Out There Outdoors / November - December 2023

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Serving Spokane since 1999

CONTENTS

Features 30 | 3 Fall Hikes

40 | Epic Ski Trip in a Tent

Special Sections

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32 | Family Winter Sports Guide 38 | Fall Road Trips 42 | Holiday Gift Guide 48 | Out There Snow 60 | BC Ski & Winter Travel Guide

Departments 15 | Health & Fitness 22 | Gear Room 24 | Biking 26 | Moto

Columns

12 | Everyday Cyclist 14 | The Trailhead 16 | Run Wild 19 | Primitive Skills 20 | Literation 21 | Nature

In Every Issue 7 | Intro 8 | Dispatches 13 | Get Out There 18 | Provisions 70 | Last Page COVER ART: Julie Smetana is a multidisciplinary artist, graphic designer, and outdoor enthusiast based in Spokane, WA. Check out more of her work at jsmetanart.com.

we're so much

Deeper powder than just the

epic trails

mountain magic

The snow doesn’t slow us down! Enjoy the abundant fat bike, nordic, & snowshoe trails at Pine Street Woods, Schweitzer, & more.

Want to ride or ski? There’s nothing like a day on the slopes at Schweitzer. Enjoy the best downhilling in the entire Inland Northwest!

music & more The arts and entertainment scene here is simply amazing.

Any given week find live music bustin’ out all ‘round town, plus major events all winter.

Wine & dine The excellent restaurants, breweries, cafes, and taverns in Sandpoint offer something for everyone. Come hungry, leave happy!

Visit Sandpoint, Idaho this winter ... less than 90 minutes east of Spokane Get visitor information at 208.263.2161 • www.VisitSandpoint.com NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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LOVE OUT THERE?

SUPPORT ALL OF THE ADVERTISERS THAT MADE THIS ISSUE POSSIBLE!

Out There Advertiser Spotlight: Townsend Cellar LET’S START by saying that Townsend Cellar does more than make great wine.

As a B Corp certified business, Townsend walks the walk when it comes to efforts of sustainability, community and innovation.

From addressing packaging waste, carbon emissions and water usage in the winemaking process, Townshend values innovation and the environment.

All those glass bottles that are a byproduct of the wine they make? They’re on a mission to reduce their footprint with creative items like the refillable “wowler” (wine growler).

They give 1% of their total revenue to local non-profits that align with their mission, like The Lands Council, Family Promise and Feast World Kitchen.

“We look at it as the only way forward for a long-term business model,” says owner Brendon Townsend. “Take care of the community and environment, and it will take care of us.”

Townsend Cellar is the second Washington winery to become a certified B Corp. And there’s no telling the good they’ll accomplish in the future. Cheers to you, Townshend Cellar.

Set your holiday table with T3, a red wine from Townsend Cellar that has been in production for 20 years and remains the best wine for the price, according to Townsend.

Other wines they produce range from white wines to bold reds and unique dessert wines.

Visit the Townsend Cellar tasting room at 1222 N. Regal St., Spokane.

Interested in being a part of Out There Outdoors in print or digital? Reach out at 509822-0123 or derrick@outtheremonthly.com.

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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

N OV E M B E R - D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 WWW.OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM PUBLISHERS Shallan & Derrick Knowles EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Derrick Knowles MANAGING EDITOR Lisa Laughlin DIGITAL EDITOR Briana Loveall SENIOR WRITERS S. Michal Bennett Carol Corbin Adam Gebauer Sarah Hauge Amy McCaffree Ammi Midstokke Brad Northrup Justin Short Aaron Theisen Holly Weiler CONTRIBUTORS Ellen Bishop Bradley Bleck Noah Botnick Patrick Bulger Ryan Flett Kyle Hamilton Vince Hempsall Karie Lee Knoke Maura Lammers Heidi Lasher Alana Livingston Briana Loveall Chris Maccini Kari Medig Brad Naccarato Trey Nichols Brad Northrup Lee Orr Joel Sattgast Julie Smetana Wil Wheaton

TO REQUEST COPIES CALL 509 / 822 / 0123 AD SALES Derrick Knowles: 509 / 822 / 0123 derrick@outtheremonthly.com SUBMIT CONTENT IDEAS to: lisa@outtheremonthly.com OUT THERE OUTDOORS Mailing Address: PO Box #5, Spokane, WA 99210 www.outthereoutdoors.com, 509 / 822 / 0123 Out There Outdoors is published 6 times a year by Out There Monthly, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 2023 Out There Monthly, LLC. The views expressed in this magazine reflect those of the writers and advertisers and not necessarily Out There Monthly, LLC. Disclaimer: Many of the activities depicted in this magazine carry a significant risk of personal injury or death. Rock climbing, river rafting, snow sports, kayaking, cycling, canoeing and backcountry activities are inherently dangerous.

The owners and contributors to Out There Monthly / Out There Outdoors do not recommend that anyone participate in these activities unless they are experts or seek qualified professional instruction and/or guidance, and are knowledgeable about the risks, and are personally willing to assume all responsibility associated with those risks.

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INTRO BREATHING INTO SHOULDER SEASON DECEMBER HIKE IN RIVERSIDE STATE PARK. // PHOTO: LISA LAUGHLIN

I OFTEN REACH A POINT during summer where everything feels a little much. The days become too bright, too busy—that sun-tired feeling compounds and the pull to fill extra hours of sunlight with activity begins to seem

manic. While I don’t look forward to the darker days of winter any more than the next person, I do get to a point where my body craves the mellow light and rhythm of an overcast autumn day.

In this issue, many of our writers addressed the topic of the late autumn shoulder season and how to survive (and thrive).

There’s also writing from the ski and snowboard junkies who breathe new life at the first frost, no matter how far away the first snow may be. (I’ve thought a lot about not being one of those snow-obsessed athletes the last few winters. It seems like a mental superpower for winter to be your favorite season.) I recently experienced a wave of dread when I remembered the singletrack trails I’d come to love this year would soon be slicked with compact snow and ice. But, as I read over the content for this coming issue, I found a refreshing perspective.

Think of the coming season as an exhale.

No matter if you stay physically very active, your body is tuned to the slowing of the season. The dulling of the landscape as grasses turn and branches become bare. The absence of the thrum of insects and lawnmowers.

The earlier arrival of dusk. There is beauty and healing to be found in the respite as the natural world settles for winter.

Our writers covered topics like the physical benefits of long, slow distance running and the neurological reset that can be achieved with structured breathing. There are arguments for the lost art of walking in the woods, making your own elderberry

syrup (a popular immune-booster in my house with a preschool-aged son), and considering the difference between beauty and the sublime when nature shows her harsh side. Learn how to throw a winter solstice party with your friends to celebrate the darkest day of the year this December, rather than dread it.

These quiet moments don’t mean you should give up getting outside. You absolutely should bundle up and experience all that shoulder season has to offer, pelting rain or not. In my experience, there’s nothing quite as cleansing as standing in an open landscape as a lung-sweeping wind pushes past. (Check out our feature on low-elevation hikes in the channeled scablands for an experience like this.) And then, of course, you can indulge in the stoke about the coming snow: our winter weather predictions, favorite new gear and ski resort experiences, and some one-liners you can keep in mind as you hit the mountain to begin a new season.

This trail runner will be trying to apply the theory of long, slow distance (with headlamp) to multiple aspects of her life and trying not to resent the ice. I’ll be serving up elderberry syrup every week. And I’ve promised a friend I’ll learn to Nordic ski.

Lisa Laughlin, Managing Editor

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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DISPATCHES FREEBIRD RAMBLE SKIMO RACE & RELAY RETURNS CHEWELAH, WASH.

The Freebird Ramble Skimo Race & Relay, put on by Spokane’s Rambleraven Gear Trader, made its ski race debut last February and will return to 49 Degrees North Feb. 24, 2024. AT and tele skiers and splitboarders can choose from one solo lap as well as a solo six-hour endurance race or a 2-4-person six-hour relay race where racers complete as many laps as they can. The uphill course starts at the main lodge and follows Portal to Silver Ridge to the summit (2.3 miles with 1,860 feet of vertical). The

downhill route is up to the racers.

Registration cost is $70 for the solo one lap, $125 for solo six hour, and $225 for relay six hour (register early and save up to $50). Race day registration will only be available for solo one-lap participants. Register today and start training for the uphill! The event will also include a demo day with the chance to try the latest equipment from Rambleraven for free. Come up and cheer on the racers and demo some gear! Scan the Freebird Ramble ad QR code on page 58 for details and to sign up. (OTO)

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FREEBIRD RAMBLE SMILES. // PHOTO: COURTESY OF RAMBLERAVEN GEAR TRADER

NEW HIGH-SPEED QUAD AT SCHWEITZER SANDPOINT, IDAHO

Schweitzer skiers and snowboarders this winter will enjoy an even faster trip up the mountain with the new state-of-the-art Creekside Express chairlift, a high-speed detachable quad that replaces the Musical Chairs fixed grip double. This new lift is poised to elevate the experience for guests of all ages and abilities with the detachable design making it easier for beginner skiers and riders to load and unload. The lift promises quicker access to the mountain from the base area with an increase in capacity to 2,400 riders per hour (double the previous capacity). The design also allows for foot passengers without skis 8

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

or snowboards to be transported to and from the village, even in the summer. The Creekside Express is the third new lift at Schweitzer in the last five years.

The Creekside Express also marks the completion of the first phase of the new Schweitzer Creek Village project.

Designed to reimagine the guest arrival experience for day-guests, Schweitzer Creek Village is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Schweitzer’s history.

Subsequent phases of the project will include a new 1,400-space parking lot, a new day lodge, improved access to the mountain, and expanded beginner and intermediate terrain. (OTO)

STORIES FROM OUR PUBLIC LANDS NOV. 28

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LAST YEAR’S CAMPFIRE STORIES. // PHOTO:COURTESY OF THE LANDS COUNCIL

SPOKANE, WASH.

Once again it is time to gather and celebrate our Public Lands with our oldest form of entertainment, storytelling. “Campfire Stories: Tales From Our Public Lands” is returning for its second season. Join your fellow public land lovers at Wildland Cooperative on Green Bluff on Nov. 28 from 7-9 p.m. to hear tales of enchantment born out of our shared spaces. This

is a great opportunity to engage with the greater Spokane community that works to conserve, educate, advocate and explore our public lands. Once again, this event will be broadcast on Spokane’s KYRS radio (92.3 and 88.1 FM and streaming). If you have an engaging story you want to share about public spaces or if you want to learn more, visit Landscouncil.org/events.

(Adam Gebauer)

NEW “CLIMB FOR THE CURE” BIKE RACE TO THE TOP OF MOUNT SPOKANE MEAD, WASH.

Road and gravel riders and hill-loving mountain bikers will want to mark their calendars for June 15, 2024, for Climb for the Cure, a new, timed MTB/gravel race to the top of Mount Spokane. The total climb will include 5,400 feet in elevation gain over the 30-mile, mostly uphill race.

This is a race with purpose too. Organizers aim to raise awareness and money for the life-changing work being done at DanaFarber Cancer Institute, one of the top cancer research institutes in America. Every ticket purchase goes directly to fund cancer

research.

A post-race celebration will be held at Selkirk Lodge where there will be food, beverages, bike vendors, raffles and the awards ceremony. Family and friends are welcome to join in the festivities.

Riders in good to great physical health can register to ride the course at their own pace or race for a chance at $10,000 worth of cash and prize awards. There will be a cap on the number of riders, so don’t put off registering for this one. More info at Climbforthecure. org. (OTO)

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DONATIONS NEEDED TO IMPROVE THE CAMP SEKANI PARKING LOT MILLWOOD, WASH.

If you ride, run, or hike at Camp Sekani Park, one of Spokane’s most popular mountain bike trail systems, you will undoubtably benefit from the improvements that are currently proposed for the often pothole-riddled gravel and dirt parking lot.

The planned paving of the lot will make parking easier and less dusty or muddy depending on the season and will also increase the parking capacity. The project

may also include an upgrade to the current porta-potty facilities and safer access to the Centennial Trail across E Upriver Drive.

Evergreen East, the Eastern Washington Chapter of the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, is looking for donations from trail system users of any amount to help with the organization’s fundraising contribution to the paving project. Visit Evergreeneast.org to make a donation or learn more about the effort. (OTO)

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CUT THE CONGESTION GRANTS OFFERED TO LOCAL BUSINESSES SPOKANE, WASH.

Cut the Congestion is a one-year grant program that is being offered to local businesses by Commute Smart Northwest. This community-based outreach program aims to help businesses develop commute smart programs to encourage employees to ride transit, bicycle, carpool, vanpool or walk to work. These programs are designed to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and optimize mobility for goods and services. Businesses offering commute

smart programs can benefit by experiencing a reduction in employee absenteeism, an increase in employee productivity and the ability to recruit and retain the best employees.

Commute Smart Northwest can help your business create a commute smart program to meet the unique needs of your business while giving your employees a better work/ life balance. For more information visit CommuteSmartNW.org or call 509-4777169. (OTO)

REPATRIATED COLVILLE TRIBAL LANDS BENEFIT OKANOGAN RIVER STEELHEAD VIEWS FROM THE ANTOINE VALLEY RANCH. // PHOTO: ELLEN BISHOP

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OKANOGAN COUNTY, WASH.

In late September, Western Rivers Conservancy (WRC) and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation permanently conserved the 2,524-acre Antoine Valley Ranch, returning ancestral lands to the Colville Tribes and delivering desperately needed water to Antoine Creek and its imperiled run of Okanogan River steelhead.

Antoine Valley Ranch spans 2.5 miles of Antoine Creek, a critical spawning stream for threatened summer steelhead that flows through the ancestral homelands of the Colville Tribes. For decades, this Columbia River tributary has run too low and warm for steelhead to survive and spawn.

“The repatriation of these lands to the Colville Tribes represents a great step forward for the original stewards of this part of the Okanogan River valley while making significant gains for an irreplaceable run of steelhead that depend on Antoine Creek for survival,” says Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.

In an effort to revive this critical stream, WRC purchased the ranch in 2020 and transferred half of it to the Colville that year with funding from the Washington Department of Ecology’s Streamflow Restoration Program.

WRC held the second half of the property while working to secure additional funding from the Streamflow Restoration Program to permanently protect the remainder of the ranch and transfer it into Colville ownership, which is now complete.

WRC conveyed the ranch’s water rights to the Department of Ecology to be managed in partnership with the Colville Tribes for the benefit of Antoine Creek. Trout Unlimited assisted with dedicating the ranch’s water rights in-stream.

“We are very proud of what we were able to accomplish for Washington’s fish and wildlife, for streamflow on Antoine Creek, and for the people of the Okanogan River valley, all by working in partnership with

the Colville Tribes and Western Rivers Conservancy,” says Vanessa Brinkhuis, the Washington Department of Ecology Streamflow Restoration Grant Unit Supervisor.

The conveyance includes Fanchers Dam, Washington’s second largest earthen dam and the key to reviving Antoine Creek. The dam sits on a separate upstream parcel, above natural barriers to steelhead. Because it does not impede steelhead migration, it will be left in place so tribal fishery managers can use it to strategically pulse cold flows downstream when fish need water the most.

The strategy will provide flow increases of up to 90 percent in Antoine Creek, calibrated to match seasonal needs of the steelhead that spawn in the stream. Importantly, the flow improvements in Antoine Creek will continue downstream into the Okanogan and Columbia Rivers.

In the coming years, the Colville Tribes also plan to conduct extensive in-stream, riparian and upland habitat restoration, benefitting the full range of species found on the ranch. Antoine Valley Ranch lies within the traditional territories of the Colville Tribes, who have inhabited this area for millennia. It was part of the original Colville Reservation but was ceded to the United States when the reservation was reduced in size by Congress in 1872. The Colville Tribes have sought to acquire the ranch for over a decade, making this property an especially important acquisition.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with the Colville Tribes on this innovative project,” said Nelson Mathews, Vice President of Western Rivers Conservancy. “Using a dam designed to take water out of the creek as a tool for putting water back into it is unconventional, but the benefits for Okanogan steelhead will be game-changing. The project confirms our belief that land acquisition and great partnerships with Tribal Nations like the Colville can make a profoundly positive, permanent difference for fish and wildlife.” (OTO)

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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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EVERYDAY CYCLIST

Those Thieving Bike Thieves

By Justin Short

ILLUSTRATION BY JUSTIN SHORT

THE PHONE RANG AT 4:30 A.M. one dismal rainy morning at The Hub, a dilapidated office space that housed several bike organizations based in Santa Cruz, California. I was there to begin early morning deliveries for the bike messenger service where I was working, so I tended to ignore the phone for the cycling club back in the corner. But on this morning a gravelly voice erupted from the answering machine, the memory of which still haunts me to this day: “Hello.

I’m a bi-cyclist. I’m calling to talk about bi-cycle thieves. They come in the dark stillness of night to steal our bi-cycles. We buy all the locks that money can buy, and still they come to steal our bi-cycles. I’m a pretty strong fellah . . . but I’m not into competition of any kind. Competition cultivates war, suffering, and disease. [click]” Bike theft was a huge problem there in the late 90s, and it has been just as bad every place I’ve lived ever since, Spokane included. So, what can we do?

I’m not the strongest fellah myself, but I recovered a stolen mountain bike in Spokane this summer without getting stabbed.

Chasing down a bike thief is a terrible idea for obvious reasons, but I was fairly certain the bike belonged to one of my bike friends.

As it turns out, it belonged to a neighbor of one of my bike friends, so now I have a new bike friend. There’s a long list of things you 12

ought to do and not do to keep your bike safe, and this article is far too short to provide an exhaustive list, so we’ll try to cover a few of the basics.

Lock your bike. A simple U-lock is usually enough to deter an opportunistic bike thief, but a well-prepared bike thief can cut through the most serious bike lock in the known universe. Given the high incidence of property crime in Spokane, locks are not just for pit stops outside the home anymore. Sadly, it’s becoming necessary to lock our bikes inside our own homes. When possible, lock your bike to an immovable object, and don’t store your angle grinder right next to it. If you have multiple bikes, lock them all together—hopefully someone will speak up when the bike thief is spotted dragging a pile of 8 bikes down Northwest Blvd. And don’t bother with those easy-touse cable locks. The average bike thief with only three teeth left can bite through one of those in a matter of seconds. The goal of a bike lock is to create an inconvenience for the would-be thief of your bike.

One of those small “keep-the-honestpeople-honest” locks will likely get you in and out of the coffee shop in good order, provided the bike rack is in a visible spot.

However, there are times and places where it’s better to bring the bike inside, and I don’t

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

recall ever being asked to take it outside in Spokane. It’s best to use good judgement when wet and snowy weather are concerned, though, so as not to make oneself a nuisance to such establishments.

