Many field guides or flora and fauna books fail because they are twice as thick as this one and try to cover too much area. Sometimes writers aim to cover all the species in North America or provide a complete guide to every species on the Pacific West Coast. This book succeeds with hundreds of photographs and line drawings, plus the book offers strong visual support for step-by-step identification. This helps a lot when you’re examining bark, leaves or cones. The book features several hand-drawn illustrations and more than 1,400 photos in 400 pages. 

Even within the Pacific Northwest, tree appearances can vary due to factors such as microclimates and cultivars versus wild trees. As with any field guide, expect to adapt and verify in the field.  

This guide builds beginners’ confidence by providing the tools and steps to start identifying regional trees. Any nature enthusiast, gardener or landscaper will appreciate the book, which would make a great gift for anyone living near Spokane’s Manito Park or Finch Arboretum.

The post The Trees Around You: How to Identify Common Neighborhood Trees in the Pacific Northwest By Casey Clapp  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of 49 Degrees North

Lifts: 7 

Vertical: 1,851 

Acres: 2,325  

Summits: 2 

Number of Runs: 90 

Nordic Center: Included with day ticket or pass 

Operating Schedule: 7 days a week (as conditions allow) 

What’s New on the Mountain  

Resort upgrades continue across 49° North both in the lodge and out on the mountain. The Calispell Creek Lodge received another major enhancement this season with 150 additional guest seats on the lower level, plus brand-new ADA and family restrooms — all made possible by last year’s relocation of skier services to the 7,000 sq. ft. Experience Center. 

On the slopes, extensive summer trail work resulted in brush-cutting on 80 of 90 runs, improving early-season coverage and snow consistency across the mountain. Grooming also levels up with the addition of the Prinoth Leitwolf, the world’s largest and most advanced groomer, capable of laying down 21–22 feet of beautifully consistent corduroy in a single pass. 

Looking ahead, engineering and forestry preparation is 95% complete for next summer’s replacement of the Payday Lift with a new fixed-grip Doppelmayr quad. The refined alignment will streamline loading and unloading and improve access to the popular Animal Trails zone. That area also underwent a major forest-health and fuels-reduction project, removing over 3,500 tons of hazardous material and preparing the terrain for future mountain bike development. 

Guests will also notice four new connector trails that improve navigation and flow, including a smoother link from Klondike to Silver King. 

The Corporate Season Pass 

New this year, 49° North’s Corporate Season Pass brings a fresh perk to local businesses looking to share some mountain time with their teams. The pass is fully flexible and transferable, making it easy for employees to take turns getting in some midweek laps or for companies to host laid-back client outings in the snow. It also fits right into workplace wellness efforts, giving staff a fun incentive to get outside and stay active all winter. If your office has been hunting for a unique benefit with real stoke value, this one’s worth a look. 

Primetimers’ Club  

The Primetimers’ Club at 49° North has become a lively home base for skiers and riders 55 and older who want to stay active and connected on the mountain. Each week, the crew gathers for casual ski meetups that blend easygoing laps with plenty of chairlift chatter. Throughout the season, they mix in social get-togethers and fun winter-long events that make the club feel more like a community than a program. It’s a welcoming way for adults to find their people on the slopes and keep the stoke high all winter long. 

Gift Cards Make the Best Stocking Stuffers  

Still looking for last minute Christmas gifts? Or the classic question, “What do you get for the person who has everything?” Gift cards to 49 Degrees North make the perfect stocking stuffer no matter who you’re shopping for. Recipients can use their gifts for rentals, lift tickets, lessons, in the lodge and more.  

Ski, Stay and Save 

Planning to stay? Ski or ride all day (weekend or weekdays) and then spend the night at one of 49’s neighbors’ fine facilities. Ski & Stay lodging/lift packages are available from partners like the Chewelah Motel and RV Park, Mid-Mountain Cabins, Mistequa Casino Hotel and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to plan a winter staycation.  

 

Snowsports Schools  

If you’re looking to level up your skiing or riding this winter, 49° North’s snow school lineup is packed with options for every age and ability. The mountain offers everything from tiny-tot first turns to adult confidence-building sessions, making it easy to jump into whatever progression path fits your style. 

Families will love the kid-focused programs, starting with Lil’ Cubs for ages 3 to 6 and moving into Youth Lessons for riders ready to build skills and explore more terrain. First-timers of any age also get plenty of support, thanks to beginner-friendly lessons designed to make that very first day on snow both comfortable and fun. Teens and adults have their own dedicated sessions too, covering everything from boosting confidence to dialing in more advanced technique. 

