The 2026 Big Horn Outdoor Adventure Show returns March 19-22 to the Spokane Fair & Expo Center with a choose-your-own-adventure mix of gear, how-to learning and kid-friendly attractions for anglers, hunters and anyone who prioritizes time outside. Now in its 64th year, the volunteer-powered show is produced by the Inland Northwest Wildlife Council nonprofit organization.

Daily seminars and demonstrations led by local guides and field experts cover skills from casting and fishing techniques to backcountry know-how, with interactive attractions like Fishing World, archery, gem hunting at the Silvermine and a kids’ adventure map offering something for all ages. Fishing World is an event highlight with live-fish pools where little anglers can catch a real fish. There’s also an airsoft rifle range, trophy displays, a lounge for those 21 and older and other live entertainment. Hours run noon-7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $15 online and $18 at the door for adults, with discounts for youth, seniors, veterans, military and first responders; kids 5 and under are free, and kids under 13 get in free Sunday. Details and tickets are available at Inwc.org/big-horn-show.

The post Big Horn Show 2026 Brings Outdoor Skills and Family Fun appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Ryan Stemkoski

A man does not usually walk into a fly shop expecting his life to change. He comes looking for a rod, a reel, a handful of flies, and perhaps a little advice. Sometimes, he comes with curiosity and uncertainty, hoping someone behind the counter can help make sense of a sport that feels both beautiful and overwhelming. For Kevin Knight, that walk into the House of Fly inside North 40 Outfitters was exactly that. He had no idea it would become the beginning of a friendship, a mentorship, and a turning point that would quietly reshape his life.

Behind the counter stood Chip O’Brien, wearing his familiar scally cap, calm and unassuming. Kevin asked the question nearly every beginner asks. “I am on a budget. Where do I start?”

In a retail world that often equates the value of a customer with the bottom line, Chip responded differently. He did not point Kevin toward premium rods or showcase the most expensive reels. He did not overwhelm him with jargon or pressure. He listened. Then he guided him toward a modest rod-and-reel setup, something honest, affordable, and appropriate for someone just beginning.

It was a simple exchange. Professional. Respectful. The kind of interaction that feels refreshing but not yet remarkable.

What Kevin did not realize at the time was that he was standing before a fly-fishing icon. Not a casual enthusiast. Not simply a seasoned angler. Chip O’Brien had written hundreds of articles and several books. His work had appeared in respected national publications such as American Fly Fishing and Active NorCal, as well as a long list of fly-fishing magazines that anglers trust for education and truth on the water. He was, in many ways, a celebrity in the fly fishing world, a man whose words had already shaped how countless anglers understood rivers, insects, and fish. Yet there was not a trace of ego in how Chip approached Kevin. Chip genuinely wanted to help a beginner get into the sport.

To Kevin, Chip was simply a kind man behind a counter who took his question seriously.

That alone would have made the encounter positive. But what made it unforgettable came later.

A month or two passed. Kevin took his new rod-and-reel combo to the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River. He was still learning. Still fumbling. Still unsure of himself. But that day, he landed his first Westslope Cutthroat trout. The moment carried weight far beyond the fish. It marked a shift from curiosity to connection, from interest to belonging.

He returned to the House of Fly and held up his phone. Chip leaned in, studied the image, smiled, and said, “What a beaut.”

Three simple words.

For Kevin, they carried the gravity of affirmation. Those words felt like recognition. He now felt welcomed into the fly-fishing fraternity. 

They talked that day for nearly two hours, interrupted only by customers coming in for flies, leaders, and advice for the coming season. During that conversation, Kevin learned that Chip was not just knowledgeable. He was a writer. An author. A former guide. A retired school teacher. A man whose life had been built around teaching others to understand both water and words.

What Kevin could not have known then was how deeply that conversation would echo into his life.

At the time, Kevin was stepping into one of the darkest seasons he had ever known. A divorce after seventeen years of marriage had fractured his sense of identity and stability. The future felt loud, uncertain, and heavy. Fly fishing at first became an escape. Then it became something far more powerful. It became a rhythm. A place of stillness. A way to breathe again.

And Chip was his guide on that journey.

Not through dramatic gestures. Not through speeches or prescriptions. He was there through time, conversation, and shared experience. Through showing Kevin not only how to cast, but also how to slow down. How to pay attention. How to let the river become a place of restoration rather than distraction.

Fly fishing gave Kevin peace. Chip gave it structure and possibility.

Kevin would later say that Chip saved his life. More than once.

That is not a statement made lightly. It is one that reveals how deeply mentorship can shape a person when it is grounded in care and compassion. Chip never positioned himself as a hero. He simply showed up consistently, with patience and respect. With genuine care and support.

And that is the thing about Chip. He affords every person he meets the same opportunity.

Customer after customer, he smiles and offers help. He learns names. He remembers stories. He treats beginners and experts with equal dignity. In a world shaped by speed and transaction, Chip practices presence. He understands that people rarely walk into fly shops carrying only fishing questions. They carry stories. Longings. Grief. Hope. Uncertainty.

