreille River near Metaline Falls, Wash.
67. Raft or kayak as many rivers within 200 miles of Spokane/CDA as you can: Lochsa, Spokane, Moyie, St. Joe, Lower Salmon, Clark Fork, Wenatchee, Methow, Salmo, Lower Selway, Grand Ronde, etc. Guided trips are offered for most of these rivers, and they are all possible on your own if you have the right gear and river rafting experience.
68. Go ziplining at Silverstreak Zip Tours, Timberline Adventures, or Mica Moon.
69. Jump out of an airplane on a tandem skydive with Skydive West Plains west of Spokane.
70. Race your mountain bike as part of the Wednesday night mountain bike races in May and June at Riverside State Park, or the “5 in July” series at Farragut State Park.

71. Mountain bike or hike the Empire Trails in Spirit Lake, Idaho.
72. Keep a wildlife log of all of the different species of wildlife you see over the summer and make trips to places where you have a better chance to encounter critters you really want to see.
73. Ride one or more of the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series gravel rides.
74. Ride the Wallowa Lake Tramway, a 3,700’ gondola ride to the summit of Mt. Howard near Joseph, Ore.
75. Take the Wallowa County barn tour and visit 31 beautiful, historic barns in the stunning Northeast corner of Oregon.
76. Ride the Seven Summits Trail in Rossland, B.C. There are plenty of shorter but equally gnarly rides around town too.
77. Paddle or boat to one of the islands in Priest Lake—some are day-use only, and Kalispell, Bartoo, and Fourmile islands have rustic campsites.
78. Take a morning or evening drive or bike tour along the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge auto tour loop near Cheney to spot birds and wildlife. There are several trails and wildlife viewing areas along the way.
79. Drive to the dramatic Selway Falls east of Lewiston, Idaho, then find a beach downriver and go for a swim.
80. Go kite boarding on the Columbia River near Hood River, Ore., or mountain bike the trails around town. One of our favorites is Surveyor’s Ridge Trail.  
81. Drive part of the historic Lewis & Clark Trail between Lewiston, Idaho, and Missoula, Mont., near Highway 12 and do some day hikes along the Lochsa River.
82. Give back to the hiking, biking, and running trails you love by spending a day volunteering doing trail work with Evergreen East, Washington Trails Association, Idaho Trails Association, Pend Oreille Pedalers, or Lake City Trail Alliance.
83. Take a tour of small-town museums in just about any region of the Inland Northwest. Hit up any local thrift stores while you’re at it!

84. Go whitewater rafting for a day in Riggins, Idaho’s “whitewater capital.” Stay for a few days and bring your gravel or road bike for some awesome early morning rides up the canyons.
85. Go kayaking or boating on Lake Roosevelt and picnic on one of its many sandy, primitive beaches. Try to catch a walleye.
86. Go to one of the great events Schweitzer has planned this summer and make a weekend of it hiking and biking on the mountain.
87. Bike or walk downtown Spokane’s Cork District to visit local wine tasting spots.
88. Tube the Touchet River at Lewis and Clark Trail State Park, near Dayton, Washington.
89. Explore Gardner Cave at Crawford State Park Heritage Site, near Metaline Falls, Wash., on a ranger-led tour.
90. Go swimming and play or nap in the sand at City Beach in Sandpoint.
91. Tube the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River.
92. Visit the Hobo Cedar Grove Botanical Area in North Idaho to see what Inland Northwest trees used to look like.
93. Hike or mountain bike the Sherman Peak Loop or Jungle Hill off Sherman Pass in Northeast Washington’s Kettle Range.
94. Paddle around the Moses Lake Water Trail in Moses Lake, Wash. Stop for wine refreshments at the Camas Cove Cellars dock.
95. Take a hike in active wolf country and see if you can hear the haunting sound of wolves howling on an early morning or evening hike. Leave your fur friends at home for this one.
96. Swim across a bay at your favorite lake. Have a friend on a boat, kayak, or paddleboard go with you for safety and to make sure other boaters see you. If you’re on your own, swim around a bay hugging the shoreline.
97. Take a hike along the Hells Canyon rim and score top-of-the-world views at Hat Point Overlook.
98. Bike the Sacagawea Heritage Trail, a 23-mile paved path along the Columbia River in the Tri-Cities. If you’re on the hunt for singletrack, hit up the Badger Mountain trails in the area.
99. Drive through the Palouse, alive with color this time of year, to Palouse Falls viewpoint. Bring your own snacks, as there aren’t many facilities along the way.
100. Volunteer at a local road race or trail running race. You can get in on the hype without the training and physical work. It’s super rewarding to be part of the support crew.
101. Bike or walk to any number of our local farmers’ markets and load up on the fresh produce spoils of the season. //

The post 101 Things to do this Summer in the Inland Northwest appeared first on Out There Venture.