For anyone wanting a season-long push, the multi-week programs deliver steady progression in a fun group setting, while specialty clinics offer deep dives for skiers and riders chasing those “aha” breakthroughs. Together, they round out a snow school menu that makes improving at 49° North both approachable and exciting. 

Find more info at Ski49n.com.  

Featured Events 

• Nordic Wintersports Festival: Jan. 31 
  A full-day celebration at the Nordic Center with tours, clinics, demos, and family-friendly cross-country skiing activities. 

• Melody Riders Skijoring Competition: Jan. 24–25 
  Two days of high-energy skijoring with horses, riders, and skiers racing a fun, fast-paced course—always a crowd favorite. 

• Chewelah Winterfest: Feb. 7 
  49 Degrees North is hosting an evening rail jam in downtown Chewelah as part of the community’s Winterfest event. 

• Valentine’s Snow Moon Dinner: Feb. 14 
  An elegant five-course dinner with wine or champagne pairings, live music, and gorgeous night-sky views under the Snow Moon. One lucky couple will also win a tour in 49’s state-of-the-art Prinoth Leitwolf groomer. 

• Toyota Ski Free Day: March 6 
  The driver of any Toyota vehicle receives a free lift ticket for the day, with a deck party and live music adding to the fun. 

• Mardi Gras Seafood Boil: March 14 
  A Mardi Gras–themed, family-style seafood boil on the deck, featuring shrimp, crab, clams, crawfish, sausage, potatoes, hushpuppies, beignets, drinks and live music. Costumes encouraged! 

• Hawaiian Days: March 21 
  A spring tradition with a pond skim, snow golf, costume contest, poker run, scavenger hunt, silent auction, live music and a big deck party. Proceeds support the 49° North Volunteer Ski Patrol and Mountain Hosts. 

Sponsored

The post Your Complete Winter Guide to 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Karie Lee Knoke

There’s something about walking through a forest in the fall that stirs the soul. The earth softens underfoot, the scent of damp leaves fills the air, and, if you slow down enough, the wild begins to reveal its secrets. One of those gifts is mushrooms, popping up in the quiet places, nourished by rain and decay. Fall is the season when fungi call us to pay attention, to harvest with gentleness, and to remember our place in the web of life. 

Mushrooms are a gift from the forest floor. They provide us with food and medicine. In their own mysterious way, they are teachers and connectors between life and death. They break down the old to nourish the new. In the fall, when the rains return, mushrooms emerge, reminding us that even in a season of dying back, there is abundance. 

This is the time to lace up your boots, carry a sharp knife, bring a basket or woven mesh bag (never plastic), and head into the woods with curiosity, care and respect. I prefer a mesh bag to allow the spores to sprinkle to the forest ground as I walk, replenishing next year’s harvest. 

Five of my Favorite Mushrooms to Know This Fall 

1. Hen of the woods (Grifola frondosa) 
   Also known as maitake, often growing in generous clusters at the base of oaks, this beautiful mushroom fans out like layered feathers. It’s meaty, grounding and deeply nourishing. I often find it in the same place year after year, like an old friend returning. Sauté it slowly, and let the earthy flavor shine. 
    

2. Chicken of the woods (Laetiporus sulphureus) 
   Not to be mistaken with hen of the woods, these are so called because of their slightly lemony taste with the texture of chicken when cooked. They can be found growing on dead or dying stumps or tree trunks of hardwood trees. It’s best to harvest this mushroom when it is young and tender, before it gets chalky. I like to sauté them in butter or add to soups or use as a chicken substitute in any recipe. 
    

3. Chanterelles (Cantharellus spp.) 
   Golden and elegant, chanterelles are often found tucked into mossy glades beneath fir and hemlock. Their fruity aroma and delicate ridges make them unmistakable, once you truly get to know them. Don’t rush. Look closely. A poisonous lookalike, the jack-o’-lantern, grows in similar habitats. Learn the differences well before tasting. 
    

4. Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) 
   These pale, soft fans grow on dying trees, such as birch, poplar and other hardwoods. They come in flushes, sometimes covering a log with soft, edible blooms. They cook up tender and mild and are among the easier mushrooms to identify. Still, know what you’re looking for. Nature rewards those who move slowly and pay attention. 
   
   
    

5. Puffballs (Calvatia spp.) 
   When young and firm, puffballs are wonderful sliced and sautéed. Just be sure to cut them open and look inside. They should be pure white with no signs of gills or inner structure. If you see anything developing inside, leave it. That’s nature telling you it’s not edible. 