The House of Fly inside North 40 Outfitters becomes a perfect reflection of that philosophy. North 40 is a store built for work and practicality. It serves farmers, hunters, gardeners, homesteaders, and families. It sells feed, boots, tools, and equipment. And tucked inside it is a fly shop that feels entirely different in pace and tone. It is slower. Quieter. Thoughtful. It feels like a classroom and a gathering place at the same time.

Here, one of the most experienced fly fishing writers and educators in the country chooses to spend his days helping people find their footing.

To understand why that matters, you have to understand who Chip has been long before Spokane ever knew his name.

Chip grew up in the Midwest, moving between Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois. His introduction to fly fishing came almost accidentally. After his father passed away, an old bamboo fly rod was left behind in the garage. It was not a cherished heirloom yet. Just an object waiting for meaning.

That meaning came when the family moved to eighty acres outside of West Bend, Wisconsin, with their own private lake. Chip tied on a bass popper that was already attached to the line and cast it out. A bass inhaled it almost immediately. Years later, he would reflect on that moment and wonder who had really been hooked.

Around the same time, his mother planted another seed. After a strong grade on a piece of writing, she said, “Maybe you should be a writer when you grow up.” Those words ignited a spark. 

There were no fly fishing magazines then. Chip read Outdoor Life, Field and Stream, and Sports Afield, eagerly waiting for the one fly fishing article each issue might contain. He decided that someday, he would write those stories himself.

So he pursued journalism, earning a bachelor’s degree and later a graduate degree in writing. Like many young adults with clear passions, he detoured into something that promised stability. Corporate sales in Los Angeles. A good income. A predictable future.

Then one morning, he told his wife, “All I really want to do is fish.”

That sentence changed everything. It altered finances. It strained relationships. It reshaped priorities. And it led him north to Northern California, where wild trout water and possibility ran side by side.

There he began writing seriously. Fishing seriously. Learning deeply. He worked with California Trout and later guided for Clearwater House, where he met Dick Galland. It was Galland who would give him the sentence that would define his life:

“I am not looking for people who are expert fly fishers. I can teach you that. I am looking for people who love people.”

Chip carried that sentence into every role he ever held.

He spent fourteen years guiding the best waters in Northern California. He taught fly-fishing classes for beginners, intermediates, and experts. He wrote prolifically. He discovered that while teaching others brought great fulfillment, it left little time for fishing. So he pivoted again.

He became a school teacher, teaching writing during the year and guiding and fishing during the summer. He lived a life built on curiosity and service. He wrote hundreds of articles. He authored several books. He wrote about technique, entomology, equipment, conservation, history, and the fragile places that should be protected through silence.

Life took him to Oregon through love and marriage. Then, eventually, to Spokane, drawn by the powerful bond between a grandmother and her grandchildren. After retirement, he fished throughout the West. And then restlessness returned.

He began searching for fly fishing opportunities in Spokane.

That search led him to the House of Fly inside North 40 Outfitters.

Much like guiding and teaching before it, Chip discovered that working in a fly shop suited him perfectly. Fly shops are places of conversation and connection. People come for flies but stay for stories. One day, it is carp tactics. The next day, it might be Hemingway. Then entomology. Then life.

Chip writes for the House of Fly blog. He fishes weekly, year-round. His articles continue to appear in national publications. Yet he chooses to spend his days helping beginners build confidence and veterans sharpen their understanding.

Spokane’s fly fishing culture is rich, and Chip is at the center of it. He is involved with Spokane Fly Fishers, Inland Empire Fly Fishers, and Spokane Women on the Fly. He helped organize the first annual Spokane Fly Fishing Showdown, bringing clubs together in friendly competition built on community rather than money. No prize purses. Only a trophy, pride, and a year of lighthearted rivalry. Again, none of it is about ego; it is about true love for the sport.

Through it all, Chip remains the same man behind the counter. The same scally cap. The same smile. The same willingness to listen. To guide. To help. The same love for people that Dick Galland saw in him decades before.

Kevin did not walk into the House of Fly looking for healing. He walked in looking for a rod. What he found was a man who understood that fly fishing is rarely about fish alone. It is about patience. Belonging. Learning how to be present again. Fly fishing is a community, and Chip welcomed Kevin in.

Chip has spent sixty years fly fishing. But his greatest craft has never been casting or tying flies. It has been loving people well, one honest conversation at a time.

And the Spokane outdoor community is better because he has chosen to do it here!

The post Outdoor Profiles: Chip O’Brien Writer, Guide, & Fly-Fishing Expert at North 40 Outfitters appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Bri Loveall 

Cover photo courtesy of Bri Loveall

Before teaching my kids to ski, I received a lot of really helpful advice: private lessons, ski school, hula hoops instead of ski harnesses, and even recruiting a grandparent. Last fall, we finally committed and rented season-long skis and boots from our favorite ski shop. The day after Thanksgiving, I packed a bag with more snacks than seemed necessary, loaded the gear into the car, and drove the kids up to the mountain for our first day on the snow.  

