When you discover something really fun, there’s potential of going overboard. In just over a year, I’ve done three backpacking trips to northeast Oregon’s Eagle Cap Wilderness. Man overboard!

For years I had wanted to backpack the Eagle Cap Wilderness in the Wallowa Mountains. I almost always go solo and thought its remoteness meant few visitors. Should I run into trouble, I’d be on my own.

Overcoming my timidity with a five-day visit in August 2020, I encountered plenty of backpackers, many from the west side of Oregon and Washington. Curious why they’d drive past the Cascades to come here, the answer was simply the beauty. More than once I was told Eagle Cap is more beautiful than the famous Enchantments in Washington’s Cascades.

A four-hour drive from Spokane and the largest wilderness area in Oregon, visitation has increased from 30,000 in 2010 to 80,000 in 2020. There’s still no entrance restrictions, though—just fill out a free, self-issued permit at the trailhead. But the increased use means visitors need to be more diligent than ever at following Leave No Trace practices.

Backpacking the Wallowas’ Two Highest Peaks

I was ready to tackle the two highest points in the wilderness, Sacajawea Peak and Matterhorn, by my second visit. I did a steep climb into a high-elevation valley and pitched my tent at 7,770 feet. Despite the increase in hikers and backpackers in the Wallowas in recent years, I was the only person in the valley that night.

At camp, I set a store-bought hummus wrap on the ground while setting up. When I reached for it several minutes later, hundreds of tiny ants had infiltrated the package and were swarming the wrap. Wondering if it was salvageable and amazed a huge swarm of ants had so quickly found my wrap, I dumped most out. Though some ants were still coming from inside it, I sealed and returned it to my backpack.

I arose next morning seemingly before sunrise. However, I was surrounded by steep mountains, and the sun wouldn’t clear them for some time. I boiled water and added instant ramen. Then more boiled water for the requisite cup of coffee.

By midmorning and 2,000 feet of elevation gain, I reached the summit of Sacajawea Peak at 9,838 feet, the highest point in the Wallowa Mountains. It’s only 1.5 miles of additional ridgeline hiking to Matterhorn; however, it’s a class 3 scramble, and climbing experience is recommended. I’m strictly a hiker, and trekking poles are the closest I have to climbing equipment.

The worst part was immediately ahead—several gendarmes, or ridgeline pinnacles or rock. Some I skirted at the base. Others required finding a climbable route over.

Reaching the subsidiary peak between Sacajawea and Matterhorn, I found two young women snacking. Forest Service employees whose jobs are at a much lower elevation, they spent the night near the summit of Sacajawea. I’d seen them up ahead, going the same direction as me, carrying all their equipment.

The rest of the way was less stressful with a couple interesting sights—a cave that goes straight down and mountain goats. At the summit I admired the views while eating my ant and hummus wrap. I can attest a hummus wrap tastes good even with ants inside.

Matterhorn is 5,000 feet lower and doesn’t resemble the original in Europe at all, but it’s dramatic and beautiful nonetheless. It looks more like Half Dome in Yosemite.

I looped back by hiking the Hurwal Divide, lingering at the high point (9,776 feet). Descending in a hurry seems a waste when I spend so much effort coming up. Also, it’s tough to walk away from a fabulous view.

I finally forced myself to descend and reached my campsite by walking the entire valley again. I’d be the only person in it for a second night.

Lakes Basin and A Guy Who Bikes to Backpack

In the morning I headed to the Lakes Basin to establish a base camp and do day hikes. I hiked up and spent an indulgent hour and a half at the summit of the wilderness’ namesake, Eagle Cap (9,572 feet).

I chatted briefly with several summiteers, except one guy named Bill from Dallas, Texas. When I remarked he’d driven a long way, he corrected me—he came by bicycle.

I use my car as little as possible and prioritize personal time for things I enjoy, but Bill has taken the minimalist approach to living to the next level. Before coming here, he backpacked 400 miles of the Idaho Centennial Trail, ending at Upper Priest Lake. I wondered how he gets back to his bike.

Bill spends six months a year installing phone systems and the other six bicycling the country to hike and backpack. He’s been doing this for 32 years. For his four-day backpacking trip, he chained his bike to a tree near the trailhead.

For one-way, multiday hikes, he asks a local bike shop if they’ll hold it or give names of bike enthusiasts who will. To get back to his bike, he hitchhikes. While hiking down together, I wondered how many other people in the country are out there doing what Bill does.

The Hike Out and Back Again

My six-day stay ended with a 12-mile hike out. I thought my backpacking season was over, but good weather at September’s end brought me back once more.

On my autumn return trip, I climbed Sacajawea and Matterhorn again as a shortcut to beat an approaching storm on my next-to-last day. Gusty winds forced me to squat often along the gendarme-laden ridge, making it slower and more worrisome than before.

Arriving late and tenting far from the main camping area near Ice Lake, I awoke to footsteps in the middle of the night, followed by a loud, forceful nostril exhalation. Later, whoever did it came back and did it again.

Deer snort as a warning, but I saw mountain goats while descending Matterhorn. I don’t know if mountain goats snort, but whoever was responsible, they’ll have to be satisfied that I left in the morning and won’t return for a while.

Snow and temperatures down to the teens were expected by evening. As I hiked out, I inquired of a solitary woman hiking in if she knew about the change. She enjoys the challenge and was prepared.

End of the Hike and Off-Trail Camaraderie

I made it to my car, drove to attractive Main Street in downtown Joseph, Oregon, and stopped at a coffeeshop. Indoor comfort and a hot mocha at a window side seat is an elevated pleasure after a wilderness stint.

Walking to my car, a woman recognized me from a brief trail encounter my first day in. We compared experiences, small-talked—she and her partner were going to work their way back home to Kalispell, Mont. After parting, I wished I could’ve had a longer conversation. The camaraderie of exploring a unique place made me want to share more experiences and inquire of hers.

It’s the same on the trail. Being in the wilderness is such a pleasing experience, and trail encounters add to it. So often a brief chat is interesting and informative.

The superb setting and sharing insights with fellow backpackers makes for a memorable and pleasant adventure. That is, if you can avoid the misfortune of tiny ants swarming over your lunch.

Find more stories in the OTO archives about Eagle Cap Wilderness and Wallowa Mountains as well as other travel destinations and recreation opportunities in Oregon.

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When hiking or backpacking, whether it’s urban wilds or real-deal Wilderness, put in the extra effort to limit your impacts on the land and other visitors with these Leave No Trace standards.

