Cover photo courtesy of Mt. Spokane

The countdown to ski season is on, and Inland Northwest resorts are rolling out fresh deals, events and upgrades to get stoke levels rising. From new lift projects and lodge makeovers to discounted passes and expanded lesson programs, there’s plenty happening before the first flakes fly. Here’s what’s new at these Ski the Northwest Rockies Association resorts. 

49° North Mountain Resort 

Chewelah, Wash. 

Season Pass Sales 
49 Degrees North’s Fall Season Pass Sale runs from Sept. 16 through Nov. 15, giving skiers and riders their last chance to lock in lower pricing before winter. Passes are $669 for adults, $449 for youth ages 7-17, $549 for seniors (62-69), $399 for super seniors (70-79), and $479 for young adults (18-23) and college students. 

Preseason Events 

• Pass pickup events will be held throughout Spokane and Chewelah this fall. 

• The biggest preseason celebration, Rocktoberfest, returns with a Saturday Oct. 4, brew fest, Oktoberfest-themed menu, live music and family activities. On Sunday, Oct. 5, runners can hit the trails before enjoying an autumn-harvest brunch with more live music.  

Learn to Ski Programs and Clinics 

• Big savings are available through Oct. 1 for the resort’s FAST and Freeriders competition programs, which focus on racing and freeskiing while building friendships, responsibility and a lifelong love of skiing.  

• Registration for the Adventurers multi-week youth lessons opens Oct. 1, with four-week sessions for ages 5-13 that typically sell out quickly.  

• For older kids, the Junior Instructor Program (ages 12-15) offers training, mentorship and behind-the-scenes experience.  

• 49 also partners with schools to make the mountain accessible through affordable group programs. 

Mountain Updates 

• Resort improvements continue across the mountain, including the big news that the Payday Lift will be replaced by a new fixed-grip quad from Doppelmayr, scheduled to open for the 2026-27 season.  

• The lodge’s lower level has been remodeled to provide more guest seating and new family restrooms.  

• On the slopes, a Prinoth Leitwolf groomer joins the fleet, bringing 530 horsepower and the ability to lay down 22-foot-wide corduroy in a single pass. 
  
  

Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area 

Mullan, Idaho 

Season Pass Sales 
Lookout Pass is still keeping skiing affordable with its season pass sale, but prices jump after Nov. 22. Deals until then start at $159 for full-time college students, $399 for youth ages 7-17 and $549 for adults. 

Why Choose Lookout Pass 
With an average of 450 inches of snowfall each winter and no need for snowmaking, Lookout Pass delivers more powder days and a vibe that’s hard to beat. The mountain offers 1,023 acres of terrain, 52 trails, plus eight glades and a vertical drop of 1,650 feet. Five lifts, including two quads, move skiers and riders around the mountain with ease, and Lookout offers affordable lift tickets, unique events and a family-friendly atmosphere just 200 yards off the I-90 freeway. 

Ticket Deals 
From discounted 3-pack tickets to appreciation days for teachers, first responders, and health care workers, Lookout stacks up plenty of ways to save. Highlights include a free lift ticket on your birthday, half-price tickets midweek with another mountain’s season pass, Bring a Friend Thursdays with two tickets for $75, gift card bonuses tacked onto a card purchase and other fun perks, like $20 tickets for anyone who dresses like Santa on Dec. 23. 

Ski School Programs 
Lookout’s Free Ski School, running since 1942, remains the oldest and longest-running free ski program in the nation, offering a limited number of free ski and snowboard lessons for kids. Additional offerings include a $199 Learn to Ski or Ride package, senior workshops with early-morning first tracks, women’s clinics and kids’ programs like Mini Moose (ages 4-6). Season-long rentals are also available. 

Mountain Updates 
Guests this year will notice new Forest Service bathrooms near Chair 5, two added Prinoth groomers and a fresh “Welcome to Lookout Pass” entrance sign. 

Preseason Events 
Lookout staff will be at regional ski swaps, colleges and community events in Spokane and North Idaho this fall to help skiers conveniently pick up passes and ticket packs. 

Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park 

Spokane, Wash. 

Season Pass Sales 
Mt. Spokane’s Summer Pass Sale runs through Sept. 10, with prices increasing after that. The Last Chance Fall Pass Sale follows and ends Nov. 10. Buying early offers the best savings and the most flexibility, with season pass benefits including night skiing and free or discount skiing at partner mountains. 

Lift Ticket Deals 
For those who aren’t ready to commit to a full season pass, 5-pack lift ticket bundles go on sale at the Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol Ski Swap and continue through November. Quantities are limited, so picking them up early is the best bet. 

Preseason Events 

• The winter buzz kicks off with the Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol Ski Swap at the Spokane Fairgrounds Oct. 25–26.  

• On Nov. 9, the Winter PreFunk Party returns to Lodge 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

• Job seekers can head up to the Seasonal Employee Job Fair on Nov. 1 in Lodge 1, from 8–11 a.m., where the mountain looks to fill nearly 400 seasonal positions ranging from guest services to lift ops and ski school. 

Learn to Ski Programs and Clinics 

• Registration for Learn-to-Ski Camps and Multiweek Programs opens Sept. 10. As the region’s largest ski school, Mt. Spokane offers programs for kids and adults, with multiweek sessions filling quickly each year. 

• This season, the popular Friday Night Club Shred expands to include both little kids (ages 4–8) and big kids (ages 9–13). Running Dec. 26-March 13, the program includes lessons, dinner and activities for $49 a night or $99 for a club entry that includes two adult night skiing tickets, making it a great drop-and-go mountain date. Ladies can rally Friday, Feb. 13, for the mountain’s one-day Galentine’s Day Clinic featuring personalized instruction, meals, après fun and prizes. 
  
