One of the most serene and satisfying late winter or early spring exploits is a soothing soak in one of the dozens of hike-in hot springs dotting our region within a few hours’ drive. One of the most delightful ways to reach them, and at times the only way come early spring, is on snowshoes. 

Natural hot springs, in addition to being hot, which can itself be soothing since warm water immersion induces endorphin production, can also contain chemicals known to promote feelings of serenity and contentment, like lithium, magnesium, and sulfur. A hot soak paired with some moderate exertion required to access it, may elicit a dopamine response equivalent to hang gliding in the Alps. I can’t say personally, but it may. I can say that it will require a tiny fraction of the gear and training. 

Once prepared, where can you find these geothermal gems, and what kind of hiking or snowshoeing adventures may await you en route? Below are a few hikes to get you started. The Pacific Northwest is replete with soaking options, each offering a unique and wondrously relaxing experience. Remember, conditions change rapidly, so always consult recent trail reports and check the weather before heading out. 

Gearing Up  

Depending on the snow conditions and rules at the hot spring, you may need little more (or a little less) than a bathing suit to soak and some snowshoes, hiking boots (with or without the addition of traction devices like Yaktrax), and possibly some trekking poles to get you there. Snowshoes are the footwear of choice in fresh powder and soft or unconsolidated snow, and are the savior of trips when post-holing for miles might prevent you from reaching your destination comfortably, or at all, in limited spring-month light.  

Snowshoes are relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to master, the primary concern being maintaining a wide stepping stance so you don’t trip on your own feet. This feels unnatural at first, but after a few falls you’ll channel your inner zombie and widen your base to achieve a kind of rigid, awkward, lilting stability. To maximize enjoyment, select the correct size snowshoe for your weight. If you’re sure no snow awaits you on your path, boots shold suffice. Other recommended gear include a backpack with a towel, dry clothing, plenty of water (soaking, though the opposite of physical exertion, can dehydrate you through imperceptible heavy sweating), snacks, first aid kit, trekking poles for balance, and a headlamp in case you end up racing sundown. It’s easy to lose track of time during a meditative soak, so make sure you leave enough daylight to return to your car or campsite safely. 

Choosing a Route 

It’s important to pay close attention to the route you plan to take, and understand some of the important factors you should consider in choosing a hot spring suitable for late winter or early spring adventure. Obtain a guidebook, like Falcon Guide’s “Hiking Hot Springs in the Pacific Northwest” by Evie Litton and Sally Jackson, and peruse recent trail reports online before attempting any hike.  

While considering any of the routes to a hot spring, especially if you plan to be on snowshoes, you may want to avoid river crossings, which could make the remaining miles to the hot spring or your return trip more uncomfortable. Frostbite is much more likely when your extremities are wet. Also generally avoid routes with ropes, ladders or steep rock descents, as the plentiful water vapor surrounding springs can condense and ice build up on them, making these features unduly treacherous. Nothing wrecks a peaceful soak quite like a fall on the way to it, and your fellow soakers don’t want blood in the water.  

Routes to many of the popular hot springs, like those off Highway 12 near Missoula, Jerry Johnson, Weir, and Stanley, may be heavily trodden and icy, so bring traction cleats and watch for off-camber turns. Certain routes may have very steep pitches or drop-offs that may be hidden under fresh snow. The best routes may be those with which you have familiarized yourself in the less formidable seasons. As with any shoulder season outdoor endeavor, be aware of the weather forecast, especially regarding snowfall, temperature, approaching storms, and wind chill, all of which may be indicators of enjoyability and risk.  

Respecting Early Spring Weather 

Bluebird days can be deceptive. Crisp air and brilliant sunshine may lull you into a false sense of security, but remember, late winter and spring weather in the mountains can shift swiftly and prove unforgiving. Always pack extra layers and dry clothing, even if the forecast looks promising. A sudden change in wind or temperature can turn a pleasant outing into a survival situation. Hypothermia is a real threat, especially when combined with the dehydrating effects of a hot spring soak. 

While hot springs offer relaxation and rejuvenation, they are also natural environments with inherent risks. Always be aware of your surroundings, and respect the power and preeminence of nature. Carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it. Let someone know your plans and expected return time. Most importantly, use common sense. If a situation feels unsafe, don’t hesitate to turn back. Mountains and their medicinal hot water will be there another day. 