1. Pack out all your trash and any left by others.
2. Respect wildlife and don’t feed them.
3. Don’t harsh on the mellow vibe of other nature lovers.
4. Never leave human waste or toilet paper on the ground. Learn how to burry your waste properly (away from water). Better yet, pack it all out or find a restroom.
5. Don’t collect or disturb native plants or other interesting bits of the natural world.
6. Limit campfires to conserve downed wood and lower chances of burning the place up. Watch the stars and night sky instead.
7. Plan ahead to avoid emergency violation of Leave No Trace principles. This could happen, for instance, if you forget your stove fuel, forcing you to cook over a campfire where it’s not allowed.
8. Camp and travel on designated paths and campsites to avoid hacking and tromping your own way through virgin forest or desert.

Learn more about Leave No Trace principles at Lnt.org.

Originally published as “Leave No Trace More Important Than Ever” in the May-June 2022 issue.

Bad backcountry kharma! Leave no trace. Especially toilet paper. // Photos: Shallan Knowles

Find more stories about backcountry travel and Leave No Trace ethics and practices and in the OTO topic archives.

The post Never Leave a Trace appeared first on Out There Venture.

Spokane is home to many urban wilds. No matter where in Spokane you live, chances are there is a wild-ish natural area near you to explore. Combining urban neighborhoods with these special, scenic places makes for one of the most unique and satisfying hiking experiences imaginable.

And with the right guide to point out everything from native plants and geographical features to historic sites and buildings, it can be even better. This was the idea behind the urban walking tours and my business, Wander Spokane, as well as my desire to become a tour guide. These local tours can’t be repeated anywhere else because they are tied to this unique place.

This summer, get out there to explore on your own or with a Wander Spokane guided tour and see some of Spokane’s lesser-known urban wilds.

Coeur d’Alene Park & Browne’s Addition Neighborhood History

A great starting point is on the corner of Second Avenue and Hemlock at Spokane’s oldest park, Coeur d’Alene Park. The beautiful gazebo in the center of the park was built in 1896 and has been a gathering place for Spokanites for over 120 years. The land for the park was donated after the great fire of 1889 by J.J. Browne and A.M. Cannon as a way of promoting building in the area.

Most homes in this neighborhood reflect the era in which they were built. This was an enclave for the elite who made most of their money in the railway and mining industries.

Overlook Park & Latah Valley Views

Walking west down Second Avenue toward Overlook Park you will pass many homes ranging from the Patsy Clark Mansion (1897) to the Gibbs-Murphy house, the oldest in the neighborhood (1883). Taking in the view of the Hangman Creek valley, directly below you is High Bridge Park located along the banks of the creek.

Take time to read the few signs at the top of the hill that tell some tales of the past. To the south you’ll notice some beautiful bridges, including the Sunset Highway bridge. Downstream you’ll see remnants of old trusses both in the water and on land.

High Bridge Park Walk along the Creek

Starting down the trail to Latah Creek below are plenty of plants, many native to the area. My favorite time to view them is late spring/early summer. Probably the most well-known is the arrowleaf balsamroot that resembles a wild sunflower. Ponderosa pines line the trail and the creek, as well as yarrow, ocean spray, and Douglas fir, all with edible and medicinal uses.

At the bottom of the trail you reach the creek, known by one of two names—Hangman Creek or Latah Creek, depending on who you ask. (In 1858 Col. George Wright had several Native Americans hanged in this valley, hence the name discrepancy).

At this point the pulse of the city is out of sight, and the sound of the water and birds take over.

People’s Park & the Confluence

Follow the creek north to the Spokane River and the confluence with Latah Creek, a special place to members of the Spokane Tribe and other Native Americans. The river and creek provided Native American inhabitants with salmon and other fish for thousands of years before dams downstream cut off their migration from the Pacific Ocean.

More recently, the natural area surrounding the confluence of the Spokane River and Latah Creek is known as People’s Park. This area has several trails an array of beautiful plants and a “colorful” story.

During Spokane’s Expo ’74, this area was set up for free camping and soon became its own little community. After the fair ended, it became a place for peace, love, and nude beaches.

Peaceful Valley

Turning back east along the south bank of the Spokane River, walk along the newly paved path toward the Peaceful Valley neighborhood, following the river where you can still hear the raging waters below during spring runoff. Follow the path to Main Street and you will find yourself in my favorite neighborhoods.

Peaceful Valley went by many names in its lifetime: Poverty Flats and Spring Flats to name a few. There are many interesting and historical homes in this neighborhood, including the Pietsch House, Groshoff Apartments, and the Cowley School.

An unusual feature found in this neighborhood is a series of row cabins. Our hike ends at Redband Park, formerly known as Glover Field. The park was renamed after the redband trout, a native fish to the Spokane River that, along with the salmon, was crucial to the Indigenous inhabitants of the area.

The views from Redband Park are amazing, especially from the field looking toward downtown with the power of the river meeting the gorgeous architecture and cityscape.

For more information about urban tours of Spokane and Wander Spokane, visit Wanderspokane.com.

Find more urban recreation and adventure ideas in the Urban Outdoors column archives.

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The road winds through a countryside blonde with wheat, then dips into a brush-choked gorge. Three of us—me, my husband, and my 82-year-old mother—let out a harmony of “ahs” at the sight of the lovely creek and decide this is the place to stop for a tailgate coffee break. We park in a gravel pullout, situate mom in a folding chair under a poplar tree, and pour coffee. While we sit, five species of songbirds sound off, accompanied by frogs and buzzing insects. It’s a beautiful moment in an afternoon outing.

Over the past several years, my husband and I have formed a habit of taking mom on outings such as this. The challenges of aging—pain, dementia—are wearing on her and nature seems to give her a measure of relief and pleasure.

Experts agree that time outdoors is an important part of overall healthfulness for elders. That’s exactly why Ryan Griffith, Spokane Parks & Recreation’s assistant recreation director, partners with local senior centers to take groups of elderly patrons kayaking and snow shoeing. He says that seniors benefit from being outdoors in myriad ways including exercise, mental stimulation, getting away from the television, and social interaction.

Griffith observes that even seemingly simple occurrences like a bird singing or snow falling on a jacket sleeve help relax the mind. Griffith suggests taking along snacks, water, and trekking poles, and recommends approaching the activity with a flexible mindset.

Fortunately, the Inland Northwest provides a wealth of opportunities for older residents to get outdoors safely. Together, my husband, mother, and I have been to the summit of a mountain, explored a cave, lolled in green orchards, and wandered through wetlands.

Here are four outings around the Spokane area—field tested by mom—to consider planning with your elders.