  

Silver Mountain Resort 

Kellogg, Idaho 

Season Pass Sales 
Silver Mountain’s season pass sale is underway, with prices increasing after Sept. 15. Passes purchased before then lock in the best deal, and payment plans are still available. Do you have Mondays or Fridays off? New this year, Silver is offering Friday-only and Monday-only passes for $215 for adults and $165 for youth (available Sept. 16 through Dec. 20). 

Learn to Ski Programs and Clinics 
First-timers have two strong options for getting into the sport: the EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 package or the Flex 5 Pak. Both include lift tickets, lessons, and rentals, with the main difference being the number of lessons—three or five. The Flex 5 Pak comes with an extra perk: once completed, participants earn a free season pass for the remainder of the season, plus 50 percent off next year’s pass. 

Mountain Updates 
The tubing hill at Silver Mountain just got better. For the coming winter season, tubing sessions expand to five days a week, Thursday through Monday, including holidays. With four lanes to race down, it’s a fast-paced option for families and groups. Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark has also extended its hours, offering more time to splash, surf, sip and unwind. 

Lodging Deals 
Through Nov. 23, fall lodging is discounted 15% with code “Fall”. Starting Sept. 15, the popular Save Big package returns, combining a midweek stay, lift tickets and waterpark access. Prices start at $79 per person based on quad occupancy in a family studio. 

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Looking for a summer adventure that gets kids off screens and climbing someone else’s walls? Wild Walls Climbing Gym in Spokane offers week-long kids’ climbing camps from June 23 to Aug. 21. Kids aged 7 to 14 will learn the fundamentals of climbing, safety techniques and teamwork, all while having a blast on indoor climbing walls. Camps run Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and cost $325-$375 per child, per week, depending on if you’re a Wild Walls member or not.  

Each week features different themes and challenges, ensuring returning campers always find something new to conquer. What sets an indoor climbing camp apart? It’s more than just a physical activity; it’s a holistic experience that boosts confidence, problem-solving skills and resilience. Kids develop strength and coordination in a supportive, fun and safe environment. Don’t miss out on this chance for your kids to scale new heights—literally! Visit Wild Walls’ website to register and learn more. Wildwalls.com 

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Cover photo courtesy of Twin Eagles

In a world increasingly dominated by screens, schedules and artificial stimulation, something essential is slipping through our children’s fingers. Kids today are growing up without deep connection—to the Earth, to others and to themselves. At Twin Eagles Wilderness School, we’re here to change that.  

Our summer camps offer more than just outdoor fun. Rooted in the ancient art of nature-based mentoring, we guide kids into meaningful experiences that awaken their senses, challenge their edges and nurture their spirits. Whether it’s the spark of lighting their first fire by friction, the quiet pride of carving a spoon from wood or the thrill of moving silently through the forest like a fox, our campers are invited into a deeper way of being.  

At our Wilderness Survival Day Camp and in Emerging Wild Leaders, kids dive into hands-on skills like shelter-building, knife safety, foraging and wildlife tracking. But what truly sets Twin Eagles apart is our mentoring. Our experienced guides walk alongside youth with care and curiosity, helping them grow in confidence, creativity, leadership and resilience. We foster not just competence, but a sense of connection and wonder. Over time, something begins to shift. Children return home standing taller, more rooted and alive, carrying the wild in the way they see, listen and move through the world.  

This summer, give your child the gift of real wilderness—a journey that lives both on the land and within. Learn more about Sandpoint, Idaho-based Twin Eagles Wilderness School and register at Twineagles.org.  

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Cover photo courtesy of Mt Spokane

This summer, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park invites young adventurers to trade ski boots for hiking shoes and bike helmets. The 2025 camps emphasize outdoor fun, skill-building and environmental learning all at Spokane’s namesake mountain playground.  

What sets Mt. Spokane’s day camps apart, says outdoor recreation director Katrin Ferraro, is the wildness of the mountain and the surrounding state park. “Our day camps feel a lot like an overnight wilderness camp—kids get many of the same experiences without needing to stay overnight.” Many campers are already skiers, she says, but for a lot of them, it’s their first time seeing the ski area up close without the snow, which helps cultivate a stronger connection to the mountain. 

Both the Mountain Adventure and Mountain Bike camps are built to boost kids’ confidence and outdoor skills—without overdoing it. Leaders also focus on fun and play, creating space for campers to be kids, says Ferraro. “We do an activity where one of the counselors dresses up in a bear costume, and the kids practice what to do if they see a bear—being big and loud, using squirt guns as bear spray.” While bear encounters at camps are unlikely, it’s a fun, memorable way to teach wildlife safety and appreciation.  

Mountain Adventure Camps 
Designed for children ages 5–13, this three-day camp immerses participants in the natural beauty of Mt. Spokane State Park. Activities include hiking, climbing, crafts, and games, all emphasizing nature appreciation. Choose from three Mon.-Wed. sessions: June 23–25, July 14–16, or July 28–30. Each session runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ($209 registration fee includes a t-shirt). 

Mountain Bike Camps 
Mt. Spokane offers some of the only kids’ mountain bike camps in the region, including options for new and experienced riders. The four-day mountain bike camps for kids ages 7–15 encourage them to build mountain bike skills and confidence. Some of the camps even offer the chance to shuttle some of the trails.   

• Beginner Camp: July 7–10, focusing on foundational skills on double-track trails. 