Take the time to appreciate the beauty of the serene landscape. The quiet solitude of the forest, accented only by the crunch of snow or grind of trail beneath your feet, the crisp, clean air—these are all part of the magic of a shoulder season hot spring adventure. Keep an eye out for wildlife. You are likely to be serenaded by songbirds, and you might spot deer, elk, coyotes, or even a snowshoe hare. 

Classic NW Soaks 

Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon: Nestled in the Umpqua National Forest, these springs offer a classic hot spring experience. The moderate 4-mile roundtrip hike is generally manageable for snowshoers with some experience. The trail winds through a beautiful forest, and the reward is a series of cascading pools of varying temperatures. Be aware that Umpqua can get crowded, especially on weekends, so arrive early to secure a spot. The Forest Service maintains the trail, but it’s always wise to check the website for current conditions and any closures. 

Breitenbush Hot Springs, Oregon: This clothing-optional retreat requires reservations and offers a rustic, communal experience. Access in winter or early spring typically involves a snowshoe hike of varying length depending on the snowpack and chosen route. The soaking pools are nestled in a beautiful forest setting, and the lack of clothing (if you choose) adds a certain liberating element to the experience. Be sure to check their website for reservation availability and access information. 

Goldbug Hot Springs, Idaho: This one is for the more audacious snowshoer or hiker. The trek to Goldbug is longer than some and can be more challenging, especially in deep snow. To those willing to put in extra effort, the reward is commensurate. These natural hot springs are perched on a hillside overlooking the Salmon River, offering breathtaking views. Multiple pools are tiered down the hillside, each with its own unique temperature and character, affording unusual privacy in this popular soaking spot. Be prepared for a strenuous hike and potentially icy conditions, so traction cleats should be packed with or without snowshoes. 

Scenic Hot Springs, Washington: As the name suggests, this soak offers stunning views and a truly tranquil experience. Access is via a private trail, and reservations are absolutely essential. The hike is relatively short, but can be steep in places. The hot springs themselves are nestled in a secluded grotto, creating a magical and intimate atmosphere. Because of the limited reservation-only access, Scenic Hot Springs offers a less crowded experience than some of the more popular options. Space is limited to 12 soakers and can be booked months in advance. It’s well worth any wait! 

Baker Hot Springs, Washington: For those seeking a shorter and less strenuous adventure, Baker Hot Springs is a great option. The hike to the springs is relatively short and easy, making it suitable for families and those new to snowshoeing. The springs themselves are rustic and undeveloped, offering a more natural and primitive experience. Be aware that this area can be popular with backcountry skiers, so be mindful of their presence and yield accordingly. 

Clear Creek Hot Springs, Oregon: Located near the town of Estacada, Clear Creek Hot Springs is another relatively easy-to-access option. The hike is short and the terrain is gentle, making it a good choice for beginners. The springs are located along the Clackamas River, offering a picturesque setting. Be sure to check with the Forest Service regarding access and any potential closures. 

Embrace winter, strap on your boots or snowshoes, and embark on a steamy journey to one of the Pacific Northwest’s amazing natural hot springs. There is no more perfect time than the often-inclement spring months to experience the soothing warmth of a natural hot spring with a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Your body will thank you for getting off the couch, no matter how good the book.  

Justin Skay tends toward mild reclusiveness and hot beverages in the snowy months, but can be found atop two wheels on his beloved fatbike Deebo when the snow is just right. 

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When most of us think of fishing, we think of warm summer evenings with low wind and the promise of a beer next to a campfire after the sun sinks below the peaks. Once the snow begins to fall, most folks put away the rod and reel, but, with the right amount of patience and a little bit of luck, a determined fisherman can catch a variety of species in the winter months.

Winter fishing can be a fickle beast. From frozen rod guides to leaky waders, there is a laundry list of reasons to stay inside and drink hot toddies. But, for the brave few who are willing to withstand the punishment, the payoffs can be plentiful.

Generally speaking, all of the species of fish that we chase in the summer can also be caught in the winter. Bass, pike, trout and even pan fish are on the menu for an unfettered few. The trick is getting them to bite. When the water gets cold, fish school up in deeper water in lakes and large, deep pools in rivers to conserve energy.