A Practice in Awareness 

Foraging mushrooms is not something to dabble in casually. It’s a practice. Some mushrooms can kill you, some can heal you, and many live in the mystery between. Go slow. Use more than one field guide. Taste nothing until you are absolutely sure. 

Harvesting with Respect 

Only take what you need. Leave plenty for the deer, the insects, the spores and the soil. Cut mushrooms cleanly at the base, and disturb as little as possible. The mycelium, the real body of the mushroom, is underground, and we are merely gathering its fruit. Be gentle. 

For me, fall foraging is about remembering. That we are part of nature. That the Earth provides. That there is still wildness to be found, if we walk with humbleness and reverence. 

Karie Lee Knoke is a wilderness and primitive skills instructor and founder of Sacred Cedars Wilderness School. She was a contestant on the reality survival TV show, Alone Season 9, on the History Channel. Go to Karieleeknoke.com for more information, or follow her on Facebook @SacredCedarsWildernessSchool or Instagram @karie_lee_knoke. 

The post Foraging Fall Edible Mushrooms: Walking in Step with the Season  appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Carol Corbin 

Cover photo courtesy of Carol Corbin

Why are there so many people on my trail? Ever had that thought creep in as you’re lacing up your trail runners, clicking into your pedals, or setting off with a fly rod in hand? Out here in the still-wild Inland Northwest, we’ve long enjoyed the quiet thrill of having a trail, a river, or a ridge seemingly to ourselves. No endless parking lot loops, no Instagram-famous switchbacks packed shoulder-to-shoulder—just space, sky, and the rhythm of your own breath. 

But even here, the word’s getting out. And with fewer than 10% of Spokane County’s lands open to the public, we’re already feeling the squeeze. As more people fall in love with this place (and who can blame them?), the pressure on our public lands is growing fast. 

Thankfully, land management agencies—State Parks, County and City Parks, BLM, DNR, US Fish and Wildlife, and WDFW—are working to keep wild places wild and accessible. But they can’t do it alone. They rely on community muscle—from volunteer trail builders with Washington Trails Association and Evergreen East to the stewardship of everyday hikers, bikers, and boaters who treat the land like it’s home. Because it is. 

And that’s where Inland Northwest Land Conservancy comes in. Over the past few years, we’ve rolled up our sleeves for projects that give outdoor lovers more room to roam: linking Riverside State Park to Palisades through Rimrock to Riverside, expanding the trails and terrain of Saltese Uplands, securing access on Beacon Hill, and protecting Waikiki Springs—aka “the Switchbacks”—for hikers, families and river lovers. 

1,000 Acres of Future Public Land and Trails Coming Soon 

Now, we’re stepping into our biggest adventure yet. Last year, the Conservancy acquired Glen Tana—1,000 acres of ponderosa forest, basalt cliffs, and sweeping river views just upstream from Waikiki Springs. Once it’s transferred to Washington State Parks, this land will become part of a major Riverside State Park expansion, opening up miles of new trails and more intimate access into the Little Spokane River Valley. 

While the land is temporarily closed as trail plans are finalized and long-term stewardship gets set, the vision is clear: protect the wildlife-rich heart of Glen Tana while giving people unforgettable ways to explore, recharge, and reconnect. 

A Conservation Dream Realized—With More Work Ahead 

Thanks to hundreds of local outdoor lovers, the capital campaign to secure Glen Tana for future generations is now complete—raising over $4 million to protect this extraordinary landscape. But our work doesn’t stop here. Your continued support fuels projects just like Glen Tana—projects that preserve wild places, expand public access and keep the Inland Northwest wild and welcoming. 

If you love wildflowers underfoot, river bends that reveal herons or moose, quiet singletrack through towering pines or just having one more place to breathe deeply and move freely—your gift today helps make sure there’s always another place like Glen Tana to protect. Support the next conservation success by giving to Inland Northwest Land Conservancy. Big or small, every donation helps keep the trail ahead wide open. 

Glen Tana Isn’t Open to the Public Just Yet 

Join a guided hike to get a sneak-peak of this incredible place 

We know there’s nothing more exciting than new trails, and we thank our community for respecting the private ownership of Glen Tana. Want a sneak peek before State Parks takes over ownership and management? Sign up for a guided hike at InlandNWLand.org/events. Our small but dedicated staff and volunteer crew who work tirelessly to care for this huge and beautiful place thank you for staying on public lands and trails! 