• Advanced Skills Camp: July 7–10, for riders ages 10–17 with prior singletrack experience. 

• All-Levels Camps: July 21–24 and Aug. 4–7, accommodating various skill levels with group placements based on ability. 

Each mountain bike camp runs Mon.–Wed. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Thurs. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ($329 registration fee includes a t-shirt). Participants must bring a mountain bike with at least seven gears, front suspension and no pedal brakes, along with a helmet and other appropriate safety gear. “It’s incredible how much confidence kids build—on the trails, in themselves, and in the outdoors,” says Ferraro. 

Junior Camp Counselor Program 
New this year, this two-week program offers teens ages 14–16 a chance to gain leadership experience while assisting with both camp types. Participants develop mentoring skills, boost their biking abilities, and learn what it takes to be a future camp counselor ($199 registration fee and reliable transportation required). Session options run June 23–25 and July 7–10, July 14–16 and July 21–24, or July 28–30 and Aug. 4–7. 

Parents Can Work in the Lodge or Hit the Trails while Kids Play 

Simplify your drive to and from Mt. Spokane’s day camps by staying up on the mountain to get some work done (or go for a ride or hike yourself!) Parents can use Lodge 2 as a workspace or relaxing place to read with Wi-Fi and a coffee shop or hit the trails.  

As a non-profit, Mt. Spokane prioritizes making its camp experiences accessible to all by offering a limited number of camp scholarships on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and to register, visit Mtspokane.com/summercamps.  

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When you find yourself looking for a fun, active and confidence-boosting activity for your kids, let them unleash their inner ninja! Ninja Nation Spokane turns every visit into an adventure where kids become stronger, more confident and resilient. Whether your child is racing up the warped wall, swinging through obstacles or cheering on a friend, Ninja Nation gives kids a positive outlet for their boundless energy and cultivates a love for movement. From unlimited open gym sessions to skill-focused classes and unforgettable birthday parties, Ninja Nation is Spokane’s go-to destination for high-energy fun.  

Unlimited Open Gym Access: The Best Deal in Spokane  

If your kids love to move, climb and play, Ninja Nation’s unlimited open gym membership (only $49.99 per month) is a total game-changer that includes access to a fun, safe and structured environment with professional-grade ninja equipment. It’s hands-down one of the best values for active families that comes with unlimited access to open gym sessions every month and one free buddy pass for a friend each month. The membership pays for itself if your child comes just three times in a month since a single 1-hour open gym session is $18.  

Sign Them Up for Summer Ninja Camps to Level Up the Fun  

This summer, give your kids a week of movement, motivation and ninja magic. Ninja Nation summer camps are open to kids ages 5 to 14, with full-day and half-day options available. Camps focus on building core ninja skills like grip strength, coordination and obstacle technique; boosting confidence through goal setting; and supportive coaching and creating a positive community where encouragement and energy are at the heart of every activity. Camps include snacks and lunch, so all you have to do is drop them off and let the fun begin.  

Weekly Ninja Classes: Build Skills and Strength  

Ninja Nation’s weekly classes offer structured training for kids who want to develop their skills and track their progress over time. Taught by certified coaches, classes focus on obstacle technique, body awareness, agility, and strength. With different skill levels and age groups, there’s a class for every young athlete or aspiring ninja.  

High Energy Birthday Parties Without the Stress 

Want a birthday party that’s exciting for the kids and stress-free for you? Ninja Nation’s got you. Party hosts lead ninja obstacle games and stations that keep everyone moving, laughing and having a blast. Parents can relax while Ninja Nation takes care of everything—activities, set-up and clean-up.  

Grown-Up Ninjas Get Their Night Too  

Adults can join the fun during scheduled adult nights, where the arena becomes a playground for grown-ups who want a unique and active way to spend an evening. Whether you’re trying out the warped wall or racing a friend through the course, it’s a great way to challenge yourself in a fun, supportive space. Please note, childcare is not provided at adult nights.   

Ready to start your family’s ninja journey? Visit Spokane.ninjanation.com for more info or to sign up for memberships, book camps or schedule a birthday party, or follow them on Instagram @ninjanationspokane. Ninja Nation Spokane is located at 8016 N Division Street.  

Ninja Nation Spokane helps fund the non-profit work of owners Sarah and Alexi Matousek that supports surgical care for rural communities in Haiti.

Ninja Nation was brought to Spokane by Sarah and Alexi Matousek, a dynamic duo deeply rooted in both the healthcare profession and a passion for ninja sports. Alexi, a surgeon and contestant from “American Ninja Warrior” Seasons 7 through 10, and Sarah, an advocate for public health and wellness, share a vision that connects Ninja Nation Spokane to the non-profit they operate in rural Haiti. Proceeds from Ninja Nation Spokane support surgical care for some of the most under-served communities and most vulnerable people in Haiti. Scan the QR code to watch a short video about their inspiring work. 

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Cover photo courtesy of Jon Jonckers

Long days, cool waters and mountain trails—summer in the Inland Northwest is pure magic. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or searching for serenity, you’ll find the right outdoor adventure to match your mood in this year’s roundup of summer adventure ideas.

 

Tube or Paddle the Lower Spokane River 
Nothing beats floating the Spokane River on an inflatable tube on a toasty summer day. The water is cool and the rapids are relatively tame on a float from Peaceful Valley downstream from downtown to the take out at T.J. Meenach Bridge, which avoids expert-only rapids farther down river (life jackets required). 