Mukogawa Institute Stroll or Roll

Drive Government Way to Fremont Road and turn into the Mukogawa Institute (officially called Mukogawa U.S. Campus, an extension of Mukogawa Women’s University in Japan). Park along Offut Road in front of McNally Recital Hall. Walk west 0.25 mile along Custer Drive under graceful Douglas firs. A row of beautifully maintained red brick officers’ quarters line the way and placards note the year each building was built.

Rest on the benches at the roundabout, then either stroll back to your car on the opposite side of the sunshine-dappled parade grounds (along Randolph Road) or wander another 0.2 mile into the forest along paved paths to discover the tiny hidden chapel near Takaoka Hall.

• Comforts: Shade trees, wheelchair accessible (advise keeping to the low-traffic road instead of the uneven sidewalks), benches at the roundabout and near the Nellie Garry Guest House, covered gazebo with picnic table at corner of Fremont and North Wright Drive.
• Walking or rolling distance: 0.5 mile along quiet paved roadway with options to extend.
• Sensory: Birdsong, busy squirrels, historic buildings and interesting architecture, towering pine and fir trees.
• Cautions: No public restrooms along this route.

Mount Spokane Summit and Vista House

Drive north from Spokane to Mount Spokane State Park. At the entrance, stay on Mount Spokane Park Drive and continue uphill to North Summit Road. Follow the narrow strip of blacktop to the parking area. Walk up to Vista House.

• Comforts: Wheelchair accessible outhouses along the road and at waysides and picnic tables at Bald Knob Campground.
• Walking distance: 0.25 mile out-and-back gravel pathway to Vista House.
• Sensory: Dense forest and undergrowth, broad views, sunshine, and an interesting stone house.
• Cautions: Sections of narrow winding road with steep no-guardrail drop-offs, and it can be windy up top.

Valley Chapel Road Trip

From Spokane’s South Hill, take Palouse Highway south to the intersection with South Valley Chapel Road. Travel along Stevens and Latah creeks and take a break at one of the pull-offs to enjoy the babbling water.

Stop at Mt. Hope Chapel (corner of East Valley Chapel Road and South North Kentuck Trails Road) to stretch legs and enjoy the quiet wheat fields.

Take a 4-mile out-and-back side trip drive south on North Kentuck Trails Road to Hanging Tree Historical Monument (watch for the marker pointing the way) and pause for a moment of silence to consider the gravity of events that occurred here. Then continue to the Highway 27 intersection.

Return directly to Spokane via Highway 27 or take a few more twists and turns through farm, field, and forest on rural gravel roads.

• Comforts: Outhouse (not wheelchair accessible) and shade trees at Mount Hope Chapel.
• Walking distance: As desired at chosen rest stops.
• Sensory: Birdsong, frog song, rippling creeks, pastoral views.
• Cautions: Limited restrooms, winding roads.

St. Aloysius Walk or Roll

Park on Astor Street in front of St. Aloysius church on Gonzaga campus. Stroll or roll along wheelchair accessible sidewalk to the church, then head east along the smooth brick and stone promenade to Rosauer Center.

Walk south between buildings, then follow the walkways, this time west, back to St. Aloysius. To extend the outing, continue on to the performing arts center, visit the Jundt Art Museum or cross the grass to the river’s edge.

• Comforts: Wheelchair accessible sidewalks and paths, numerous benches, shade trees.
• Walking or rolling distance: 0.75-mile loop (expand or shorten as desired).
• Sensory: Prayer Grotto (located east of the the church) and Gonzaga University campus’s impressive rhododendrons, basalt-blocks, pocket gardens, statuary, rockwork and architecture, shoreline, birdsong.
• Cautions: No public restrooms along the route.

Tabitha Gregory enjoys exploring, hiking, and skiing in the Inland Northwest. She’s written for Out There Venture and North Columbia Monthly and is the author of the historical nonfiction book “Valdez Rises: One Town’s Struggle for Survival After the Great Alaska Earthquake.”

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Since those days, I can’t recall more than a few fleeting moments, mostly during work and social obligations, where the notion of boredom occurred to me. If you love the outdoors and live here too, you know what I mean. There are so many amazing things to do at any given moment in our corner of the planet that a lifetime seems far too short to make the most of it.

Nevertheless, every now and then, during the long, increasingly hot days of summer, many of us still find ourselves wondering, “What should I do this weekend?” I hope our annual list of trip ideas helps you have one of your best summers ever!