Never lock your bike outside overnight or leave it unattended in/on your car. If I had a nickel for every time someone from out of town had bikes stolen off the rack while sipping post-ride suds at one of our fine local breweries, I’d wish I had come by my nickels in a more auspicious manner.

Register your bike. My hope with this installment of EDC is that you will register your bike and every shop will register every bike they sell with Spokane Bike ID and BikeIndex.org. Locally, the Spokane Bike ID program is available online or through neighborhood Spokane C.O.P.S. shops. Owners enter their contact info, serial number, description, and photos so that there’s an increased chance of stolen bikes being returned to their owners when they are found.

High dollar bikes are often fenced out of town in far flung places like Portland and Seattle, so we also need a national bike registry, and Bike Index is the biggest and the best, with a reported $23 million worth of recovered bikes. Both services are free.

During my previously mentioned bike

recovery event, I texted the serial number to Spokane Police and asked them to look up the owner on Bike Index. “Wow,” the officer said to me, “this website is pretty extensive.

How did I not know about this?” I would like the police, every shop, and every bike owner to know about this. It may prevent you from buying a stolen bike, and it may bring your own bike home. “The sellers of stolen bikes are getting savvy these days,” Tracy Bee Gee, one of the sleuths with Seattle Bike Detectives, told me recently. “They will create owner’s profiles for the stolen bikes they’re selling. So I comb through the files looking for duplicate entries.” That’s why it’s important to register your bike, like, now... or before then.

Incidentally, the bike I recovered wasn’t listed there, but hopefully it is now. If we make it just a little too inconvenient to steal bikes, perhaps property criminals will move on to lawnmowers, golf clubs, and other things most cyclists don’t care about. // Justin Short had his Huffy Thunder Road bicycle stolen right out of the yard when he was seven years old. He cried and cried and wondered why the world was such a terrible place. He feels better now knowing that more good people are out there helping to find stolen bikes.

GET OUT THERE

Time for a Shoulder Season Stroll

By Ammi Midstokke

TAKE THE TIME FOR FALL WALKS. // PHOTO: AMMI MIDSTOKKE

I TYPICALLY CONSIDER this time of year Pie Season. It’s a precursor to Training Season, during which time I carb-load for several weeks on pie, stale Halloween candy discards and homemade eggnog. Some of the more ambitious skiers in our circles may take pre-ski classes where they bounce around on their knees. I just try to gain enough weight to make walking bouncy. It’s easier than one might think.

Shoulder season in the fall is different than its spring counterpart. Days are still growing shorter and the ominous promise of Seasonal Affective Disorder and Post Holiday Blues have many of us dismal even before winter has begun. Which is why this season is so deserving of our attentions and intentions.

It is also why I pitch the merits of nourish-

ment, self-care, and the time-tested tradition of an old-fashioned stroll. When all else goes to hibernation, when leaves disintegrate to add nutrients to soil, when short days and long nights leave a sleepy suggestion of rest, perhaps we should heed our own natural inclinations.

While these differ for everyone, there appears to be a predisposition to squash soups, naps and knitting. Some seek indoor satisfaction on the courts or in the weight room. I argue it is the best time to embrace the simple practice of walking. Outdoors— because studies show nature exposure in particular improves our health.

The art of the post-meal walk, long perfected by the Germans as a digestive necessity perhaps because they wrapped up their meal with a shot of Fernet-Branca, and the

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contemplative amble through nature have all but disappeared. Great minds of generations have used walking to solve problems and theorize their way to historical impact.

Perhaps we, too, are all great minds sorely in need of a walk not narrated by a podcast or a pop song.

The benefits of walking are myriad, although perhaps docile for the outdoors person accustomed to varieties of sport that threaten to blow up their heart or adrenal glands. (Neither are actually possible, though it may feel like it from time to time.) Even to the active athlete, walking is a joint-friendly, peaceful way to nurture longevity, reduce blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, increase creativity, increase endorphins, support cardiac health, improve digestion, and more.

What is not always understood about walking is how restorative it is in the process of achieving everything listed above. It does not require the kind of motivation a high-intensity workout requires, or even the creative layering to consider when sweating heavily in cold temperatures. One needn’t even sweat at all. There’s no need for a special wardrobe or equipment, barring common sense weather and lighting precautions.

Merely bundle up, step outside, and let your feet wander and mind wonder. You might discover this is your favorite season of all. // Ammi Midstokke lives in the mountains of North Idaho and loves walking in the woods year-round.

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13

The Trailhead

REFLECTION ON CRAB CREEK. PHOTO: HOLLY WEILER

Inland NW Trail & Outdoor News

By Holly Weiler

WIKIKI SPRINGS HIKE VIEW. // PHOTO SHALLAN KNOWLES

PASS REQUIREMENTS & WEATHER

Don't forget to check your favorite trailhead for pass requirements as the season transitions from fall into winter, with SnoPark season beginning on Dec. 1 in most areas.

Get passes in order for places that require them and remember that some favorite summer trailheads are not maintained for winter access. Check with the land manager before late fall trips to higher elevation locations and note the possibility of changing weather conditions during an outing.

tion, on Nov. 16. (Spokaneriverkeeper.org) • The Backcountry Ski Film Festival returns to Spokane on Nov. 30. Hosted by the Spokane Mountaineers/Spokane Mountaineers Foundation and benefiting local snow school programs and the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center, this year's event will take place at the Garland Theatre and will be preceded by a "Powder Hour" happy hour event with a special showing of a film shot in the Canadian Selkirks.

FREE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT

• Public lands in Washington have two feefree days during the month of November: Nov. 11 for Veterans’ Day and Nov. 24 for Autumn Day (otherwise known as Opt Outside day for all the REI fans).

• The Methow Conservancy is offering a free First Thursday Zoom presentation on bats of Washington state on Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. Register via their website to receive the Zoom link (Methowconservancy. org).

• Dishman Hills Conservancy will be continuing the Tuesday hike series into late fall and early winter. Check the website to confirm each week's destination.

(Dishmanhills.org) • Sign up now for First Day Hikes!

Washington State Parks observes this fun American Hiking Society tradition each New Year's Day, but advance registration in December is required. Mount Spokane State Park typically hosts two options for snowshoe enthusiasts (easy/moderate level to the snowshoe warming hut and difficult level to the summit of Mount Spokane), and Riverside State Park typically holds a lower elevation hike option as well. Watch the Washington State Parks website for event sign-ups.

FUNDRAISERS & EVENTS

• Spokane Riverkeeper will be hosting Spoken River, a fundraiser dinner with silent auc14

CONSERVATION & STEWARDSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The majority of stewardship opportunities are winding down and taking a winter hiatus. Volunteers with Washington Trails Association will continue to chip away at annual maintenance projects through November before beginning snowshoe trail maintenance projects in December. (Wta. org/volunteer) Trail users can also volunteer their time in other ways over the winter (and throughout the year!) by reporting trail conditions. For any trail in Washington, consider writing a trip report for WTA. For trails in Idaho, Idaho Trails Association has a trail report section on its website (Idahotrailsassociation. org/trail-reporter). Additionally, Pacific Northwest Trail Association tracks reports for the Washington portion of the PNT (Newashingtontrails.com/volunteer). Each of these nonprofits (and regional land managers) use reported information to help plan maintenance projects in the coming year, so if you are exploring in our region and note some trail needs, please consider sending in a report!

Inland Northwest Land Conservancy will be hosting a series of Waikiki Wednesday events every two weeks throughout the fall, beginning on Nov. 1. Volunteer tasks may range from invasive species removal to trail maintenance and tree planting as weather allows. (Inlandnwland.org) //

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

HIKE OF THE MONTH

CRAB CREEK

(HARRINGTON, WASH.) THE SHRUB STEPPE is perfect hiking terrain for shoulder season: it is seldom difficult to access as late fall transitions into real winter, with crisp morning temperatures frequently warming as the sun climbs in the sky. Always check the forecast and consider bringing microspikes in the event of an early blanket of snow in the lowlands, but, for th most part, a hike in Crab Creek should be snow-free through early winter.

The map for this Bureau of Land Management property does not show all of the trails this area has to offer, perhaps because some of the trails have been pioneered by ranging cattle. The cattle paths along the creek are so scenic they are worth dodging the cowpies, so my preferred route for Crab Creek/Rocky Ford is to hike clockwise from the parking area on Harrington-Tokio Road, following Crab Creek without crossing it. The trail hugs the creekbed, making for a nice long hike with very little elevation gain. At roughly the 5-mile mark, the trail crosses the creek, but those who wish to keep their feet dry in the cold temperatures of the late season can turn right and climb a short hill to loop back toward the parking lot. This last section is perhaps slightly less interesting since it follows the fence line between the BLM property and adjacent farmland, but the views go on for miles and offer up opportunities to see wildlife in the distance.

The full loop via this trail is a total of 8.7 miles with a mere 325 feet of elevation gain. It is easy to shorten the hike by skipping the upper portion of the loop, choosing instead to do an out-and-back hike along Crab Creek.

Maps: Blm.gov/sites/default/files/orwa-CrabCreekRockyFord-map.pdf.

From Spokane take I-90 west to exit 231. Take Danekas Road 1.4 miles to where it intersects N Hills Road and turn north. N Hills Road becomes Harrington-Tokio Road. Follow it for 6.3 miles to the Crab Creek/Rocky Ford parking area on the west side of the road.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Breathing Techniques for Optimal Mood, Performance and Well-being Joel Sattgast

OKANOGAN NATIONAL FOREST. // PHOTO: JOEL SATTGAST

SPEND ANY LENGTH OF TIME viewing and

consuming print, digital or social media and it won’t be long before you’re being bombarded with numerous life-changing and self-help schemes: “Unlock Your Day with 10 Morning Rituals,” “Bulletproof Your Mind in 3 Simple Steps,” “The Beginners Guide to Ice Bath Immersion.” The list of alluring titles is endless, all with the same promise of optimal health and well-being.

With an emerging industry of biohackers and influencers all seemingly focused on ‘optimization,’ it is a daunting task to discern fact from fiction. Instead of offering clarity

and simplicity, many are left confused and frustrated. And while the list of modifiable health and wellness factors is long (e.g. consider improved sleep habits, regular physical activity, adequate hydration and nutrition timing, and nurturing connections and relationships), perhaps none are as effortless or capable of immediate impact as the art of purposeful breathing.

Now before we go any further, let’s practice something. Since you've undoubtedly found a comfortable place to read the latest edition of Out There Outdoors, you're all set. So, let's get started. 1) After closing

your mouth and relaxing your body, exhale all the air from your lungs. 2) Inhale slowly through your nose over four counts. 3) Hold your breath for four counts. 4) Now exhale slowly through your nose over four counts.

5) Finally, hold your breath for four counts.

You've just completed box breathing. To get a better idea of this breathing technique, imagine a box with equal sides: inhale = up, hold = horizontal, exhale = down, hold = horizontal. This simple strategy is used throughout the world by healthcare practitioners, athletes, the U.S. military and special forces, biohackers and many more individuals all with one goal in mind – nervous system optimization.

While breathing directly impacts both heart and lung function, the impact to the nervous system is equally important.

Whereas shallow breathing often accompanies stress (think fight-or-flight response), diaphragmatic breathing, facilitated during box breathing, helps regulate heart rate, respiration rate, cortisol (i.e. stress hormone), and many other related pathways. The result of this focused respiration: a positive influence over mood and arousal.

With the aim of optimizing the nervous system and alleviating stress, researchers

have identified an additional technique known as respiratory sinus arrhythmia. To begin, inhale calmly and then forcefully exhale. Repeat this alternating pattern for 15-25 breaths. At the end, hold your breath for 15 seconds while focusing on calming both your mind and body. It is not uncommon to experience a feeling of unease or even a sense of anxiety when first practicing this technique. However, success is still attainable by starting with fewer initial breaths and by shortening the hold at the end.

Now, I won’t go so far as to promise a complete transformation of your overall well-being by incorporating “The Single Best Breathing Technique for Optimal Health” into your daily routine (as catchy as it may seem). Nevertheless, taking a few moments to engage in mindful breathing may be one of the easiest ways to positively impact your mood, performance, and overall well-being, whether you’re confined to the office, the workplace, the classroom or out enjoying the last fall hike before trading hiking boots for snowshoes. // Joel Sattgast is an outdoor enthusiast, physical therapist, performance coach, and EWU assistant professor.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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RUN WILD

The Benefit of Long, Slow Distance

By Sarah Hauge

RUN LONG AND SLOW FOR PHYSICAL BENEFITS // PHOTO: BRI LOVEALL

FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE RUNNING , it becomes second nature to say yes to difficult questions. Go for your run even though you’ve got a stuffy nose and a tickle in your throat? Sure. Add a few hill repeats even though you’ve already reached your target mileage? No prob. Head out for a 5-miler even though it’s unseasonably hot/ pouring buckets/there’s 8 inches of snow and ice on the road? Why not!

This inherent dedication (ahem, illogical stubbornness?) might be why the wellknown, science-backed practice of long, slow distance—a cornerstone of aerobic training—feels so counterintuitive to many a runner. Do most of your runs at a relaxed,

easy pace, when you could push a little harder? Psh. I asked Amy Yeoman—a sports nutritionist and athletic coach at Fuel to Thrive and a triathlete herself—what long slow distance really means, what the benefits are, and how runners can incorporate that training into their weekly routine.

“When you’re thinking about your weekly mileage, it’s making sure that more of your mileage is made up of that [easier] effort,” Yeoman says. A ratio of 80:20 is often suggested (80 percent of a week’s miles at an easy pace, 20 percent devoted to more challenging runs), but Yeoman says it really depends on the person. For more experi-

enced runners, that slower pace can be less than 80 percent of the week, but for new runners, it’s good to err more on the side of 80:20.

“Basically, running slowly builds the foundation for everything else, from your own physiological state to your running efficiency,” says Yeoman. “It’s so good at helping build your joints and ligaments and tendons and muscles to be able to withstand more intense efforts. It also builds the body’s ability to be efficient with oxygen.”

How slow is “slow”? There are a few ways to gauge this—1-3 minutes slower than your 10k pace, a run where your heart rate stays at 70% or less of your maximum heart rate, or simply a pace where you can run while easily carrying on a conversation.

As you run at a slower pace, your body becomes more efficient, you build up tolerance for longer periods on your feet, and you avoid the stress that can lead to injury because your body is not being pushed as hard or having as much to recover from.

In time, this enables runners to get faster.

These slow runs are then complemented with tougher efforts that challenge the body and build speed.

It's worth noting that when you mix in those harder efforts that bring your heart rate closer to threshold pace, there are

many ways to make this type of training work. “You can get creative with it. The whole workout doesn’t have to be long and slow,” says Yeoman. You could take three of a week’s runs at an easy pace and make the fourth run a speed workout at the track, or you could maintain a good ratio of slow to hard within a single workout by incorporating high speed intervals sandwiched within easy miles. Regardless, it’s the mix of more long and slow with less fast and hard that leads to results.

“Ideally, people find that they can get faster because their body gets more efficient,” says Yeoman. The challenging workouts help runners progress in speed and fitness, and the slower paces allow for quicker recovery and increased endurance.

Building a good base this winter could lead to some PRs when spring races come around. “Once you’ve set a good foundation in your endurance base, you should be able to run faster at an easier effort,” says Yeoman. // Sarah Hauge is a writer and editor who lives in Spokane with her husband and two children. She'll be attempting to get in lots of long, slow runs this fall and winter in preparation for spring races.

Run

Sandpoint

Watch This!

Long Bridge Half Marathon - 10k - 5k Run the

Saturday May 11 · priestlakerace.com

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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

© 2023 Scott Rulander

2023 PODIUM THE GRAND CUT Jason Edwards Jason Stoffels Dave La Tourette Kaleb Voigt Evan Schlabach Kathleen Leonard Benjamin Price

THE LONG CUT Scott Boekenoogen Natalie Nelson Kyle Reijm MARATHON

THE SHORT CUT Genny Hoyle Carrie Myers Natalie Gross Chris Clemens Thomas McChesney Joshua Johnson Marya Oakes Michael Haig Melodie Viafranco Sara Wilson Amy Johnson Danielle Wilson Holly Dane

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

17

provisions

PHOTO: ALANA LIVINGSTON

PHOTO: MAURA LAMMERS

(n.) food, drink, or equipment, especially for a journey.

HOLIDAY PASTY

DIY ELDERBERRY SYRUP

When I first became interested in the edible plant world around me, I frequently saw articles and recipes featuring elderberry.

As a general practice, I stuck with items I could easily identify. So, elderberry, whose doppelgänger happens to be poisonous water hemlock, remained off my list. As I became more confident in my ability to identify plants (and discovered I had an elderberry tree growing in my backyard), I forayed for the first time into the practice of making elderberry syrup.

Elderberries are high in vitamin c, fiber and antioxidants, and are a natural remedy for the cold and flu. You can safely harvest them yourself or buy the berries (dried or fresh) from some health food stores. This winter, make your own Elderberry syrup to give your immune system a boost.

Medicinal Elderberry Syrup: Combine one cup of elderberries and three cups of water in a saucepan. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and freshly-grated ginger and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool until warm. Stir in half a cup to a cup of raw local honey. Pour through a strainer (I like to place cheesecloth in a strainer so I can wring all the juice from the berries) into a clean jar and store in the fridge or individually freeze using ice cube trays.

When the dreaded flu makes its rounds, enjoy one thawed serving of elderberry syrup in tea or by itself. It is important to note that the leaves, bark, and raw berries are poisonous and that people with auto-immune disorders and those who are immunocompromised should not take elderberry products without consulting a medical practitioner.

(Bri Loveall)

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PHOTO: LINC FOODS

FALL CAPRESE SALAD: Delicata Squash, Mozzarella and Fall Herbs

The classic caprese is shifted to an autumn appetizer with this combination of sweet winter squash and creamy mozzarella.

You’ll want to bring these big fall flavors with you to all your seasonal gatherings!

INGREDIENTS

Salad: 1 delicata squash from Ronnigers Organics // 3 garlic cloves from Vinegar Flats Farm // Olive oil // Salt and pepper // Fresh mozzarella log from Ferndale Farmstead, sliced into thin rounds Herbed Balsamic Dressing: Chives, sage, rosemary, and/or thyme from The Corner Farm // 4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar // 4 Tbsp olive oil // Salt and pepper DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Remove the ends of the delicata squash and cut into one-centimeter slices. Remove the inside seeds on each slice. Place on a baking sheet with the garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes, until golden brown Finely chop the herbs and place them in a small bowl and whisk together with the rest of the dressing ingredients. Add the roasted garlic and whisk into the mixture. Layer the delicata rounds with the mozzarella rounds and drizzle with herbed balsamic dressing. Enjoy! (Courtesy of LINC Foods— The Local Inland Northwest Cooperative @Lincfoods.com.)