By then my children had taken about three lessons (which they seemed to forget the moment they clicked into their skis). I envisioned watching them glide down the bunny hill, laughing and waving as they tipped and then righted themselves. Instead, I found myself chasing after my older child, certain she’d run into someone. My youngest child managed to do a single run (while I held him up) before deciding he’d rather play in the snow instead. 

It’s fine, I told myself. It’s only the first day. As the season progressed, my commitment deepened; we were going to be a ski family and the outdoors would be our teacher. 

So much of what we teach our children is physical—how to tie shoes, tidy a room, catch a ball—that we forget what we are really teaching them is resilience. How to keep going even when they are uncomfortable, even when they fail and fall, when they’re cold and bored and tired. We are teaching them to embrace discomfort.  

Frequently, as a parent, I recognize within myself a limited tolerance for discomfort. The second my children begin whining (a normal childhood behavior that’s actually indicative of healthy emotional maturation), I think I’m causing some irreversible damage to their premature egos, and I want to quit. Children learn best when environments are fun and relaxed, when big tasks are broken down into small ones and when snacks are plentiful. But that doesn’t mean the learning is easy. And last season I learned that there is an art to discomfort.  

Crammed into our car (we have yet to invest in ski racks) with gear wedged into every nook and cranny, each weekend we made the trek up the mountain while the kids bickered in the back seat. It was hot, it was cold, their legs were sore. They were hungry, they were tired, they’d rather be home watching a show.  

In the parking lot, the wind whipped through the open doors and they shouted and shoved at each other as they all tried to dress in the same limited space. And we hadn’t even reached the worst part—ski boots. “You’re breaking my foot!” my youngest hollered, as other ski-ready families walked past. My own fingers were halfway frozen, struggling to hold my son’s boot open while I patiently coaxed him to shove his foot in.  

Once dressed, we still faced the walk from the car to the lift. “Here, kids, carry your own helmets, OK?” I’d say in my best Julie Andrews voice, stuffing extra gear and snacks into my backpack before grabbing their skis (and mine). “It’s too heavy. It’s too cold. It’s hard to walk in boots,” they groaned, lagging behind me. By the time we reached the bunny hill for lessons, I was ready to pass off my children to the instructors and find any excuse to escape into the lodge, where I could try to regain my Julie Andrews voice. 

All of us have a threshold for being uncomfortable, and yet we rarely think of it as a muscle that also needs to be stretched and strengthened. Because, let’s be honest, some days the skiing (or the hiking, camping, swimming, biking) just sucks. The weather is too cold or too hot, too wet or too smoky, and our kids are tired and we’re tired and no one—I mean no one—is having fun. I might argue that those moments are the most important in developing a lifelong commitment to the pursuit of ​​adventure.  

The advice I would give to parents is this: acknowledge the sensations your child is experiencing (cold, wet, fatigue, boredom) and then encourage them to keep going. When we mirror a tempered version of our child’s emotions, we validate them, and in doing so, create a safe space for them to practice navigating their discomfort.  

One Saturday last year, my youngest had a full-on meltdown in the middle of the crowded lodge. While onlookers tried not to stare as I began gathering our wet hats, lunch trash and helmets, one mom at the table nearest to me met my eye. “It gets better,” she said, gesturing to the teens situated around her. “Eventually, they learn to love it.”  

The post The Art of Discomfort  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Remember when winter used to be pure fun? When snow days meant skipping class, hot chocolate and laughing so hard your cheeks actually hurt? That kind of joy isn’t gone—you’ve just got to know where to find it.  

This winter, rediscover that feeling at Big White Ski Resort. Located just outside Kelowna, British Columbia, Big White is where adulting takes a back seat and real winter fun kicks in. Easy to get to, hard to leave, and built for skiers, snowboarders and families who want more than just great snow—they want great memories. 

From Washington to Big White in Under Five Hours 

With direct flights from Seattle to Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Big White is one of the most accessible international ski destinations from Washington state. Skip the long drives and border waits—just hop on a 1.5-hour flight, then let the Big White official airport shuttle handle the rest. In under an hour, you’re pulling up to the resort. 

Prefer to drive? From Washington, Big White is just 4.5 to 6 hours away. Coming from Spokane? Head up U.S. 395, cross at Laurier, then cruise BC 33 from Rock Creek straight to Big White Road. Driving from Seattle or western Washington? Cross at Peace Arch, Pacific Highway or Oroville, then follow BC 97 through Kelowna to BC 33. Smooth roads, stunning views and a drive that hits just right. Just don’t forget your passport. 

Pro tip: Book through Big White Central Reservations for a five-night stay and get the Fly & Ski Free deal—your lift ticket on arrival day is free. You could literally be skiing in just over an hour after clearing customs. 

Ski-In, Ski-Out Living Means No Wasted Time 

Big White isn’t just partly ski-in, ski-out—it’s entirely ski-in, ski-out. Every lodge, condo and cabin connects directly to the slopes or is a short walk to the lifts. You’ll spend more time on snow and less time wrangling gear and finding parking. Prefer to have a car? There’s ample free parking and many accommodations come with dedicated spots. But honestly, once you’re here, you won’t need it. Big White is designed so you can ditch the keys and focus on the important stuff—like first tracks and après cocktails. 