In the winter, fish do everything they can to expend as few resources as possible to feed, so on rivers and streams the presentation of your fly or lure needs to be slow and deliberate. Search for deeper pockets of slow-moving water where the fish can hold up without having to fight currents. You will want to size down your lures and flies, as the fish will be more inclined to strike a small, easy meal. Slowly moving your hook across their face can take time and patience, so don’t let mother nature send you home early. The advantage of winter fishing is that you will have virtually no competition for good spots, and the fish are congregated in the pools and eddies, so take your time and be persistent.

There’s nothing worse than being wet and cold, so make sure you are prepared for all types of weather. Warm clothes and good footwear are essential. While you can fish from the bank without waders, it may make sense to wear them anyway. They will keep you dry and work well as an outer layer to help keep you warm.

If you decide to give winter river fishing a shot this year, there are several places along the lower North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene river that will likely hold some fish. Sections around Albert’s Landing and Freeman’s Eddy are always worth a try. And don’t be afraid to try some of your other favorite summer spots.    

Where to Go

While winter weather conditions will dictate whether these local lakes and rivers are ice-free or not, these spots were recommended by fish biologist from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife as the best spots to give winter fishing (not ice fishing) a go.

Big local lakes such as Lake Roosevelt and Lake Spokane are great areas to try, as well as Rock Lake, which is a popular winter fishery. Smaller lakes that may accrue ice but remain open for fishing in winter include Sprague Lake, Curlew, Fourth of July, Bead, Hog Canyon, Newman, Silver, Jumpoff Joe, Waitts and Williams lakes.

Winter fishing includes the lesser-known season for lake whitefish, which can be found on the Little Spokane River from highway 291 upstream to Chain Lake, as well as on the Kettle River and Moses Lake. The daily catch limit is 15 fish of any size, and whitefish gear rules apply: one, single-point hook, maximum size 3/16-inch point to shank, hook size 14. Scan the QR code for additional local species info and a month-by-month graph of catch success rates.

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Plan Your Week

Decision fatigue is real. Creating some weekly rhythms can eliminate some of it. You could decide ahead of time which days are for longer, faster, or hillier runs and which are for easier paces and flatter routes.

Or preplan your routes: for me that might mean Mondays I run southeast of home, Wednesdays I run southwest, Fridays I head north, and Saturdays are a long run free-for-all. Or assign days to cover a mix of terrain, with road workouts, trail runs, and track workouts.

Lay It Out

If you’re a morning runner, lay out your clothes, keys, reflective gear, pre-run snack and beverage the night before. Decide in advance what you’re going to listen to if you like to run with music/podcasts/audiobooks. Your future self will thank you.

Create a Post-Run Ritual

Last year, I decided that no matter how I’m feeling, I will always do the same yoga-based stretches after every run. I no longer put this off, mull over skipping it, or actually skip it—I just plop down and start stretching.

It’s weirdly gratifying to no longer be debating this same tiny question (“Should I do my stretches today?”) I took my short flow from Instagram’s @runnersloveyoga.

Streamline Your Fuel

Sometimes, figuring out what to eat and drink just seems to me like . . . a lot of work. If you find yourself similarly wandering around hungry, thirsty, and cranky after your workouts, decide on a go-to post-run snack or meal and stick with it.

Treat Yo Self

To motivate myself to hydrate better, I stock up on bottles of my favorite flavor of kombucha and drink one in the afternoon every day that I run. I always drink water as well, but the kombucha is a) tasty, b) hydrating, and c) something I always look forward to. Win-win-win.

On long run days, I walk down the street to my neighborhood coffee shop afterward to pick up a large mocha. The promise of caffeine, coffee, and chocolate is motivating, and my body thanks me, too.

Support Yourself From the Bottom Up

Simple swaps can make life way more comfortable. One thing making my running life better is wearing better footwear when I’m not running. When I’m at home, I’ve switched from wearing slippers to pairing my favorite socks (Merino Wool Bombas!) with lightweight, super-supportive foam Birkenstocks. My joints and entire self feel so good from this switch. ‘Stocks ‘n’ socks for life!

Make It Entertaining

Find something new to listen to. Lately, I’ve been getting most of my nonfiction reading in the form of audiobooks checked out from the Spokane City Library’s Libby app. (A few top recommendations: Caste by Isabel Wilkerson, What Happened to You by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry, Think Again by Adam Grant, and Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner.)