(Sponsored) 

The post Room to Roam along the Little Spokane River  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Twin Eagles

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

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

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

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

Sponsored

The post Why Real Wilderness Still Matters for Kids   appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Ammi Midstokke 

Cover photo courtesy of Ammi Midstokke

Sometime around a decade ago, recovering from a divorce in which I lost everything but my kid and my bike (the stuff that matters), I found myself at the Whitefish Bike Retreat in Montana on one of my first and few breaks from parenting. Back then, it was just the lodge, owned and operated by legend Cricket Butler, who let me stay there for free, sent me out with a bike guide, and subsequently became a friend. 

Time passed, and as it did, with the imperceptible shifts of slowly built trails, campground expansions, and a PR campaign run by every cyclist who ever passed through, the tiny retreat became something more. Something embedded in the fondest memories of riders from all around. While the retreat added a sauna, a kid’s pump track, a skills course, more trails, a cabin, and booked out months in advance, my own life took on new shape. As did my riding. 

I returned every year at least once, sometimes for the spring bear grass, sometimes for the autumn larch. The sound of the front door always took me back to that first day—a kind of hope and peace were gifted to me there, and then met with a playfulness I had lost.  

Whitefish has other trails beyond the system linked to the retreat. There’s the Whitefish Mountain Resort trails with lifts running all summer, the beloved Spencer Mountain, the Tally Lakes area, and more. It’s a community that has rallied to create and protect trails, a town that teems with bike-covered cars all summer and fall. But the sheer number of ridable miles means there are seldom crowds. Still, I was always drawn back to Lion Mountain and Dollar Lake and beyond for the ridiculous grin I wore the whole time. 

The trails there are built for play—the climbs gentle, the corners banked. There is a section that serpentines through a canyon at just the perfect grade to promise the kind of zen moments that make us one with our bike and nature. There is a mile descent toward Beaver Lake that, in October, is first glowing with larch and then on fire with birch. It is impossible to roll that section without giggling with joy. 

I rode those trails with boyfriends in summer when the soil was perfect and with girlfriends in winter on our fat bikes in the silence of heavy snow. I celebrated my 40th birthday there, broke up with a boyfriend there (I guess at 40 you realize you don’t have time to fuck around anymore), napped with my toddler nephew in the hammock, rallied with my dad and brother there, and met other kindred spirits.  

Eventually, I brought a husband there. We brought our children and their bikes. We rode through years, new bikes, new trails, new friends. We kept returning because it always felt like coming home. 

There are trails on which I know the camber of each corner, how they smell in one season or another (petrichor in spring, sweet decay in autumn), when to let go of my brakes, when to make sure they are working. I don’t know if it’s because the place became symbolic of my freedom and my transitions, or if it is just how damn fun the trails are, but it is a place to which I will keep returning. Some trails are simply old friends you want to stay in touch with. 

Ammi Midstokke lives on the Syringa Trail System in Sandpoint, Idaho, and regularly communes with others by bike and foot. This spring, she’ll be making some new trail friends and visiting old ones throughout the Pacific Northwest. 

The post Whitefish Bike Retreat—Repeat  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Charlie Bouck

The Spokane Great Outdoors Expo recently featured a presentation by Charlie Bouck of Herbal Expeditions, and it’s no surprise that he left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to hear him. Charlie has a gift for making the outdoors and natural living feel exciting, accessible, and downright essential. After learning about what he offers, I’m ready to dive into several of his classes and experiences. 

Charlie hails from the Black Hills of South Dakota and spent over 20 years as a SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) specialist in the Air Force. His deep knowledge of survival, foraging, and holistic living is matched only by his passion for sharing it with others. Herbal Expeditions is all about connecting people to nature, offering four main experiences that can be tailored to your interests: 

1. Guided Foraging: Learn to identify and harvest edible and medicinal plants in your backyard, a favorite park, or a handpicked wild area. Charlie meets you where you are, literally and figuratively. 

2. Making Herbal Medicines: Discover how to turn those foraged plants into tinctures, salves, and other remedies. This hands-on experience can be paired with foraging or held at a location of your choice. 

3. Holistic Consulting: Charlie helps you work toward a more natural lifestyle by addressing the root causes of health concerns. Whether it’s anxiety, skin issues, or digestive problems, he offers personalized plans—and his own inspiring journey of overcoming 12 prescription medications proves his methods work. 

4. Survival Training: From wilderness survival to urban preparedness, Charlie’s training sessions are practical, fun, and family-friendly. They can range from a single day to overnight adventures. He’s even hosted survival-themed birthday parties, making the experience as creative as it is practical. 

What’s most remarkable about Charlie is his warmth and adaptability. Herbal Expeditions is open to all ages and abilities, with half-price rates for kids ages 8-18 and group discounts for parties of three or more. He provides all the equipment you’ll need and works hard to ensure every experience is engaging and enjoyable. 