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Pasties are folded, handheld pastries that generally have a savory filling. They are extremely versatile and great for on-thego adventures. When I have time, I like to make my own dough, but ready-made biscuits make this dish come together super fast. Prep ahead for your winter adventures or holiday breakfasts.

INGREDIENTS

2 cans refrigerated biscuits // 1 lb. ground turkey // 1 c sweet potato, chopped // cooking spray // 2 Tbs apple cider // ½ c white cheddar, shredded // ½ c dried cranberries // tsp poultry seasoning // ½ tsp garlic powder // ½ tsp onion powder // ½ tsp salt // ¼ tsp pepper // egg white DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large skillet on medium heat, spray with cooking spray and brown ground turkey with poultry seasoning, garlic and onion powder, salt and pepper. Break up meat into bite-sized pieces while browning. When cooked, remove from pan and set aside.

Spray pan again if needed and add sweet potato and begin to brown. After about a minute, add apple cider and cook until all moisture is soaked up. Add more apple cider if sweet potato isn’t soft enough to your liking. When finished, add meat back into pan with cranberries and more salt and pepper to taste. Turn off and remove from heat. Add cheese and mix.

On a floured surface, roll out biscuit dough to a 6-inch diameter circle. Fill with approximately ¼ c meat mixture and fold over into a half moon shape. Use a fork to crimp edges and poke holes on top to allow steam to escape. Repeat until all biscuits are full. Brush with egg white and cook for 15-20 minutes or until pasties are golden brown.

(Alana Livingston)

POST-TRAINING PUMPKIN WAFFLE FROM BOOTS BAKERY & LOUNGE

Despite Boots being a mainstay in my local restaurant rotation thanks to their toptier drip coffee, I never tried their famous pumpkin waffle until I started training for marathons. As my mileage increased and I needed a carb bomb to bounce back after long runs, the pumpkin waffle became my recovery meal. “I’m not really vegan, but I love Boots,” has been my common refrain for years, fitting neatly alongside my insistence that, “I’m not really athletic, but I love running.”

The batter ingredients are simple: canned pumpkin, coconut milk, and a blend of potato, tapioca, rice and xanthan gum. The waffle contains no added sugar, sweetened only with agave and a spice medley of cinnamon, ginger and clove. A scoop of Nucoa butter infused with brown sugar and cinnamon tops the waffle.

The pumpkin waffle is the most popular item on the menu at Boots, where the staff reports 50 vegan waffles are made fresh to order during a weekend rush. Spokane had a six-month waffle-free hiatus after Boots closed its original location on December 31, 2022, but they thankfully reopened this summer.

Recently, I visited Boots at its new location in Saranac Commons (Mon-Sat 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sun 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.). While eating my inaugural waffle at a new table with the same mismatched orange chairs, I daydreamed about which races I might train for next year.

The crispy waffle edges took me back to all those early-morning runs and hours of training. That’s the power of taste and tradition; the pumpkin waffle reminds me of what my body’s done before, what I can still do in the future, and what keeps me going along the way. (Maura Lammers)

Primitive Skills

How to Make Your Own Pemmican By Karie Lee Knoke MAKING PEMMICAN THE TRADITIONAL WAY. // PHOTOS: KARIE LEE KNOKE

WELCOME TO PRE-WINTER, the exciting

hunting season when the deer are lively and the game is on! Living off-grid in the woods, I've discovered the art of preserving food without relying on a constant stream of electricity. For years, I stored wild game and homegrown veggies in freezers, but as I strive to live closer to the land I've been opting for canning or dehydrating. Making Pemmican is my all-time favorite method for preserving meat.

Pemmican is crafted from dried powdered meat, dried berries and tallow.

Pemmican sustained me during my time in Labrador on the TV series “Alone,” and it has a rich history of sustaining indigenous people and explorers. This high-energy food is loaded with vitamins and minerals, making it a hearty snack for outdoor adventures.

HERE'S HOW YOU MAKE PEMMICAN

1. Dry the meat like jerky, slicing thin pieces against the muscle grain. Marinate the sliced meat in a salty brine overnight with your preferred seasonings such as soy sauce, tamari or teriyaki sauce.

2. Build a drying rack over a fire. Often, a tripod formation will work best. Once marinated, skewer the pieces of meat on thin pieces of green wood, loosely spaced, so that smoke and air can go between the slices. Smoke or dry the meat until it is crispy, dry and breaks easily. (Note: Test the temperature of the smoke just under the rack of meat. You should be able to hold your hand in place without it burning. Do not cook the meat! This will deteriorate the integrity of the meat and you will lose the nutritional value.)

3. Powder the dried meat finely using stones, a mortar and pestle, or a food processor.

4. Dehydrate the berries. Traditionally Saskatoon or cranberries are used, but you

can easily substitute organic blueberries.

Dehydrate until they're crispy and can be easily powdered.

5. Melt tallow from beef, venison, elk or bison. Do not substitute a soft fat such as lard, bear fat, duck, or goose fat, Crisco or butter. The denser and more saturated the fat, the better.

6. Combine powdered meat and berries, pouring melted tallow until coated. The ratio is flexible, but I use roughly four parts meat, three parts berries, and two parts fat.

More importantly to note: the tallow acts as a binder, filling the void between the fibers of the meat and berries, thus sealing out oxygen that can cause rancidity.

7. Optionally, you can add ingredients like honey or spices. I love adding dried Stinging Nettle powder for extra vitamins and minerals.

8. Form the mixture into snack bars, let them cool until the fat solidifies, and wrap them up for safekeeping. Traditionally Pemmican would be wrapped in rawhide, but modern-day wrap such as wax paper works in a pinch!

SPOK ANE COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT

CHECK OUT A

New Adventure Borrow a Discover Pass Backpack from the library— now with a 28-day checkout! www.scld.org/check-out-wa

Now you've got a powerful, high-energy food to accompany you on outdoor adventures or enjoy as an afternoon snack. If you want to explore this process together, join my online Pemmican making class on Nov. 13 and 16. // Karie Lee Knoke is a wilderness/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.

For more information, visit Karieleeknoke. com or follow her on Facebook @ SacredCedarsWildernessSchool or Instagram @karie_lee_knoke.

www.scld.org NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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Literation

Nature is More Than a Place to Visit

By Ammi Midstokke

SOMETIMES WHEN READING, it strikes me that the outdoors and nature have other uses than being our personal pastime playground. The wilderness isn’t just expansive horizons that offer tranquility and humility or a series of wicked switchbacks on a flow trail.

Nature is a measure of time and part of our rhythm, integral to the stories we live and the stories we tell. In the unstoppable progress of humanity’s path, we have separated ourselves from the union with, and reality of, our connection to the natural. It is often just a place we go to visit now, mostly with ourselves, rather than a recognizable part of us.

There are many books that remind us of an existence in which we navigate our lives in unison with nature. Those of us cycling and running through all four seasons (five, if we include smoke season), might argue we already do just this. Or perhaps our rhythm with nature is how we decide to visit it: on wakeboard or skis, bike or snowshoes.

In literature, there is inspiration and a clear reminder to reconnect. Nature is not just a plaything, rather, an inherent part of our physical, mental, and even spiritual health. While we are encouraged to go play there, I might argue that just going to be there without the distraction of gear, Strava, or goals offers a kind of presence that slows time enough for us to recall the preciousness of our surroundings.

In Leif Enger’s “Peace Like a River,” the power of nature and the seasons passing 20

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

tell the story perhaps even more than the protagonist: “I remember it as October days are always remembered, cloudless, mapleflavored, the air gold and so clean it quivers.”

There is hope and anticipation in the air, some kind of promise of abundance. The gardeners among us know. They have waited patiently for the last frost to pass and the first frost to appear so the final optimistic pumpkins and sweetened apples can be harvested.

As autumn settles upon us with its nights creeping into day, its blustery chill making our bones feel brittle, we brace ourselves and retreat indoors. We wait then for winter to pass except in the doses we’ve prescribed beneath layers of Gore-tex. A fair few of us double our Vitamin D doses and prebake pastries to survive Seasonal Affective Disorder.

What if we could breathe in the same cycles of nature? What if we stepped into fall and winter and let out the same slow sigh she does, a reprieve from all this bustle of growth, and embraced the slow rooting that takes place beneath the surface? If we were to step outside with merely the intention of observing it, we might find we have more in common with nature than we realized. We might recognize that we, too, are beholden to seasons. And that this is a beautiful thing. // Ammi Midstokke lives in the mountains of North Idaho where her love of coffee complements her love of books, only to be superseded by her love of walking in the woods year-round.

NATURE

Regional Tribes’ Salmon Recovery Efforts Funded

By Adam Gebauer

PASSING ADULT SALMON ALONG DURING THE COLVILLE TRIBES' SALMON CEREMONY. // PHOTO: ADAM GEBAUER

THE

BIDEN-HARRIS

ADMINISTRATION

recently announced that they will commit $200 million over 20 years to support the Spokane Tribe of Indians (STOI), Coeur d’Alene Tribe (CDA), Colville Confederated Tribes (CCT), and the Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT) in their effort to reintroduce salmon into the Upper Columbia River Basin. This announcement is part of a settlement from a lawsuit brought by the STOI and CDA. When in 2016 the federal agencies released the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the effects of the 14 federally operated dams on the Columbia River Basin, numerous tribes, state and regional entities recommended that the agencies consider salmon reintroduction in the Upper Columbia as an alternative in the final EIS. When not included, the STOI and CDA sued the federal government, challenging their compliance with the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Protection Act, and the Northwest Power Act. Salmon and steelhead are anadromous fish, meaning they start and end their life cycle in fresh water but travel to the ocean.

Chinook salmon can spend three to five years in the ocean, greatly increasing in size. For thousands of years, these fish were the mainstay of the diet of the tribes of the Upper Columbia—making up 60-75 percent of their diet. It was also a currency; they would trade dried salmon for buffalo with plains tribes. Tribes would meet peacefully to harvest salmon, trade, and celebrate.

It is estimated that the tribes of the Upper Columbia would harvest 6.8 million pounds annually. Salmon are still a crucial part of the culture of the tribes, and they have been working tirelessly to bring them back.

The construction of Grand Coulee and then Chief Joesph Dams blocked access to 700 miles of Chinook and 1,600 miles of steelhead habitat in the Upper Columbia. But numbers began to decline even before the

construction of the dam with the implementation of fish wheels and canneries starting in the 1880s. At their peak, these operations harvested 42 million pounds of fish annually.

“This makes it real,” Conor Gorgi, the anadromous fish biologist for STOI, stated excitedly regarding the latest administration announcement. He and the tribes have been scraping by for funds for the seven years he has worked for the tribes. But the tribes have been striving for decades to get these culturally and ecologically important fish back to their historic range.

According to Laura Robinson, UCUT’s Policy Analyst, “the funds will help implement UCUT’s Phase 2 Implementation Plan, which includes studying salmon behavior, migration, and survival through the blocked area and applying that information to inform the design, testing and building of interim fish passage solutions at the dams in the upper Columbia; developing fish acclimation facilities for each of the tribes; monitoring and evaluating the program which will feed our adaptive management framework; and increasing tribal capacity for implementation.”

Through their initial salmon releases in waterways such as Hangman Creek, Sanpoil River, and, in Conor’s case, the Little Spokane River, he has seen the ecological importance of this keystone species starting to return.

Conor has seen Redband trout actively feeding behind spawning Chinook. He has documented carcasses being scavenged where those marine-derived nutrients, particularly nitrogen, will distribute once again into the inland forests. With this fund, Conor “sees a real path forward” and the tribes can make substantial progress to seeing populations of salmon return to the Upper Columbia watershed. //

December 16th

twowheelerskidealer.com

Adam keeps thinking about doing lunges in preparation for ski season. He'll keep thinking about it until spring.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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GEAR ROOM SEA TO SUMMIT ETHER LIGHT XT MAT

ALTRA LONE PEAK 7.0 TRAIL RUNNING SHOE

These shoes are so comfortable that I almost want to wear them to bed! Not really, but they sure get the job done everywhere else. From kicking it in my physical therapy clinic (Northwest Mobile), to working out in the gym, to backpacking, to running around town. There’s no shoe that I’d rather have on my feet. My toes have plenty of room to work and don’t feel

packed in. The low heel allows my whole leg to be positioned as it needs to be for whatever movement or task is requiring my attention— whether it’s scrambling down from a peak, running the local trails, or doing lunges in the gym. As a physical therapist, I recommend Altra shoes over all of the others. MSRP: $150. Altrarunning.com (Trey Nichols)

This highly insulated sleeping pad will make camping more comfy in the snow; at an olds c h o o l ski hut or cabin; or whatever other cold, random places your w i n t e r adventures may take you. The high R-value (dualdensity layers of Thermolite insulation)

reduces heat transfer and air movement that creates cold spots with four inches of hefty comfort. It’s plenty packable for b a c k c o u nt r y trips too. Sleep outside in the winter and actually sleep with this welldesigned pad!

MSRP: $219-$249. Seatosummitusa.com (Wil Wheaton)

IBEX WOOLIES TECH BASE LAYER CREW TOP PETZL ACTIK 600 HEADLAMP

This headlamp has everything I look for in wearable lighting. It’s got plenty of power (600 lumens) and is rechargeable so you’re not throwing endless batteries away (although it runs off three standard batteries in a pinch too). It’s also lightweight and comfortable on the move (perfect for night running or ski touring back to your car after the sun goes down), and it has just enough features to be functional without being so complex you struggle to get it to work

right if, by chance, you overindulge around the campfire one night. In addition to red lighting to keep from blinding your buddies, the ACTIK 600 has two beam modes for illuminating up close and farther away targets, pivots nice and smooth, and has a phosphorescent reflector (and reflective headband) to make finding it easier. The last cool little feature is an included translucent carry bag that creates a mini lantern with the headlamp in it. MSRP: $79.95. Petzl.com (Derrick Knowles)

GORDINI WINHALL SKI SOCKS

Looking for a new ski sock this season? The SoleKNIT, dual-layer Merino wool socks for men and women have a durable wool exterior and a moisture-wicking interior plus SoleKNIT layers that form thermal air pockets to keep feet warm and dry. These socks have lots of great design features, including padded shin panels and extra cushion for the sole, ankle, heel and toe, and other sock tech with skiers in mind.

MSRP: $27.99. Gordini.com (Wil Wheaton)

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would come in handy. Press the button on the top to cycle through multiple brightness and color modes. It also has a built-in bungee cord that allows you to easily hang the lantern in your tent or camp and is rechargeable. Take cool light with you anywhere! MSRP: $39.95. (Derrick Knowles)

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

crew top while muzzleloader hunting for elk this fall, but due to the extreme fall temps that weekend, my need for a base layer was limited to early morning stalking hours.

Nevertheless, I appreciated the light and comfortable feel and that these Ibex base layers come in a variety of colors, including huntingseason-friendly olive green. MSRP: $115.

Ibex.com (Derrick Knowles)

PARKIT VOYAGER COOLER CHAIR

What cold-beverage-loving mountain biker, skier, paddler, or hiker wouldn’t enjoy a plush camp chair that doubles as a cooler? The Voyager chair does several things I’ve never seen a camp/ trailhead chair do.

The obvious and most striking one is the attached (and detachable) cooler under the seat for frosty bevies, food, or BEARBOTTOM BOARD SHORTS

BIOLITE ALPENGLOW MINI LANTERN

It had never occurred to me to pack a lantern on a backpacking or bike packing trip, but at 98 grams with a packable profile, this 150lumen light source is game on for shorter backcountry trips where some extra camp lighting

An industry leader in Merino wool apparel, Ibex makes topnotch baselayers for shoulder season and winter activities where temperatures and weather vary along with exertion levels. Merino crushes alternative fabrics with its moisture-wicking, breathability, and t h e r m o r e g u l at ing capacities. I tried out this long-sleeve

Planning for a Central America surf trip this winter meant that it was time to upgrade from my ancient, well-worn board shorts and start swimming indoors to get into better paddling shape. I needed those shorts before the swimming could commence, and these Bearbottom board shorts have been a great mix of high-performance functionality and cool looks in the pool. So far so good with the stretch, quick-drying fabric, burly Velcro back pocket, and an elastic waistband and drawstring. We’ll see how they hold up to the sun and salt later this winter.

MSRP: $45. Bearbottomclothing.com (Wil Wheaton)

whatever you want to store in there. But it also has a versatile cupholder (that can be moved to either side of the chair) with cutouts designed for cans, insulated water bottles, or coffee mugs. Pretty slick. It also comes with hands-free carry straps and has a cool retro-modern look. MSRP: $224.99.

Parkitmovement.com (Derrick Knowles)

HUGE SELECTION

ROCKY TALKIE MOUNTAIN RADIOS

This fall I ended up elk hunting in an area with no cell service at camp or in the field.

Our first day out, that almost led to my dad and his buddy heading out to find me after a later-thanexpected return to camp.

The next day we deployed my new Rocky Talkie Mountain Radios for coordinating our three-person hunting plan. We had great range coverage (.5-3 miles in the type of forest/hills we were in), and they get 1-5 miles in the mountains and up to 25+ miles with

line of sight. The radios are light and seem very durable and have rechargeable batteries that last up to five days per charge, surviving even in crazy cold temps (down to -20F). They have a solid carabiner attachment for packs and other gear connection points and were super easy to figure out and use, with no complex menus to decipher. These radios would be perfect for backcountry skiing and climbing trips too. MSRP: $220.

Rockytalkie.com (Derrick Knowles)

NATHAN PINACLE 12L RUNNING VEST

This ultra-light hydration vest weighs almost nothing (20 oz) yet has a 1.6L hydration bladder (included) and 12 pockets to store whatever nutrition and gear essentials you may need on a given endurance outing.

Perfect for long runs, it’s also a great choice for light-and-fast hiking or Nordic ski

or snowshoe outings. It’s highly breathable and features tapered back panels for a chimney wicking effect, made to wick moisture up and out of your sweaty back cracks.

Choose from two sizes and gender-specific fits. MSRP: $200.

Nathansports.com (Derrick Knowles)

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PEARL IZUMI EXPEDITION GRAVEL LINE

Bib Shorts Padded, stretchy shorts make a huge difference out riding on rough roads or trail once the miles start piling up. Pearl Izumi’s bib shorts are moisture-wicking, have a smooth and tight fit, and a righteous layer of chamois padding. Lightweight straps keep the shorts up, and there are plentiful pockets for the necessities. MSRP: $130.