Whether it’s favorite music, a binge-worthy podcast, or a book you’re midway through, it helps to know you’ve got something good in the queue.

Go Minimal

Mix things up by going low-tech—leave your running watch and phone at home and run by feel. Pay more attention to the scenery, listen to the rhythm of your feet, and enjoy running in its simplest form.

Originally published as “Small Tweaks For A Better Running Life” in the March-April 2022 print issue.

Sarah Hauge is a writer and editor who lives in Spokane with her husband and two children. She writes the Run Wild column for each issue of Out There.

Find more Run Wild column tips and advice and running articles in the OTO archives.

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• Snowshoes vary widely in traction level, flotation, and price point. MSR mountaineering snowshoes are recommended for strenuous snowshoe trips in difficult terrain as is found at Oregon Butte. Lightweight introductory snowshoes like those sold at Costco can be fine for mellow terrain.
• Bring the “10 essentials” on every hike, especially during the winter months when the sun goes down early and temperatures can be frigid. Add the following items to a daypack for every adventure: navigation equipment (including paper maps), headlamp, sun protection (sun reflection on snow can lead to serious sunburns and eye injury), first aid kit, knife and an emergency gear repair kit, emergency fire starter, emergency shelter, extra food, extra water, and extra clothing layers.
• Footwear should be waterproof and breathable and insulated for winter trips. Clothing should be layered to allow for easy adjustments. Avoid cotton, as it holds moisture.
• It is very helpful to use both gaiters (to keep snow out of one’s boots) and trekking poles while snowshoeing.

Find more outdoor recreation gear ideas and product reviews in the Gear Room department.

The post Recommended Snowshoeing Gear appeared first on Out There Venture.

• Snowshoes vary widely in traction level, flotation, and price point. MSR mountaineering snowshoes are recommended for strenuous snowshoe trips in difficult terrain as is found at Oregon Butte. Lightweight introductory snowshoes like those sold at Costco can be fine for mellow terrain.
• Bring the “10 essentials” on every hike, especially during the winter months when the sun goes down early and temperatures can be frigid. Add the following items to a daypack for every adventure: navigation equipment (including paper maps), headlamp, sun protection (sun reflection on snow can lead to serious sunburns and eye injury), first aid kit, knife and an emergency gear repair kit, emergency fire starter, emergency shelter, extra food, extra water, and extra clothing layers.
• Footwear should be waterproof and breathable and insulated for winter trips. Clothing should be layered to allow for easy adjustments. Avoid cotton, as it holds moisture.
• It is very helpful to use both gaiters (to keep snow out of one’s boots) and trekking poles while snowshoeing.

[Feature photo courtesy Fernie Alpine Resort.]

Find more articles about snowshoeing in the OTO archives.

The post Recommended Snowshoeing Gear appeared first on Out There Venture.

Big & Little Genny Portable Emergency Power Generators

These portable, rechargeable battery-powered generators help you keep your electrical devices running at home or work when the power goes out or at camp when there’s no electrical outlet to be had. Plug the generator into a standard AC electrical outlet for charging or charge from a solar or wind power source. When you’re off-grid, you can also charge the generator with the solar panel that comes with it.

These Simpliphi generator kits are silent, non-toxic, cobalt-free, and are sealed and weather-resistant. The Big Genny is larger, but both generators will fit under a desk or table or in a car, RV, or tent. Mounted with heavy-duty wheels and a collapsible handle, you can easily haul them around where you need them.

Each generator includes a 5-volt USB port for cell phones and tablets, as well as outlets to charge laptops, fans, lights, small appliances, and more.

Big Genny MSRP: $2,998. Little Genny MSRP: $1,489. Available locally from Spokane’s Eco Depot. Email bruce@ecodepotinc.com or call 509-216-4472 with purchase inquiries.

Bedrock Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals

There’s a reason why most of the river guides we ran into rafting the Lower Salmon River this summer were wearing sandals from Missoula, Montana-based Bedrock Sandals.