Local river guide and outfitter FLOW Adventures makes this classic Spokane float even easier and more enjoyable with tube rentals and a shuttle service. FLOW also rents cooler tubes for keeping your lunch and refreshments cold. Take your time to stop to look for crawdads, chill on a beach and soak up the slow summer pace of our beautiful urban river. 

Visit the Historic Kettle Falls Historical Center 
Learn about the fur trade and Native American history at the Kettle Falls Historical Center. The area, once a major trading hub, offers exhibits and a rich history of both settlers and Native Americans that gives insight into the area’s past. It’s a great way to experience both history and natural beauty in one spot. The nearby Sherman Creek Wildlife Area offers several hiking trail options to make this a history and hiking trip. 

Ride a Section of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes 
Spanning 73 miles through Idaho’s Silver Valley, the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a flat, paved trail with many trailheads to plan a ride of whatever distance your group is up for. This incredible trail includes options for swimming in Lake Coeur d’Alene on the public beach in Harrison, grabbing a bite to eat in one of several towns and viewing wildlife along the trail.  

Explore the Ross Creek Cedars 
Take a walk through one of the few remaining old-growth cedar forests in the region. Located in Montana’s Cabinet Mountains, the towering trees are a wonder to experience up close. A short loop takes hikers past informative signs where you can learn about the role old-growth forests play in the natural world. 

Raft the Clark Fork River 
The Clark Fork River offers thrilling Class III rapids only a couple of hours from Spokane, making it a perfect adrenaline-packed day on the water. Experienced rafters with their own gear should definitely get to know this Class II and III whitewater run through stunning canyons. If you aren’t set up for rafting on your own, book a guided trip with ROW Adventures to safely experience this wild and incredibly scenic whitewater. Guides will share their knowledge about the river canyon and wildlife and find the best swimming spots to cool off between rapids.  

Hunt for Real Fossils at Stonerose Fossil Site in Republic, WA 
The Stonerose Interpretive Center and Eocene Fossil Site allows visitors to split rocks and search for fossils while learning about the prehistoric past of the region. The site is rich in ancient plant fossils, making it a great destination for geology lovers and families alike. Dig your own fossils, explore the interpretive center, and discover the ancient history that shaped the land. Don’t miss the free interpretive center where you can learn all about the fossils you’ll be searching for. 

Try Mountain Biking at Riverside State Park 
Riverside State Park near downtown Spokane offers a wide range of mountain biking trails for riders of all abilities and is one of the most beginner-friendly trail systems in the Inland Northwest. The forgiving trails are perfect for trying mountain biking for the first time or getting kids introduced to singletrack riding. Trails wind for miles through pine forests and along the Spokane River and basalt cliffsides with plenty of mostly-flat trails that take it easy on lungs and legs.  

Go Fishing at Fish Lake Regional Park 
If you live near downtown Spokane, Fish Lake Regional Park near Cheney is a quiet, quick fishing getaway. Only electric boat motors are allowed, which lends to the peaceful vibe on the water that makes this 43-acre lake popular with paddlers and small boats. Landlubbers also have plenty of shoreline to explore while fishing for brook, tiger and rainbow trout among other species. The paved Columbia Plateau Trail passes above the lake and, with the exception of a several mile trail gap between the lake and Spokane, the Fish Lake Trail provides a scenic, paved option for biking to the lake for your angling outing.  

Kayak the Little Spokane River 
The Little Spokane River, known for its calm waters and largely wild shoreline, is a peaceful paddling option for kayakers and paddle boarders, especially since floating the river in tubes as well as swimming and consuming alcohol are not allowed. Paddle through the serene landscape, passing by acres of conservation and park lands that moose, elk, deer and other wildlife call home. It’s a great way to connect with nature and slow down summer. Simplify your float by taking advantage of the Spokane Parks and Recreation river shuttle. 

Learn about Downtown Spokane History on a Walking Tour 
Step back in time with a guided walking tour of some of Spokane’s little-known history and other hidden sites with Wander Spokane. Choose from different themed tours and discover the city’s rich history and beautiful trails and urban wild areas. From historic buildings to significant landmarks, tours offer a deeper understanding of Spokane’s heritage with some tours making stops at craft eateries, breweries and wine-tasting spots.  

Hike the Dishman Hills in Spokane Valley 
Choose from an extensive network of trails that lead hikers through diverse ecosystems, including ponds and wetlands, forests and grasslands. It’s an easy in-town option for a full-day hike with a picnic, or short evening or morning loop hike suitable for all abilities and ages. The area’s tranquility and beauty on the edge of the city makes a hike here feel like a wilderness experience without the long drive. The Dishman Hills Conservancy hosts regular guided hikes and other events where you can learn about this incredible urban wildland. 

Bike the Columbia Plateau Trail 
The full length of the Columbia Plateau Trail stretches 130 miles from Pasco to Cheney, offering scenic views of the surrounding channeled scablands past lakes, wetlands, forests and grasslands. Start your ride in Cheney for an out-and-back pedal, passing through a portion of Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, or arrange a shuttle from one of several trailheads to see more of this crushed-rock rail trail. Time your ride in the morning or evening for the best chance at viewing birds and other wildlife including moose and elk.  

Bike the Route of the Hiawatha  
A must-ride route that should be on everyone’s bucket list, the 15-mile Route of the Hiawatha near Lookout Pass passes through tunnels and over trestle bridges in Idaho’s Bitterroot Mountains. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and interpretive signs to learn about the history of the trail and nearby communities. It’s also a relatively easy ride with a shuttle option, making it suitable for families and groups of mixed fitness and physical ability. Trail passes are required for the Hiawatha and can be purchased online with shuttles or at Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area, where you can also rent bikes and other gear for the ride. Headlamps required.  