Your Dollar Goes Further in Canada 

Big White is in British Columbia, which means your U.S. dollar stretches further. Factor in the favorable exchange rate and you’re saving without even trying. That après beer? Cheaper. That extra ski day? More doable. Looking for a deal? Check out Sundance Resort’s “Buy 3, Get 4 Free” offer—stylish, spacious accommodations with pools, hot tubs, steam rooms and underground parking. You also get ski/snowboard storage and access to grocery delivery. It’s luxury without the markup. 

Family-Friendly, Without the Chaos 

Big White is proudly family-owned, and it shows. The vibe is friendly, down-to-earth and refreshingly unpretentious. You won’t find ego here—just great snow, helpful staff and tons of ways to make life easy for parents. The Kids’ Centre Ski/Ride Valet handles lesson logistics so you can ski without juggling schedules. For littles too young to hit the slopes, Tot Town Daycare is a lifesaver—safe, warm and staffed by pros. Whether your kids are learning pizza turns or just chasing Loose Moose around the tubing park, they’re in good hands. 

Beyond the Slopes 

While the Okanagan champagne powder gets the spotlight, Big White stands out for delivering so much more than just great snow. Sure, the powder is legendary, but the off-slope activities keep the fun going all day and night. Skate on North America’s highest outdoor rink, race down the tubing hill, ride through the snow on a horse-drawn sleigh or take a snowmobile tour through the backcountry. Unwind at the Spa at Stonebridge or glide through the forest on a dog sled ride—it’s all part of the adventure. 

Night skiing runs Tuesday through Saturday and covers the largest lit terrain in Western Canada. There’s also a new Slopeside Arcade under the Snow Ghost—27 classic and modern games that are as fun for adults as they are for kids. And yes, Loose Moose, Big White’s iconic mascot, is still out there making memories and photobombs. 

Eat, Drink, and Be Cozy 

Hungry? Big White’s food scene hits every craving. Grab comfort food at Underground Pizza, treat the kids to iconic pink donuts at The Bullwheel, or go upscale with a night out at 6 Degrees Bistro, Sopra: Sam’s Italian Kitchen or the new Kettle Valley Steakhouse. 

Want to keep it cozy in your condo? The Market at Big White has everything you need for home-cooked meals—and offers delivery straight to your door. Local wine, live music, craft beer and seasonal menus round out a food scene that punches well above its weight. It’s not just fuel—it’s part of the experience. 

Ready for a Grown-Up Winter Break? 

Here’s the bottom line: Big White makes it easy to say yes to winter. No long-haul flights, no long queues, no rental car headaches, no logistics to untangle. Just grab your gear, make the easy drive or catch a short flight, and let the resort handle the rest. 

With ski-in, ski-out access, family-first amenities and genuine Canadian hospitality, Big White isn’t just a resort—it’s a full-on reset. The kind of place where everyone—parents, kids, couples, groups of friends—can unplug, unwind and actually have fun again. 

Lock in the best rates and serious perks at bigwhite.com. Book now, head north and let Big White do the rest. 

Sponsored

The post Big Snow. Bigger Laughs. Welcome to Big White.  appeared first on Out There Venture.

When visiting a ski area with kids or anyone who is still learning to ski or snowboard, it’s important to know the best runs that will match their ability levels. Some beginner-friendly runs are less steep and shorter, making it easier to get down the mountain before fatigue sets in. Some lifts are easier for kids and adult beginners to get on and off safely. The best way to set the stage for a great day on the slopes is to ask resort staff from the ski school for advice on which lifts to take and which runs to ski based on the abilities of your family, the current snow conditions and the weather. But by far the best decision you can make for your child or anyone learning a winter sport is to sign them up for lessons. 

These beginner-friendly runs at the four Ski the Northwest Rockies resorts are a great option for new riders who are just getting started or looking to take the next step beyond the magic carpet or bunny hill terrain. 

49 Degrees North  

Location: Chewelah, WA 

Surface Lift: Gold Fever, located near the lodge in the ski school teaching area. A great place for kids and adults to learn. 

Bunny Hill: 49 has some of the longest and most diverse bunny hill terrain of any local mountain that is accessed via the Payday Lift (Chair #3). Give Easy Slide, Gold Chute or Fool’s Gold a try. 

Beginner Runs: 49 Degrees North is the second largest ski area in Washington State and has plenty of beginner-friendly slopes. Local favorites include Huckleberry Ridge and Big Bear located in Sunrise Basin, Quartzite Ridge off Angel Peak and Lost Dutchman to the 4800 Road in the West Basin. 

Lookout Pass  

Location: Mullan, ID 

Bunny Hill: Success Slope via Success Triple Chairlift provides a slow, comfortable beginner chairlift experience for kids, parents or anyone just learning, followed by some excellent low-angled practice slopes to help boost beginner confidence. 

Beginner Runs: Huckleberry Ridge to Grub Steak run. Get there via the Peak One Quad Chairlift and ask the liftie to slow it down for the beginners in the group. The Huckleberry Jam Progression Park allows parents and kids to learn to ride on small terrain-style features.   