Bedrock’s industry-leading designs and thorough field testing have produced a light, flexible sandal that is equally at home in the mountains, on river, or at the beach. The sculpted footbed and Vibram traction have unbeatable grip with the feel of a minimalist running shoe, and with three points of adjustment, ensuring a tight fit and making adjustments when needed takes seconds.

The one thing about the Bedrock design that I was concerned about is the two thin pieces of cord that make up the toe thong. I’ve never liked the feel of a toe thong or the rubbing that usually occurs. Yet, after several months of wearing my Cairn 3Ds, I barely notice the strips of cord between my two toes and have had no rubbing issues.

Bedrocks are by far the best adventure sandals I’ve ever worn.

MSRP: $115. Available at Hyperspud Sports in Moscow, Idaho, or online at Bedrocksandals.com.

Dakota Grizzly Bowie Shirt

The softest button-up shirt in my closet for sure; it feels like you’re wearing a giant, fluffy kitten. The plush, double-brushed, Artic fleece made by Dakota Grizzly is stretchy, lightweight, and quick drying.

The Bowie features antique buttons and chambray and microsuede trim to class things up a bit. A warm, comfortable, and stylish choice for a fall and winter shirt that you can wear anywhere.

MSRP: $74. Dakotagrizzly.com

PCH Hoodie from California Cowboy

Nothing beats a full-zip hoodie when the weather turns colder, and this one from California Cowboy has a weight and warmth to it that reminds you you’re wearing something substantial. It’s made with rugged French Terry fabric and features a double-layered, voluminous hood.

And then there are the many fun features that truly set this hoodie apart: an over-engineered, secure bottle pocket holder; a zip-dry pocket for phones and other dry goods; a bottle opener pocket; kangaroo pockets; a hidden pen pocket; a loop for hanging your sunglasses; and California-inspired style. It’s not just a hoodie; it’s a party.

MSRP: $148. Californiacowboy.com

Sea to Summit Stretch-Loc Straps

Similar to the traditional Voile-style ski and bike straps, these new Stretch-Loc Straps made by Sea To Summit have added function with the unique keeper straps that allow you to secure strap ends so they don’t flap about wildly. The strap ends also have ridges to make gripping and tightening with wet or gloved hands easier.

With so many applications, from skiing and biking to bikepacking and camping, they make a great stocking stuffer. Stretch-Loc Straps come in varying lengths and thickness for different applications.

MSRP: $8.95 – $15.95. Seatosummitusa.com

Voited Soul Slipper

I’ve been wearing these toasty, comfortable slippers back and forth from the yard and house since the temps cooled this fall and absolutely love them. Made by Voited, these slippers are lightweight, fleece-lined for warmth, water repellent, and made from recycled fabric.

The memory foam footbed explains why they are so incredibly comfortable, and the hand-stitched rubber soles provide the grip you want for moving back and forth from indoor and outdoor use. Perfect at home, at the ski hut, in your van or RV, or any laid-back office setting.

MSRP: $49.90. Voited.com.

California Cowboy Olympic Valley Plaid Flannel

The print choices for California Cowboy’s High Sierra flannels are awesome, but the new Olympic Valley Plaid is my favorite as it reminds me of a long-lost grunge-era flannel I had in high school. This shirt is the first-ever to be designed specifically as après-ski apparel.

It features luxury Portuguese cotton, a warm thermal lining, pockets for an adult beverage, a bottle opener, and a lined and zippered pocket to keep your phone dry. New features include a reinforced bottle pocket lining and a hidden seltzer pocket for slimmer drinks. Comes with a bottle opener and a beer koozie too.

MSRP $148. Californiacowboy.com

Jack Wolfskin Tasman Jacket

This jacket made by Jack Wolfskin is made for high-cardio activities in cold weather. The arms and back are made from stretchy, breathable synthetic insulation to help regulate your body temperature and wick away sweat, while the front chest area is stuffed with wind-proof, 700-fill down insulation.

And a down-insulated hood keeps your head and ears warm when needed. Ideal for backcountry skiing, winter running and biking, and cross-country skiing.

MSRP: $179.95. Us.jackwolfskin.com

Tentstile Connect Tree Tent

Other than being a cool way to camp—suspended off the ground in the trees in something much like a big, weather-proof hammock—there are some practical reasons why you might want to consider a tree tent like the Tentstile Connect.