ROAD RUNNING

Shamrock Shuffle (March 12): An early spring half marathon, 10k, and 5k, put on by Negative Split. All distances start at Riverfront Park’s North Bank Shelter; virtual options also available.

St. Paddy’s Five Miler (March 12): This is the 40^th year of this family-friendly event hosted by Bloomsday Road Runners Club (back to the Spokane Community College location for 2023). Official Bloomsday second-seed qualifier race; “Lucky Leprechaun Jig” hosted for kids 6 and under.

Rapid Rabbit Run (March 19): 3-mile & 5-mile runs. Proceeds benefit East Valley High School’s senior class (Spokane Valley). Bloomsday Second Seed qualifier race.

Only Fools Run at Midnight 5k (April 1): Run the streets of downtown Medical Lake starting at 11:30 p.m. Organized by Medical Lake Lions Club.

Yakima River Canyon Marathon & Half Marathon (April 1): Point-to-point USATF-certified marathon course with views of the Yakima River Canyon.

Hauser Lake 10k/5k Icebreaker Run (April 2): Bloomsday second-seed qualifier with USATF-certified 10k course around the lake in Hauser, Idaho. Fundraiser for the special-needs rescue dogs at Double J Dog Ranch.

Spokane Superhero Fun Run (April 8): Family-friendly, chip-timed 5k and 10k races along the Centennial Trail through Riverfront Park (start/finish at U-District PT). Proceeds benefit CASA Partners, helping children in the foster care system.

Wenatchee Marathon, Half Marathon, & 10k (April 15): USATF-certified, Boston-qualifier course includes the Apple Capital Loop Trail through Wenatchee Confluence State Park.

The Split Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (April 16): Flat, scenic course through Kendall Yards, Riverfront Park, and along the Spokane River. Kids’ Challenge also offered. Negative Split event.

Jr. Bloomsday (April 16): Race for children in grades 3-7 at Spokane Falls Community College campus. Finishers get a ticket to Silverwood, among other swag.

Spring Dash & Tot Trot (April 29): 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances; the 10k is a Bloomsday second-seed qualifier. All distances start at Coeur d’Alene’s McEuen Park. Untimed Tot Trot offered for kids 10 and younger. Fundraiser for United Way of North Idaho.

Lilac Bloomsday Run (May 7): Spokane’s hallmark road race! Challenging, fun 12k for runners, walkers, and wheelchair participants. A virtual option is available.

One Heart 5k and Fun Run (May 20): Held at Spokane’s Manito Park; this race is organized by One Heart, a nonprofit that works to meet the needs of kids in lower income and at-risk neighborhoods.

T9 Mermaid Run 10k, 5k, & and 10 mile run (May 20): Hosted by Title 9, the Mermaid Series is a celebration of women’s movement. There’s also a 1.5-mile Mermaid Dash for kids ages 6-12. Start/finish at Riverfront Park.

Sunflower 5k (May 20): A run/walk to celebrate spring, put on by the Deer Park Chamber of Commerce.

Windermere Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (May 21): Flat, point-to-point course along Spokane County’s Centennial Trail. Boston marathon qualifier, hosted by Negative Split. Race benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Inland Northwest.

Race to Remember 5k (May 27): This race to fight senior hunger is held at Fairmount Memorial Park in Spokane; proceeds benefit Second Harvest Food Bank.

Coeur d’Alene Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (May 28): Scenic race with a start/finish at McEuen Park in downtown Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Hosted by Negative Split.

Priest Lake Spring Fun Run, 10k, & 5k (May 28): Run along the lakeshore at beautiful Priest Lake.

Stache Dash Half Marathon, 10k, 5k, and Kids Race (June 10): For runners, walkers, and wheelchair participants, based at Plantes Ferry Park in Spokane Valley, Wash. Kids’ race is for kids 11 and under. Fundraiser for Elevations, a children therapy service-provider for children with special needs.