Pedal the Rails on a RailRider Tour 
This unique and active tour involves pedaling retired railroad tracks on a railbike near Metaline Falls in Northeast Washington. Travel through scenic areas that were once only traversed by trains. Tours typically sell out in the summer months, so plan ahead or book a fall trip. 

Go Birdwatching at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge 
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge near Cheney is a prime spot for birdwatching, with diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife. In the summer months, many birds can be observed near ponds and lakes on the 17,000-acre refuge. There are several short trails and wildlife viewing areas along the auto-tour loop with signage. 

Explore the Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge Auto-Tour Loop 
The Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge near Colville, Wash., has a 10-mile auto-tour loop that tours through diverse forest habitats. Drive or bike the loop with stops for short hikes and to read the interpretive signs. Morning and evening outings are best for wildlife viewing. There are some excellent riverside campsites too. Gravel bikers and bikepackers can connect additional forest roads for longer day rides or bikepacking adventures. 

Rent a Kayak, Sailboat, or Paddleboard on Lake Coeur d’Alene 
Rent the paddle craft of your choice right on the beach from the North Idaho College-run Sunspot at Ya-Keehn-Um Beach in Coeur d’Alene. Paddle along the lakeshore for a unique view of downtown Coeur d’Alene or explore the waters where the lake and Spokane River meet.  

Bike the Kettle River Heritage Trail in Grand Forks, B.C. 
This super scenic 17k trail just north of the border from Washington follows the path of a historic railroad between Grand Forks and Christina Lake. The rustic crushed rock trail passes through forest and grassland, including the Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park. Bring your swim suit for a dip or two in the Kettle River. Be sure to check out the spectacular Cascade Gorge Falls near Christina Lake as part of your trip. 

Kayak the Coeur d’Alene River Chain Lakes  

Paddle through a series of interconnected lakes with a good chance of seeing moose and many types of birds. Launch in Harrison, Idaho, and explore multiple connected lakes along the Coeur d’Alene River. 

Stargaze at Steptoe Butte State Park 

Rising nearly 1,000 feet above the rolling Palouse hills, stargazing in the Inland Northwest doesn’t get much better than Steptoe Butte. Drive to the summit at dusk, spread out a blanket and witness the Milky Way spread across the dark sky. The minimal light pollution and 360-degree views make this one of the region’s premier stargazing locations, especially during meteor showers. 

Rock Climb, Paddle or Swim at Q’emiln Park in Post Falls 

Q’emiln Park offers over 40 established rock-climbing routes on its quality granite walls. With options for beginners to experienced climbers, the park provides a perfect introduction to outdoor climbing in a beautiful setting along the Spokane River. After your climb, or if you don’t rock climb, cool off with a swim at the park’s beach or launch your paddleboard or kayak for a serene paddle on the still waters of this section of the Spokane River behind Post Falls Dam. Bring your bike and pedal across the bridge into town for a craft beer or bite to eat in downtown Post Falls. 

Stand-Up Paddleboard on Medical Lake 

Just west of Spokane, Medical Lake provides a perfect setting for stand-up paddleboarding with its calm waters and no-wake policy. The lake’s compact size makes it ideal for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore the entire perimeter. Early morning paddling offers the best chance to see local wildlife and enjoy glassy water conditions. 

Hike or Mountain Bike the Trails at 4th of July Pass Near Coeur d’Alene 

Located between Coeur d’Alene and Kellogg right off of I-90, this mellow trail system includes miles of rolling trails on decommissioned forest roads that are used for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. A great option for families or those looking for a close-to-town forest escape.   

Explore the Sullivan Lake Trail 

Sullivan Lake near Metaline Falls, Wash., offers a gorgeous 8.2-mile round-trip trail along the east side of the mostly undeveloped lake in the Colville National Forest. The lake is clean, clear and great for swimming at a few spots along the trail and at the campground beaches at both ends of the trail.  

Go for a Gravel Ride in the Channeled Scablands  

Explore the unique landscape of the channeled scablands on hundreds of miles of gravel roads southwest of Spokane. These quiet, lightly traveled backroads wind through dramatic coulees, past pothole lakes and across rolling farm and ranch lands. Create your own route linking up sections of gravel road with paved-road stretches by starting in Spokane for a longer ride or the college town of Cheney for more manageable options.  

Go Geocaching in Riverside State Park 

Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt in one of Washington’s largest state parks. There are plenty of geocaches hidden in Riverside to keep you busy searching using GPS coordinates. This family-friendly activity combines hiking with problem-solving and can be tailored to any fitness level, from short walks to longer day-hikes. Get started at Geocaching.com. 

Bike the Old Spiral Highway Near Lewiston, Idaho 

Experience a cycling challenge with spectacular views on the Old Spiral Highway near Lewiston, Idaho. This historic road climbs 2,000 feet via dozens of curves and switchbacks, offering increasingly panoramic vistas of the Snake River and surrounding landscape. The 7.3-mile ascent is a favorite among local cyclists looking to test their climbing legs. 

Canoe or Kayak the Lower Pack River 

This section of the Pack River near Sandpoint in the summer is a gentle float suitable for beginners and families. Expect a peaceful paddle through forest and wetlands with frequent wildlife encounters. The slow current and multiple access points make it easy to plan trips of various lengths. 