1. Explore nature at the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve: Hike the trails and appreciate the incredible native plants, wildflowers, and wildlife at this over 30,000-acre Nature Conservancy preserve in northeast Oregon’s Wallowa County. Scenic back road drives hug the Hells Canyon rim and rugged forest service trails nearby are waiting there to take prepared hikers into the deepest gorge in North America.
2. Trail run or hike the Little Spokane River Natural Area’s Knothead Loop: This 7-mile roundtrip route in north Spokane County gains 1,000 feet, rising from prime riverside wildlife habitat to open pine forest with views up top. Be aware that dogs and bikes are not allowed on this trail system.
3. Get your mountain biking or hiking in on a volunteer trail project: All of these trails we love don’t build or maintain themselves. Give back to your favorite trails by signing up for a trail work party with a local trails group like Evergreen East, Washington Trails Association, Pend Oreille Pedalers, or Idaho Trails Association.
4. Go paddling on Lake Spokane: Start at Riverside State Park’s Nine Mile Recreation Area boat launch and campground (less than a half hour from downtown Spokane) and paddle your arms off or find a quiet place to bird watch or go fishing.
5. Explore the best of the best paddling lakes around Spokane and North Idaho: Some of these lakes don’t allow gas motors, others may be quiet midweek and busy on the weekends, so plan accordingly. Then load up your SUP, kayak or canoe and go.
6. Hike a trail you’ve never been on in Dishman Hills Natural Area: Take your pick from dozens of miles of trails on over 3,200 acres of protected hills and prime wildlife habitat in the Dishman Hills Natural Area, located in Spokane Valley.
7. Learn about the geology of your favorite place: Pick up a copy of the “Roadside Geology” book for wherever your summer trips take you and learn something about the ancient geologic origins of the place where you’re hiking, biking, floating or camping.
8. Ride Montana’s first shuttle bike park: The new Legacy Bike Park above Flathead Lake near Whitefish, Montana, opened in 2021. It has 13 downhill trails, camping and the shuttles that make it all possible on those burley downhill bikes.
9. Take a North Idaho mountain bike road trip: These trails are all near Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, or east toward Libby, Mont. Ride them all on one great road trip.
10. Ride or hike Moscow Mountain’s 60+ miles of trails: Located near Moscow, Idaho, this legal trail system on private lands continues to grow thanks to the hard work of groups like the Moscow Area Mountain Bike Association.
11. Take a paddling trip to Cranbrook, B.C.: A few hours’ drive north of Spokane takes you to the western slope of the majestic Canadian Rockies, which happen to host some great mellow paddling spots near the town of Cranbrook. Give Jimsmith Lake and St. Mary’s Lake a try. Learn more about Cranbrook-area paddling and whitewater kayaking adventure ideas.
12. Paddle a stretch of the Pend Oreille River Water Trail: The water trail stretches across approximately 70 miles of the Pend Oreille River in northeast Washington with environmental and historical points of interests, picnic stops, and overnight campsites along the way.
13. Take a cleanup hike along your favorite river: Hike, bike, or float along the Spokane River, Hangman Creek, the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River, Pack River, or another regional stream and bring your own garbage bag to help clean up along the way. Spokane River Keeper is also organizing summertime cleanups.
14. Hike the Nelson, B.C., area’s rare Inland Temperate Rainforest: Just north of the border a few hours from Spokane, ancient old growth trees up to five meters thick make up the last-remaining Inland Temperate Rainforest on Earth. Caribou, grizzly bears, wolves, wolverines, and a diversity of native plants and animals still thrive here, and there are plenty of trails to explore. Don’t forget your bear spray and passport.
15. Hike the trails at Pend Oreille County Park: Just north of Spokane and an hour or so west of Sandpoint, the over 7 miles of trails on 440 acres of wildlife-rich low elevation forest is the perfect place for a quiet day’s outing. Primitive camp sites are also available.
16. Raft or kayak the Clark Fork River through the Alberton Gorge in Montana: If you don’t have your own gear and experience in class III/IV whitewater, then sign up for a trip with one of several local outfitters like ROW Adventures.
17. Go paddle boarding or kayaking downtown Spokane: Bring your own boat and launch under the Division Street Bridge, or just show up in your paddling duds and rent the gear from Fun Unlimited and paddle up the mellow Spokane River toward No-Li Brewhouse and points beyond.
18. Take a ride on a Wallowa Lake Tramway near Joseph, Ore.: Enjoy incredible views as you gain 3,700 feet of elevation on the ride up to the summit of Mount Howard high in the Wallowa Mountains overlooking Wallowa Lake, vast stretches of prairie, and distant peaks. Indulge in a snack or beverage at the mountain-top restaurant and stretch your legs on the hiking trails.
19. Hike to remote swimming beaches along Christina Lake: Wander along the Deer Point Trail from the Texas Creek Campground to find your own hidden swimming spot at Christina Lake, B.C., one of the warmest tree-lined lakes in Canada that happens to be just north of the border from Kettle Falls, Wash.
20. Take a mining history tour in Idaho’s Silver Valley: Mine tours, ghost towns, historic districts, mining museums, historic buildings and more await in and around Wallace, Idaho.
21. Ride past lakes and wetlands on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes out of Harrison, Idaho: Harrison is a cool lake town with plenty of fun to be had on the beach, docks, restaurants and bars in town. And the fact that the 70+ mile paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes runs right through town makes it even cooler. Bring your bike or rent one in town and pedal east past wetlands and woods often teaming with birds and wildlife for an out-and-back cycling adventure anyone can do. Or arrange a shuttle at the bike shop in town for a longer one-way adventure.
22. Ride the Route of the Hiawatha Trail then check out one of these lesser-known rides near Wallace, Idaho: Learn more.
23. Take a multiday whitewater rafting trip on the Salmon River: You’ll need your own gear and experience on this class III and IV wilderness river. You can rent rafting gear from the University of Idaho Outdoor Program, but you’ll still need your own whitewater skills. Or sign up on a Lower Salmon River trip with Spokane-based FLOW Adventures.
24. Go river surfing in Missoula, Montana: Brennan’s Wave, a man-made river wave, provides year-round river surfing opportunities. Rental boards and lessons are available too.
25. Get away from the crowds on a hike near Libby, Montana: Many well-known scenic hikes can get crowded on peak summer weekends these days, but there are still plenty of lesser-known trails throughout the Inland NW where you can find solitude. For instance, there are hundreds of miles of backcountry trails near Libby, Mont., where you may not see another human while you hike.