Dad’s Day Dash (June 18): Family-friendly 5k run/1 mile walk on Father’s Day. Fundraiser for SNAP, a Spokane-based community action agency.

Metaline Falls Bigfoot 5K (June 27): Takes place in the historic town of Metaline Falls in Pend Oreille County, located along the International Selkirk Loop scenic highway.

Missoula Marathon, Half Marathon, 5k, and Kids’ “Marathon” (June 23-25): USATF-certified Boston Qualifier marathon course, with wheelchair and handcycle divisions and events happening throughout the weekend. Includes a kids’ 1-mile untimed fun run.

Cherry Picker’s Trot and Pit Spit (July 20): This annual event, held at Green Bluff, welcomes walkers and runners for a 4-mile course.

Spokane to Sandpoint Relay (July 21-22): A 200-mile, overnight, 12-person relay team race starting from Mt. Spokane’s summit and running 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.

Wallace Huckleberry Festival 5k Walk/Run (August 20): Family-friendly run in Wallace, Idaho, with optional huckleberry pancake breakfast before or after.

Tase T. Lentil 5k Fun Run (August 19): This 5k race is part of the National Lentil Festival in Pullman, Wash.

Newport Autumn Bloom 5k/10k Fun Run (Sept. 16): Takes place at TJ Kelly Park in Newport, Wash.; proceeds benefit Newport Hospital’s Healthy Kids Snack Bag Program. 

Run the Dam Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (Sept. 16): Run across Grand Coulee Dam and along Banks Lake as part of the Run the Dam Festival in Grant Coulee, Wash.

Deutschesfest 10k/5k Fun Run (TBA): German community festival in Odessa, Wash., includes parade, fun run, brats, brews, and more.

Inland Relay (Sept. 30): A 10-leg, 46-mile relay by NXNW Relays. Grab some friends and create a team for this fun event.

Leavenworth Marathon & Half Marathon (Sept. 30): Course starts near the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area and goes along dirt roads and trails, including Icicle Canyon Loop and riverfront trails in Leavenworth, Wash. Boston qualifier.

Jackass Half Marathon, 5K, and Kids Run (Oct. 7): Point-to-point, mostly downhill course along the paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes from Wallace to Kellogg, Idaho. The kid’s “half marathon” is a non-timed, non-competitive race that is a combination of logging miles on your own before race day and finishing the last 1.1 mile on the day of the race.

Spokane Marathon, Half Marathon, & 10k (Oct. 8): Proceeds from this Boston Marathon qualifier race benefit local high school cross-country programs. The 10k is a Bloomsday second-seed qualifier.

Hayden Lake Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon, & 5k (Oct. 14): All distances start from the Honeysuckle Beach boat launch and offer gorgeous lake views. New 5k course for 2023.

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.

Halloween Hustle Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k (Oct. 29): Spooky event in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, organized by Negative Split includes out-and-back creepy courses.

TRAIL RUNNING

Caveman Roar & Pour 5k Trail Fun Run (April 22): Run through the Cave B Winery in Quincy, Wash., overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. Wine tasting event afterwards.

Yakima Skyline Rim 50K (April 15) & 25K (April 16): Challenging out-and-back course in the high desert of the Yakima River Canyon outside Ellensburg, Wash.

Spokane River Run (April 23): 5k, 10k, 25k, 50k, and 50k team relay race at Riverside State Park; fundraiser for Garfield Elementary A.P.P.L.E. program.

Wenatchee Valley Trail Run Series (TBA): Organized by RunWenatchee, this three-race series includes Horse Lake Trail runs in the Wenatchee Foothills, April 28 (half-marathon, 7-mile, 5-mile); Red Devil Trail runs near Cashmere, June 2 (50k, 25k, 10k); and Oktoberfest trail runs at Leavenworth Ski Hill, Oct. 20 (10-mile, 5-mile, & kids’ race).

Sunflower Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, & Relay (April 29): Run on single-track trails and gravel roads in Washington’s Methow Valley on a point-to-point course from Mazama to Twisp.

Run Like the Wind Running Festival (April 30): 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.