Go Gold Panning  
This summer, try your luck at recreational gold panning in North Idaho. Pick up a basic gold pan and classifier to screen out large rocks and grab a shovel. No permit is needed for most public lands, but always check current rules and avoid disturbing sensitive aquatic areas. A great option is the privately-owned Eagle City Park gold panning area near Wallace, Idaho. A fee is required to pan this former gold mining hotspot.  

Challenge Yourself on Mica Moon’s Aerial Park 

If you’re craving a treetop thrill, Mica Moon’s aerial park tucked in the mountains near Liberty Lake, Wash., is packed with swinging bridges, balance lines, and ninja-style elements to test your balance and agility. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure course perfect for families and groups of friends. Mica Moon also offers tours on its nine ziplines. 

RV Camp Where It’s Truly Wild 

Tucked into the quiet wilds of Northeast Washington, the Wilds RV Campground is where solitude seekers and outdoor lovers find their sweet spot. This remote private campground offers dispersed-style RV and campervan sites, meaning no shoulder-to-shoulder parking—so you can enjoy the stars and the sounds of the forest. Basecamp here for day trips to nearby Colville National Forest trails and lakes.  

Ride Silver Mountain Bike Park 
Silver Mountain Bike Park turns gravity into your best friend. Load your bike on the gondola, climb 3,400 feet without breaking a sweat, then drop into over 30 miles of trails ranging from beginner-friendly green trails to rooty, rowdy blues and blacks with plenty of jumps and features to challenge yourself.  

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride and a Hike at Silver Mountain 

The gondola at Silver Mountain Resort is North America’s longest, floating you quietly above the trees and canyons for expansive views of Idaho’s Silver Valley. At the top, stretch your legs with a high-country hike and hunt for huckleberries.  
 

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Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest and deepest lake, serves as a stunning natural centerpiece for the Sandpoint area, with summer offering up an abundance of opportunities to explore its waters, trails, and shorelines. Whether you’re paddling quiet backwaters, cruising beneath mountain ridgelines, or hiking to panoramic lake vistas, there’s no shortage of ways to go deep into the heart of North Idaho’s outdoor scene around Sandpoint.

Swimming Spots on Lake Pend Oreille

Sandpoint City Beach sits just steps from downtown and remains one of the top spots for swimming and relaxing by the water. Sandy beaches, wide grassy lawns, and amenities like tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts, horseshoe pits, and a kid’s playground make it a go-to summer gathering place. A boat launch and adjacent marinas add convenience for boaters, and the whole park is easily accessible on foot or by bike.

Other great swimming locations include Sam Owen Campground on the Hope Peninsula, which features inviting shoreline and easy lake access. For those willing to drive farther south, Farragut State Park offers clear water, spacious beaches, and plenty of amenities, including shoreline fishing and boating access.

Top Paddling Spots around Sandpoint

Flat-water paddling on Lake Pend Oreille offers a peaceful way to explore the lake’s many coves and inlets. Launch from Sam Owen Campground to explore nearby Warren, Cottage, and Pearl islands. Nature lovers can head to the Pack River and Clark Fork deltas, where calm, wildlife-rich backwaters provide a chance to spot birds and other wildlife in a more secluded setting.

Sand Creek, which flows gently into the lake near downtown Sandpoint, offers a sheltered paddle route ideal for beginners. You can launch directly from City Beach or other nearby access points and paddle a scenic mile upstream through quiet waters under bridges and past marinas.

Lake Pend Oreille Boating

Lake Pend Oreille is a boating paradise, with multiple public boat launches and marinas available for those with boats to get out on the water. Boat rentals are available in both Sandpoint and Hope, including pontoons, jet skis, and other boats for cruising the lake. Multiple outfitters offer hourly and daily rentals, as well as lessons, guided lake tours, and private charters. Check out all of the rental, tour and outfitter resources at the bottom of this article.

For a one-of-a-kind way to get out on the water, Lake Pend Oreille Cruises offers 90-minute narrated outings aboard the Shawnodese, a classic lake tour boat. Options include history tours, eagle watching, and sunset trips, with departures from City Beach and seasonally from Hope. Dogsmile Adventures provides sailing experiences out of Sandpoint and Bayview for those looking for a more hands-on boating experience.

Walks & Hikes to Beaches and Lake Views on Lake Pend Oreille

The Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail offers an easy and scenic walk along the lakeshore just minutes from downtown Sandpoint. For more of a challenge and pristine experience, head to Lost Lake and Mineral Point near Garfield Bay. The network of trails there includes an easier loop around Lost Lake as well as the more challenging Mineral Point Trail, with big lake views and access to a swimming beach at Green Bay.

Farther afield, Farragut State Park near the lake’s southern end provides over nine miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, along with disc golf, a swimming beach, and a well-equipped campground.

For a short but steep hike to a more secluded lake access point, the Maiden Rock Trail south of Garfield Bay winds down through forested terrain to a cobblestone beach with primitive campsites and picnic areas.

Those looking for a more rigorous alpine trek can head up the Scotchman Peak Trail. With over 3,700 feet of elevation gain, the trail climbs to the highest point in Bonner County. The summit rewards with sweeping views of Lake Pend Oreille and, if you’re lucky, a sighting of the resident mountain goats.

Lake Pend Oreille Marinas, Rentals & Tours

Dover Bay Marina and Resort
Located in the heart of the Dover Bay waterfront community, this full-service marina offers seasonal boat moorage, covered slips, a boat launch, 24-hour fuel, dockside power and water, restrooms, showers, and a market. With 274 slips and deep-water access, it’s a convenient base for lake adventures.