Herbal Expeditions is a fantastic addition to Spokane and the outdoor offerings that make the Pacific Northwest such a special place. With its focus on connection, knowledge, and personalized experiences, this business is sure to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world. More at herbalexpeditions.net.  

The post Herbal Expeditions Offers Deeper Connections to Nature  appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Shallan Knowles 

What makes the perfect gift? Let me tell you, it doesn’t have to be big or expensive, but it will take a little work to make the magic happen. A meaningful gift will hopefully do one of a few things: upgrade them from something they like to something they love, show them how well you know them, or introduce them to something they didn’t even know they needed.  

Another fun gift giving strategy is to go with abundance! One of my favorite gifts this year was a Costco box of handwarmers. It will be a warm winter for me. Find something small that your person loves and stock them up. Some people love gifting, some people dread it.  

Our annual guide to gifts emphasizes supporting local businesses, including many Out There advertisers. Shop local and keep money in our local community! I hope this guide helps spark some imagination and inspiration that will make your gift giving easier and more fun this holiday season. 

The Coffee Lover 

Either for the jolt or the variety of flavors offered in a simple cup of brew, the coffee lover in your life will appreciate a gift from their local roaster. Grab a can of DOMA’s DEEP coffee that’s not only delicious, but supports POW (Protect Our Winters). Not only do most roasters offer delicious beans, they have fun merch too! Check out the Whistling Fox on a bike shirt from Roast House, or the Summer Lovin’ Hat from DOMA crafted by local artist Cori Ward with a tribute to Idaho’s Sawtooth Wilderness. 

For a downtown Spokane experience, grab a “Transcend the Bullsh*t” mug at Atticus and drop in a gift card for a latte. It’s a fun place to sip and people watch. For the adventurous coffee drinker, pick up a gift card to your person’s local coffee shop and print a map for them to walk or bike to get there! Or go with abundance and gift a variety basket of instant brew for outdoor adventures. 

The Bike Rider 

Maybe the person you love is a summer singletrack shredder or a dedicated year-round rider. Honor their love for two pedals with a gift they’ll use and enjoy. Bike lights can keep them rolling their favorite singletrack trails long after the sun goes down or keep them safe if they ride on the road. Check out the mega selection of bike lights from North Division Bicycle for front or back lights. Branded apparel, from hats, t-shirts, and sweatshirts, are a great gift for any rider who has a favorite shop like North Division that has great shop apparel.  

Wheel Sport has a couple cool gift ideas for riders this season. The Muc-Off Big Bore Tubeless Valves, they say, will “revolutionize the lowly and long-serving presta valve with a unique core-free design, which allows up to 230% higher air flow than traditional presta valves.” The result is dramatically easier tubeless tire installation and inflation, with no valve core to clog up with sealant. And with the integrated lever, rides can quickly and easily micro-adjust tire pressure mid-ride.  

Wheel Sport also recommends the Specialized Air Tool Comp V2 Floor Pump, which boasts big air chambers that move a lot of air, quickly, with pressure gauges to dial it in precisely. This pump goes even further with a unique high- and low-pressure gauge system. The low-pressure portion of the gauge allows mountain bikers to fine-tune their fat tires; the high-pressure section gives road bikers optimal control over their slicks.  

Two Wheeler & Ski Dealer in Hayden has the added bonus of making one-stop shopping for cyclists and skiers. The Matrix Saddle Tagger from Lezyne creates a hidden, protected holder for an Apple AirTag under a saddle for trackability in case the bike goes missing. Any bikepacker or adventure rider will love a Mag-Tank top tube bag from Revelate Designs for stashing calories and other personal items they will need on long rides. For safety-minded riders who pedal in traffic, a Mirrycle Mountain Handlebar Mirror is a great gift choice that pretty much says “I love you and don’t want you to die.” 

The Home Nester 

There are people who love to be home, or those who love to come back to the nest after an outdoor adventure. Fill their space with the scent of their favorite outdoor place with a Bungalow Candle Company, with scents from “Post Falls Cottonwood Reserve” to “Autumn in Hells Canyon” and “Waikiki Spring Trailhead.” Bring your giftee’s favorite outdoor adventure happy place into their home while supporting a local business. Last year a loved one asked for some new dish towels, which is a highly useful gift, and can find some beautiful options and plenty of other unique fair-trade gifts when you shop at Kizuri downtown Spokane!  