Priest Lake Spring Festival 10k, 5k, & Kids’ Dash (May 28): Start/finish at Coolin Community Park at Priest Lake, Idaho; free 1k Kids’ Dash (ages 9 and younger).

Palouse Road Runners Summer Series (TBA): Run club in Moscow, Idaho, hosts a series of races; runners score points based on finishing place. Prizes for top male and female, highest series point totals.

Kaniksu Trail Runs (June 9-11): SERE Beer Mile on Friday; 50 mile, 50k, 18 mile, half marathon, and Emory Corwine Memorial Ruck Race held Saturday. Events take place in the Lower Selkirk Mountain Range of Colville National Forest.

Hiawatha Trail Run (June 11): Organized by Negative Split; includes 10k, 15k, 25k, and 50k timed runs along North Idaho’s Scenic Hiawatha Trail.

Trail Rail Run 50 mile, 50 mile relay, 50k, 30k, 12k, and 5k (June 17): A run from Mullan, ID, to St. Regis, MT, along the old Milwaukee and Northern Pacific Railroad grades.

Mountain Magic Trail Run 5k, 10k, 25k, and Marathon (June 17-18): Winding trail run begins from Selkirk Lodge at Mt. Spokane. Marathon held Sunday; other run distances held Saturday.

Mud Factor 5k and 3k (June 24): Get down and dirty at this Spokane muddy 5k obstacle course; family 3k option to run with kids ages 4-13.

Race the Wolf Ultramarathon & Trail Race (June 24-25): Takes place at Schweitzer in Sandpoint, Idaho. 5-mile trail race and 1-mile “sky climb” (a run straight uphill) June 24; trail marathon and half marathon June 25. Part of The GRIT North Idaho trail run series.

Spokatopia Trail Run & Trail Running Clinic (July 8): A 5k run on the singletrack trails at Camp Sekani Park at the annual Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival.

Muddy Dash 2-mile Mud Run (July 22): A chance to get down in the dirt with friends and family in this muddy obstacle course in Airway Heights.

Dig Your Grave (July 29): A rugged, raw and remote 42k single-track run in the Cabinet Mountains. The course is an out and back with significant climbing, minimal aid, and amazing views. Field is limited to 45 runners. Part of The GRIT North Idaho trail run series organized by Priest Lake Multisports.

The “Original” Bare Buns Fun Run (July 30): Clothing-optional 5k trail run/walk at the Kaniksu Ranch Family Nudist Park near Loon Lake, Wash.

Rams Twilight Trail Run 5k (August 4): A 5k run along the trails near Riverside High School in Chattaroy that starts at 7 p.m. (headlamps highly encouraged). Organized by Riverside’s Cross Country Team.

Tartarus Backyard Ultra (August 19): Hosted by Kaniksu Ultras at Riverside State Park Camp 7; described as a “Last Person Standing” race for runners and “ruckers.”

Smokechaser Race (Sept. 9): 30k course start from Priest Lake State Park, Lionhead; part of The GRIT North Idaho trail run series organized by Priest Lake Multisports.

Moscow Mountain Madness Half Marathon & 5-Mile (Oct. 8): Challenging course along technical single-track and logging roads. Hosted by Palouse Road Runners in Moscow, Idaho.

Mt. Spokane Trail Run (Sept. 10): This Negative Split trail run has three scenic course options, including a 25k, that start and finish at Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park’s main lodge.

Priest Lake Marathon, Half Marathon, & 50k Ultra Marathon (Sept. 30): Wilderness trail run in the Panhandle National Forest. Walkers welcome, excluding ultra. Part of The GRIT North Idaho trail run series organized by Priest Lake Multisports.

Wild Moose Chase Trail Run (Oct. 15): 25k, 10k, and 5k trail runs at Riverside State Park hosted by Eastern Washington University’s Class of 2025 Doctor of Physical Therapy program students.

Sekani Trail Run 10k, 5k, and 1k Kids’ Run (Oct. 1): Adventure run/hike/walk on trails at Camp Sekani in Spokane; fundraiser for Franklin Elementary School’s A.P.P.L.E. program.

Fall Flash 10k Race, 5k Fun Run, 1k Kids’ Run (Nov. 4): Course is a combination of paved and gravel roads and rolling hills of the Palouse countryside. Hosted by Palouse Road Runners, based in Moscow, Idaho.