Sandpoint Marine & Motorsports
This outfitter in downtown Sandpoint offers a wide range of rentals, from ski boats and pontoon boats to jet skis and kayaks. Options are available by the hour, half-day, or full day, making it easy to tailor your lake time to your schedule.

Action Water Sports
Operating in both Sandpoint and Hope, Action Water Sports rents pontoon and ski boats, jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks. They also offer lake tours and lessons, which can be helpful for beginners or families looking for a guided experience.

A Day on the Lake Rentals
With a full-service rental fleet that includes ski boats, pontoons, Sea-Doos, and vacation homes, A Day on the Lake Rentals provides delivery service and flexible options for families or larger groups looking to explore the lake in comfort.

Go Fish! Charters
This Sandpoint-based outfitter offers hands-on fishing trips on Lake Pend Oreille and the Clark Fork River, targeting multiple species in varied settings. They run custom trips year-round, including sunrise and sunset outings.

Long Drift Outfitters
For fly fishing and float trips on the Kootenai River, Long Drift Outfitters leads guided adventures through a scenic, canyon-carved stretch of river. With limited access by land, the float-only sections provide solitude and the chance for a more remote experience.

Sandpoint Seaplane
Offering scenic flights over Lake Pend Oreille and surrounding mountain ranges, Sandpoint Seaplane gives you a bird’s-eye view of North Idaho. With an experienced pilot and decades of flying time, this unique experience combines adventure with perspective.

Bottle Bay Resort and Marina
Tucked away on a quieter arm of the lake, Bottle Bay Resort offers cabin rentals with a private beach, a marina with public gas, and a boat launch. Their on-site bar and grill provides a relaxing spot to unwind after a day on the water.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Getaway to Lake Pend Oreille and Sandpoint

Whether you’re paddling Sand Creek, diving in at City Beach, or climbing to a high ridge for sweeping lake views, Lake Pend Oreille delivers a North Idaho summer experience that’s as deep and varied as the lake itself. From downtown Sandpoint to the remote shoreline coves and alpine peaks, it’s a place worth exploring on water and on foot. Combine days on the lake with Sandpoint’s vaunted culinary and entertainment opportunities for a weekend or multi-day visit; discover those, plus an array of lodging choices, at VisitSandpoint.com.

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The post Where to Swim, Paddle, Boat, and Hike Around Sandpoint’s Lake Pend Oreille appeared first on Out There Venture.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By Bri Loveall 

Cover photo courtesy of The Great Burn Conservation Alliance

Last spring, my family and I made our first camping trip of the season to the Lolo National Forest. At our campsite, bearberry grew in thick, low-growing clumps. A well-worn deer trail led us to the bank of the Clark Fork River, where thoracic bones, bleached white, lay half-buried and hidden in the sand. In the mornings, before my children could begin their early chants for pancakes and cereal and muffins, I’d find a rock or some other semi-leveled area, and, coffee in hand, just sit. Ice floes the size of hubcaps made the occasional crack, or pop, proof that they were warming, splitting, becoming accustomed to the idea of spring. Although I was only two and a half hours from the city, I felt as far away as I’d ever been.  

The Lolo National Forest made up a sizable portion of the two-day, three-million-acre wildfire known as The Great Fire of 1910 or the Big Burn. (For size comparison, the 2014 Carlton Complex Fire in the northeast Cascades burned 256,108 acres over the course of two months.) The combination of severe drought in 1910 and a series of lightning storms created hundreds of small fires that, when met with hurricane-like winds, turned into the most destructive wildfire the U.S. has ever seen.  

For decades, the fire-ravaged land sat relatively unused. No longer a viable market for timber, it gave the landscape an opportunity to heal on its own without interference from resource extraction or other commercial development. Drawn to that forgotten wilderness, in the summer of 1971 a University of Montana student named Dale Harris bought a school bus and, with friends in tow, completed a three-week backpacking trip into the Great Burn landscape to document and research the place. Harris fell in love with the crystal-clear lakes and open ridgelines of the vast wild area. From his work, The Great Burn Conservation Alliance (GBCA) was born.   

Giving Wildlife the Room to Roam 

If you’ve spent any time recreating around the Lolo, Idaho Panhandle, Clearwater and other Inland Northwest national forests, you may have spent time inside or near the edges of the Big Burn and its 1.9 million acres of largely roadless wildlands. The area is home to a complex ecological network of plant and animal life. Rare and sensitive species like black-beaked woodpeckers, gray wolf, bull trout, Canada Lynx, wolverine, and grizzly bears all make use of the landscape’s alpine lakes and streams, dense high-mountain forests, and open meadows for daily living and movement between habitats.  

Joelle Gallaugher, stewardship coordinator for the GBCA, patrols upward of 700 miles a year (on foot) throughout the vast Great Burn landscape, monitoring trail conditions, campsites, coordinating with the forest service, and leading stewardship trips where crews work together to complete restoration projects. This job, Gallaugher says, requires an ongoing and intimate knowledge of the land. Animals like the Clearwater elk herds require land connectivity for their seasonal movements between different habitats, seeking out the higher mountain regions during summer and lower open meadows in winter. Even plants like the stark-white trilliums and bold, wild hyacinth require pollination and seed dispersal over large undisturbed areas in order to thrive.   

All forms of recreation have impacts on the land, but some have more than others, requiring more diligent management. “I do see a difference in how wildlife moves through the area,” Gallaugher tells me. For instance, mechanized use like snowmobiles, ATVs, and other ORVs can disrupt wildlife movement and native plant communities more than human-powered activities. A perfect example is the Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area, she says. Gallaugher recently surveyed the area, which is not open to motorized use. She and her team found a healthy and diverse ecosystem with no noxious weeds. Across the road, however, a spot open to vehicular use was inundated with spotted knapweed, St. John’s Wort, and other invasive plants.  