First, there’s the critter consideration. I was once kept awake half the night by racoons trying to get in my tent. Rattlesnakes slithering about at night are another concern in some places. And then there are the spiders and creepy-crawlies that come out at night.

Second, with the best campsites at many destinations often taken these days, the Tentstile Connect gives you more options to pitch your tent above what may be rocky or un-even ground where terrestrial tents can’t be pitched, opening up a whole new world of campsites.

Once attached to three, sturdy trees with the ratchet straps, the 2-person, 4-season Connect sets up in around 10 minutes (longer your first few times) and has plenty of space for two adults and their gear (52 square feet). Features include underfloor mesh storage for packs and gear, an interior mesh pouch, and a removable three-tier pocketed dividing screen that provides storage and separation between two sleepers.

The bug-netting roof allows for stargazing without the bugs, and the rainfly is there when you need it. A super fun way to camp and a cool, bug-free hangout spot for kids or anyone else on lazy days in camp.

MSRP: $549. Tentsile.com

Gregory Border Carry-on

A huge upgrade from my old, technical travel pack, the innovative Gregory Border Carry-on is loaded with travel-wise features. At 40 liters, there’s plenty of room to stow your carry-on essentials or even one minimalist vagabond’s entire trip packing list.

The split-case design keeps your things organized and includes a main compartment that opens all the way flat with two zippered, mesh pockets and a separate zippered compartment inside. There’s also a compartment for dirty clothes (that opens on both ends) that is treated to inhibit bacteria growth and odors.

The Border Carry-on includes a stowable, mesh water bottle holder and zippered, padded laptop compartment, as well as two more external zipped compartments, the large one featuring another mesh pocket inside.

Finally, the tuck-away shoulder straps and hip belt allow it to be stored neatly overhead or under the seat of a plane, train, or chicken bus.

MSRP: $169.95. Gregorypacks.com

PackStack Backpack Organizer

A tough, light, and waterproof packing system that has an interior mesh pocket, top handle for easy carrying, and zippered main compartment with 11.1-liter capacity for keeping your backpacking or travel items organized and protected.

The PackStack comes in two sizes, fits the shape of most backpacks, and is made of weatherproof CORDURA ripstop fabric.

MSRP: $18. Hillsound.com

Outdoor Research Shadow Insulated Hoodie

Soft, stretchy, warm, and made with eco-conscious materials, this synthetic, insulated winter hoodie is a packable layer for backcountry adventures or a great stand-alone jacket choice for less frigid winter days.

Built with Outdoor Research‘s proprietary new VerticalX ECO SR, the insulation does its job well in cold, damp conditions. The hood is insulated and adjustable. An elastic drawcord hem and elastic cuffs with thumb loops keep the jacket moving with you as you ski, hike, run, or ride.

MSRP: $199. Outdoorresearch.com

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The company notes that many modern athletic shoes change foot movement that over time can contribute to weakening the structure of the arches, toes, and ankles. Minimalist footwear like KINIS can make feet more durable and injury resistant.

MSRP: $65. Kinis.com

For more reviews and recommendations, visit our Gear Room archives.

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If you answered yes to the first two questions and one or more of the following ones, then this winter, when we may be cooped up more than normal, might be the perfect time to get them started on the slopes. If it doesn’t feel like the right time or the financial stars aren’t aligning this winter, getting your child outside to play in the cold and snow as much as possible is a great backup plan. Playing outdoors in the winter will get kids accustomed to having fun in cold, wet conditions and prepared for learning to ski or snowboard next season. Here are a few ideas for having outdoor winter fun.

1. Play in the Snow.

The best way to help distract kids from cold and wet weather is to play with them in it. Have a snowball fight, build a fort or igloo, make a snowman or snow angels, make your own sledding hill out of piled up snow, visit a local sledding hill, or hunt for wildlife tracks in a local park or natural area.

2. Go Snowshoeing.

Hiking in the snow on plastic snowshoes (available in kids and adult sizes at REI and adult sizes for rent at Rambleraven Gear Trader in Spokane) doesn’t require a lift ticket and is easy for just about anyone to learn. Snowshoeing can get the whole family enjoying winter outside together at a minimal cost and is a great start for a family looking to eventually get into alpine skiing and snowboarding.