ROAD CYCLING

Bike Everywhere Challenge (May 5-31): Events and activities include a Bloomsday bike corral, a pancake breakfast in Riverfront Park, energizer stations for morning commuters, and a “Ride of Silence.” Organized by the Spokane Bicycle Club. Spokanebicycleclub.org.

Lilac Century & Family Fun Ride (May 21): Ride distance options include Century (100 miles), Metric Century (66 miles), 50 miles, 35 miles, and 25 miles. Organized bySpokane Aurora Northwest Rotary Club. Races start at Big Barn Brewing in Green Bluff.

CHAFE 150 (June 17): Gran Fondo scenic ride—not a race—starting from City Beach in Sandpoint, Idaho, and riding along Lake Pend Oreille into Montana. Route options include 150, 80, 40, or 25 miles, and a family fun ride. New for 2023 is the addition of a 54-mile gravel route (see sidebar), the second event in the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series. Organized by Sandpoint Rotary; proceeds support a literacy program benefitting Pend Oreille School District students.

Spokane Summer Parkways (June 21): A four-mile route for bikes, pedestrians, skaters, and other human-powered transportation in the South Hill Manito/Comstock neighborhoods. Family-friendly event with fun, snacks, and entertainment along the way.

Cycle Chelan (June 24): Route for every rider with four options of varying difficulty, including the new Metric Century Challenge (100 km, with 4,000 feet of elevation gain), Lake Loop (45 miles), Cycle di Vino (30 miles),  or the Butte Blast (38 miles of gravel/pavement). Presented by Lake Chelan Rotary Club.

8 Lakes Leg Aches (July 15): Choose between 15-, 30-, 45-, and 75-mile routes that enjoy the scenery of west Spokane, Cheney, and Medical Lake, with the longest route touring around all eight lakes. Proceeds benefit Spokane-based Lutheran Community Services Northwest.

Tour de Whatcom (July 22): Ride distance options include Century (100 miles), Metric Century (62 miles), 48 miles, or 22 miles. Start/finish in downtown Bellingham, Wash., at Boundary Bay Brewery.

Spokane Valley Cycle Celebration (July 30): Organized by Valleyfest, route options include a 10-mile “Family-Friendly” ride, 25-mile “Adventure Ride,” and 50-mile “Hills Around the Valley.”

Mt. Baker Hill Climb (Sept. 17): 22 miles, with 4,462 feet of elevation climb, along Mt. Baker Highway, one of the most scenic paved roads in the country. There are three divisions—social, recreational, and competitive.

WaCanId Selkirk Loop Ride (Sept. 11-16): A six-day ride over 395 miles on one of the most scenic routes in the Northern Rockies. Because route includes two international border crossings (between U.S. and Canada), check WaCanId.org for event updates.

CDA Fondo (Sept. 16): This race along Lake Coeur d’Alene offers multiple distance options including Gran Fondo (116 miles), Medio Fondo (86 miles), Centro Fondo (47 miles), Piccolo Fondo (36 miles), and Family Fondo (14 miles), as well as e-bike options.

RIM Ride (Sept. 9-10): “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.

Kootenai River Ride (TBA) 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 RIDES

Gran Fondo Races—Central Washington (May-Sept.): Leavenworth (May TBA), Ellensburg (June TBA), and Winthrop (Sept. TBA); organized by Rideviciouscycle.com.

Echo Red to Red XC MTB Race (March 25): Course begins in the historic town of Echo, Oregon, with most of it on trails at Echo West Ranch & Vineyard.

Washington Student Cycling League—Spring League: Co-ed mountain biking development program and spring race series for riders in grades 6-12, beginners through advanced, organized by the nonprofit Washington Student Cycling League. School-based and composite teams, with high school and middle divisions. Individuals can also participate and compete as an independent rider. Volunteer coaches are encouraged to start new teams.

Hub-a-Palooza (March 31-April 2): A three-day mountain bike festival with downhill and enduro races at Beacon Hill/Camp Sekani in Spokane, hosted by Velo Northwest.

Evergreen East—Classes & Clinics (April-Oct.): Mountain Bike Foundations classes start in April, with sessions offered both weekends and weeknights. Options include beginner, intermediate, freeride, technical descending, jumps classes, women-only classes, and private lessons. Classes are located at Camp Sekani unless otherwise noted. Scholarships available.