Mt. Spokane 

Location: Mead, WA 

Magic Carpet: Located just below Lodge 2 (main lodge) near the ski school building and bunny hill chairlift. 

Bunny Hill: Ego Flats via the Beginner’s Luck lift (Chair 5). 

Beginner Runs: Northwest Passage, via Parkway Express (Chair 3). Also try Half Hitch, staying skier’s right to avoid the terrain park or Jim’s Gem via Northwood (Chair 6), which is a more challenging beginner run on the backside of the mountain that requires a long return to the front side and lodge via Northwest Passage. 

Silver Mountain 

Location: Kellogg, ID 

Surface Lift: Prospector Adventure Lift (covered conveyor lift) located by the Mountain House. 

Bunny Hill: Easy Street—near the surface lift and Mountain House. 

Beginner Runs: Check out Ross Run, which follows the gondola line down to Dawdler, Bear Grass or Huckleberry before ending up at Chair 5. Below the Magic Carpet, try the Claim Jumper run that leads to the bottom of Chair 5 which runs slower for kids and beginners. 

The post Top Beginner Ski Runs for Families at Northwest Rockies Resorts appeared first on Out There Venture.

If you are dreaming of sunnier, warmer days outside, the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo is a shot of summer when we need it most in the dead of winter. It’s a lively gathering with experts in the local outdoors community, RVs and outdoor gear on display and for sale, presentations and demonstrations on a variety of outdoor topics, prize drawings, and enough engaging kids’ activities to keep families occupied for hours. Visit Spokaneoutdoorexpo.com for the full schedule and details.  

TONS OF FUN FOR KIDS & PARENTS 

The Spokane Great Outdoors Expo is a savior if your family has been spending their winter days indoors, with enough kids’ activities, entertainment and indoor bike riding to turn another winter weekend at home into an adventure! Parents will find plenty to love, including RVs and outdoor gear, outfitters and gear shops, travel destinations and a full bar. 

Extreme Halfpipe Skateboarding Demos  

Watch rippin’ skateboarders pull off sick stunts on and off the half pipe! Demonstrations happen both days indoors at the Expo courtesy of Hopper Skateboards, Yousta, and sponsor Layne Stoops State Farm, your local Spokane insurance agency. 

Kids’ Adventure Passport Activity 

Kids and parents can explore the Great Outdoors Expo, visiting multiple booths to complete learning activities, art projects and other creative and fun challenges. Kids collect stamps in a passport booklet at each station that can be exchanged for a bag of prizes for kids and parents when they finish. 

Magic Shows by Magician Matthew Vanzee 

Kids and adults will be dazzled by these shows all weekend long by talented local magician Matthew Vanzee. Last year, his shows drew a standing-room-only crowd as he performed tricks that inspired wonder, gasps and laughter. Don’t miss this show! 

Live Wild Animal Presentations 

Get up close and personal with live snakes, other reptiles, insects, and raptors including hawks and owls and learn about these amazing animals (presentations both days). 

• Reptiles Presentation: Learn about the fascinating world of reptiles by getting up close with some live reptiles in a hands-on learning experience. Gain a deeper appreciation for these often-misunderstood creatures.  

• Hawk and Owl Presentation: Discover the world of birds of prey and see some live raptors up close while learning about the hunting skills, behaviors, and unique characteristics of these impressive birds as well as the role they play in maintaining ecological balance in the wild.  

Kids’ Indoor Bike Riding Area  

Kids of all ages can try out different bikes, from Strider balance bikes for the littles to BMX bikes for “kids” of all ages including adults in an indoor riding area (all weekend long). 

Archery for Kids and Youth 

Learn about archery with local experts and get the chance to experience the art of the bow and arrow in a safe, educational environment—all indoors.  

Marshmallow Roasting 

Roast free marshmallows at our indoor “Expo Campground” around a faux campfire, complete with live music, camp chairs and games. 

Learn How to Use a Crosscut Saw 

Ever wonder what it’s like to be on the end of a cross-cut saw clearing trail? Give it a try with members of the Idaho Trails Association and learn about ways you can help keep Idaho’s wilderness trails clear and accessible while meeting other like-minded volunteers. 

Indoor Expo Campground 

Enjoy our indoor campground as you dream about next summer’s adventures! Kick back in a camp chair, roast a marshmallow, play yard games, enjoy an adult beverage, check out RVs from R’nR RV and listen to live American string music. The indoor “Campground” is also where we hold hourly drawings for thousands of dollars in outdoor gear and other prizes. 

JOIN NEGATIVE SPLIT’S 5K “SWAG RUN”  

What’s the Swag Run, you ask? If you’re even a casual runner, this is your chance to get outside on a 5K run with other smiling faces and get a morning workout on the scenic trails and pathways around Riverfront Park and the Spokane River. The cool thing about Negative Split’s Swag Run is that participants get to take home leftover swag from past races. The race starts and finishes at the Great Outdoors Expo at the Spokane Convention Center Saturday morning (Feb. 21). Runners also score a free ticket to the Great Outdoors Expo at the finish line! Sign up at Nsplit.com. 