Jersey A beauty of a breathable, sweat-wicking jersey that has a full-length zipper for max ventilation and pockets galore to comfortably stash a day’s worth of provisions, including three bellowed rear pockets and two side ones.

MSRP: $100 Gel Full Finger Gloves The central pad of this full-fingered glove is designed to support the natural curve of your hand, preventing nerve compression and numbness. Traditional padded gloves can feel bulky, but this design maintains contact points under the knuckles and at the base of the palm that improve handlebar feel. They also feature a synthetic leather palm material and a Lycra panel on the back., microfiber nose wipe, and are touchscreen compatible.

MSRP: $40. Pearlizumi.com (Wil Wheaton) // Editor’s Note: Unless otherwise stated, product for these reviews was provided by the brand at no cost to the reviewer. Out There strives to only review quality gear and provide honest, thoughtful, and entertaining gear reviews, but readers should always do their own research.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

23

BIKING

Ask The Old Roadie

By Patrick Bulger

I’VE BEEN AT THIS cycling thing for a long time. Some might even say too long. I was racing before helmets were a thing and pedals were secured by toe clips and leather straps. A lot has changed since my first year of racing in 1980. Many out there are venturing into the sport and could use some wise advice from a cycling grump. I put out the call to see if anyone truly cared about the old adage of “with experience comes wisdom.” The call was heard. I give you, “Ask The Old Roadie.”

WHY DO YOU SHAVE YOUR LEGS?

(Justin from Walla Walla) This is a common question posed to roadies, and the answer usually depends on the person being asked. Some will say it is for caring for wounds from the inevitable road rash caused by errant drivers, dog chases, and fellow cyclists not maintaining their intended line through a corner or sprint.

Some may say it is to assist with post-race massages. Some say aerodynamics. Me? Well, as I know a lot of roadies, and the majority of them neither have repeated crashes, a full-time masseuse, nor a need to gain .000001 seconds in the wind tunnel, it is honestly out of complete vanity.

That’s right, shaved legs look better when paired with LYCRA shorts. Sure, some may 24

disagree, but the Cro-Magnon look of hair poking through the shorts or socks and covering your hard work of training and diet loses out every time.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU REPLACE YOUR CHAIN?

(Michael from Spokane) Ahh, the maintenance question. Let’s start with this . . . back in the ‘80s, bike chains were thicker and heavier than those of today, and when I first started racing, six speed cog sets were the norm. With occasional cleaning (to avoid the dreaded calf tattoos known simply as “dink marks”— clean those off immediately when they occur) a chain would last the season. Today, with 11 speed cassettes (the rear gears), chains last (depending on your abuse/ neglect/massive power output from your Schwarzenegger thighs) around 2,0003,000 miles. If you’re a professional with unlimited budget and power output, you likely would replace it more often.

ARE YOU AS COMFORTABLE RIDING ON THE ROADS NOW VERSUS THE OLD DAYS?

(Chris from Spokane) Good question, Chris. With everyone so angry these days, along with the addition of the importance of the perfect selfie whilst striving for a high score on Temple Run and

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

HIGH-ENERGY RIDING ON SPOKANE’S LILAC CENTURY COURSE. // PHOTO COURTESY OF SPOKANE AURORA NORTHWEST ROTARY CLUB

driving an SUV the size of a Sherman Tank, cyclists are being seen less. Cycling is in my blood. I can’t dream of a life without it. All I can do is ride in areas that have less likelihood of traffic, and, when forced into those urban areas, ride with extra caution and awareness. Cars rarely see you, so assume they don’t.

WHAT HAS CHANGED IN YOUR PREPARATION FROM THE OLD DAYS TO NOW?

(Al from Spokane) First, I ride slower. Second, I look for quality over quantity. Third, I finish rides with a proper beer or coffee.

WHAT ARE THE BEST AND WORST CHANGES YOU’VE SEEN IN THE SPORT?

(Mike from Spokane) The best? Bikes are lighter, faster and more comfortable. Technology has brought tracking, maps and communication. The worst? Because bikes are lighter, faster and more comfortable, coupled with the technology that brought tracking, maps and communication, cycling is way too expensive. When a bike costs more than a proper

used car or braces for your kid, things are out of hand.

DOES YOUR ‘BACKSIDE’ EVER STOP HURTING ON THOSE TINY SEATS?

(Shane from Spokane) If a bike fits properly, it should feel like an extension of your body. Not all bike seats (saddles) are the same. You really need to find the one that works for you. Many times, those huge saddles you see with more padding than a shopping mall Santa are actually a guaranteed ticket to Chafe Town.

Stay safe out there, keep the rubber side down, and I’ll see you out there in the spring. I’ll be the one with the leather helmet. // Patrick Bulger is the host and creator of the “The Packfiller Podcast,” a weekly show featuring the world of road, mountain, and gravel cycling. Have a question for the Old Roadie? Feel free to email them to patrick@ packfiller.com.

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MOTO

Tips for Winterizing Your RV

By Noah Botnick READY FOR A WINTER OF SKI AREA CAMPING? // PHOTO: DERRICK KNOWLES

OWNING AN RV in the Inland Northwest offers outdoor enthusiasts the freedom to explore breathtaking landscapes all year round. But, hey, Jack Frost is knocking at the door, and it's time to get your RV ready for his chilly arrival whether you’ll be parking your rig for the winter or getting a van, trailer, or camper ready for some cozy nights at the ski area or trailhead.

To pull together these winterizing tips, I tapped the expertise of Dennis Garrett, the Service Manager at R’n R RV Center Liberty Lake, who has been in the industry since 1994. When not at work servicing RVs, he’s often out camping with his wife in their Springdale trailer, where they enjoy biking, kayaking and relaxing. Garrett’s tips will help guide you through the essential steps to winterize your RV, ensuring it survives the freezing months.

1. WATER SYSTEM

Before Old Man Winter starts freezing your pipes into ice sculptures, it's crucial to drain all the water from your RV's tanks, pipes and faucets. Think of it as performing a synchronized water ballet with your RV to avoid any "frozen fountain" mishaps.

Don't forget to add some RV antifreeze to the mix to protect your plumbing system from freezing.

2. EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE

Winter can be harsh to exteriors, so show your RV some love by giving it a thorough cleaning and waxing. Think of it as giving your RV a spa day before it goes into hibernation. Don't neglect the roof—patch up any cracks or leaks so that it doesn't become a winter wonderland inside your cozy abode. And for that extra layer of protection against snowball bombardments, invest in a trusty RV cover.

3. ENGINE AND FUEL SYSTEM

Your RV's engine needs some pampering too! Give it an oil change and new filters, like a clean-out for your vehicle's heart and lungs. And remember, fuel stabilizer is the equivalent of a warm blanket for your gas tank, preventing fuel deterioration and making sure your engine stays cozy.

4. BATTERY CARE

Cold temperatures can be a buzzkill for 26

your RV's battery. So, give it a vacation of its own by removing it from your RV and placing it somewhere warm and dry. Keep it charged and connected to a battery tender to avoid any winter blues.

Getting Your Adventure Vehicle Ready for Winter

BY DERRICK KNOWLES

5. INTERIOR PREPARATIONS

Pretend like Marie Kondo is visiting your RV—declutter and say goodbye to any perishable food items that may attract creatures seeking a winter feast. Let the air flow by opening cabinets and drawers, creating a winter breeze to keep the musty odors away. And, remember, nothing says "cozy winter cabin" like moisture-absorbing products and dehumidifiers to keep the mold monsters at bay.

Getting around safely in your adventure rig and arriving at your intended trailhead, mountain pass, or ski resort without incident requires a bit of preparation and seasonal maintenance. Work your way through this checklist on your own or with the help of industry professionals.

PERFORM BASIC MAINTENANCE

Test your battery and check your wiper blades and windshield washer fluid. Now is a good time to get any windshield chips fixed before they crack and spread. Check all of your vehicle’s other vital fluids or take it to a shop for an oil change, tune-up, and coolant and brake check. Replace the bulbs on any headlights and any other lights that are out.

6. TIRE MAINTENANCE

Tires are the unsung heroes of your RV's winter adventures, so don't leave them out in the cold. With the changing temperature this season brings, be sure to inflate your tires to the recommended pressure before they hit the icy roads. Invest in new tire covers, if applicable. Your tires will appreciate the extra warmth and style.

7. HEATER MAINTENANCE

If your RV has a heater you plan to use while winter camping, be sure that it has been serviced properly before you head out on your first adventure of the season.

Nothing will ruin a night of camping out in the frozen wilds like finding out that your RV heater has stopped working in the middle of the night!

Preparing your recreational vehicle for winter in the Inland Northwest may sound like a daunting task, but with these essential tips, you'll be ready to take on the frozen wonderland like a seasoned winter warrior. Go ahead and winterize your RV yourself or take it into a professional RV service center like R’nR to ensure that it survives the chilly months with style and grace. Let the adventures continue, even in the frosty embrace of Old Man Winter! // Noah Botnick is stoked for the upcoming snowboard season and plans to RV camp at several Inland NW ski resorts this winter.

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

INSPECT TIRES

Check your tire tread depth (or have a tire tech check) and if they are nearing the end of their functional life, consider a new set of all-season or winter-specific snow tires. If you’re not confident driving in snow, many tire experts recommend getting snow tires. While studded snow tires are typically not necessary for all-wheel-drive vehicles, they may be a good option for two-wheel-drive cars and trucks.

DIAL IN YOUR VEHICLE RECOVERY KIT

If an epic powder day turns into a parking lot disaster, being prepared will allow you to extract yourself or others from unplowed snow or ice. Pack these recovery gear essentials to be ready for the worst.

• A snow shovel (full-sized is best, but even an avalanche shovel will be a welcome tool when you need it).

• Chains or snow socks (fabric covers that go over your tires to create traction) for your vehicle.

• A solid tow strap made specifically for towing.

• Maxtrax or some other kind of recovery boards or rubber traction mats to help you get unstuck from snow.

• Jumper cables for the inescapable time when you or someone else has a battery that’s given up.

• Extra windshield wiper fluid. Inevitably an ice storm or blizzard is going to hit that day you or someone else uses the last drop of ice-melting windshield fluid.

And don’t forget an ice-scraper tool.

PACK AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT

If you end up stuck in deep snow or stranded along the side of the road, these items may make all the difference between a comfortable delay and a miserable ordeal.

• Extra drinking water and food.

• Blankets, sleeping bags and hand warmers.

• Extra jackets and warm clothing.

• First-aid kit to be ready for any minor injuries.

• Flashlight/headlamp with extra batteries.

• A backpack to put your food, water, and other emergency gear inside in case you have to walk to find help.

• Road flares.

• A good book.

TheSpokaneAlpineHaus.com Do your feet hurt?

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One of the biggest misconceptions about skiing is that boots are not comfortable and that’s just the way it is. Let us be the first ones to tell you this is NOT true! Too many people hit the slopes with boots they had no guidance in purchasing. Online has made shopping “easier”, but unfortunately the internet can NOT fit your boots.

Why are we different at the Spokane Alpine Haus?

First off, over half our staff are Masterfit or Sidas certified boot fitters. So many factors go into the correct fit. Length of foot, width of forefoot, in-step measurements, ankle range of motion, ability levels, and more are all factors in finding the right boots for your feet. Many of our customers walk out of our store with a boot that fits amazing right away. But not all feet are the same and sometimes it requires us to shape and mold boots more specifically to your feet.

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T h e I n t e r n e t C a n ’ t F i t Yo u r B o o t s Let us solve any issues you’ve had in the past or help you discover what a proper boot feels like! The only thing you should worry about on the mountain is where that hidden stash of powder is, and what to eat for lunch!

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(509) 534 - 4554 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

27

BIKING

Best Gifts for Bike Riders on Your List

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Creative problem solving to fit your situation.

FAIR FOCUSED EFFICIENT Family Workplace Contracts

WONDERING WHAT TO GIVE THE CYCLIST who has everything or someone who is getting more into biking? Wonder no more. From beginner to vets looking for a gear-closet refresh, every cyclist can use just one more piece of gear. Here are some of our favorite stocking stuffers and Santa gifts for every cyclist on your list.

TRAIL BELL

Alert other trail users, of both the two- and four-legged kind, to your presence, with a handlebar-mounted trail bell. The classic Timber Bell is constructed of solid brass with two ring modes so you can choose when to let it ring.

BIKING GLOVES

A rider’s hands are one of three contact points on the bike. Show their digits some glove love with a fresh pair. A little flair doesn’t hurt, either.

RIDING SOCKS

Regular socks? Boring gift. Bike socks? The best. With numerous styles, from understated to over-the-top, a cyclist can’t have too many pairs. Just ask.

BIKE LOCK

Protect their new gift from unwanted attention. From cables to chains, keys to combinations, there’s a lock for every kind of rider.

HEADLIGHTS

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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Lightweight, bright, and easy to charge and use, LED head- and taillights extend the fun past sundown.

HELMET UPGRADE

Specialized refreshed a long-standing member of their helmet lineup, giving the Tactic a MIPS upgrade, improved integration with sunglasses and goggles, and increased coverage. Topping the venerable Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Ratings, the Tactic is a helmet that punches above its price point. (It’s also approved for eMTB use.)

GIVE THE GIFT OF BICYCLING THIS CHRISTMAS MULTI-TOOL

Nothing spoils the holiday spirit like a ride-ending road- or trail-side mechanical. Make sure they’re prepared with a multi-tool. These pocket-sized tool kits range from just the essentials all the way to Inspector Gadget-like levels of complexity.

WE'VE GOT BIKES FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES

HYDRATION PACK

When it’s time to venture beyond the bounds of the one- bottle ride, a backpack or fannypack style hydration pack will keep them properly hydrated. Besides, they’ll need somewhere to stash that new multi-tool.

PHONE MOUNT

The days of stopping to fish a phone out of shorts pockets to check directions have come and gone. Handlebar-mounted phone holders allow for hands-free operation of your cyclist’s favorite bike apps.

Shop our online Gift Guide:

FLOOR PUMP

A garage essential. Big air chambers move a lot of air, quickly; pressure gauges (either digital or mechanical) dial it in precisely. Toss one of these in your vehicle and be the coolest rider at the trailhead.

Scan the code below to shop for these and other biking gifts online or visit one of two Wheel Sport shops in Spokane (Valley and South Hill).

Two Spokane Locations South Hill

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24HRS A DAY ONLINE SHOPPING @WHEELSPORTBIKES.COM NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

29

3 Fall Hikes in the Channeled Scablands Low-elevation walks and post-hike points of interest

By Heidi Lasher WHEN I MOVED TO SPOKANE IN 2010, I heard a lot about the Ice

Age Floods. In fact, unsolicited information about the Pleistocene Megafloods would materialize in my life with annoying frequency: on signage along the river, tourist brochures, my kids’ elementary school classrooms. Everywhere I turned, someone seemed to be tapping my shoulder, hey, have you heard about the floods?

Yes! I finally wanted to scream. A series of ginormous floods swept across the state some 15,000 years ago, draining ancient Lake Missoula, confusing geologists, stripping the land of soil, yada yada. I get it! Can we stop talking about it now?

I avoided flood-talk for about a decade until I started canoeing on the Spokane River, which turned me on to the aquifer, which got me interested in geology, which led me back to the floods. Recently, I caught myself bringing up the floods in casual conversation: Did you know that scientists have found landforms on Mars that resemble those found in Eastern Washington?

Now a flood enthusiast, I can’t think of a more compelling story of the Inland NW. If you haven’t explored the channeled scablands, or if you’re just looking for a beautiful and desolate place to hike this fall or winter, the channeled scablands southeast of Spokane offer open vistas, rock outcroppings, hidden lakes, and habitat for the region’s most charismatic fauna, including migrating tundra swans, moose, porcupine, coyote, foxes, and ducks and geese.

Included are three low-elevation hikes that will impress you with geologic anomalies, long views, and stark beauty. Each hike is paired with a diverting side-trip to a more colorful, human-scale point of interest.

Heidi Lasher became an Ice Age Floods aficionado in 2020, when she started dragging her family into the channeled scablands for hikes, canoe outings, and “short drives.” Now, she goes into the scablands by herself. They remind her how beautiful and resilient life is, even in the aftermath of mind-boggling disaster.

THIS PAGE: THE SERENE BEAUTY OF FISHTRAP LAKE. NEXT PAGE TOP LEFT TO RIGHT: THE STUBBLEFIELD TRAIL IS THE LONGEST IN THE PUBLIC ACCESS AREA AT TURNBULL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE. A VORTEX OF FLOODWATER CREATED THIS GEOLOGIC KOLK CRATER AT FISHTRAP LAKE. THE BASALT STAIRSTEP OF TOWELL FALLS. THERE’S AN OUTDOOR SCULPTURE FOR EVERYONE AT WAY OUT WEST. DAVE’S RESCUE TRUCKS ARE FULL OF COLOR AND CHARACTER. // PHOTOS: HEIDI LASHER CHENEY FROM THE AIR: // CARLENE HARDT COURTESY OF THE CITY OF CHENEY

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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Stubblefield Trail at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge Distance: 5.6 miles, roundtrip

TURNBULL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE sits on the eastern

edge of the channeled scablands where floodwaters gouged deep sloughs into the basalt bedrock, leaving behind pothole lakes and shallow wetlands that provide a wonderous and diverse habitat for birds and plants. The Stubblefield Trail is the longest loop trail in the public-access portion of the refuge and well worth a visit.

From refuge headquarters, follow the gravel road known as the “headquarters trail.” When the road forks, go clockwise around a loop that leads across an open prairie of exposed rock mounds known as “mima mounds,” past Stubblefield Lake, a habitat-rich oasis in the otherwise arid shrub-steppe, and past another small lake before looping back to the headquarters trail.

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is open between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. from November to April. Entry is free.

Fishtrap Lake Trail

Towell Falls Trail at Escure Ranch

FISHTRAP LAKE was one of many lakes trenched by the cataclysmic floods. Its long, ragged shape angles southwest, in the direction of floodwater. For hikers, the lake provides a scenic backdrop on two hiking loops that together make 9.1 miles of non-motorized trail. Visitors can choose to walk or bike (the area is also open to equestrians) the 4.0-mile north loop or the 5.1-mile south loop, or both in a figure-eight pattern. Each trail passes through shrubsteppe, grassland, wetlands, and aspen groves. Near the lake, visitors can glimpse several geologic kolk craters, which were formed by tornado-like columns of water that bore perfectly round craters into the rock.

From Interstate 90, take Exit 254, and then travel east for 1.75 miles to the public land access points. Parking is available at both north and south trailheads. Do not park at the Fishtrap Lake Resort.