The home nester will love curling up to a copy of “Lost Apples: The Search for Rare and Heritage Apples in the Pacific Northwest,” by David Benscoter. This new book out from Keokee Books in Sandpoint will captivate anyone with an interest in our local food heritage. The book is the account of apple historians and enthusiasts who are canvassing old orchards and forgotten homesteads of the Inland Northwest in search of the rare and heritage apples that still survive.  

The Skier or Snowboarder 

Do you have a friend who is “unavailable” after the snow flies? You can see them, but only if you join them on the slopes. Support their love of flying down the mountain with a gift card to their favorite resort, or a resort they don’t normally frequent. Pair it with a set of ski straps from Spokane Alpine Haus to help them keep their skis held together in style. If they have their hands full with a hot coffee while huffing it to the first lift, these will be a welcome addition to keep their skis from turning into a yard sale.  

If your person runs cold, consider a helmet cover or heated mittens, also found at Alpine Haus at their two Spokane locations or at your favorite local ski shop. As seasons change, so do fashions, and you can leave it to Alpine Haus to stay updated with a new pair of goggles or the very necessary helmet for all levels of snow riders.  

Spokane’s Solnix ski and board shop, which also sells wake, skate, and bike gear as well as other outdoor gear and apparel, had some sweet gift ideas for snow sliders. Solnix recommends coming into their huge shop to look around and find a wide range of gift ideas for just about anyone. A few ideas include ski and board tune kits and tools, gloves and mitts from a new company called Death Grip Glove Co., goggles from Smith and Oakley, or Gravity Grabbers ski and board hanging kits to better organize that quiver in their garage or gear room. 

Know someone who loves nothing more than to trek around the snowy woods? Hok Skis, from Northeast Washington-based Altai Skis, is designated as an easy-to-use backcountry travel tool. Hoks’ short, wide dimensions makes the ski incredibly maneuverable, and the integrated climbing skin gives the Hok great traction for climbing while allowing them to glide back down hills. The Hok combines the maneuverability and ease-of-use found in snowshoes with the ski’s efficiency of sliding forward rather than lifting and stepping with each stride. Several binding options are available along with the skis and other gear at their online shop. 

The Go-Getter  

These people love activities and doing new things. Their house could already be full, but they are ready to roll at any time. They probably don’t need or want more “things” but will appreciate the new experience that will expand their universe and get them moving and experiencing our world in new ways! How about a gift card to Coil Spokane that will get them doing Aerial Yoga? Or a tandem sky diving gift at Skydive West Plains just west of Spokane? They are offering a holiday special of $100 off a tandem skydive for two as a special for Out There readers (see their ad in this issue for details).  

If your person is in Spokane, or comes to Spokane, check out the Wander Spokane tours to get an insider’s view of the urban trails, historic sites, and best eating and imbibing stops in the city. Gift a simple city tour, or find a themed tour that includes wine, beer or some local eats for a unique experience that will educate, entertain and help them get their steps in. 

For the more energetic, a gift card for a session at Krete Academy will allow them to literally jump off the walls in constructive ways. Gift cards to a local climbing gym like Wild Walls in Spokane or Coeur Climbing in Post Falls make for an awesome stocking stuffer or main course gift.  

Dining out can be nice, but one-up it with an experiential cooking class. Wanderlust Delicato in Spokane or The Culinary Stone in Coeur d’Alene offer cooking classes for a variety of food interests.  

The Yogi 

Any dedicated (or semi dedicated) yogi would appreciate an upgrade to the most basic of yoga equipment, the yoga mat. Check out local stores such as Spokane Exercise Equipment. Go abundant and pair it with a membership, punch card or a series of classes to a yoga studio, like Harmony Yoga’s one-month unlimited membership that is only $49.  

The Water Lover 

The dark, cold months can be hard for the lake lover. Get them dreaming about the warmer months with their own private inflatable dock from Solnix in Spokane. If you have a risk-taker in your life, a good lifejacket is a gift for everyone as they learn to fly on their foil or wake surf board. For the human-powered watercraft people, a soft-sided boat cooler is a thoughtful gift to keep them hydrated next summer. The Mission Tempest at Solnix is extra cool because it floats! If your dog or kid joins you on your paddleboard, this is a nice feature to have. Call ahead to make sure staff can retrieve summer items from the warehouse! 

The Teenager  
Though cash is always a welcome gift for any teenager, get creative! Hide some cash in a sweet pair of gloves that will encourage them to protect their hands and get outside this winter. If they are a mountain slayer, a gift card to their favorite mountain that they can use to keep fueled up at a ski area eatery will get used for sure. Or treat them and a group of friends to an experience such as one of the various themed escape rooms around the region.  