3. Go Tubing.

Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park, Silver Mountain Resort, and Schweitzer Mountain Resort all have tubing hills where tubes and a pull back to the top are included with a ticket. The great thing about tubing at a resort is that kids also get to experience the mountain environment and watch people skiing, snowboarding, and riding chairlifts. Bear Creek Lodge on the way up to Mt. Spokane also offers tubing.

WINTER 2020/21: Due to COVID public health precautions, some tubing hills may not be operating; be sure to check business websites. Mt. Spokane’s tubing hill is not open this year. At Silver Mountain, reservations are strongly recommended for Snow Tubing and Silver’s Mountain House has limited occupancy. Schweitzer’s Hermit’s Hollow Tubing Center opens on Dec. 20, 2020; reservations required. Minimum height and footwear requirements for most tubing hills.

When there is snow in town, visit a local public park or field known for its tubing hills. Learn more here and here.

4. Try Cross-country Skiing.

With simple cross-country ski gear that you can pick up new or used from many shops around the Inland Northwest, including Rambleraven Gear Trader and Fitness Fanatics in Spokane, or rent from shops like REI, a family can get great exercise and have quality time outdoors. It’s also a great way to introduce kids to sliding on boards strapped to their feet.

5. Backcountry Skiing for Kids

If you are concerned about taking your child up to the resorts on busy weekends during the pandemic, consider buying a pair of Balla Hok skis from Curlew, Wash.-based Altai Skis (Altaiskis.com). These ski/snowshoe hybrids for kids have a climbing skin embedded into the bottom of the skis. You can get them with universal, free-heel bindings that work with normal winter boots. Throw in some ski poles and assuming you have your own backcountry gear or a pair of adult Hoks, you and your child can explore safe, mellow slopes well away from any avalanche danger in a local park, resort sidecountry, or snowy forest road or rolling hills.

Originally published as “Playing In the Snow” in the Family Winter Sports Guide special section in the Nov.-Dec. 2020 issue.

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Thankfully, three local small businesses, in the Spokane area, that specialize in used gear have a mountain of snow sports gear available. These shops are like mini de facto ski-swaps—but that depends, of course, on people bringing in their used gear.  

Rambleraven Gear Trader 

Located on Spokane’s Division Street hill, Rambleraven Gear Trader (formerly known as NW Outdoors) has options for consigning, selling, and trading in used gear, as long as items are clean and functional. Consignment value is assessed right away. For trade-in gear, Rambleraven owner Mark Schneider determines an item’s value based on quality, condition, age, and product demand. All used footwear is disinfected before being placed on display. 

Now available is a “full line of new and used alpine and cross-country skis, snowboards, and snowshoes,” says Schneider, as well as new winter accessories like hats, gloves, socks, and buffs. There are also used accessories, except socks. “Youth winter clothing and gear is always in high demand,” he says. (Bring in your gear, families!) The shop’s website, Rambleraven.com, has a full catalog of current inventory that’s updated in real time. 

Sports Creel 

With a large following of loyal customers, Sports Creel, located next to The Bike Hub in Spokane Valley, is known as the place to go for downhill ski gear—the shop’s sole winter focus.  

Busy since August, store manager Micah Genteman says, “What’s happening right with the snow skis sales industry is a carry over from what happened with spring and summer gear. We have a busier shop right now than we’ve had in past seasons during November. The lack of ski swaps has people coming in earlier with a purpose in mind.” 

Don’t wait until ski season starts to dial-in your gear needs, he advises. Sports Creel’s all-ages trade-in/trade-up program is popular, especially for youth gear. Anyone can bring in their clean, functional old skis, for example, and the trade-in value is applied to the purchase of brand-new or used skis. That trade-in credit can only be applied to the same gear type—boots for boots or skis for skis.  

Sports Creel’s COVID-19 safety protocols include “disinfection systems for used boots and helmets, for trade-in, and after being tried on,” says Genteman. “We have invested in an automated, robot ski tuning-system—no technicians have to touch it.” And the shop’s 3D scanner ski boot-fitting system is mostly a “non-touch system,” he says. 

In anticipation for busy days when Sports Creel is at indoor capacity, staff is devising a system so people don’t have to wait outside in the cold. “Since it’s a fluid situation, we’re doing our best to keep ourselves and customers safe,” Genteman says. 