26. Climb at a new-to-you bouldering area in the greater Spokane area:  A long-needed new bouldering guide to the Spokane area is now available thanks to the hard work of climbers and authors Nate Lynch and Shane Collins. Pick up a copy of Spokane Bouldering at Rambleraven Gear Trader and start exploring with your crash pad.
27. Go to Spokatopia July 9 to ride your bike, listen to music and paddleboard: Spokatopia is a one-day outdoor adventure festival at Camp Sekani Park on the Spokane River put on by our magazine, Out There Venture. It’s like having a whole summer’s worth of outdoor fun crammed into one long day. Don’t miss it!
28. Visit the Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge south of Colville, Wash.: Bears, elk, moose, bobcat, deer, hundreds of bird species, and other wildlife on over 40,000 acres of public land at the LPONWR. What more could you ask for? Explore on a few trails and gravel roads and reconnect with the wild tangle of rock, trees, and feral life that we all sprang from way back when.
29. Take the back road drive between Sullivan Lake and Priest Lake over Pass Creek Pass in northeast Washington: The highlight of this drive is topping out on the pass. Stop and take a hike, starting at the Pass Creek Pass trailhead (trails head north and south from the road) and pick a few huckleberries and watch for wildlife. Better yet, do it on your mountain bike and connect into some sick singletrack trails leading back down to Sullivan Lake.
30. Hike, mountain bike or trail run the Independence Creek Trail northeast of Coeur d’Alene: Make it a long loop using forest roads or an out-and-back along Independence Creek Trail #22, through beautiful North Idaho forest along a cool mountain stream.
31. Ride the acclaimed mountain bike trails around Helena, Mont.: Learn more.
32. Run or fast hike one of the regions popular backpacking routes in one day: Many of the most scenic backpacking loops and out-and-back or one-way trails in our neck of the woods are getting more and more crowded. Enjoy the trails and views and limit your impact by doing the whole Salmo Loop, Seven Devils Loop, Kettle Crest Trail, or other popular routes all in one fast push. Go prepared physically and with all the essentials you’ll need to avoid paying a hefty evacuation bill.
33. Rent a boat on one of the region’s big lakes: Many lakes can get crazy on weekends, but bigger lakes like Lake Pend Oreille and Coeur d’Alene Lake in North Idaho, Flathead Lake in northwest Montana, and Kootenay Lake in British Columbia, offer more elbow room to spread out and do your own boating thing at your own pace. For a quick-access boat rental experience from Spokane on Lake Coeur d’Alene, check out Cdasports.com.
34. Surf the world’s largest standing wave at Lakeside Surf in Chelan: Quite different than the ocean waves you may have surfed, this river-type wave where the water rushes toward you takes some getting used to, but it is a blast that anyone can get the hang of after a few sessions. After opening last spring, the wave at Lakeside Surf is quickly becoming an annual pilgrimage for landlocked Inland Northwest surfers.
35. Take a ride over the Columbia River on the Palouse to Cascades Trail: This 289-mile cross-Washington rail trail goes from Cedar Falls to Tekoa, and with the newly updated Beverly Bridge over the Columbia River, riders and hikers can now cross the bridge without a vehicle shuttle detour. Grab your bike and go check out this section of one of our region’s greatest rail trails!
36. Explore the waters and shorelines around Lake Roosevelt: This sprawling water body northwest of Spokane is a lake-lovers dream. Find great fishing, boating, beach camping, hiking, history and more along this 130-mile-long lake.
37. Explore the backroads and trails along the Nez Perce (Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail: The Trail follows the route taken by many members of the Nez Perce Tribe in 1877 on their noble quest to dodge being forced onto a reservation. The 1,170-mile trail covers backroads and trails from Wallowa Lake in northeast Oregon to Bear Paw Battlefield near Chinook, Mont. Drive and walk part of the route and learn about the Nee-Me-Poo people’s tragic flight from pursuing white forces while you’re at it.
38. Look down into the deepest gorge in North America from Hells Canyon Overlook: Safely tucked in the middle of nowhere southeast of Enterprise, Ore., along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, the overlook offers a rare, vehicle-accessible panoramic view of Hells Canyon.
39. Go river rafting in Riggins, Idaho: The Salmon River, or River of No Return, is one of the longest un-dammed rivers in North America. Sign on with a local guide and spend a day splashing through class III and IV rapids and lounging on white sand beaches above and below the cool river town of Riggins.
40. Spend a few days riding sections of the Ferry County Rail Trail in northeast Washington: This 24-mile rail trail that extends from near the town of Republic to the Canadian Border is big on scenery and rural charm. Find an overnight basecamp in town or at a local campground and check it out.
41. Go fishing at Potholes Reservoir near Moses Lake: Great fishing for bass, walleye, and trout can be had via boat, paddle craft, dock, or from the shore on the vast waters of Potholes Reservoir. Choose between private resort, state park, or several developed public access areas.
42. Ride the Columbia Plateau Trail: Or maybe just a couple sections of it if you don’t have several days on a fat bike to dedicate to the trail. The 130-mile rail trail that stretches between Pasco and Cheney, Wash., is known for some rough trail surfaces (dreaded ballast rock) and detours around gated, unsafe bridges. But the wild, off-road scenery is amazing in places and well worth the challenge. More info:
43. Ride Spokane’s Children of the Sun Trail: This 10-mile, one-way paved path that parallels Spokane’s in-progress north-south freeway is a great afternoon or evening, close-to-home leg stretcher that runs between Hillyard and the Little Spokane River. The trail will expand along with the freeway and should eventually connect with the Centennial Trail.
44. Ride the Centennial Trail from downtown Spokane to Nine Mile Recreation Area: Set up a shuttle in advance then enjoy the one-way, nearly 20-mile trip with a picnic and swim in Lake Spokane, or turn around when you’re ready and ride back home to double your mileage. Or reserve a campsite and make it an overnight urban bikepack trip.
45. Explore some of the Inland Northwest’s remaining old growth trees: Big trees are cool and they provide plenty of benefits to people and wildlife, from harboring clean water and air to creating space for critters to live that need big trees. Check out these regional old growth groves.
46. Look for birds and wildlife along the scenic auto tour loop at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge south of Cheney, Wash: Be sure to check out wildlife viewing sites, boardwalks, and hiking trails that lead off the loop into the forest, grasslands and wetlands. And look up and around for birds and other wildlife. Don’t forget your binoculars!
47. Explore the Post Falls Community Forest: Hike through forest, canyons, and along the Spokane River or go rock climbing on the beginner-to-intermediate climbing routes, all accessed from the trailhead at Q’emiln Park (“ka-mee-lin”).