The Kids  
The holiday season is even more magical for kids. For as much as they love the trips to see Santa, decorating the tree or sipping warm cocoa, most kids are super focused on the gifts. Make it a memorable year with a registration to a climbing team at Coeur Climbing (teams for ages 7-12 or 12-18), or a Wild Walls Beginner’s Club (ages 7-10) or Climbing Club (ages 7-14 after passing beginner’s club) that includes a one-month membership and instructors that teach knot tying and safety. Gifts that are fun to un-wrap are Lego sets from Brick-by-Brick in Spokane’s Garland Neighborhood, or anything from Whiz Kids downtown Spokane or any other local shop with creative and educational kids’ gifts and games. This year we will be gifting our kiddo an upgraded chess set from Uncle’s Games in downtown Spokane, but any board game from this store will bring hours of unplugged family fun. Hopefully Santa will take care of the big stuff like the Firecracker Waterski Trainer! If not, you can get one at Solnix. 

The Hiker 

Some love water, some love land, and for those who love those overland mountain and canyon trails, honor their passion! Every hiker appreciates a pair of socks, and the “Socks that Save” at Kizuri do good for causes (mental health, building homes, giving water, planting trees and many other causes). My mother did not appreciate the hiking poles I gifted her for her 60^th birthday (she calls them canes) but they can be essential for the avid hiker to keep them upright and encourage upper body strength. Find them at your local outdoor retailer! No matter if your person lives in Washington (Discover Pass) or Idaho (State Parks Passport) gift them easy access to the outdoors with a state parks pass, available on-line, giving them a year of no excuses to hike local trails. Hiking can be challenging in the winter months, so surprise them with a pair of Altai Hok skis that allow hikers to stroll across the snow, climbing up hills and gliding back down. 

The Person Who Has Everything 

If the person you are getting a gift for literally has everything, or just has too much, consider these acts of service and find a fun way to wrap them up! For the person who spends a lot of time adventuring, they might appreciate the gift of house cleaning. A Google search will result in a long list of local cleaners that can come in for a one-time scrub, or a monthly membership, depending on how much you love them. If your person is making trips up and down mountains, or just lives in the Inland Northwest and drives our slushy streets, a membership to a car wash can keep their mountain transportation in good condition inside and out.  

Memberships are another way to gift your person without gifting stuff. A membership to their favorite podcast so they can listen subscription free, or a membership to the Museum of Arts and Culture to give the gift of exhibitions, programs and events. Or give someone who loves picking up Out There Venture magazine an Out There membership that will provide them with a bunch of year-long discounts and swag from local bike and ski shops, ski resorts, climbing gyms, and outdoor adventure companies offering rafting and fishing trips, zipline tours, and more (available at Outthereoutdoors.com/membership).  

Food and drink lovers might appreciate a wine club membership from Wanderlust Delicato, which is available in a myriad of prices ranges. And not a membership, but a gift certificate, for a home cooked meal from The Supper Club or Lucid Roots can nourish your person for their next adventure. Roast House Coffee offers a Stay Wild subscription, which provides a rotating coffee experience delivered to their door. How about a local, farm-fresh food box subscription from LINC Foods, where they will enjoy the culinary surprise of new local food items being delivered to their door all season long? 

Know somebody on a keto or gluten-free diet? Give them a gift card at Spokane’s Cole’s Café and Bakery, which is 100% gluten free with lots of keto and vegan options. Any Out There reader will love tickets to the Banff Mountain Film Festival, coming to Spokane for three nights Jan. 10-12. These showings typically sell out, so hook them up before tickets are gone! 

The Stocking Fanatic 

Some people love tearing into a jam-packed Christmas stocking more than opening gifts. Fill their cup by paying a visit to the ultimate one-stop stocking stuffer spot, your local Grocery Outlet store. There you’ll find incredible deals on quality candy, gourmet chocolate, snacks, nuts, dried fruit, organic and vegan options, and other home goods and health and beauty products that make great small stocking gifts.  

Whatever you give, make it extra special by purchasing it from a local small business. Or, even better, from an Out There Venture magazine advertiser! 

The post Ideas for Giving Meaningful Local Gifts in the Inland NW appeared first on Out There Venture.

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Fernie, British Columbia, beckons travellers and outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes, fresh mountain air, and an array of activities that make every summer an unforgettable experience. Just a winding 250-mile drive northeast of Spokane, Wash., this gem of a town offers an outdoor playground that promises thrill and serenity in equal measure. For the adventurous traveller, the family of explorers, and the seeker of nature’s quiet beauty; Fernie is your canvas for an extraordinary summer tale. 