Play It Again Sports 

Located in the Five Mile Shopping Center off West Francis Avenue in north Spokane, Play It Again Sports sells new and used ski and snowboard gear and buys used gear from customers. “We pay cash on the spot, or trade in for store credit,” says store owner Jared Fields. Ski and snowboard gear rentals for all ages are available on a daily or seasonal basis, while supplies last. “In anticipation of La Niña we have ordered double our normal inventory in skis and snowboards,” says Fields. 

An experienced ski swap shopper and deal finder, Amy McCaffree downhill skis with her husband and their two children. She writes the Out There Kids column and contributes to the annual Family Winter Sports Guide special section.

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The genius of the Dispersion Jacket isn’t a laundry list of superfluous features, but in the simple construction that combines hard and soft shell fabric in all the right places to make a superb, light-weight ski touring jacket that won’t let you down when the weather turns.With the mix of GORE-TEX fabric in the most expose dare as and EXOLITE 125 soft shell fabric on the back and underarms,this jacket keeps you dry and protected from wind where you need it while letting your less exposed and sweat-producing regions breathe. The hood is fully adjustable and stows into the collar, stretchy, pre-shaped sleeves reduce bulk, there are two large mesh-lined zippered chest pockets, and dual tether hem draw cords.I did my best to sweat out my Dispersion on a cold pre-season ski-touring training hike sans skis and was as impressed with the jackets breathability out in the mountains as I was reading the specs and looking it over out of the box. MSRP: $295. Mountain-equipment.com

Saola Niseko Eco-friendly Sneaker Boots

The Neseko mid-boots made by Saola from recycled and sustainable materials area unique find,so it’s fitting the company is named after one of the most rare animals in the world—the saola, a forest-dwelling bovine first discovered in Vietnam in 1992. I picked up a pair of Saolas this fall (the Niseko shoes, not the deer) mostly because of the company’s effort to prioritize the plane tin the construction of their stylish, comfortable outdoor lifestyle boot/shoe hybrid footwear. The Niseko and Baikal (men) and Tahoe (women) are made with recycled PET uppers, algae foam outsoles, natural cork insoles, and organic cotton laces, making them some of the most eco-friendly shoes on the market. Available at REI. MSRP:$89.93. Saolashoes.com

Mountain Equipment Kaniq 33 Pack

he Kaniq 33 is designed with ski mountaineering in mind, although weekend-warrior backcountry skiers who enjoy long days in the mountains or even several day hut tours will absolutely love this incredibly lightweight, durable,and water-proof pack. Like many other backcountry ski packs, the Kaniq 33 features quick access to shovel and probe (via a Velcro-secured stash pack) and the ability to carry skis and poles vertically or diagonally across the pack. But the real beauty of this pack is its tight and simple design and seemingly tough yet incredibly light-weight materials. Other smart features include an interior zipped pocket inside the lid; internal roll-top closure to keep main compartment contents dry;compression straps for carrying skis; and high density EVA back panel and shoulder straps and 40mm webbing hip belt for support when loaded. Depending on what removable components you use, the pack may weigh in less than your ski touring grub bag at 22-33oz. MSRP: $265. Mountain-equipment.com

Maloja ArdurM. Multi-Sport Jacket

Do you every feel a little too much like Mr. Rogers with the frequency you sit down to change your footwear and jackets for different winter and shoulder season outdoor activities? The ArdurM. multi-sport jacket from Maloja helps out on that front. This highly-breathable softshell jacket with just enough insulation, a wind-blocking front, and water-repellent finish will serve you well on after-dark runs, slushy trips to the grocery store, fat bike rides, and hikes. And when a chillsets in, you’ll be glad the hoot fits over your bike helmet. MSRP: $199. Malojaclothing.com

Maloja SamadenM. Biking Pants

Riding in the fall, winter, and early spring can be a lot more fun with the right gear. The SamadenM. biking pants from Maloja are a comfortable, stretchy polyester pant that moves with your pedaling legs, blocks wind, repels water, and breathes like a boss with two deep thigh vents. The easily adjustable waistband means making more room for extra layers or holiday girth is a breeze. With pants like these, there’s no reason to put the bike away,ever. MSRP: $219. Malojaclothing.com

Originally published in the December 2019 issue entitled as “Favorite Winter Gear Gifts.”

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