ESCURE RANCH was once a 14,000-acre sheep and (later)

Distance: 4.0 to 9.1 miles, roundtrip

SIDE TRIP TO EWU/CHENEY

After hiking in Turnbull, drive back to Cheney and take a walking or driving tour of Eastern Washington University with its bucolic campus buildings, red-turf football field, and inexpensive dining spots. Local favorites for lunch include the Mason Jar (coffee and homemade sandwiches) and Bene’s (eggs benedict, 10 different ways).

Distance: 6.4 miles, roundtrip

cattle ranch that’s now owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The ranch encircles a section of Rock Creek, including a small, stair-stepping waterfall known as Towell Falls. To reach the falls, hikers can follow an old ranch road that parallels Rock Creek for about a mile.

The trail then climbs a low saddle that provides views of the valley and winds past a basalt outcrop—a giant battleship of land eroded on both sides by floodwater—through aspen groves and native bunchgrass prairie.

The ranch is located 25 miles south of I-90 at the town of Sprague (Exit 245). From Sprague, follow Highway 23 south for 12.2 miles; turn right onto Davis Road, staying right at the “y”. After 7 miles, turn left onto Jordan Knott Road. Look for the BLM access road in 2.1 miles.

SIDE TRIP TO DAVE’S TRUCK COLLECTION SIDE TRIP TO WAY OUT WEST

If you haven’t visited this bizarre plaza of outdoor sculptural disarray, it’s the perfect antidote to the barren emptiness of the scablands. Here, you’ll find recycled metal mariachi bands, pot-smoking aliens, sun-bathing cows, and larger-than-life bugling elk.

On your way back through Sprague, drive down B Street and check out Dave Jones’ collection of old farm trucks.

Most of the trucks date back to the 1940s and 1950s and were used to haul grain, fertilizer, and hay. Only some of them are operable, but their colorful, rounded shapes offer a picturesque glimpse into Lincoln County’s farming history.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

31

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THE SNOW PLAY GATEWAY How playing in the snow with your kids can grow into a life-long love for skiing or snowboarding.

BY DERRICK KNOWLES COLE CAMPBELL IS ALL SMILES COMING DOWN THE SLEDDING HILL AT MANITO PARK. RIGHT: CORBIN BRIODY EXPLORES OFF TRAIL ON MT. SPOKANE'S KIT CARSON SNOWSHOE TRAIL. / PHOTOS: SHALLAN KNOWLES

WE TOOK OUR SON up to Mt. Spokane to ski for the first time when he was a month shy of his 2nd birthday. It was darling to watch him all bundled up sliding down the hill for the first time, but also a little terrifying when he took off down the hill away from us. We got a harness system to keep ahold of him after that. Thankfully, he seemed to have fun that first day and only cried when it was time to go home. Return visits were a mixed bag of fun and some tears, and we never pushed him. Now, at age 8, he loves skiing with friends and likes to go off of small jumps.

WHAT AGE IS RIGHT FOR A CHILD’S FIRST DAY SKIING OR SNOWBOARDING?

When is the time right to introduce kids to the slopes? It all depends on the individual interest in snow and snow sports, tolerance of the cold and aptitude for physical activities. It also depends on at least one parent’s interest and ability to get their child set up with all of the gear and up to a local ski hill.

In the meantime, playing in the snow with your child is the best way to help them to learn to love being outside and physically active in the winter. Eventually, all of that winter outdoor time may grow into a healthy, life-long love for skiing or snowboarding.

Before heading out in the snow, be sure you

dress your little one warm enough for the conditions. Then get out there and enjoy winter together!

1. Play in the Snow: When kids are having fun playing in the snow and are dressed appropriately to keep warm and dry, they usually don’t notice cold, wet conditions as much. This time in the snow can develop a higher tolerance to the cold. Have a snowball fight, build a fort or igloo, or make a snowman or snow angels.

2. Visit a Local Sledding Hill: Walking up and sliding down a safe, age-appropriate sledding hill is great fun and exercise. It’s also a good way to introduce kids to how much fun it is to slide down hills on snow.

3. Go Snowshoeing: Hiking in the snow on plastic snowshoes can be done in any park or natural area when there is a few inches of snow. You likely won’t travel very far from the car as the experience will be more about playing in the snow along the way than covering distance. Many local outdoor gear shops sell or rent snowshoes for kids and adults, including Rambleraven, REI, and Fitness Fanatics in the Spokane area.

You can also check out snowshoes at some Spokane County Library locations.

4. Visit Your Local Ski Area: Before snow falls in town, there’s often plenty of the white stuff up at our ski hills. Take an outing to your favorite mountain with your child to find a safe and appropriate place to play with them in the snow. Then, show them people and other kids loading a chairlift and having fun skiing or snowboarding down the mountain.

5. Go Tubing at a Ski Hill: Silver Mountain and Schweitzer have tubing hills where you get to ride down fun yet safe tubing hills and get a ride back to the top (ticket required). If you go tubing at Silver, you also get to ride the famous gondola! Please note that Bear Creek Lodge on the way up to Mt. Spokane has new ownership and tubing will not be offered this season.

6. Try Cross-country Skiing: Cross-country skiing (also known as Nordic skiing) is a great way to introduce kids to sliding on boards strapped to their feet. It helps build strength and skills that make alpine skiing easier in the future. Cross-country skiing is

a fun family activity that just about anyone can do. Mt. Spokane, 49 Degrees North, and Schweitzer have groomed Nordic ski trails and offer gear rentals. There are also lower-elevation areas closer to town that get groomed for skiing when there’s enough snow. The Spokane Nordic Ski Association also has a kids lesson program for ages 5-12 called Nordic Kids.

7. Go Ice Skating Outside: Downtown Spokane has a great winter skating rink and there are many small lakes and ponds around the Inland Northwest that can make for a fun, safe place to skate once the ice is thick enough. Skating helps build leg and ankle strength that translates well to alpine skiing or snowboarding.

8. Ski at a Local Park or Sledding Hill: Curlew, Wash.-based Altai Skis (Altaiskis. com) makes a kid’s Nordic ski called the Balla Hok that has a climbing skin embedded into the bottom of the skis. This allows kids to ski up mellow hills and then slide back down. You can get them with universal, free-heel bindings that work with normal winter boots too. Stick to mellow slopes well away from any avalanche danger.

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DIIIIING! The bell sounds, warning those nearby of an impending dousing. The large bucket suspended over Silver Rapids’ Cub Cove and Minor’s Island spends its day filling up with water and then spilling out all over youthful revelers in Idaho’s largest indoor waterpark. Natural light pours in from the massive skylights in the ceiling overhead. The steamy warmth and humidity lend a tropical feel to even the coldest of winter days here in the Inland Northwest, making it the perfect addtion to a ski vacation or snow tubing trip at North Idaho’s Silver Mountain Resort, or a standalone getaway the whole family can enjoy.

Adults can float along in tubes on the Lazy River while kids try their hand at aquatic basketball in Hoop Lagoon or test their balance on Crossing, a series of floating stepping stones with a net overhead and water below. The extra adventurous can learn to surf on the popular Flow Rider surf wave, with expert instruction and safety briefings provided by facilities staff.

Load your whole family onto a tube for a splashy ride down Moose Sluice. This waterslide, along with Gold Rush and Prospector Plunge, are such long and twisty-turny waterslides that they’re built mostly outside the building. The lines can be long, but the stomach-twisting thrill of crashing through a tunnel full of water and the shrieks of laughter are worth the wait.

For a more laid-back experience, families can enjoy Warm Springs, a traditional hot tub that’s a little cooler than normal, making it suitable for small children and adults.

Situated next to the Lazy River, Warm Springs provides a chance to lounge and warm up after a rowdy float with the littles.

If kicking back with a beverage to watch the activities is more your speed, the Trestles Surfside Grill and hot tubs are for you! This spa, with a much warmer temperature than Warm Springs (on average of 100-104 degrees) provides the perfect soaking experience to go with a cocktail or craft beer.

In addition to food and beverages available at the grill, the waterpark also offers cabanas for rent. These cabanas, cordoned off from the rest of the indoor space, give groups semi-private space to relax, watch TV, and visit with family and friends. There are also lockers available for storing valuables during your visit.

Only steps from the Silver Mountain Ski Resort Gondola, ferrying winter skiers and snow tubers up and down the mountain, Silver Rapids is the perfect family getaway with a little something for everyone—all the way from the Pollywog Pond for toddlers, to adult beverages and relaxing hot tub soaks for moms and dads. Access to the waterpark is included when booking lodging directly through Silver Mountain at the resort’s Morning Star Lodge, which is located in the Gondola Village. Pricing and availability vary. Tickets must be booked in advance online at Silvermt.com or over the phone at 866.345.2675. Silver Mountain Resort, located in historic Kellogg, Idaho, is a quick hour-and-fifteen-minute drive from downtown Spokane.

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LOCAL BEGINNER RUNS Resorts around Spokane and North Idaho make it easy to learn to ski or snowboard with lesson and rental packages, discount deals, and beginner-friendly terrain. Here are the best of the best local beginner runs to check out this winter!

Important to know about trail ratings: ● Green circle = Beginner ■ Blue square = Intermediate level ♦ Black diamond = Advanced

The difficulty of a ski run is usually pretty straightforward, but difficult or changing conditions or even tired bodies can make a run more difficult. Plan accordingly when mapping out your ski days with your kids! Resorts all have a map with all of the ski runs and their difficulty rating on their websites, which makes it easy to plan ahead and get familiar with where the trails you want to hit are located.

MAPS COURTESY OF THE RESORTS

49 DEGREES NORTH (CHEWELAH, WASH.)

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’s accessed via the Payday Lift (Chair #3). Give Easy Slide, Gold Chute, Fool’s Gold, Lower Gold Pan Alley, and the Hobbit Forest 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

(MULLAN,

IDAHO)

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.

SILVER MOUNTAIN (KELLOGG, IDAHO)

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 Claim Jumper that leads to the bottom of chair 5 which runs slower for kids and beginners.

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MT. SPOKANE (MEAD, WASH.)

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 chair (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.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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7 SKI AND SNOWBOARD TIPS These bits of advice from an experienced instructor will help kids and parents build their skills together this winter.

BY ADAM GEBAUER

LAUREN D'ARIENZO LEADS THE WAY. // PHOTO: SHALLAN KNOWLES

I HAVE TAUGHT SKIING and snowboarding for over a decade now. Writing that makes me feel a bit old considering I didn’t start teaching until my 30s. Over those years, I have found myself repeating some of the same bits of one-liner instructions to students young and old for a reason—they will help anyone at any age become a better skier or snowboarder!

Look where you want to go! If you look down at your feet, you will end up there. If you look across the slope, down the slope, or through a turn—you will get there. Your eyes and brain work really well to get your body to where you want it even if you haven't mastered your turns. Remember this in the trees and in crowds: look between the obstacles.

Drive with your legs! Your lower body is where you want to focus when learning. Ski poles help time and engage turns, but that comes after learning to drive your skis. Rely on poles to keep you upright or for stopping and you will generally end up on the ground.

This is true on snowboard too (not the pole part). Learn to drive the board with your knees and hips, not your shoulders or those swimming arms.

Lean downhill! On skis, press those toes in your boots and square your shoulders down the slope. On a board, think of your front knee and hip as your steering wheel. It is a little scary at first to lean downhill, but you will have much more control and spend less time on your butt.

Get out more! Taking one or two lessons a year is a good start, but to really let those lessons sink in and build that muscle memory, go more and practice. A lot of drills and techniques can come at students during a lesson. Take one or two of those and go out to practice yourself or with your child in

between lessons.

Find others to help push limits. It’s a delicate balance to get out with people who will push you or your child without pushing too far out of that comfort zone. Trying to match someone's turn or speed can help you know how to engage more difficult terrain or hit that next jump.

Get out of a rut. We all have our favorite conditions; it could be a foot of powder, perfectly groomed corduroy or the same comfortable run over and over. To improve your riding, mix it up and get into snow or on runs that are a little bit unfamiliar or challenging. This will improve balance and response and will also help the body react to something new and make it familiar.

Be playful! Skiing and boarding are supposed to be fun. Try new tricks. Ski one legged. Both of these will improve balance and edge awareness. It’s so easy to get frustrated when learning something new. Did you learn to ride a bike the first time? Wipe the snow out of those goggles. Take a break if needed. Then get back out there.

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Unstructured play outdoors is essential to the health and wellbeing of all children.

Since 2018, Greenplay Northwest has offered nature immersion programs for children aged 3-7 in Spokane.

www.mtspokane.com

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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Our all-outdoor programs support children as they learn through play, build resilience, and foster a life-long connection to the natural world.

greenplaynw.org

GEAR UP TO STAY WARM & HAVE FUN ON A BUDGET

YOU CAN GET THE WHOLE FAMILY up on the mountain skiing or snowboarding with all of

the gear you need and still stick to a budget. One of the most well-worth-it benefits will be more time outdoors together. Here are some tips to get geared up for a winter of skiing or snowboarding at an affordable price.

GEAR TO KEEP KIDS WARM—LAYER, LAYER, LAYER You don’t need to have the latest, greatest gear, but having multiple layers of clothing that you can put on, take off, zip, or unzip to meet the weather is critical. The chairlift ride is the coldest part of skiing and snowboarding, so make sure kids (and parents) are wearing enough layers for that ride up the mountain. Here are the recommended warming layers to have on hand for any skier or snowboarder: • Base layers: tops and bottoms made of polyester, wool, or a blend.

• Wool or synthetic socks to match the temperature outside.

• Mid-layer fleece or wool jacket or sweater.

• Fleece pants or sweatpants.

• Waterproof or water-resistant jacket and pants.

• A thin warm hat that will fit under a helmet.

• Goggles (for snow and sun) • Insulated, weatherproof gloves or mittens.

• A ski mask/head sock to protect faces.

BUYING QUALITY SKI & SNOWBOARD EQUIPMENT Buying all of the things for your family to get out there skiing or snowboarding can take a lot of time and money, so here are some tips to save a little bit of both.

• Lease skis or snowboard gear from a local shop like Spokane Alpine Haus so you don’t have to buy new gear each year as kids grow.

• Buy used gear at a local ski swap. The SARS Sandpoint Ski Swap is still coming up Nov. 11, 2023.

• Buy used gear from a ski/snowboard shop like Rambleraven Gear Trader in Spokane that sells both new and used equipment and gear for kids and adults.

• Shop the sales at your local ski and snowboard shops.

• Check Facebook Marketplace and other online sources for quality and safe modern used gear.

RENTING SKI & SNOWBOARD EQUIPMENT If you’re not sure how committed your child or teenager is going to be with skiing or snowboarding and are hesitant to invest in a full equipment set up, renting gear at the resort or from a local ski shop may be the least expensive and easiest way to go.

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KIDS' LESSONS MADE EASY 3 steps to find the right ski or snowboard lessons for all ages, abilities and budgets. boarding is one of the best things parents can do to help kids develop a life-long love for winter sports and being healthy and active outside in the winter. Here in the Inland Northwest, we are fortunate to have multiple, affordable ski and snowboard areas right in our backyard, but with so many resort and lesson options to choose from, deciding what type of ski or snowboard lessons are right for your child and family can be a bit overwhelming.

These three simple steps will help simplify the process of finding the right lessons at one of the four Ski the NW Rockies association resorts—49 Degrees North, Chewelah, Wash.; Mt. Spokane, Mead, Wash.; Lookout Pass, Mullan, Idaho; and Silver Mountain, Kellogg, Idaho.

group lessons to more expensive yet focused private lessons as well as multi-day and multi-week lesson programs.

Consider these options: • Choose single lessons just to give it a try once or twice, or schedule single lessons throughout the season whenever you can make it up to the mountain.

• Multi-week lesson programs or holiday camps give your child more instruction, friendship opportunities and a more immersive experience. These programs also give parents time to hit the slopes on their own or read a book or get some work done in the lodge.

• Multi-day first-timer packages that include 3 days of lessons, rentals, and lift tickets (see EZ Ski 123 sidebar for more info).

STEP #1: Think about what type of lesson would be best

STEP #2: Decide on which ski area you want your child

INTRODUCING THE NEXT GENERATION to skiing or snow-

for your child and your family’s budget and schedule.

There are a lot of options from each of the resorts, from

to take lessons from. This choice may be an easy one if you have a favorite (or season passes) at a specific resort.

Or you might want to make the decision based on other factors like where friends of your child might be taking lessons or if there’s a specific lesson program at one of the resorts that seems like a perfect fit. If you are still not sure, move on to Step #3 and explore the different resorts’ lesson options.

STEP #3: Visit resort ski school/lesson web pages to

find the right lesson program. Now that you have an idea of what type of lessons you want for your child and hopefully know which resort you want to sign them up at, visit that resort’s lesson page below with your schedule and budget in mind. Next, find the right age-andskill appropriate ski or snowboard lessons. Many lesson packages and camps fill up, so don’t wait! If you’re still not sure which resort or lesson package is right for you, visit each of the resort lesson QR links below and do more research.

EXPLORE LOCAL RESORT LESSON PROGRAMS LESSON HIGHLIGHT: ADVENTURER’S MULTIWEEK PROGRAM LESSON HIGHLIGHT: LOOKOUT PASS FREE SKI SCHOOL Lookout Pass has been offering its Free Ski School for over 80 years. Available for kids ages 6-17, the lessons range from beginner to advanced. While the lessons are free and include lift access during the lessons, rental equipment and a lift ticket/ season pass for the rest of the day is not included.

(ages 5 - 13) A sequential lesson experience for skiers or snowboarders that includes four full days of coaching at a bargain price at 49 Degrees North. The full day lessons (in January or February) will help improve your child's skills in small classes grouped by ability with the same coach and students, creating opportunities for better group connections and learning.

LESSON HIGHLIGHT: MINI MITES (skiers ages 4-6)

With patience, kindness and a lot of fun, instructors keep these littles safe while helping them develop skiing skills and hopefully a life-time love for the sport.

Class sizes are kept small for extra oneon-one attention. Choose from multiweek sessions or consecutive day holiday camps at Mt. Spokane.

LESSON HIGHLIGHT: SILVER KIDS (ages 7-12)

The Silver Kid's program at Silver Mountain allows your kids to improve their skills in a group atmosphere.

Packages include a lift ticket, rental and lesson from either 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-2:30 p.m daily.

SCAN FOR FULL LESSON PROGRAM OPTIONS!

MORE SKI RESOURCES! KIDS & PARENTS CAN LEARN TO SKI OR RIDE IN 3 DAYS

SCAN TO SIGN UP

The EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 programs 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 firsttimers at an incredible price ($175 and up) that includes three lift tickets, three rentals (boots, poles, skis or snowboard), and three lessons (ages, prices and details vary by resort).