[Feature photo: Lake Pend Oreille is a paddle paradise. // Photo: S. Michael Bennett]

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1. Tag off as many hikes in one of our local hiking guidebooks as you can. Pick one up from your local, independent bookstore, like Aunties Bookstore downtown Spokane. 
2. Load up the bikes for a Sandpoint, Idaho, mountain bike trip. Check out Pendoreillepedalers.org for riding recommendations. Favorites include the Syringa Trails, Gold Hill, Bernard Peak, and trails at Schweitzer Mountain Resort and the Selkirk Recreation District Trail system below the resort. 
3. Paddle along the shore on Lake Pend Oreille from City Beach in Sandpoint. The local Outdoor Experience gear shop in town rents paddleboards and kayaks if you need them. 
4. Break out the binoculars and try to learn to identify at least 5 new bird species in your backyard or a nearby natural area. Check out Audubon.org for resources. 
5. Hike, run, or mountain bike as many of the Spokane County Conservation Areas as you can. 
6. Try all three of our nearby zipline tours: Silver Streak (Wallace), Mica Moon (Liberty Lake), and Timberline Adventures (Coeur d’ Alene). 
7. Ride sections of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, a 73-mile paved path running across the Idaho Panhandle from Plummer to Mullan. Or if you’re feeling hardcore, bike the whole thing in one day. 
8. Go swimming in your favorite swimmable lake. If it’s within hiking or biking distance, ditch the car and make it a human-powered adventure. (Explore our Lake Guide stories to find a lake near you.)
9. Try jumping out of an airplane near Ritzville, Wash. with an experienced Skydive West Plains guide once they are allowed to open back up. 
10. Break out the gravel grinder or mountain bike and ride up to Moon Pass from historic Wallace, Idaho. Explore sections of singletrack from there or just bomb back down for a beer at one of the local breweries. Want a little help with the climb? Rent an e-bike from Cogs Spokehouse in Wallace and then take on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes on a ride up to the town of Mullan or west to Kellogg. 
11. Go rafting or kayaking in Riggins, Idaho. Bring your own gear if you’re up for navigating the mostly class III rapids on the stretch of river above and below town, or sign up for a guided trip if you don’t have the river-running skills or equipment. (Check out this story from our archives, “River Town Rebirth: Riggins, Idaho.”)
12. Hike into an alpine lake in the Selkirks, Bitterroots, Cascades, or Cabinets and fish for your own dinner. 
13. Visit the Seven Devils Mountains and wilderness area near Riggins, Idaho, and camp, backpack, day hike, or visit the nearby fire lookout. Bring your mountain bike for at least one person in your group to make the long gravel road descent from the Seven Devils via bicycle on the way back down to the highway. 
14. Ride from Spokane on the paved Fish Lake Trail, then along a section of the Cheney-Spokane Road, and connect with the Columbia Plateau Trail and continue all the way into Cheney for refreshments before heading back home. Start at Fish Lake to shorten the ride. 
15. Skip the shuttle and ride both directions of the Route of the Hiawatha rail trail near Wallace.  
16. Learn to climb and start exploring the vertical world of the many amazing climbing areas scattered about Eastern Washington and North Idaho. While climber friends may be willing to teach you the ropes, you can fast-track your learning in a safe environment with a class from a guide like Inland Northwest Climbing Outfitters. 
17. Ride the relatively new Brush Lake Trail intermediate mountain bike trail near Bonners Ferry. This 5.6-mile trail was built by mountain bikers and will be good fun for most riders. 
18. Float or paddle as many sections of the Spokane River from the Idaho Stateline to Riverside State Park that you have the skills and gear to manage safely. 
19. Paddle the Spokane River from the Division Street put-in downtown and head upstream for food and drink if available from No-Li or Bangkok Thai. Fun Unlimited rents paddleboards and kayaks at the put in if you don’t have your own. 
20. Ride between Spokane and Coeur d’Alene on the Centennial Trail and stop at swimming holes along the way to keep cool. 
21. Plan an epic park or natural area picnic with friends or family maintaining social distancing.  
22. Hike or bike one of your favorite trails, find a scenic spot, and binge-read your all-time-favorite outdoor adventure/travel book or novel. 
23. While Ferry County’s Get Out Fest has sadly been canceled this year, you can still head up there to ride the 25-mile long Ferry County Rail Trail, hike or bike on the Kettle Crest, and paddle on Curlew Lake on your own. 
24. Hike into these Inland Northwest old-growth groves: Ross Creek Cedar Grove (Montana), Hobo Cedar Grove (North Idaho), DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove (Northcentral Idaho), Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars (Priest Lake, Idaho), Hanna Flats Cedar Grove (Priest Lake, Idaho), Virginia Lilly Old Growth Trail (Northcentral Washington), Big Tree Botanical Loop (Northcentral Washington). 
25. Avoid the crowds at popular fishing access sites and docks and hike (when public lands provide access) or paddle into a more remote fishing hole. 
26. Take a waterfall road trip and stop for short hikes into these cascades near Bonners Ferry: Myrtle Falls, Upper and Lower Snow Creek Falls, Copper Falls, and Smith Creek Falls. Closer to home, take the short hike into Indian Canyon Park just west of downtown Spokane, located within Palisades Park, to check out Mystic Falls, or a longer hike into Liberty Lake Regional Park to the falls above the cedar grove and switchbacks. 
27. Give some respect back to the indigenous people whose traditional lands we now recreate and live on by learning more about their culture and history. 
28. Spend a day or two biking or hiking the Empire Trails above Spirit Lake (inexpensive permit required) and paddling and fishing the lake. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and other gear from the Spirit Lake Rec Center at the boat launch or e-bikes from Fresh Air E-bikes.  
29. Night hike one of your favorite National Forest or Spokane County or City of Spokane trails to enjoy the stars and night sounds of nature. Download a star gazing app or hike near a pond or lake with a healthy frog population to amplify the experience. 
30. Pick up a guidebook to native plants of our region and hike your favorite nearby trails and make an effort to learn the most common shrubs and plants. 
31. Ride a section of the Palouse to Cascades Trail, a crushed-rock surface rail trail, like the highly scenic section between Rosalia and Pine City. You’ll need to complete a free online registration process before riding or hiking along this 285-mile long State Park trail that stretches across Washington. 
32. Pick up some discs at the General Store in Spokane and hike and play your pick of the region’s many public disc golf courses, such as Camp Sekani Park or High Bridge Park in Spokane or Corbin Park in Post Falls.   
33. Bummed that your favorite race got canceled or postponed? Make up your own close-to-home sufferfest and con some friends into joining you for some social distancing type 2 fun.  
34. Take an overnight bikepacking trip. Visit your local bike shop for the racks and bags you’ll need to keep the weight off your back, then pick an open campground destination a day’s ride from your house or other starting point. Find a route that incorporates as many trails or back roads as possible. Potential destinations include state park campgrounds if open, resorts/RV parks at lakes near Cheney and on Lake Roosevelt that offer camping, dispersed camping sites on National Forest land north of Coeur d’Alene, and other private campgrounds/RV parks near the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes. 
35. Bike or Walk to a Farmers Market. 

Originally published as “Close to Home Summer Adventures” in the June 2020 issue.

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As a town of 23,000 surrounded by more agricultural fields than highways, the Moses Lake area has plenty of gravel riding opportunities for cyclists. A wide-open ride also means a shadeless ride, so riders should be sure to bring their own drinking water. The Larson Recreation Center is home to a BMX track sanctioned by the American Bicycle Association for those looking to go off-road. (Check the BMX track Facebook page to make sure there’s not a race before you head out to ride.)

For biking around Moses Lake, refer to the city’s Activity Trails Map. You’ll be able to cycle on a mix of bike lanes, multi-use paths, and road shoulders as you tour quiet areas surrounded by agriculture with views of the lake.

If hiking is more your thing, it will be easy to fill a morning or afternoon with one of the region’s desert hikes, taking time to explore the desert hues (spectacular in fall) of the Potholes region via the Desert Wildlife Area hike, located just north of the Winchester Wasteway. Hikers, fishers, and cyclists alike will be delighted by the miles of sagebrush, native grasses, shrubs, and small waterways that are home to animals such as Blue Heron, loons, deer, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, eagles, and more.

The larger hiking opportunity of the Columbia Wildlife Refuge Area is riddled with basalt, sagebrush, and the occasional waterfall. Most of the refuge is open from March 1 to September 30, dawn to dusk. Hikers should be aware of ticks and rattlesnakes in this area, depending on season, and bring a Discover Pass. These remote hikes will provide a quiet, peaceful scene where you can explore in any direction you choose. Check out this map of the area before you go, and bring navigation tools and drinking water.