Wednesday MTB Race Series at Riverside State Park (May 3-June 28): For eight consecutive Wednesday evenings this popular annual event features a different weekly race course. Free entry for age 18 and younger.

3/4 Minus Cykeltur (May 6): This timed gravel grinder in Sandpoint, Idaho, hosted by Syringa Cyclery offers two course options, 52 and 76 miles. This is the first race of the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series.

Idaho Interscholastic Cycling League (May-October): Race series for youth in grades 6-12.

24 Hours of Riverside (May 27-28): Popular Memorial Day weekend 24-hour MTB team relay at Riverside State Park. Can also compete as a solo rider. Race is Saturday to Sunday, with a kids’ bike parade Saturday evening.

Mt. Spokane Youth Camps & Programs (summer): Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park will again host summer mountain biking day camps. These four-day camps run Monday-Thursday. July 10-13 (beginner and advanced), July 24-27 (all levels), and August 7-10 (all levels).

Evergreen East—Youth Camps (June-July): Evergreen East hosts five-day Dirt Camps for Youth (ages 8-13) at Beacon Hill in Spokane, Wash. Options include co-ed beginner camps, intermediate camps, an all-girls camp, and an advanced skills camp. Scholarships available, as well as bikes and helmets for kids who do not have them.

North American Enduro Cup (June 17-18): Silver Mountain Bike Park in Kellogg, Idaho, hosts one of the North American races that qualifies for the Enduro World Series. Many race categories and levels of difficulty; no beginner category.

Silver Kings Hard Enduro (June 23-24): Hosted at Silver Mountain, this race is divided into three tracks—gold, silver, and bronze—with varying terrain and challenge levels.

Northwest Cup (August 4-6) Silver Mountain Bike Park hosts one of the stops for this six-race series across the Northwest.

Smoke ‘n’ Fire 400 (September 6): Self-supported approx. 400-mile loop bikepacking ride, with almost 41,000 feet of climbing. Ride begins and ends in Boise, Idaho, at Hyde Park. No registration fee.

Monarch Grind (September 16): This new gravel route starts and ends just outside of Clark Fork, Idaho, and loops behind the green Monarch Mountains, iconic peaks overlooking Lake Pend Oreille. This 70-mile ride has a lot of climbing and elevation changes on forest service roads. This is the third ride in the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series.

Silverroxx Mountain Bike Festival (September 22-24): Hosted by Silver Mountain Resort, this festival includes group downhill and super-d races, plus kids’ events.

The Gravel Flamdangle (Oct. 1): Formerly known as the Dirty Spokanza,Spokane’s premier weird-fest gravel race offers three routes out of Big Barn Brewing: the 93-mile Major Devastation Route, the 62-mile Minor Devastation Route, and the not-to-be-scoffed-at 32-mile Group W Route.

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 in eastern Washington. 

TRIATHLON/SWIMMING/PADDLING/WATERSPORTS

Leadman Triathlon (April 22): 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.

Ski to Sea (May 28): A multi-sport relay adventure race with teams of 3-8 people. 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.

FlowTour Surfing Competition at Silver Rapids Water Park (TBA): Silver Mountain Resort hosts a stop on the FLOW Tour, organized by FlowRider.

Medical Lake Trailblazer Tri/Du/5k (June 17): Sprint distance triathlon with 350-meter swim, 12.2-mile bike, and 2.9-mile run; Duathlon with 1 mile run, 12.2mile bike, and 2.9-mile run; and 5k Fun Run. Teams welcome. Starts from Coney Island Park in Medical Lake, Wash.

Ironman 70.3 Coeur d’Alene (Date TBD): “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.

Ironman Coeur d’Alene (June 25): This is the 20^th year of the CDA ironman, with a 2.4-mile swim in Lake Coeur d’Alene, a 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile run.

Spokatopia Watersports Demos (July 8): Try out various paddling watercraft, including kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, or take a kayaking or canoe clinic or group paddle on the Spokane River as part of the Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival at Boulder Beach, off Upriver Drive (northeast Spokane).

Hayden Sprint Triathlon (July 15): Swim, run, and bike solo in this sprint triathlon, or register with a team of two or three to compete in the relay.