The 5th Grade Ski or Ride Passport allows any 5th grader from any state to ski or snowboard three free days at each of the five participating Ski the NW Rockies resorts (49 Degrees, Lookout, Loup Loup, Mt. Spokane and Silver).

Ski Idaho runs a similar program for 5th and 6th graders. To participate in the 5th grade passport program, submit your application with the one-time $23 processing fee and you will be emailed the passport that you can print or pull up on your phone at the ticket office. Details at Skinwrockies.com

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5TH GRADERS SKI OR RIDE FOR FREE!

If you’re in the 5th grade, no matter where you live, you can ski or ride for FREE at participating ski areas with the 5th Grade Ski or Ride Free Passport Program. The Ski or Ride Free Passport Program is the best way for you to experience winter recreation with your family and friends.

HOW IT WORKS: The passport allows you to ski or ride for FREE* three days at each participating ski area. Some ski areas include special deals on equipment rentals, lessons, and other activities in the passport! Just present your passport at the ticket window, it’s that easy! *$23 processing fee

The Fifth Grade Passport is accepted at these locations:

Mt Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park Spokane, WA

49 Degrees North Mountain Resort Chewelah, WA

Scan to apply!

Silver Mountain Resort Kellogg, ID

Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation ID/MT Border 1-90

or visit 5thGradeSkiPassport.com SPONSORED BY

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

39

ONE SKIER’S EPIC WINTER ROAD TRIP

Storm Chasing and Tent Camping

BY CHRIS MACCINI

Many skiers dream of the kind of extended ski trip that Paul Mignini embarked on last winter.

Beginning at his home in Spokane, he spent five weeks traveling through Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California and Utah. He hit more than a dozen ski resorts across five states during one of the best snow seasons in years. But not many people would be willing to go the lengths that Mignini has in his pursuit of powder on a budget. He wasn’t staying at swanky mountain hotels or cozy AirBnbs during his trip. Instead, he spent his nights in parking lots, sleeping through snowstorms in a bright red tent.

Originally from Baltimore, Mignini first caught the skiing bug in his early 20s. During a trip out West, he stopped in Breckenridge, Colo., and ended up staying for two years. “I was broke, so I worked for Vail resorts one day a week to get my free season pass,” Mignini says. “I supported myself with a restaurant job at night and skied every day.”

After a couple of years of the ski bum lifestyle, he moved back to the East Coast to start a career, but the spirit of the mountains never left him. He made frequent trips back to Colorado over the next decade, but grew sick of saving up all year for a week or two in the mountains. A friend in Coeur d'Alene suggested that he consider relocating to the Inland Northwest. Mignini had never been to the area, but the promise of five ski resorts within an hour-and-a-half drive was enough to convince him. Seven years ago, he moved to Spokane sight-unseen.

Mignini got to know the mountains around Spokane, and as he did, he noticed a skiing subculture that he hadn’t seen in other parts of the country. After a day of skiing, there’d be a collection of camper vans and RVs in the parking lot, preparing to stay the night.

“I saw this really unique community of weekenders that were doing big vans and skoolie conversions,” he says. “And the Pacific Northwest is really unique in that it's got these mountains that will let you sleep overnight in the parking lot. Colorado doesn't have that. Utah doesn't have anything like that, but the Inland Northwest does.”

A new bug was planted. If he could stay overnight at the mountain, he could minimize his driving time and maximize time on the slopes. It would also allow him to explore ski resorts farther away if a storm system moved through the Cascades or southern Idaho. There was just one problem. He didn’t have an RV or camper van.

THE SKI TENT SETUP

Because Mignini didn’t have the cash to drop on a recreational vehicle, he began looking for more inexpensive options. First, he tried sleeping in his small SUV. But that proved to be a

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cold, uncomfortable experience. Plus, there was nowhere to cook a hot meal, especially if a snowstorm was raging outside.

Eventually, after falling down a few YouTube rabbit holes, Mignini discovered the world of popup ice fishing shelters. For a few hundred bucks, he could buy a sturdy, insulated tent built to withstand the cold, snowy expanse of a frozen lake—conditions not unlike those he might experience in a mountain parking lot.

Mignini bought a tent and outfitted it with a sleeping cot, a folding table, and a portable propane heater and stove. It seemed like a cozy, safe space to ride out a stormy mountain night. But there was only one way to truly test the setup. He had to spend a night on the mountain.

His first overnight ski trip with the tent was at Mount Baker. A big snowfall was in the forecast, and he set his tent up in the parking lot, hoping that it would withstand the storm. “I got everything I wished for and more,” Mignini says. “I have pictures of this thing in a three-foot dump next to the car, and the car's buried in snow.”

The setup wasn’t perfect, he admits. That Cascade snow was heavy and wet, and Mignini got up every couple of hours to knock snow off the tent to keep it from collapsing. At one point, he woke up freezing because his propane heater had run out of fuel. But overall, it worked. And over the course of a few more weekend trips, he ironed out the kinks.

THE BIG TRIP

Initially, Mignini hadn’t planned on an extended ski trip. His goal was to chase storms around the region, to hit places within a five- or six-hour drive of Spokane and not have to slog all the way home after a long day of powder skiing. But in January of 2023, a series of events aligned and presented him with an opportunity he couldn’t turn down.

“THERE WAS A GUY AT THE BOTTOM OF THE LIFT WHO CAME OUT OF THE TREES IN THIS HEAD-TO-TOE NEON SKI SUIT FROM LIKE, 1983. HIS BEARD WAS DOWN TO HIS BELLY. HE DROPPED TO HIS KNEES AND SAID, ‘THIS IS THE BEST DAY WE'VE HAD IN 27 YEARS!'” PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAUL MIGNINI PREVIOUS PAGE: MIGNINI’S PARKING LOT GLAMPING SET UP CENTER: PLENTY OF POWDER DAYS THIS PAGE: SKI-IN, SKI-OUT ON A BUDGET

First, there was the snow. A strong La Niña weather cycle led to storm after massive snowstorm pummeling the Western United States. Many ski resorts—especially those in California and Utah—recorded record-breaking snowfalls during the 2022-2023 season. Mignini watched storms roll in on the Open Snow app, and longed to chase them farther from home.

Then, Mignini found himself with some unexpected time off. He works in sales and is self-employed, and in January 2023, he closed the largest deal of his career. Suddenly he could afford to take a few weeks away from work.

“We were literally having one of the best snow years ever. If ever there was a time for me to take an extended period of time off and go on this trip, it was now,” Mignini says. “I had all the equipment. I'd done it as economically as possible. I'd tested everything. I knew it could handle it. And in mid-February, that's when the trip kicked off.”

The next five weeks were the stuff of ski hill legends. Mignini had planned a rough itinerary, beginning in the Cascades, then south through Oregon and into the Sierra Nevada of Northern California. From there, he’d head east across Nevada, into Utah’s Wasatch Mountains and back up through the Sawtooths of southern Idaho. For the most part, he stuck to that plan, but he also kept an eye on incoming storms and made a few diversions to be in the right place for an epic powder day—such as the five feet of fresh snow he caught at Dodge Ridge, a small resort in the central Sierra. In total, he skied at 14 resorts across five states.

“Almost every single mountain I hit had fresh snow that day,” Mignini says. “And it wasn't just fresh. It was a lot of fresh. I caught three and a half feet of blower powder at Mount Hood Meadows on a windless day. There was a guy at the bottom of the lift who came out of the trees in this head-to-toe neon ski suit from like, 1983. His beard was down to his belly. He dropped to his knees and said, ‘This is the best day we've had in 27 years!’”

Not every ski area would allow Mignini to set up his tent in their parking lot, however, so he spent several nights in sno-parks on nearby state or federal land.

He splurged for a hotel one night near Lake Tahoe too. He needed a shower, and it was a difficult area to find a place to camp. But aside from that, he spent every night in his pop-up shelter.

While he doesn’t have another extended trip planned yet, Mignini is looking forward to the upcoming winter season, and he’s keeping his options open. “I don't think I'm going to be doing a month-long trip,” he says. “But you can guarantee that I’ll be out there for long weekends. And I mean, if we get a perfect storm cycle that comes together, I’d have no problem doing it again.” // Chris Maccini is a writer, audio producer, and skier living in Spokane.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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Holiday Gift Guide

OUT THERE'S

'Tis the season of giving, and if finding the perfect gift brings you the delight that it brings to our family, we are kin. Before you start shopping, we have a few thoughts on the art of gift giving and why you should keep it local. If you’re in a rush, skip to the gift category you need ideas for. We hope you find the perfect outdoors-related inspiration.

BY SHALLAN KNOWLES

Keep it Local

To get in the spirit, I picked up our 8-year-old from school and set off for some of our favorite local stores. We do our best to keep it local for the single reason that it keeps our community vibrant. At some of these stores, we know the owners by name, and they know us. They show us their favorite items in the store and usually have a story to go with it. They show our kiddo the loudest noise makers and delight in his delight. The purchases from these local stores pay local employees who are then more likely to spend their paychecks locally. More money stays in our community when we shop local. It’s a win-win.

The other thing about some of the specialty stores we’ve included in this guide is that they have finds our loved ones might never purchase for themselves. Sure, an Amazon gift card could cover the necessities and is appreciated. But, where else can you find a Great Blue Heron Mobile ($82 Kizuri) that flies or a handmade mushroom mug? Shop local. It’s more interesting.

The Art of Giving a Gift

It’s not just the thrill of the find or wrapping it beautifully or watching someone open your gift with anticipation. A look of delight and gratitude on the receiver’s face can be so rewarding to the giver. Something small that says “I see you” deepens the bond between people. When you consider the intrinsic value of a thoughtful gift, it can add fire to your gift search. And there are many types of gift-giving to consider—from material goods to outdoors experiences or donations to community organizations, we hope you enjoy this guide as much as we enjoyed shopping around town to find treasures for your loved ones.

Bikes/Outdoor Gear

For the gearheads in your life, the options are endless. We’ve recently gifted the striderriding kids we know nice helmets to protect their growing brains, in colors they love from North Division Bicycle. Brenda, the owner, always helps us find the right gift, from the perfect bike to handlebar bells and baskets. Bike lights that help the cyclist in your life ride in the dark days of winter is always appreciated. You might not be able to gift the feeling of wind-in-your-hair, adrenaline-pumping fun, but you can gift the bike and accessories that make it easier (and safer) for them to get out there.

Shred Sports Spokane on Division has your standard snow/water sports/ bike gear selec42

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

tion, but they also have some fun toys tucked away. The collection of Lucky Scooters can keep the whole family moving this spring. While we wait for the sun to warm us, gift the 686 Waterproof Hooded Puffer Blanket ($119). It can convert to a puffer poncho, and who couldn’t use a little more comfort and style this winter?

For the skier in your life, consider a pair of lift tickets. If they have a pass, consider gifting day passes to another resort to find some new favorite runs. Pair it with a fun, printed Black Strap Goggle Cover and they will think of you every time they cover and uncover their goggles ($15). Other ski gear: Smith Wireless Audio setup for helmets ($130) or a gear bag to keep it organized ($75-$130), all found at Alpine Haus.

For the paddler in your life, a dry bag is useful for day trips and overnight trips. It’s useful for the boat, the beach, the paddleboard and keeping the rain away from your essentials. NRS, a local store in Moscow, Idaho, has a great selection. Go for the backpack version.

Some might think of Rambleraven Gear Trader as a consignment-only outdoor store, but it’s not. Sure, you will probably find a very gently used treasure in their racks of clothes and shoes, but you can also source new gear from them. We love the colorful UCO Utility Spork ($12.50 for the set). It’s the local go-to for Spokane’s gear store. In Coeur d’Alene, check out Escape Outdoors in the Riverstone area.

If your person is a fitness fanatic, the Fitness Fanatics store has some great gift options. I’ve heard suggestions dropped around our house for a bike trainer. They have a nice selection.

They also have a fabulous selection of snowshoes. We like the ultralight Atlas Helium ($230) with the largest pair weighing in at 3lbs, 12oz.

Wheel Sport has a store in every corner of Spokane, making it easy to stock up on items for your bike riders. And, if you are in the market to make a kid’s Christmas, check out their kids’ bike selection. For the tech-loving cyclist in your life, check out the Sigma Pure 1 ($45), a simple bike computer that can tell your rider how fast, how far and how long they’re going.

Really, you are giving the gift of accurate bragging!

Gifts, Treasures, Jewelry & More!

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Mortar & Pestle!

Incense, Sage & Candles

Gemstones & Jewelry

5-Minutes From Costco // open Thursday - Monday

12120 N Market St. 509-821-8767 www.MyCrystalStop.com Books and Maps

My reading habits have changed over time, from fiction and select learning to kids’ books.

Auntie’s Bookstore has a healthy selection of every genre. We also wander through the journals, stickers, calendars, coloring books, tote bags, bookmarks and gifts before we hit the check-out stand. The other thing I love about Auntie’s is the trade in program. We can clean out our stacks of well-loved books and get credit for new books. It helps us detach from the books we’ve outgrown and find new books. We are currently reading “Spy Ski School,” though I have “The Cold Millions” by Jess Walter tucked into my nightstand. Next on my list is "Lessons in Chemistry" by Bonnie Garmus. Give the gift of escape with a book!

Shopping locally for books is easy. Check out these other Spokane treasures: 42 Pages is full of used books for the budget conscious // Second Look Books on the South Hill also has an OTO rack! // Wishing Tree Books in the Perry neighborhood is a treasure of kids’ books and just feels good to wander around. // Giant Nerd Books on Garland has a great selection of used and new books. // Book Traders, also on Garland, is a magic little store of used books.

We came home with an armful of them.

Give the gift of navigation with the new summer and winter trail map of Mount Spokane State Park. Whether your giftee is a mountain biker, hiker, bird watcher, Nordic skier or trail runner, this map will help them plan their next adventure. Washington State Parks in partnership with the Friends of Mount Spokane produced this full-color, detailed map printed on waterproof, durable paper to last even the toughest treks. Maps can be purchased at our local REI, Fitness Fanatics, The Bike Hub, Mojo Cyclery and other local outdoor stores or online at inlandnwland.org.

Classes & Experiences

Give the gift of feeling at home in your body. Yoga is not just for the flexible! A month of unlimited yoga classes from Harmony Yoga is an affordable and creative gift that says “love the body you are in.” The environment is welcoming to all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Tight muscles from running? Aging hips? Anxiety from life and work? Yoga can assist with soothing all the things. With free loaner mats and no mirrors, Harmony Yoga makes it easy to attend a class.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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Happy Holidays!

232 N. Howard DOWNTOWN SPOKANE

providing

top rated private & public food & drink tours

book online @ wanderspokane.com gift cards available 44

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

509. 456.7479 A good massage is one that not only helps your muscles and tissues feel better, but one that also calms the central nervous system. A gift card for a massage is a gift that will help someone find a massage therapist and get them on the table for some relaxing relief after their winter outdoor adventures.

Gifting experiences to kids enriches their lives. When my parents started to see the people in our family had enough material things, they shifted to the gift of a family trip.

This year, we are going to Silver Mountain in March to enjoy spring skiing and the water park. The combined condos make it easy to prepare and share meals and spend mornings watching cartoons with the little ones.

These other experiences make good gifts too: Ninja Classes for kids at Spokane Gymnastics / Wild Walls Kids’ Climbing Clubs // Science & Stuffies sewing camps at Let’s Get Sewing // Spokane Parks and Recreation has an abundance of classes from art workshops to snowshoe dinners.

Most resorts have ski lessons which can work with your schedule. Mt. Spokane has a full spring schedule of camps for skiers, for littles and older kids. The gift of skiing is giving the gift of loving winter!

Get creative with a food tour from Wander Spokane ($70), Cooking Class at Commellini Estates ($85), paddleboard or kayak season passes with Fun Unlimited ($160), or gift a Boat Club Membership for those who are having too much fun to maintain a boat, so they can walk onto one of the fleet ready to hit it at Carefree Boat Club of North Idaho (call for pricing).

Outdoors Jewelry & Crystals

If you love the outdoors, we are guessing you love nature. And if you love jewelry and nature, the combo makes a nice gift. My sister gifted me a necklace of a tiny silver Coeur d’Alene Lake from Solder & Stone. It’s a daily reminder of my love of water and our region.

The Coeur d’Alene-based Bumblebee Jewelry (shop online) has handmade silver jewelry that donates a portion of each sale to Xerces Society to help protect the company’s namesake. Traci Jewelry on Evergreen and Kizuri also had nice nature-inspired jewelry finds.

My Crystal Stop in north Spokane has a beautiful selection of crystals and jewelry. They can help pick out a special piece to match with the energy your loved one is creating in their life.

There. When You Need Us.

®

Kitchen/Coffee/Food

If you know someone who plays hard, but needs their coffee first, visit DOMA Coffee Roasting Company in Post Falls, Idaho, for craft coffee and accessories. Our van has an AeroPress and we highly recommend this for any coffee-loving camper. If you know someone who finds adventure in coffee, give them DOMA’s newest Gesha specialty coffee, complete with an original signed art label from local artist Jeff Weir. Or sign them up for a DOMA Coffee subscription, so they get awesome coffee delivered to their door. We love The Chronic dark roast (bonus groovy adventure van art on the label).

During the darker months, we tend to cook at home more. To spice up home-cooked creations, we love to use Inland Empire Spice on Monroe to give food special flavors. For burgers, we love the Smashburger Seasoning. For wild caught salmon, we use the Smokin’ Huckleberry Rub. For veggies, check out their Greek Seasoning. They also have gift sets where the tea and seasonings come in vials—these would be perfect tucked into stockings!

When shopping at the Main Market Co-op in downtown Spokane, we were delighted to find kitchen goods that reminded us of our love for nature. I found beautiful juice glasses with poppies, sea creatures, bees and trillium ($4.30 ea). Pair the set with homemade cranberry syrup and soda water for a nature-inspired mocktail set.

An adventurer who is also a chef/bbq master/veggie lover or just plain foodie might be delighted by a box of ingredients! LINC Foods has a subscription for all things local—even a beer box. The Herd, a ranch in eastern Washington, has beef boxes that ship farm-raised beef to your door. Gift the whole box or take out a steak for your own BBQ.

Give the gift of a Life Flight Network membership this year.

• Financial peace of mind • No out-of-pocket expense • ICU-level care and transport

$75

per year

Toys

Though kids appreciate the holidays for religious reasons or the outdoor snow play, the most exciting gift that most any kid will cite are the toys. The Red Ryder BB gun is not on the list in our house, but these creative, local and sustainable toys are.