Other public lands that will display the region’s unique mix of desert and water features with evidence from the Ice Age Flood written on the coulee walls are the Sun Lakes unit, Quincy Lakes unit, Banks Lake unit, and the Billy Clapp Unit, also known as the Long Lake Reservoir.

Before or after recreating, get to know the community of Moses Lake by visiting the Moses Lake Farmer’s Market (open every Saturday through October), where you can “get fresh with the locals” and enjoy produce straight from the farm. (You’ll want to try the sweet corn.) The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center will also offer a regional art or historical highlight. An upcoming September 13 exhibit is titled “Chasing Paper,” showcasing mixed media collage works from local artist Chad Yenney.

Later, dine at one of the local family restaurants such as Michael’s on the Lake, the Porterhouse Steakhouse, or Tacos El Rey Taqueria. Chico’s Pizza has a cult-like patronage in the area. Choose from craft beer options like Squirrel Fight Artisan Brewery or Ten Pin Brewery, which is housed in the local bowling alley.

If you’re traveling in during the summer heat, an excellent way to refresh is to visit the city’s Surf ‘n Slide Water Park (open Memorial Day through Labor Day Weekend). This handicap-accessible water park is home to a 300-foot lazy river, a children’s splash pad, two 200-foot water slides, two sand volleyball courts, an Olympic-sized competitive pool, and the Flowrider, an artificial surfing simulator. You can also spend a calm autumn afternoon exploring the city’s Japanese Peace Garden, open from dawn-dusk in spring through fall.

After your day of play, stay at a variety of lodging options, including camping at the lakeside Cascade Campground, open April through September.

While there’s always something to do out in nature around Moses Lake, you can also plan your trip to coincide with one of the city’s upcoming events. The Downtown Sip & Stroll Wine & Art Walk will include 12 tasting locations from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, September 7. The same weekend, the America’s Got Talent Sand Artist Kseniya Simonova will be performing at the local high school. The Craft Out Cancer beer event on September 14 will offer breweries, live music, and food at the outdoor venue of Ten Pin Brewery. You’ll also be able to catch the Summer Sizzle Girls Fastpitch Tournament (Sept 14-15), Rattler Regale Girls Fastpitch Tournament (Oct 5-6), or another game at one of the city’s well-maintained ballparks, as they’re always looking to bring in new teams for games and tournaments (for more information, please call 509-764-3805.)

Whether you choose to hike, bike, fish, shop, camp, or catch a baseball game, your vacation to Moses Lake will provide a small-town desert getaway with memorable recreation, history, and culture.

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History 

The entire Silver Valley is rich with history of mining, logging, and intercontinental railroads. Visit Old Mission State Park, which has the oldest building in Idaho. Once you’ve seen the Cataldo Mission, head to Kellogg, Idaho. In Kellogg you can you spend hours learning about The Bunker Hill Mine and the Silver Mining Industry at the Shoshone County Mining & Smelting Museum, and take a tour of the Crystal Gold Mine. Next stop: Wallace, Idaho. The entire town of Wallace is on the Historic Register, which makes it a hot spot for those who love history. Check out the Northern Pacific Depot Museum, Oasis Bordello Museum, and Wallace Mining Museum, which are all located within walking distance of each other. During July or August, when the sun is hottest, a tour of the Sierra Silver Mine will keep you cool and engaged. With events celebrating local history and many historic sites that you can tour via bike, the Silver Valley has historic flair that will quickly establish a real sense of place.

Breweries

The craft brewery scene is strong in the Silver Valley, making it easy to plan a few days that are just about beer tasting. Radio Brewing Company, based in Kellogg, Idaho, was named after the golden age of radio. They craft brews that take inspiration from the region, like the Idaho River Session, Wildcat Wire Wheat, and Golden Age Lager. Wallace Brewing Company pays homage to the local mining history, creating quality craft beers like the Center of the Universe Scotch Ale. The brewery is also home to historic photos from Wallace’s wild bordello and mining history. North Idaho Mountain Brew (housed in City Limits Brew Pub, a full service restaurant in Wallace) creates microbrews including the Baldy Blonde, the Pulaski Porter (tipping its hat to the local historic Pulaski Tunnel Trail), and Mountain Top Amber. Pair your tasting with a tour of the local history for a full Silver Valley experience. And don’t miss the Brewfest on August 17 at Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg to sample local.

Shopping

The perfect place to start your long weekend in the Silver Valley is on a Thursday evening at the Silver Valley Community Market in Kellogg City Park. Pick up a reusable community market mug, which will give you $1 off a beer purchase at the market and other discounts when you visit the businesses listed on the mug. The market includes vendors with handmade and homegrown items such as sun-catchers, woodwork, paper crafts, vintage garden markers, and local foods. While you browse, enjoy the live music offered at the community market each week as part of their summer music series. On Tuesday through Saturday in uptown Kellogg you’ll find Lisa’s Gems of the Silver Valley, a shop with a variety of local artisan goods, and Knotty Ridge Creations with locally-inspired merchandise and more. When in Wallace, visit Johnson’s Gems & Collectibles and Sol & Serre for local gifts.

Recreation 

Biking, hiking, fishing, going on historical tours—a better question may be, What isn’t there to do in the Silver Valley? Strap on your rollerblades and cruise the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes with an ice cream cone as you roll straight onto the trail from the historic town of Wallace. Ride through tunnels and over sky-high trestles between forested mountain peaks on the Route of the Hiawatha. Pump up your adrenaline as you ride downhill at the Silver Mountain Resort bike park. The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a great rail-to-trail riding or running option, stretching 72.3 miles between Mullan and Plummer and home to a multitude of wildlife that frequent the surrounding lakes and wetlands. Spend an afternoon fishing on the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alenes or hike with your pole to alpine lake and fish for trout. Pan for gold, hunt for gemstones, or take a historic tour of a local town or old mining operation. Your time in the Silver Valley can be low-key or action-packed. But, don’t take our word for it. Listen to the locals. 

The Local Perspective

Mike Domy, owner/ operator of Excelsior Cycle & Sport Shop

“For one thing, a weekend isn’t long enough,” begins Mike Domy, owner of Excelsior Cycle & Sport Shop in Kellogg, Idaho, and long-time resident of the Silver Valley, as he ponders all there is to do. Domy moved to the Silver Valley in 1983 at the height of the local depression, as Bunker Hill had recently shut down. Domy has seen the town not only recover but grow and boom into the recreation hub that it is today. A few things that made him stay include the world-class biking trails, refreshing and uncrowded mountain hikes, and stunning scenery. 