FREE ENTRY INTO THE SPOKANE GOLF SHOW 

Your Expo ticket doubles as entry to the Spokane Golf Show going on in the same space at the convention center.  

PRESENTATIONS ON OUTDOORSY TOPICS  

Learn about wildlife, trails and natural history at presentations by local experts happening all weekend long. Past presentations have covered topics including staying safe in the outdoors around bears and other predators, wilderness survival, local trails and natural areas, navigating the different types of e-bikes and where you can ride them, identifying native birds and more. Check the full schedule at Spokaneoutdoorexpo.com. 

SCORE A FREE BONUS ADVENTURE DEAL WITH YOUR TICKET  

Choose from one of several free bonus adventure deals with your Spokane Great Outdoors Expo ticket purchase while they last. All bonus deals are redeemable only at the 2026 Spokane Great Outdoors Expo with your ticket stub. In past years, bonus deals included discounts on indoor climbing, ziplining, Stonerose Fossil Site digging, Route of the Hiawatha kids’ shuttle, skydiving and more! 

OVER 70 OUTDOOR EXPERTS ALL IN ONE PLACE 

Talk to real human experts on all things outdoor recreation related at the Great Outdoors Expo, from nonprofit conservation groups, public lands managers and outdoor clubs to RV dealers and overlanding companies, travel destinations, outdoor gear retailers, outfitters and guides and more. 

Whether you’re planning next summer’s adventures, looking for family fun in the middle of winter or just wanting to connect with Spokane’s outdoors community, the Great Outdoors Expo is the place to be. Mark your calendar for Feb. 21–22 and get ready to explore the outdoors—indoors. Visit Spokaneoutdoorexpo.com for more info and tickets.  

The post EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS INSIDE AT THE SPOKANE GREAT OUTDOORS EXPO   appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Lookout Pass

 Lifts: 5 (2 quads, 2 triples, 1 double) 
Vertical: 1,650  
Skiable acres: 1,023 
Number of runs: 59 
Terrain parks: 3 
Annual snowfall: 450 inches 
Operating schedule: With 100% natural snow, Lookout opens as soon as conditions permit. Seven-day-a-week operations pre-Christmas through April 20 (conditions permitting). 

Season Deals 
Lookout Pass is the mountain for anyone who wants to ski natural snow without draining their wallet and is known as one of the most affordable mountains in the region. Check out these deals:  

• Score two lift tickets for a total of $75 on Thursdays with the Bring a Friend Thursdays promotion.  

• Ski free on your birthday when you show ID or a birth certificate.  

• Make a reservation for lift tickets online by 11:59 p.m. the day before you arrive and save money.  

• If you have a season pass from any other mountain in the world, show your valid pass at the ticket window to get half-price lift tickets Monday through Thursday with the Golden Pass deal. With that offer, an adult can get a full-day lift ticket for just $31.50. 

Why ski Lookout Pass? Because the only thing better than its fresh powder and reliable grooming is knowing you saved enough to buy a round or two at après. 

Ski and Stay Packages 
Lookout Pass partners with lodging establishments in Wallace, Idaho, including the Wallace Inn, the Stardust Motel and The Brooks, to offer ski and stay packages. Contact lodging partners directly for pricing and options. Learn more at Skilookout.com/silver-valley. 

Lessons for Everyone 
Lessons are available for ages 2 through adult, with both group and private options. A few lesson highlights include: 

• Private Lesson 5-Pack: For ages 2 and up, consider a five-pack of private lessons for $375 (regular private lessons are $99 per hour). It’s a solid deal and a great stocking stuffer.  

• Group lessons are offered from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and are $65. Rentals can be added for $20. Lift tickets are sold separately.  

• The Kids’ First Timers Learn to Ski or Snowboard package is $199 and valid for any three days this winter. Participants receive three lessons, three rental setups and three lift tickets. Valid for kids ages 7 to 12. Similar offerings are available for older kids and adults. It’s best to commit to three days when first learning to ski or snowboard. 

Lookout’s World-Famous Free Ski School 

For kids ages 7–17, this program has been running since 1940. It is the longest-running free ski school in the country. Ski or snowboard lessons are offered on seven specific Saturdays during the winter (participants must attend one of the first lessons to participate throughout the season). Children are placed in groups based on age and skill level and receive roughly an hour and a half of instruction. It’s an excellent program for first-timers as well as committed young skiers or riders looking to progress and have fun on the mountain. Sign-ups begin in early to mid-December. FreeSkiSchool.org 

Lookout Pass strongly suggests that all students purchase a season pass or a lift ticket three-pack so they can continue to ski before or after their lessons. Lookout also offers affordably priced, season-long rental ski or snowboard packages.  

More Space to Relax 

With the grand opening of the Snow Globe—a sprung structure that opened last year—Lookout continues to offer additional space for skiers and riders to warm up and refuel. The Snow Globe includes comfortable couches, large-screen TVs and a more relaxed vibe than the historic lodge next door. 