Games from Uncle’s Games or Merlyn’s: Card games and board games bring connection throughout the year. Our favorites are UNO Flip, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza and any Harry Potter Game. For a more complex game, check out Forbidden Desert, recommended for ages 10+. This co-op board game has you excavating a solar-powered flying machine while trying to stay alive in the outdoor elements of a desert storm. We found this one at Whiz Kids.

Hunt around and see if there’s a new game that will delight your family for hours in these dark months.

lifeflight.org | 800.982.9299 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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H ANDMA DE - FA IR TRA DE - L O CA L

Shop Fair

Shop Local

35 West Main

Whiz Kids also has a fun science section with telescopes, microscopes and experiments.

They have one for understanding climate change, which can be hard to understand the how and why even for the science-minded kid. For the art-focused kids, they have kits to learn knitting by making butterflies and DIY kaleidoscope kits. There will be a Transforming Sphere under our tree this year. I’m not sure why these are so popular, but I’m sure the kids can tell you!

shop online at shopkizuri.com

Boo Radley’s is a trove of treasures for every age. Kids love the interesting and unique finds, from tin lunch boxes to finger puppets, unique stuffies and toys.

Monday-Saturday / 10 am to 5:30 pm Sundays in Nov & Dec / 12 pm to 4 pm

For those kids who miss the toy section of The White Elephant, look no farther than just a few blocks north at The General Store. The selection of toys, games and Lego sets will keep any kiddo busy for hours. Don’t forget to shop for classics that will inspire outdoor time like a set of kid’s binoculars or a good old-fashioned sled.

A few more things on our list: Toddlers love the bike rider on a stick found at Kizuri. The “instruments” (aka noise makers) at Kizuri are also a kid favorite, though some of them might need to stay at grandma’s house. Art supplies from Spokane Art Supply on Monroe are sure to delight the little or big artists on your list.

Personal Care February 17th & 18th Spokane Convention Center SpokaneOutdoorExpo.com

This Season, Give The Gift ! of Flavor

d Candy Freeze-Drie sions Alcohol Infu gars Flavored Su Tea Loose-Leaf lts Flavored Sa Herbals

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If your loved one ventures off the trail and into the wild, a year subscription to Life Flight is most likely on the need list. Paired with a satellite communication device, we have been happy to have this combo on river-trips, backcountry ski adventures and high mountain bikepacking slogs. Not only does it save lives, it helps the ones left home to relax and know that you have a plan in case of an emergency. It might be the best care item on our list.

The Dragon Balm XTRA Strength ($32) from APEX Cannabis can help soothe tired muscles that play hard. We’ve been happy to have it after a long day of skiing or even just after sitting at the computer for a while. They have a variety, so you can pick up a lavender scented cream or one that will leave you smelling like a Chinese herb store. If you know someone who struggles to sleep, or sleep in a tent/unfamiliar place, consider gifting Lil Rays, 100mg shooters. They can take the edge off and help someone get to sleep. Is there a better gift than good sleep?

When I think of gifts that make my life better, but I won’t buy for myself, these two things come to mind. First, IV Therapy. Gifting someone hydration and nutrition through a needle in their arm might seem strange, until you see the benefits. We had Carlee at IV Solutions come to our house (yes, she does home visits) to administer a migraine solution of magnesium, b & c vitamins and other things that might not absorb as well in my celiac gut. It goes right into the blood stream and the results are fewer migraines. Second, personal training for a set period of time. As the New Year Wellness season kicks off, starting the season with someone who is invested in your fitness journey can keep you going past February. Donnie at Torq Personal Training has created a welcoming, kind environment with tools to help day to day between workout sessions. // Shallan Knowles is the designer and co-publisher of Out There.

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OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Holiday Light Displays

INLAND NORTHWEST

Books to Entertain, Enlighten, & Educate

everyone in the family

402 W. Main Ave (509) 838-0206

Don’t let the cold, short days of winter keep you inside. Getting outdoors to enjoy festive light displays on an urban walk is a fun and healthy way to celebrate the holidays. Here are a few favorites around the region!

Coeur d ’Alene Holiday Light Show

Experience 1.5 million shimmering holiday lights as the Lake City transforms into a winter wonderland. Be there when they flip the switch at the annual lighting ceremony Nov. 24 at 6 p.m. followed by a fireworks display.

Winter Glow Spectacular

Each year, Orchard Park (at 20298 E. Indiana Ave. in Liberty Lake) hosts Winter Glow, a magical holiday light display that is free and open to the community. This year’s display runs from Nov. 18 through Jan. 1.

Numerica Tree Lighting Celebration at Riverfront Park

This signature Riverfront holiday event in downtown Spokane is set for Nov. 25, with the countdown beginning at 6 p.m. Other festivities kick off at 4 p.m., including food trucks and live entertainment plus skating at the Numerica Skate Ribbon. The tree-lighting celebration also coincides with the Riverfront Market event at the Pavilion that runs from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and features a wide range of unique products and gifts from talented local artisans and small businesses.

Manito Park Holiday Lights

Spokane’s Manito Park is home to a popular holiday light display that’s viewable as a drivethrough experience from your car. The best way to experience the magic and avoid the traffic, however, is on a walking tour through the sprawling park. The route starts at the Park Bench Café, winds through the Rose Garden and across the rock-arch bridge, and finishes on 21st Ave. The walking tours run Dec. 11-20 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. (OTO)

Holiday Cruises on Lake Coeur d ’Alene

For 26 years, the holiday cruises on Lake Coeur d’Alene have been a family tradition. Enjoy the Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises boat ride as it tours 250 holiday light displays on the way to meet Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, the Elves and even the Grinch. Kids and parents delight in the moment when Santa reads each child’s name from his nice list. The 40-minute cruise concludes with a firework display.

Cruises this season run Nov. 23-Jan. 2, with multiple departure times each day.

Book in advance to reserve your family’s spot!

Downtown Spokane, Spokane Valley and Redmond, WA

For Sci-Fi Fantasy Book, Game, & Comic Fans in the

Pacific Northwest

15 W Main Ave (509) 624-0957 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

47

OUT THERE SNOW 48

OUT THERE SNOW LOCAL RESORTS

WHAT'S UP AT LOCAL RESORTS FALL SEASON PASS SALE DEADLINES & BONUS BENEFITS

If you plan to ski or snowboard more than a couple of times this season, then buying a season pass at the discount fall season pass sale prices will save you plenty of cash. A season pass gives you the freedom to go up to the mountain and stay for as many or few runs as you want, without having to worry about the cost of a day lift ticket. Having that season pass on you is a great motivator to go skiing or snowboarding as often as you can! Don’t miss these season pass sale deadlines or you’ll end up paying the full non-sale price.

• Lookout Pass: Nov. 17 (fall sale deadline) Lookout typically has a large list of bonus passholder benefits, including free and discount skiing days at multiple other resorts, plus discounts at several hotels, restaurants, and breweries/pubs in Idaho’s Silver Valley.

• Silver Mountain: Nov. 15 (fall sale deadline) Pass bonus benefits: Four $14 tickets to Silver Rapids Indoor Water Park, 10% off lodging at Morning Star Lodge, one-time second round of golf free at Galena Ridge, half off mountain bike lift ticket with purchase of full-price ticket, and 25% off a full day ticket at Big White. Silver is also a member of the Powder Alliance and passholders get three free tickets at 20 other resorts with their Silver season pass.

• 49 Degrees North: Nov. 15 (fall sale deadline) A pass at 49 comes with access to both the alpine and Nordic areas, which is a great bonus. Passes also include bonus perks like complimentary lift tickets to other regional resorts including Bluewood, Blacktail, Loup Loup, White Pass and Mission Ridge.

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

• Mt. Spokane: Nov. 10 (fall sale deadline) Your Mt. Spokane season pass comes with unlimited ski area access, including free night skiing Wednesday–Saturday from mid-December to mid-March. You get free or discount skiing with multiple resort partners, including White Pass, Loup Loup, Great Divide Mountain, Mt. Ashland and Freedom Pass Partners. You also get $10 off of a regular-priced lift ticket for a buddy (one per day).

INLAND NW TOYOTA SKI FREE FRIDAYS MOVES TO MARCH

Toyota Ski Free Fridays means free skiing for the driver of a Toyota vehicle that they drive up to the mountain on the set date.

This year the ski free days at Ski the NW Rockies association resorts have all moved to March. Mark your calendar and enjoy a free day of skiing thanks to Toyota!

• 49 Degrees North – March 1 • Silver Mountain – March 8 • Mt. Spokane – March 15 • Lookout Pass – March 22 HOW DOES SNOW REPORTING FOR THE SEASON WORK?

Curious about how snow condition reporting works? Here's how they do it at 49 Degrees North. Other local resorts likely have a similar process.

Between 4-5 a.m., the snow report and lead groomer chat about conditions on the mountain. The groomer reports current weather, new snow and the grooming report, which is then added to the website. The Snow Report email is then sent with all the updates and the grooming report is updated with current groomed, opened and closed runs.

49’s Snow Conditions Hotline, Snow Radio Report and printed reports around the lodge are also based on this update.

Between 1-2p.m., the website is updated again with current weather, new snow and

information about the next day's plan. This will include which chairs will be operating, links to purchase lift tickets and upcoming events. This update is the best place to see what you can expect on the next operating day.

Depending on the weather and changes during the day, the Snow Report page may be updated multiple times throughout the day (be sure to refresh your page regularly).

49’s snow reporting timeline is based on the 12-hour time periods of 4 a.m.- 4 p.m. and 4 p.m.- 4 a.m. Any new snow accumulated during the day or night are added to the Snow Tracker, which calculates the 24-, 48- and 72-hour totals based on the new snow added within those 12-hour periods.

This means that the snow report will reflect accurate totals within those time frames, instead of a running storm total. Tracking snow this way helps give you the most accurate snapshot of conditions on the mountain at any given time. For example, if the resort has received two inches of new snow in the last 12 hours but 8 in the last 72, you can expect a light layer of powder on groomed runs and lots of powder on the shoulders and in the trees.

The snow reporting teams at 49 and other resorts are dedicated to providing accurate and timely snow information. Make sure you sign up for Snow Report emails from your favorite ski areas!

NEW DEVELOPMENT AT 49 DEGREES NORTH

49 spent the summer hard at work on a huge new skier and rider services building that will eventually house rentals, the snowsports school, daycare and guest services facilities. Those services won't be moving operations until next year, which means this season the building will be used for extra seating space for you to get out of the weather and have lunch or take a break. When the building is complete, it

FIRST SNOW SPIRIT AT MT. SPOKANE. // NEW DAY LODGE CONSTRUCTION AT LOOKOUT PASS. // 49 DEGREES NORTH SNOW MAKING. // EARLY-SEASON SNOW AT SILVER. // PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RESORTS

will feature lots of windows, and the peak of the building is translucent along the whole length, so there will be plenty of natural light in this newest infrastructure addition.

WARREN MILLER’S “ALL TIME” AT SILVER MOUNTAIN NOV. 25

If the snow gods smile on us, Silver Mountain’s opening weekend will time perfectly with the showing of Warren Miller’s latest film “ALL TIME–74 Years Reimagined” at Noah's Loft in the village at Silver on Nov. 25. Doors open at 7 p.m., and tickets are limited to the first 100 people.

The film celebrates the birth of ski towns like Sun Valley and Aspen, icons and innovators like the original hotdoggers, and the most outlandish locations ever skied.

Through it all, Jonny Moseley and special guests will share their own stories. Tickets are available at Silvermt.com.

WORK WHERE YOU SHRED

Local ski areas are hiring for all winter positions, and this is your chance to work with the perk of easy access to skiing and riding with employee deals that may include a flexible schedule, free season pass, and other discounts. Silver Mountain and Mt. Spokane are both hosting their annual job fairs on Saturday, Nov. 4. Find details on the resorts’ websites and come meet the great people you could be working with this winter!

SAVE BIG ON A SKI OR TUBING AND WATERPARK GETAWAY AT SILVER MOUNTAIN

Book in advance for a great deal on a

Silver Mountain ski or tubing trip that includes lodging and access to the Silver Rapids indoor water park that features slides, pools, hot tubs and other water features like the Flowrider surf wave. Book a stay between Jan. 2 and March 23, 2024, with packages starting as low as $75 per person. Scan the QR code on page 34 and use the code "SAVEBIG" to take advantage of this offer.

NO-LI MOUNTAIN TAPHOUSE LANDS ON MT. SPOKANE

This fall, the new No-Li Mountain Taphouse took a helicopter ride from Lodge 2 to its new home at the top of Parkway Express (chair 3) at Mt. Spokane. This new hangout spot joins the existing yurt for who knows what epic good times will transpire this season. Stay tuned for more info, and, according to Mt. Spokane, a few surprises!

FASTER RIDE TO EAGLE PEAK AND TERRAIN IMPROVEMENTS AT LOOKOUT

If you got the chance to check out all of the new terrain and the Eagle Peak quad lift at Lookout Pass last year, then you know how good the 14 new trails with intermediateto-expert terrain and glades are, and they’re about to get better this season with a fastermoving lift and terrain improvements.

Eagle Peak summit is 500 feet higher than the previously highest peak at Lookout (6,160 feet), and this elevation gain means more snow and higher quality snow for a resort that already has a reputation for one of the deepest snowpacks around and frequent powder dumps. While the terrain addition is a huge game-changer for Lookout, skiers and

riders last year may have noticed the ride up on the Eagle Peak quad gave you a little more time than expected to catch up with your chairlift companion.

The slower-than-normal lift speed last season was due to a mechanical challenge with the newly purchased lift, says Lookout Pass marketing director Matt Sawyer. “We didn’t want to take the lift offline to make repairs mid-season, but anyone who comes up to ski or ride the new terrain this year will get to experience a full-speed ride to the top,” assures Sawyer. Lookout continues to make other improvements to the Eagle Peak terrain addition. “We’ve cleaned up a lot of the trails that will allow those runs to be skied earlier in the season, and we removed a lot of dead trees to improve the glades too.”

day. All equipment must be returned by April 30.

MT. SPOKANE CORPORATE PASS AVAILABLE AGAIN

Businesses and organizations can once again take advantage of a fully-transferable season pass in the name of the purchasing organization. The Corporate Pass is good for one staff, volunteer, or client each day of the winter 2023-24 season. The pass price is $1,399 and includes 10 additional buddy tickets that can be used in conjunction with the passholder for other staff or clients, plus 50 percent off any additional lift tickets when using the corporate pass (up to six per day, no blackout dates).

GIVE THE GIFT OF SKIING OR SNOWBOARDING

SNOWMAKING ALREADY UNDERWAY IN OCTOBER

An awesome holiday gift for any outdoor enthusiast, a gift card from one of our local ski areas is always a favorite. Check with whichever resort you think the person who will be getting the gift will be most stoked about to see what gift card or multipleticket deals are available.

The cold temps and early-season snow was a welcome sight in late October, and 49 Degrees North responded by firing up their snowmaking system that was added three winters back. If winter conditions continue, you may already be getting in turns in November!

LOOKOUT OFFERING EQUIPMENT RENTALS

NEW DAY LODGE ADDED AT LOOKOUT

ALL-SEASON

A great alternative to going through the gear rental and return process ski day after ski day, Lookout is once again offering allseason ski and snowboard equipment rentals for kids and adults. Reserve your gear starting in November by calling the rental shop at 208.744.1234, ext. 12. Equipment must be picked up at the mountain and taken home with the renter after each ski

Lookout is stoked to add 4,800 square feet of new day lodge space this season. The new Sprung Structure building space will offer a nice, heated space with room for an additional 150 guests to grab a seat at a table and get out of the elements for a bite to eat or beverage. This new and somewhat unique day lodge is going up adjacent to Lookout's historic lodge. //

sponsored by NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

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OUT THERE SNOW SKI BUM ADVICE

EVERYONE LOVES A SHOP DOG.

SIGNS OF A GOOD SKI SHOP

BY BRAD NORTHRUP

VA SALEN S!

SPOKANE’S CAMPERVAN SPECIALISTS!

I’M NO FAN OF CORPORATE AMERICA, and I quietly disapprove of its attempts to influence the sacred sport of skiing. But the fact remains that change is inevitable, and so it has come to pass that many ski resorts have succumbed to the financial allure of deep-pocketed venture capitalists or other well-financed resort holding companies. So be it. However, one critical component of the ski industry that must resist this is ski shops. These establishments are the heart and soul of the local skiing and riding community, and it is these places from which the true mountain “vibe” flows. Ok, that might be a bit much, but you get my point.

I have walked into far too many shops over the past few years that made me question whether I was in a ski shop or Target. Once it actually was Target. Lucky for you, I made notes on my experiences. In case you are wondering what makes a good ski shop, keep an eye out for the following signs.

THE SMELL

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When you walk into a shop, the first thing you should take notice of is the aroma. If all you can smell is lavender or jasmine, take the train. At a minimum, a good shop should smell like wax. If you also catch a light whiff of stale PBR, even better. You know you are in the right place if you can smell both from the parking lot.

DOGS

The very first thing that should greet you when you walk into a shop is a dog. Said pooch should either come up to you wagging its tail, or simply lift its head in acknowledgment if he/she is sprawled out on the floor. If the latter, you should have to walk around the dog as there is a fat chance it will move out of your way.

Labs, Retrievers, and Springers are all good candidates, but really any friendly canine will suffice. No small yappy ankle biters, though.

DRESS CODE

6818 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley // 833.964.8786 // Gustovans.com 50

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

If the first human you come into contact with at the shop is wearing pressed khakis and a polo like Jake from State Farm, and

then proceeds to greet you with a cheery “Welcome to Ski Mart, how can I help you?”, turn around and immediately head for the door. No, my friends, appropriate employee attire should consist of jeans or shorts, snow sports-related t-shirts, or flannel or Hawaiian shirts. At least two employees should be donning trucker hats.

One employee should be wearing flip flops.

Bonus points if that employee is the owner.

LANGUAGE

I swear to Ullr, if the next shop employee refers to me as “Sir,” I’m gonna lose my frickin’ mind. Yeah, sure, I might be over 50, but every time someone calls me that, I quickly look behind me thinking they are talking to my dad. If they only knew how much of a dirtbag I really was, I doubt they would have called me that. Rather than “Sir,” I would prefer to be referred to as “Bro,” “Man,” or “Dude.” Oh, and the appropriate greeting upon entering the establishment should be “Hey (insert one of the options above), how’s it going?”

FREE STUFF

You know how to gain a following with the next generation of snow sliders? Give ‘em free stuff. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just something cool. A good shop will readily hand out posters from their suppliers. Great ones will sling their branded ski straps and old-school bumper stickers with slogans like “Ski or Die,” or “I Love Head.”