“Within a 20-mile radius of Kellogg there’s probably 20 mountain lakes. They’re just gorgeous, and there’s hardly ever anyone there, so it’s like you have your own private lake for the afternoon. You don’t have to backpack with freeze-dried foods and a tent, you just go up there for your picnic lunch and come back,” says Domy. 

The Silver Valley is also a popular biking destination for mountain and road bikers alike, and Domy’s shop rents bikes all season. He recommends the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes for road bikers, nature lovers, and families, or the dirt Hiawatha Trail for fun and easy riding. A family weekend for mountain bike lovers includes parking overnight at Silver Mountain Resort and letting kids play on the BMX track. 

Domy’s top three weekend recommendations, other than biking, include taking a scenic drive around Thompson Falls, fishing at local lakes and rivers, and spending an afternoon walking around downtown Wallace for museums, gift shops, ice cream, and more. His most favorite activity, though, might be hiking. 

“In addition to the lakes, there are mountain peaks you can hike to. I like the grittiness of it, of going up and getting firewood. Other people go up and gold pan and live the Old West style and it’s not pretentious here. You don’t have to dress like a logger or a gold-panner to go up and have a little fun at those things,” says Domy. 

Siobhan Ebel, Marketing Assistant at Silver Mountain Resort

“I like the small-town feel, and you’re close to everything,” says Siobhan Ebel of Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg, Idaho, when she thinks of the best aspect of the Silver Valley. “I can ride my bike to work, or I can ski to my house in the winter.” The amenities and relaxed vibes are just a few of the reasons that Ebel’s made her home in Silver Valley the last few years.

Her top long weekend activities would include spending a few days at Silver Mountain Resort to mountain bike or take a scenic gondola ride. If you’re traveling with kids, the Silver Mountain Water Park is a must. She also recommends taking time to check out the local breweries and restaurants, and stroll downtown Wallace to take in the museums, go for a mine tour, or go zip lining. Catch the Brewfest on Silver Mountain in August for a live music session on top of the mountain with 22 breweries and 2 cideries, including a scenic gondola ride up and down.

Chase Sanborn, owner of Wallace Brewing

“We like to tell stories about Wallace here,” says Chase Sanborn of Wallace Brewing. And it’s no surprise—located 80 steps from The Center of the Universe (Wallace, Idaho), Wallace Brewing is surrounded by a rich mining and wild west history.

Sanborn’s ideal long weekend would start with a morning ride from Wallace to Mullan on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes. Other top activities would be to ride the Hiawatha Trail, hike the Pulaski Tunnel, and go to downtown Wallace and just listen to the stories. One story he’s committed to memory is that of historic local forest ranger Ed Pulaski, who used the tunnel to survive during the 1910 forest fire when Wallace became a fire epicenter. Sanborn’s recommended reading before you explore the Silver Valley is The Big Burn by Timothy Egan.

Dining & Where to Stay

Those small-town diners that you see in nostalgic television shows really do exist, and they’re better in real life. Check out the Hill Street Depot in Kellogg, the 1313 Club in Wallace (a historic saloon with a diverse menu), and Goose ‘N The Tree in Pinehurst, Idaho.

When you’re done playing for the day, the lodging options in the Silver Valley range from luxurious to rustic. Stay at Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg for unbeatable views and close recreation opportunities, go camping at Country Lane River Resort (located on the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River), or find a more personal vacation rental through Kellogg Vacation Rentals.

Psst. . .take advantage of the Take A Long Weekend Discount! You’ll get 20% off a stay on Thursday nights during market season at Fairbridge Inn in Kellogg. Call 208-783-1234 and mention “Long Weekend.”

Events

Plan your long weekend to line up with one of these local events for a truly unique trip!

• July 13 & 14—Historic Skills Fair (Coeur d’Alenes Old Mission State Park)
• July 16—Full Moon Bike Ride on the Route of the Hiawatha
• July 19—Ride & Dine at Silver Mountain Resort (Every Friday until August 30; Kellogg, Idaho)
• July 27 & 28—Silverhoops 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament (Kellogg, Idaho)
• July 31-Aug 25—Sixth Street Melodrama production of “The Carpet Caper -or- Who Stole The Mayor’s Rug” (Wallace, Idaho)
• August 2-4—Pinehurst Days (Pinehurst, Idaho)
• August 3—Coeur d’Alene District Mining Competition (Osburn, Idaho)
• August 15—Coeur d’Alene Tribe Pilgrimage and Feast of the Assumption (Coeur d’Alene Old Mission State Park)
• August 15—Full Moon Bike Ride on the Route of the Hiawatha
• August 16—Molly B Damn Days (Murray, Idaho)
• August 16-17—Wallace Huckleberry Festival & 5k (Wallace, Idaho)
• August 17—Brewfest (Silver Mountain Resort)
• September 14—Full Moon Bike Ride on the Route of the Hiawatha
• October 3-6—Wallace Idaho Fall for History Festival (Wallace, Idaho)
• Silver Valley Weekly Community Market with live music, beer garden, and 20+ vendors (Thursday Evenings @ Kellogg City Park).

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The Full Moon Bike Club (FBC) in Sandpoint turned 7 in April and will be holding their 94^thFull Moon Fiasco this month. They meet at Eichardt’s Pub and Grill at 8 p.m., ride at 9 p.m., take a different route each month, and sometimes see a moose. Spoke card sales raise money for some good causes. Follow them on Facebook or at Fbcsandpoint.net for exact dates and reviews of past rides.

In 2018, a small group of community-minded businesses in Coeur d’Alene got together and picked up the full moon ride torch from the Lake City Lunar Landers, who had been organizing rides for about four years. The CDA Full Moon Ride has since grown into a lively year-round event with fun for the whole family. For the July 16 ride, the pre-party begins at 6 p.m. at Slate Creek Brewing Company, with the ride starting at 8 p.m. Stops include Independence Point and Coeur d’Alene Cider Company. Follow CDA Full Moon Ride on Facebook and Instagram (@cdafullmoonride) for updates and how to volunteer.

Brand new this year, the Route of the Hiawatha is hosting monthly full moon rides on the trail: $32/person includes a shuttle and $60 gets you an additional t-shirt, water bottle, and snacks. The July 16 ride meets at 8 p.m. at the East Portal and is suitable for ages 13 and older. Pre-paid reservations only. Call 208-744-1301 ext. 19 to reserve and go to RideTheHiawatha.com for more info.

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