The take-home message is that when animal and plant communities have enough room and resources, without too many human-caused impacts, native plants and animals and natural processes can more easily flourish, making those roadless wild areas and the lands that connect them all the more valuable.  

The Connection Between People and Place 

U.S. public lands have seen a huge uptick in the number of recreational visitors since the pandemic, and according to Gallagher, here in the Inland Northwest, the I-90 corridor is especially susceptible to heavy use. Add to that a decrease in forest service staff dedicated to trail and facility maintenance, impact monitoring and law enforcement, and some of the surrounding lands have begun to suffer. 

Melanie Vining, executive director of Idaho Trails Association, echoed these sentiments, saying that in areas as remote and undeveloped as the Great Burn, it doesn’t take very many people to have an impact on the land. “Even when people love the land, they still have an impact on it, whether that’s positive or negative,” Vining says.  

Gallaugher and I discussed how recreating responsibly might look different depending on where you are and what you’re doing, as well as the importance of always doing your best to limit your impacts on the land when out enjoying it, whether you’re backpacking, riding a dirt bike, or driving to a trailhead. With the advocacy and stewardship work that the GBCA provides, as well as several highly recommended hikes the area has to offer, there are many ways to explore and learn to love the proposed Great Burn Wilderness Area.  

Getting Out in the Great Burn  

Gallaugher hopes to see more volunteers getting out into the Great Burn via trail work crews and stewardship trips to prepare the land and trails to handle the ever-increasing number of visitors.  

“Our stewardship trips are a great way to get involved. Activities on these volunteer trips range from trail maintenance, trail clearing, campsite impact monitoring, weed pulling, vegetation monitoring, and wildlife surveys,” she says. Throughout the trip, members of the GBCA act as guides to the land, teaching history, stewardship practices, educating about invasive plants and animals, and talking about responsible recreation.  

“Ecosystems are complex,” Vining says, “but you don’t have to be a scientist in order to learn about them.” Sometimes, it’s about doing good old-fashioned research, or learning about the interconnectedness of the land to fully appreciate and want to protect it. 

There is an important sense of ownership that comes from volunteering out in the wilds. Whether that’s through trail work or restoration projects, take the opportunity to draw a connection between yourself and the wild world around you. It is in knowing and attempting to understand a place that we begin to care for it. 

Bri Loveall is eager to go spring camping in the woods again. She is also planning to attend a GBCA stewardship project this summer.  

Check out the latest news from GBCA here.

The post After the Burn  appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Holly Weiler 

Cover photo courtesy of Holly Weiler

Outdoor enthusiasts know that there is no bad weather, only inappropriate gear and clothing. There is no need to put away the camping supplies just because it’s below freezing and there’s a little snow on the ground! That choice campsite that is impossible to reserve in the summer is most likely wide open for winter, and a willingness to try winter camping leads to opportunities to recreate farther afield at a low cost. 

Gear You’ll Need 

While a four-season tent is a definite upgrade for winter camping, it is also possible to use a three-season tent for all but the most challenging winter conditions. A closed-cell foam sleeping pad helps reflect and retain heat and should be placed on top of an inflatable pad if using both for extra cushion. Check the temperature comfort rating on sleeping bags against forecasted low temperatures, but the temperature rating of a three-season bag can be improved through the use of a silk or fleece bag liner inside the sleeping bag, and with a minimalist bivy over top. If car camping, there’s no reason not to toss in some extra blankets, too! 

Where to Go 

Test your gear system by trying a night in your own backyard or at a nearby campground that’s open year-round. Many campgrounds have reduced rates for winter. Here are a few fun trip ideas: 

• For those who live in Spokane, Riverside State Park’s Bowl and Pitcher campground is a great place to test winter camping gear. A standard campsite is $25 and can be reserved in advance. Hike, snowshoe, or fatbike the trail system right out of camp. Enjoy heated bathrooms and hot showers when you return from the trail. 

• Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area maintains year-round access to Spring Canyon, Fort Spokane, and Kettle Falls campgrounds. Reservations are required, with a winter rate of $11.50. The best recreation opportunities will be a short drive away from each of these sites, although shore fishing (and beach walking) are available from camp.  

• A favorite shoestring-budget ski trip to Mission Ridge includes a night at Wenatchee Confluence State Park. A standard campsite is $25. No reservations needed, seldom full, and Mission Ridge is just 30 minutes away. Nearby Squilchuck State Park is groomed for fat bikes and has a sled hill.  

• Grant County PUD maintains several campgrounds for year-round camping access, with fees ranging from $15-20 for a standard campsite. Campgrounds are located close to the Columbia River at Sand Hollow, Rocky Coulee, Priest Rapids, and Jackson Creek Fish Camp. Fish from shore or check out nearby trail systems. 

• Steamboat Rock State Park offers standard campsites at $20, with hiking available right out of camp or at nearby Northrup Canyon. 

• Many (but not all) SnoPark locations on National Forest land allow overnight parking and camping, making for great Nordic and backcountry ski or snowshoe outings. Check regulations for your favorite SnoPark location before you go. A popular spot is Sherman Pass on Highway 20, which you will need a SnoPark permit to camp at.  

Holly Weiler is the WTA Eastern Washington Regional Coordinator and “The Trailhead” columnist for Out There.  

The post Where to Go Winter Camping Around the Inland Northwest  appeared first on Out There Venture.