The original historic lodge (the second-oldest in the Northwest) still serves hot breakfasts, hearty meals, pizza, chili, hamburgers, hot dogs and fries, along with hot and cold drinks. Guests can also find a selection of healthier menu options, beer, good coffee, and warm beverages in the Snow Globe. 

The Loft Pub offers options for the 21-and-up crowd, including cocktails, beer on tap or in cans, wings and other snacks. With even more room to kick back, it’s an easy place to unwind after a day on the slopes. 

Featured Events this Season 

Lookout Pass hosts some creative events and competitions, from the Cardboard Box Derby to Kids Snow Bowling, where parents compete using their kids used as bowling balls! Check Skilookout.com/events for the full event calendar. 

• Dress Like Santa Ski for $20: Dec. 22 

• Torchlight Parade: Dec. 31 

• Rail Jam: March 29 

• Ski Golf: April 4 

• Easter Egg Hunt: April 5 

• Hawaiian Luau & Cardboard Box Derby: April 12 

Sponsored

The post Your Complete Winter Guide to Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area appeared first on Out There Venture.

Cover photo courtesy of Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park

Lifts: 6 chairlifts, plus a surface lift and terrain park handle tow 

Vertical: 2,000 feet 

Acres: 1,704 

Number of Runs: 52 

Night Skiing: 16 night skiing runs starting Dec. 18 (Wednesdays-Saturdays) 

Operating Schedule: Open Dec. 7 through the first week of April, operating 7 days a week Dec. 16-March 16 (as conditions allow).  

Just a short drive from Spokane, Mt. Spokane feels like the city’s own backyard mountain. Every dollar Mt. Spokane earns is reinvested into the hill: into lift service, trail upkeep and programs that strengthen connections among local skiers and riders. Mt. Spokane is also the only ski area in the region to light up 16 runs from Wednesday through Sunday, 3 to 9 p.m. And for those who want to squeeze every minute of winter fun out of the season, weekend and holiday ski days stretch from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

What’s New on the Mountain 

Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is excited to welcome Thomas Hammer Coffee to the mountain experience. Guests can now start their day on the slopes with expertly crafted coffee while enjoying the same warm, community-focused vibe that has made Mt. Spokane a local favorite. Whether fueling up for a day of skiing or snowboarding, or simply enjoying a cup with friends, Thomas Hammer Coffee brings its signature quality and local charm to the heart of the mountain. 

Additionally, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is excited to announce a new partnership with Wild Mike’s Pizza! Skiers and snowboarders can now enjoy a delicious twist before hitting the slopes—purchase a frozen Wild Mike’s pizza at your local store and tear off a $10 night ski coupon. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Wild Mike’s will be making appearances all season at terrain park events and contests, handing out prizes and celebrating Wild Mike Wednesdays with guests of all ages. 

Snow Tubing at Mt. Spokane  

Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park will once again be offering snow tubing at Lodge 1. Snow tubing is perfect for families looking for accessible fun in the snow for all ages and abilities and will open this December in time for the holiday season. Snow tubing sessions run for 90 minutes, with each run supported by a tow back to the top. Tubing sessions will be available throughout the holiday season as well as on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays all winter long. Sessions can be booked online and must be booked in advance (no tubing on ski race event days). More info at Mtspokane.com. 

Learn to Ski or Snowboard 
From multi-week programs to camps, private or group lessons, and specialty clinics, Mt. Spokane Ski & Ride School makes learning to ski or ride fun and flexible while building confidence. With the EZ Ski 1-2-3 Package, guests receive three 2-hour lessons, rentals and lift tickets for just $299. It’s the easiest way for the kids and adults (ages 7 and up) to start skiing or riding. This awesome package is offered weekends and holidays at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Make the most of Christmas and Mid-Winter break with Mt. Spokane’s Ski and Ride School.  

Club Shred—Fridays Starting Dec. 18 
Club Shred is back for another amazing season of teaching the youngest riders the skills they need to be successful on the slopes. This program features lessons for kiddos ages 4-13 and includes kid-friendly dinner, activities and fun from some of the coolest ski instructors. Level up Club Shred with the family option that includes two adult night tickets for $99, and you’ve got the ultimate date night package.  

Terrain Park  

With the completion of the only handle-tow-served terrain park in the region last year, Mt. Spokane skiers and boarders can continue shredding the terrain park this coming season without long lift rides. The addition of the handle tow means more laps, faster progression on skills and less congestion on the lifts for those non-terrain skiers and boarders.  

Galentine’s Day Ladies Clinic—Feb. 13 
Calling all women who love the slopes! Treat yourself to a full day of skiing or snowboarding designed just for ladies. Led by expert instructors, you’ll be grouped by skill level to get personalized guidance, improve your technique, and challenge yourself—all while having a blast ($139 a person). Add a lift ticket for $39 (if you don’t have a season pass) or add ski or snowboard rentals for $32. 

The day includes: 

• Four hours of guided instruction 

• Delicious lunch and happy hour 

• Fun prizes and giveaways 

• Après-ski celebration with friends, music and mountain magic until 9 p.m. 