Tiger-Tri & Tiger-Du (July 15): Hosted by City of Colville Parks & Recreation and Negative Split—Tri (1k swim, 40k bike, 10k run) and Du (40k bike & 10k run). Starts at Beaver Lodge at Lake Gillette; finish line at Dean Vaagen Memorial Park.

Long Bridge Swim (August 5): A 1.76-mile swim race across Lake Pend Oreille, aside Sandpoint, Idaho’s iconic Long Bridge.

Post Falls Sprint Triathlon/Duathlon (August 6): 0.5k swim, 19k bike, and 5k run in Post Falls, ID.

Coeur d’Alene Triathlon (August 12): Three registration options for this Coeur d’Alene event: Olympic triathlon (swim 1.5k, bike 40k, run 10k), scenic sprint triathlon (swim 0.5k, bike 20k, run 5k), or duathlon (run 5k, bike 40k, run 10k).

Tri-Town Float Down Poker Paddle (August TBA): Paddle the Pend Oreille River from the town of Ione to Metaline Falls, Wash. Win prizes along the way. Organized by North Pend Oreille County Chamber of Commerce to help local veterans and cancer patients.

Swim the Snake (August 12): An open water swim, kayak, or stand-up paddle across the Snake River channel between Lyons Ferry State Park and Lyons Ferry Marina near the town of Starbuck, Wash. Fundraiser for Blue Mountain Resource Conservation and Development Council and local youth summer swim teams.

Coeur d’Alene Triathlon & Duathlon (August 12): Choose betweenScenic Sprint Tri (0.5k swim, 20k bike, 5k run), Olympic Tri (1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run), or duathlon (5k run, 40k bike, 10k run). Event based at CDA City Park and Beach.

Priest Lake Triathlon (August 26): Choose between a Sprint Off-Road Triathlon or the Sprint Road Bike Course. Compete individually or as a team relay; start/finish near Hill’s Resort.

Jen McKenna Paddle and Run (Sept. 9): Kayak 1.6 miles (start at Higgens Point), then run 4 miles along the Centennial Trail in this Coeur d’Alene Event that honors Jen McKenna, who died of complications from cystic fibrosis. Proceeds from the event will be donated to All Heart Infusion of Spokane and Coeur d’Alene and to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association to provide for families with children who have CF and are awaiting a lung transplant.

Diamond Tri Your Best Triathlon (Sept. 9): Event aims to inspire young people to be more physically active. Takes place at the Cowles Scout Reservation in Diamond Lake, Wash. SuperSprint is for ages 12-15 and includes a 200-yard swim, 6-mile bike, and 1.5-mile trail run. Sprint Tri, ages 16+, is a 400-yard swim, 12-mile bike, and 3-mile trail run. Proceeds benefit Inland Northwest Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Valleyfest 5k/10k Run, Duathlon & Triathlon (Sept. 24): All races start and finish at Plantes Ferry Sports Complex in Spokane Valley, Wash. Duathlon includes 5k run, 11-mile bike, 5k run; Triathlon is boat/bike/run—paddle 1.5 miles (canoe or kayak) on Spokane River, bike 11 miles, run 3 miles. Individual and 2-3 person teams allowed for du and tri events. The 10k run is a Bloomsday second seed qualifier.

OUTDOORSY EVENTS

Big Horn Outdoor Adventure Show (March 16-19): Gear and resources for fishing and boating, hunting, backpacking, and shooting sports. Hosted by Inland Northwest Wildlife Council at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center.

Tundra Swan Festival (March 25): This festival is a one-day event focused on the migration of Tundra Swans, with learning sessions, photography instruction, and a swan-viewing bus ride. Held at the Kalispel Tribe’s Camas Center for Community Wellness in Cusick, Wash.

Spokane Bike Swap (April 22): The biggest bike sale event of the year. Buy or sell used bikes and check out biking and outdoor recreation booths at the Spokane Fairgrounds. All proceeds benefit local cycling-related non-profit projects.

National Geographic Live!—“Cosmic Adventures with Tracy Drain” (April 22): Learn about the robotic spacecraft sent out to explore the universe from aerospace engineer Tracy Drain of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The Fox Theater.

Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival (July 8): Learn about Inland NW outdoor recreation groups, parks, businesses, and bike and gear shops and participate in fun outdoor activities at Spokane’s Camp Sekani Park. Event includes live music, bike jump show, bike shuttles, kayak and paddleboard demos, adult beverage garden, and children’s activities.

Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area—Mountain Archery Festival (TBA): Ride a chairlift to the summit and walk downhill to access multiple archery courses. Prize drawings and special evening activities. Limited number of RV/tent camping spots available.

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

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

The post Inland NW Race, Ride & Event Guide 2023 appeared first on Out There Venture.

Out There Venture Events, Digital Marketing & Design Associate

Out There Venture, an outdoor adventure media and events company located in Spokane, Wash., is looking for an events and digital marketing associate. Out There Venture publishes a bi-monthly print magazine that’s also available online at Outthereoutdoors.com and puts on two events, the Spokane Great Outdoors & Bike Expo (Feb 25-26, 2023) and the Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival (July 8, 2023). Email info@outthereventure.com for more info.

Freelance Writers & Photographers Wanted 

Out There Venture is looking for additional freelance writers and photographers to contribute to our bi-monthly print publication and website. We are especially interested in writers with a passion for and experience cross-country and/or downhill mountain biking; gravel biking; alpine and backcountry skiing and snowboarding; Nordic skiing, fat biking, or snowshoeing; fishing, especially fly fishing; running, especially trail running; river rafting/kayaking/pack rafting; long-distance hiking; trail building and trail policy; rock climbing; family outdoor activities/adventuring with kids; boating/wake surfing and other wake sports; and any other unique sports/activities or unique approaches to outdoor recreation in the Inland NW. We also love outdoor/Northwest living and culture topics including history, gardening, green living, natural landscaping, DIY home improvement, sustainable building, music, art, literature, food, local agriculture, fashion trends, gear, events, outdoor-themed cultural trends; and more. We aren’t total cheapskates either! We pay for words and photos and offer perks like free or discount lift tickets to our winter sports contributors, event tickets, and occasional trips or adventures covered as part of working on a story.

Email OTO editor Derrick Knowles at info@outthereventure.com with pitches or questions!

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Spokane Summer Parkways (June 21)

Spokane Summer Parkways returns for 2022! Kids, families, and neighbors on bikes take over four miles of city streets (that are closed to vehicles) connecting Spokane’s Manito and Comstock parks from 6–9 p.m., with informational booths set up along part of the route.

Wednesday MTB Race Series at Riverside State Park (May-June)

For nine consecutive Wednesday evenings, this popular annual event at Riverside State Park keeps “racing” fun and simple for anyone on a dirt-worthy bike. Each week features a different racecourse, and kids 18 and under ride for free courtesy of sponsors. Stay updated week to week via the event’s FB page.

Route of the Hiawatha Trail (May-Sept)

Mountain bike or hike the unpaved 15-mile rail trail with 10 train tunnels and seven trestles. Mostly downhill with shuttle buses available to transport you and your bike from the bottom back to the top. This family-friendly trail is easily enjoyed by a variety of people from young children to super seniors, and bike and trailer rentals are available.

Family-friendly biking on the Route of the Hiawatha. // Photos courtesy of Route of the Hiawatha.

CDA Full Moon Bike Ride (May-Oct)

Monthly, family-friendly, casual community rides under the full moon around Coeur d’Alene. Gather at 6 p.m. for entertainment and beverages and start riding at 8 p.m. Follow CDA Full Moon Ride on Facebook and Instagram for dates and start locations. Kids must be accompanied at all times.

NICA Adventure Camps & Race Series—Idaho Interscholastic Cycling League (May-Oct)

This interscholastic mountain bike league is for youth grades 6-12 and has overnight camp opportunities and a league race series for registered members.

Spokatopia Outdoor Adventure Festival (July 9)

Bring your own bikes to Spokatopia to ride the trails with friends and enjoy live music, kids’ activities and games, water sports, uphill mountain bike shuttles, kids’ bike demos on the pump track, and competitions and contests all day at Spokane’s Camp Sekani Park.

CDA Fondo (Sept 17)

Hosted by Negative Split, the CDA Fondo boasts a breathtaking course along beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene with great event swag, course food stations, chip timing, and after-party. Look for the all-new athlete village at the new start/finish at McEuen Park. The Family Fondo option is 14 miles from downtown CDA to Higgins Point.

Find more stories about biking or family/youth recreation in the OTO archives.

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Sorry, this contest is all wrapped up!

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