Hiking: From Valley to Alpine 

Fernie and surrounding areas provide an extensive tapestry of trails that wind through lush valley floors, ideal for a family-friendly trek amid nature’s splendor. The energetic hiker will enjoy the challenge of climbing the elevations leading to the alpine peaks of Mount Fernie, Mount Proctor, Mount Hosmer, or the iconic Three Sisters. These paths are not just routes to incredible vistas; hiking in Fernie is a summer ritual that brings an opportunity to connect with the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. 

Mountain Biking: Trails for Every Rider 

Fernie’s love for the outdoors is reflected in the impressive number of trails that are maintained by passionate local organizations. With hundreds of trails catering to all skill levels, mountain bikers can expect a variety of exhilarating rides. Each trail tells a story etched into the rugged landscape, whether it be a gentle introduction to the sport, or a high-octane descent. Here, every pedal stroke is a fun-filled exploration of nature’s playground. Don’t fancy the effort of having to pedal up? Class1 e-bikes are allowed on Fernie’s trails, and a lift-accessed bike park is available from June 22 to September 2 at Fernie Alpine Resort.  

Dry Fly Fishing and Whitewater Adventures 

Historic coal mining towns (like Fernie), abundant wildlife, and Canadian wilderness are the setting through which the classic freestone Elk River flows, calling to anglers with its clear, cool waters and bounteous stocks of pure strain westslope cutthroat trout, monster bull trout and hybrid cuttbows. The art of dry fly fishing takes center stage here, where patience is rewarded with the dance of a fly rod and the potential catch of a lifetime. Local fly-fishing outfitters provide guided trips, intel and all the gear one may need.  

Water enthusiasts are also spoilt for choice with white-water rafting experiences churning through rapids, the serenity of SUP and kayaking excursions on gentler currents, and the nearby lakes that invite exploration and idle paddles under the summer sky. For added fun, opt for a float on a giant SUPSquatch, an oversized inflatable paddleboard for groups up to eight people. 

Golf With a View 

Swing amidst the backdrop of the towering mountains at the Fernie Golf Club—an 18-hole championship golf course. With fairways as inviting as they are challenging, golf in Fernie offers an opportunity to play the sport you love in a truly spectacular setting. Feel the mountain breeze, take in the views, and enjoy the game. 

Exploring Historic Downtown and Beyond 

Fernie’s historic downtown invites a wander along its streets, where every corner whispers tales of the past. Architecture admirers and casual explorers alike will rejoice in the century-old facades and charming storefronts. Join a guided tour or download the free Iconic Fernie mobile app to explore beyond with self-guided tours that unravel the town’s storied history and contemporary culture. 

A Vibrant Community 

Those hungry for culture and connection will see their appetite satisfied. Fernie’s events scene is bustling with live entertainment for all ages. Staple summer events include popular evening live music at Wednesday Socials; Sunday Mountain Market, featuring fresh local produce and original gifts; Fernie’s biggest indie music celebration, the annual Wapiti Music Festival; various mountain biking, gravel biking and trail running races; gallery exhibitions; art experiences and more.  

Sampling the Taste of Fernie 

The dining scene in Fernie is a testament to the town’s diverse community. From cozy pubs serving up hearty comfort food to upscale restaurants offering international flavors, and everything in between, there is something for everyone in this mountain town. Fernie is also home to an award-winning distillery, cherished local brewery, artisan bean-to-bar chocolate maker and boutique bakeries. But it’s not just about the food—Fernie’s local boutiques, galleries and artisan shops add another layer of charm and character to the town. 

A Place to Stay for Everyone 

Fernie offers bespoke lodging for the discerning traveler. Choose from boutique hotels, cozy tiny homes, innovative adventure pods, serene RV and camping spots, or spacious lodges and condos.  Each option promises comfort and proximity to the great outdoors. 

Capture the Essence of Fernie 

This guide merely scratches the surface of Fernie’s summer allure. At its core, Fernie is a mosaic of outdoor experiences, each providing a multitude of possibilities for play, relaxation, and the pure joy of discovering the natural world. Adventure lies in the heart of this mountain town and in the spirit of those who yearn for stories written under the open sky. 

Be it for the adrenaline rush or the peaceful retreat, Fernie calls out to all who seek to fuse their summer with adventure. From Spokane and beyond, cast your compass north, where the Canadian Rockies mark the gateway to your next great exploration. Plan your summer getaway at tourismfernie.com.  

(Sponsored by Tourism Fernie) 

The post Fernie, BC: A Treasure Trove of Outdoor Thrills  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy Shallan Knowles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn About the Places Where We Play 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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