Come solo or bring a friend—either way, it’s a day to celebrate women, connect and ski into an unforgettable Galentine’s Day! 

Cadet Leadership Program 

Do you have kids who want to improve their skiing or snowboarding as well as build their leadership skills? This program takes our top young skiers and snowboarders (ages 11-15) and prepares them to be future instructors! During the season, they will learn the leadership and teaching skills it takes to be a future instructor. They will make friends and get time on the slopes. The program kicks off with a two-day Orientation/Leadership Training Program. Kids will be scheduled for shifts throughout the season and assist in ski school classes under the guidance of their ski school group mentor. At the completion of the initial training and commitment to a minimum of six volunteer days, cadets will earn their season pass. Find more information at Mtspokane.com.  

Sponsored
 

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Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park has been teaching our community to ski and ride for generations. Just an hour from Spokane, it remains the region’s backyard mountain—easy to reach, affordable and built for families who want to spend real time outside together. 

The mountain is open seven days a week, offering 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. skiing Sunday through Tuesday and extending to 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday–Saturday for night skiing. Families can pack in full 12-hour ski days, enjoy quieter midweek laps or head up after work or school for a few hours under the lights. With six lifts, 53 runs and 1,700 acres of varied terrain, there’s plenty of space for every ability level. 

Mt. Spokane also offers one of the most fun non-ski activities on the mountain: snow tubing. The dedicated tubing hill features a 400-foot slope, perfect for families, groups and younger kids who aren’t ready for skis or snowboards. Tubing tickets range from $15–$35, making it one of the most accessible winter activities for all ages. 

The mountain’s terrain parks continue to grow their regional reputation as well. Recently recognized nationally for creative features, Mt. Spokane’s parks offer progression for riders of all levels, giving kids and teens a place to build confidence and try new terrain in a controlled environment. 

Learning is a central part of the Mt. Spokane experience. The resort’s multiweek programs are the most consistent and effective way for kids to build skills. Students ski with the same instructor and group each week, accelerating progress and creating natural opportunities for new friendships. Families can choose a single program or combine multiple sessions for a full season of learning. 

A standout option is Friday Night Club Shred for ages 4 to 12. Running Dec. 26 through March 13 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Club Shred blends instruction with activities like games, crafts and snow play. Each session includes a kids-only dinner, and at $49 (or $99 for the family package that includes two adult lift tickets), it’s one of the region’s most affordable youth programs. Parents often use the evening to get their own night-ski laps in—Club Shred has become a built-in “date night” on the mountain. 

Affordability remains a major part of Mt. Spokane’s identity. A recent HomeToGo study ranked the resort the second-most-affordable ski destination in the U.S., noting its balance of terrain, lift pricing and access. With rentals, lessons, tubing, terrain parks and even uphill travel options, families can build a full winter routine without destination-resort prices. 

Add in a season full of winter events, and Mt. Spokane continues to be the mountain where many families learn, explore and make winter memories that last. More information at Mtspokane.com.

(Sponsored by Mt. Spokane) 

The post Why Mt. Spokane Offers the Best Affordable Family Winter Adventure Near Spokane appeared first on Out There Venture.

Ski the NW Rockies programs make family skiing more affordable. 

These programs sponsored by Ski the NW Rockies resorts in Washington and Idaho will change the way your family thinks about winter. Spend time outdoors together and save money with free skiing or snowboarding for 5^th graders and these affordable, all-inclusive learn-to-ski or snowboard programs.  

EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 Program  

Kids and parents can learn to ski or ride in three days with lift tickets, rentals and lessons. 

The EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 program makes learning to ski or snowboard for the very first time affordable and easy for kids and parents. All four Ski the NW Rockies association resorts offer a three-visit package to first-timers at an incredible price ($199 and up) that includes three lift tickets, three rentals (boots, poles, skis or snowboard), and three lessons (ages, prices and details vary by resort).  

How It Works: Pick one of the participating ski areas (Lookout Pass, Mt. Spokane, Silver Mountain or 49 Degrees North) where you want to sign up. Purchase the EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 package by calling the ski area to purchase your package and schedule the lessons. Then show up the day of the first lesson with plenty of time to get fitted for your rental gear. Your child (and maybe you) will be on your way to learning to ski or snowboard! More info at Skinwrockies.com. 

5^th Grade Ski or Ride Free Passport 

Fifth graders can ski or ride for free all season at four Ski the NW Rockies resorts. 

This popular program helps get 5th graders out on the slopes for free for three full days at each participating resort (some blackout dates may apply). To participate, parents need to submit an application with a $30.27 one-time processing and convenience fee at Skinwrockies.com/5th-grade-ski-passport. A parent or guardian must be present at the mountain’s ticket offices to receive your child’s lift ticket. 

How It Works: Submit your application and pay the processing fee online. You’ll receive an email with your passport that can be used to claim up to three lift tickets at Lookout Pass, Mt. Spokane, Silver Mountain and 49 Degrees North. You can either print the passport and bring it with you or pull it up on your phone to present it at the ticket office. Check with the specific ski area for full details. Visit Skinwrockies.com for details. 

Sponsored

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