SKI MOVIES

Any shop worth its weight will have some kind of skiing or riding movies playing on at least two big screen TVs. Films showing some kind of big mountain riding or heliskiing are always good, but you know you hit the jackpot if the shop you walked into shows nothing but movies featuring Glen Plake. // Brad Northrup is a former ski racer, coach and ski industry professional. His chances of owning a ski shop are the same as the Seahawks winning the Super Bowl this year.

SEASON'S PREDICTIONS OUT THERE SNOW IMAGE COURTESY OF NOAA

˜ BE DAMNED EL NINO

Mixed predictions for the winter 2023/2024 season

BY BRAD NORTHRUP

I STARTED COUNTING DOWN the days to

the start of the season back in June, like right after the solstice. What few friends I have got real tired real quick of hearing me say “One day closer to ski season.” But what else is there to do around here when winter comes to visit? Not much, unless you are into crafting or bowling. Hard pass for me on the former, and I totally suck at the latter. Even months ahead, my mind tends to wander to the colder months with a tempered excitement for what is to come.

That said, as a skier I am also a realist when it comes to the season forecast. For the past three years, the PNW has been fortunate to experience back-to-back-to-back La Niña patterns, which translated to above-average and even great conditions. But our luck, it appears, has finally run out. With the exception of a few overly optimistic forecasting entities, the general consensus is we are in for a pretty mild winter around here, thanks to the warming of sub-surface water temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. You guessed it:

More runs

the dreaded El Niño has seemingly returned.

The climate prediction wizards at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are projecting a “greater than 95% chance of El Niño continuing during the December 2023 to February 2024 timeframe.” For those who are not familiar with this obscene term, an El Niño weather pattern typically results in our area experiencing above average temperatures and below average precipitation. While this obviously equates to a potential for less snow, I should point out that we have experienced some absolutely ripper storms even during El Niño years, so don’t lose hope. Did I just sugar coat that? Yep. It's pretty much the same spiel coming out of the Office of the Washington State Climatologist. Their models are indicating “a high chance (97%) that El Niño will persist through February, and it is likely that it will be a moderate to strong event.” Odds of warmer than normal temperatures occurring are higher for eastern Washington, though the possibility of average precipitation does exist for our region. If that is the case, we will gladly take any precip we can get, please.

On a positive note, the Farmer’s Almanac is projecting a more robust winter for our area. Utilizing a “top-secret mathematical and astrological formula, and taking sunspot activity, tidal action, planet position, and many other factors” into consideration, their

for your

forecast for Washington, Idaho and Oregon calls for an “unusually snowy and wet winter.” Oh yeah? How unusually snowy? Mega dumps measured in feet? Inquiring minds want to know.

Laughing in the face of the naysayer scientists, the title of the 2023-2024 winter forecast from The Old Farmer’s Almanac says it all: WINTER WONDERLAND! Yes, their title was in all caps, and no, I did not add the exclamation point. Now, I have no idea as to what their secret sauce is when it comes to cooking these forecasts up, but, man, I want to believe them. I really do. According to their weather prediction map, our region falls into the “Cold, Snowy” classification category. They go on to gush, “Along with above-normal snowfall, we’ll see normal to colder-than-normal temperatures in areas that typically receive snow. Expect just the right amount of chill in the air for a day of adventurous snow sports or enjoying a big ‘ol mug of hot cocoa.” If that does not paint a pretty picture, I don’t know what does. But whatever these folks are smoking, it would be great if they could share . . ..

Stay frosty, my friends. Think snow. // Brad Northrup spent over a decade working in the ski industry and has been a long-time contributor to Out There Outdoors.

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51

OUT THERE SNOW CROSS-COUNTRY

NORDIC SKI RENTALS AT MOUNT SPOKANE. // PHOTO COURTESY OF FITNESS FANATICS

SKINNY SKI CENTRAL

Cruise miles of Nordic trails minutes from downtown at Mt. Spokane Cross-Country Ski Park

BY DERRICK KNOWLES THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE when it

comes to cross-country skiing (also known as Nordic skiing) in the Inland NW is at the Mt. Spokane Cross-Country Ski Park at Mount Spokane State Park. The park, in fact, is one of the largest Nordic ski areas in the Northwest, says Robin DeRuwe, owner of Fitness Fanatics, a Nordic ski and bike shop in Millwood that also operates an equipment rental trailer at the park. “We have over 60 kilometers of groomed, crosscountry trails at Mount Spokane that are unbelievable. They’re incredible.”

Cross-country skiing is a great, affordable way to get out in nature for some exercise in the winter. It can also be a fun way for a family to spend some quality, active time together. And with the Nordic trails at Mount Spokane so close, it’s an option for getting a ski workout in after work since the trails are open until 10 p.m. (bring a headlamp).

MOUNT SPOKANE NORDIC TRAIL SYSTEM

During the snowy months, the park features 37 miles of professionally-groomed Nordic ski trails that have a wide range of length and difficulty levels for both classic and skate skiing. The trails wind through Mount Spokane State Park land and private forestry lands. The Spokane Nordic Ski Association (see sidebar) helps maintain the trails in cooperation with the land owners (Washington State Parks, Idaho Department of Lands, and Inland Paper Company) and other volunteers and businesses like Fitness Fanatics. “It's taken the whole Spokane community working together to make this wonderful trail system that we have up there that is just outstanding,” says DeRuwe. To check out a map of the trail system with trails color-coded by difficulty level, go to Spokanenordic.org/ 52

trailmap.

In addition to the expansive trail system, the Selkirk Lodge at the trailhead has restrooms, water, tables and a wood stove and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Dec. 1 through March 31. Once you’re out on the trails, there are two warming shelters for skiers to take a break and warm up by a wood stove, including the Nova Hut and Tripp’s Knob Warming Shelter. Please note that snowshoeing, hiking, dog walking or fat biking on any part of the groomed Nordic trail system is not allowed.

GEAR RENTALS

If you don’t own a Nordic set up (skis, bindings, boots and poles), or you want to try modern gear, the cool thing about Mount Spokane is that you can get fitted and rent equipment for adults and kids from Fitness Fanatics from their trailer right up on the mountain (Dec. 1-March 31). Hours are Thursday-Monday, 9 a.m.-4p.m. and daily during Christmas break. This central location is a huge bonus to the alternative of driving around town picking up and returning rental gear.

WHAT TO WEAR CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

If you are new to Nordic skiing, plan to dress in layers, since you’ll be moving a lot and will generate your own heat. Wear or bring layers that you can shed as you warm up or to adapt to different conditions if you are out for a long ski, including: • Synthetic or wool long underwear tops and bottoms (avoid cotton).

• Breathable layers/jackets to let body moisture escape. (Non-breathable jackets and shells will cause you to sweat out baselayers.)

• Bring extra gloves and light, breathable hats

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

to keep your head warm during breaks or extremely cold temps.

Bring additional insulating layers in a backpack, along with food, water, sunscreen a headlamp, and other essentials for breaks and in case of an emergency that might keep you out in the elements longer than expected. If you need any gear or are unsure if what you have will work, stop by the Fitness Fanatics shop that specializes in Nordic gear at 8919 E. Euclid in Millwood (Spokane Valley).

WHERE TO BUY USED CROSS-COUNTRY EQUIPMENT

Every year, Fitness Fanatics puts on a Nordic ski sale and swap, where you can find great deals on used cross-country ski equipment the first weekend of November (Nov. 4 and 5 this year). Show up early for the best selection. If you don’t find the gear you’re looking for used, Fitness Fanatics will have many new items on sale. Sale and swap hours are the same as the shop hours, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday.

Rambleraven Gear Trader in Spokane (3220 N Division) also sells used and new

Nordic gear. You can check out their selection of equipment online at Rambleraven.com.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKI LESSONS

If you are new to Nordic skiing, a few lessons can help you get the hang of it much faster. Fitness Fanatics offers group and private lessons up at the Mt. Spokane Cross-Country Ski Park for both classic and skate skiing disciplines. You can sign up for the lessons online at Fitfanatics.com/ ski-lessons and Fitness Fanatics offers half off on equipment rentals with a lesson. The Spokane Nordic Ski Association also offers lessons for adults and kids, with more info at Spokanenordic.org.

WHICH PARKING PASSES YOU’LL NEED AT MOUNT SPOKANE

To park up at the Mt. Spokane CrossCountry Park, you’ll need a Sno-Park Permit plus a special groomed trail permit. The good news, on the other hand, is you won’t need a Discover Pass to park there in the winter.

You can purchase either day permits or an annual one that will save a lot of money with repeat visits. Permits are available at Fitness Fanatics, other permit vendor locations, or online at Parks.wa.gov. //

SPOKANE NORDIC SKI ASSOCIATION

The Spokane area is fortunate to have a non-profit organization that’s totally dedicated to Nordic skiing! The Spokane Nordic Ski Association hosts some amazing cross-country ski classes and events for all ability levels, including kids, but the organization’s primary purpose has been to help develop and maintain the Mt. Spokane Cross-Country Ski Park up at Mount Spokane. Thanks to membership donations and volunteer efforts, Spokane Nordic provides trail maps and signs, maintains trails, and facilitates other trail system and facility operations and improvements. Learn more and get involved in Spokane’s cross-country ski community at Spokanenordic.org.

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Partially Located on National Forest Lands Photos © GlacierWorld.com

GEAR OUT THERE SNOW

BEST NEW GEAR FROM LOCAL SHOPS

BY BRAD NACCARATO

WINTER IS UPON US, and, just like that, so

is Out There’s annual roundup of cool new gear from local winter sports gear shops.

For 2023/24 we're seeing a selection of hard goods, soft goods and accessories that is truly pushing the envelope when it comes to sustainability, innovation and aesthetics.

Here’s a look at some of the newest, hottest winter items that are already getting us stoked to see the snow fly at our favorite outdoor venues. Not only do we give you the scoop on the gear, but, more importantly, we’ll tell you where to get it from live humans at a brick-and-mortar outdoor gear store.

SPOKANE ALPINE HAUS

Owner Drew Harding has a ton of great skis and snowboards on the wall at his South Hill Spokane shop, but he’s especially excited about this year’s men’s and women’s Rustler and Sheeva 9 from Blizzard Skis.

“It’s got a 96mm waist, making it a great all-mountain ski for the Northwest. They’ve also completely re-designed it this year with a metal frame construction that offers a smoother flex and more versatility in powder and on hard snow. It’s an intermediate/ advanced ski, but not super overpowering.

It’s approachable, but still burly enough if you want to push it hard.”

Both skis are also available in a 10 and 11 series that offer wider waist dimensions for more off-piste adventures ($749).

SHRED SPORTS

Shred Sports, located on north Division, is one of Spokane’s premier winter sports outlets. With one of the largest selections of Dragon goggles in the region, shop tech Zane Darrington’s favorite for this year is the new NFX Mag. “It’s a great all-around goggle that we stock in several color options. They stiffened up

the frame and added their Mag design this year, which is an ultra-fast and super-secure Swiftlock Magnetics lens changing system that allows you to switch lenses for changing light conditions.”

All NFX goggles ($269) come with two different Luma lenses. One for overcast/lowlight conditions and one for clearer days.

a reasonable cost. They are wax-less skis, meaning that no grip wax is needed. Sprayon wax is all you will ever need.”

The Escape 51 ($350) is available in five different sizes ranging from 174-206cm.

Check out the cool line up of toasty-warm retro Swix sweaters to complete the package while you’re there.

RAMBLERAVEN GEAR TRADER

TWO WHEELER & SKI DEALER

Rambleraven on Spokane’s Division Street hill is not only a great place to source used winter gear, but a great place to find new ski and snowboard equipment including backcountry options when you’re ready to venture outside the resort. Manager Wes Porter thinks that the Voile Revelator splitboard is a great place to start if you’re considering getting into backcountry snowboarding.

“It has some really awesome graphics.

But, more importantly, it’s also an extremely light-weight board with universal binding mounts. The shape and sidecut are very user friendly and they are also manufactured at Voile’s environmentally friendly warehouse just outside of Salt Lake City.”

The Revelator series is offered in five different sizes ranging from 154-169cm ($749.00). Add a pair of skins and avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, and probe), and you’re ready to get after it.

Living up to its name, Two Wheeler & Ski Dealer in Hayden, largely shifts from a bike to a backcountry and cross-country ski focus this time of year. In addition to Black Crows backcountry skis, Two Wheeler is primarily a supplier of Rossignol Nordic (trackless cross-country) equipment, which ski shop manager Pat Hutchins says changed the game with the introduction of its Nordic/backcountry Evo Off Trail-65 Positrack skis.

“These blue and red beauties offer a more new-school look that’s a little more akin to a hipper alpine ski,” adds Hutchins. It’s perfect for groomed Nordic tracks but is also built for off-track touring. The Evos also come with Control Step-in bindings that are field adjustable without tools to get more grip or more glide.

A set of Rossignol Evo OT-65 Positrack Nordic skis with the Control-Step-in bindings ($320) can be purchased as a package with boots and poles too. Total package pricing with added boots and poles varies depending on product choice.

FITNESS FANATICS

Mark Beattie, shop manager for Fitness Fanatics, has been settling in with his crew at the shop’s relatively new location in Millwood (Spokane Valley) after decades on Trent Ave. As Spokane’s premiere crosscountry ski supplier, he’s most thrilled with the new Salomon Escape 51 package.

“This is an entry level package that includes the Escape boot, Prolink bindings, and it also includes poles. It’s a great place to start if you want to get into the sport at

SPORTSMAN’S SKI HAUS

Formerly Tri-State Outfitters, Sportsman’s in Coeur d’Alene still offers all the same great brands and selection that Tri-State had. The snowshoe segment has grown in popularity in recent years, and Sportsman’s is leading the way with several options from industry leader Tubbs. Grant Bordner,

action sport sales associate, is really hyped for the new Flex RDG. “It’s a collaboration between Tubbs and Boa, bringing the well-known Boa technology to snowshoe bindings. Those micro adjustments make the fit so much better and getting in and out has never been easier.

Tubbs has been around forever and they are always our top selling brand.”

The Flex RDG ($199.95) comes in either a 22” or 24” to suit a variety of user weights.

The shop also carries a full range of Helly Hansen soft goods, guaranteed to keep you warm on the trail.

SKI SHACK

Hayden’s Ski Shack has been a staple of the region’s ski and snowboard scene since 1976. It’s hard to find a better selection or more knowledgeable staff in all of North Idaho. Of all the hardgoods they sell, helmets are perhaps one of the most important investments a consumer can make. The one standing out this year to shop tech Robert Hoskinson is the Smith Icon.

“Full hard plastic helmets (plastic covered ears) are seeing a resurgence amongst recreational skiers, where in the past they were primarily used in racing. The advantage is greater overall protection. Add to that MIPS technology (protection against rotational impacts), and you have the greatest level of protection you can get for your head.”

The Icon ($360) is available in small, medium or large. Ski Shack carries a full line of Smith helmets that now all feature the industry leading MIPS technology. // Brad Naccarato is a Spokane-based freelance writer and has been an Out There Outdoors contributor for over a decade. Watching his children learn to play in the snow is his greatest reward of the season.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

55

OUT THERE SNOW PRE SEASON GET POWDER READY! // PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHWEST MOBILE PT

Pure stoke Just outside the city limits

PRE-SEASON PREPARATIONS

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save on lift ticketS! Now offering 5-pack lift tickets for a limited time!

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www.mtspokane.com 56

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

The first snowflakes have landed. Now make the most of the days before the lifts start running!

BY WIL WHEATON FOR MANY OF US, skiing and snowboard-

ing—whether it’s riding lifts, backcountry, or Nordic trails—is a way of life. Savor and prepare for the days leading up to your first skiing moments of the season by getting your mind, body and spirit ready for the cold, sensory explosion that is sliding on snow.

PRAY FOR SNOW PARTY AT PERRY STREET BREWING FRIDAY NOV. 17

Does praying for snow really help? Nobody really knows, but it can’t hurt! Don’t miss the 8th annual Pray for Snow bash at Spokane’s Perry Street Brewing (PSB), a festive kickoff to the ski and snowboard season and a Spokane tradition. Expect great beer, retro and colorful ski attire, and high-energy antics, with ski movies on the big screen, legendary ‘80s tunes blaring from the speakers, and a snow dance-off with RED Mountain and Silver Mountain lift tickets and PSB gift cards awarded to the best dancers. Electric Photoland will be back this year with its photo booth so you can capture all of that costume craziness.

The whole fabulous, festive spectacle is also a benefit for a couple of great local causes. A raffle fundraiser benefitting the South Perry Neighborhood’s T.E.A.M. Grant puts some sweet prizes up for grabs. Pony up for a chance to win one of two grand prizes, a $699-value ski package and a ski/snowboard apparel package, both donated by the South Hill’s one and only Spokane Alpine Haus.

New this year, says PSB owner Ben Lukes, the special Pray for Snow beer release will be the Haute Laps Hazy IPA. “At 6% and packed

full of cryo-frozen fresh hops from Yakima, it is lush, hazy, and dank,” says Lukes. Take home a limited-edition ski-art pint glass with a one-beer fill for $15. Pint glass proceeds benefit the Silver Mountain volunteer ski patrol. More info at Perrystreetbrewing.com .

GET FIT AT FREE POWDER-READY SKI & SNOWBOARD STRENGTHENING WORKSHOPS

This fall, Spokane’s Northwest Mobile PT is offering its third season of ski/board “Powder Ready” strengthening workshops. There are currently two free sessions planned for November and more to come in early December if there’s enough interest.

Each session will focus on instruction in proper technique of the best ski/snowboard exercises followed by a training workout.

Powder Ready sessions are set for Nov. 7 (11:15 a.m. and 7 p.m.) at the Wellness Center at North Park and Nov. 14 (11:50 a.m. and 7 p.m.) at the Wellness Center at Central Park.

“We’re also doing a special promotion for skiers and boarders to get a discounted preseason eval/work up to make sure that all systems are in order for the season,” says Northwest Mobile PT doctor Trey Nichols.

“Kind of like a general maintenance that you would do on your car before a big road trip.”

More info at Nwmobilept.com/events.

GEAR UP AT THE SANDPOINT & MOSCOW, IDAHO SKI SWAPS

The Mt. Spokane Ski Swap already happened the last weekend of October, but there is still time to hit up the region’s two remaining swaps. Find great deals on skis

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and snowboards along with a huge variety of winter recreational equipment and clothing at both of these long-time swaps. Or reach out to organizers to turn your used gear into cash.

The SARS Sandpoint Ski Swap is set for Nov. 11 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Bonner County Fairgrounds in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Admission is $5 per person or $10 per family. This annual event benefits the SARS’s ski racing and freeride programs for almost 300 local and regional athletes ages 5 and up.

More info: Sars.snowproportal.com.

Down south in the Palouse, the 48th Annual Outdoor Equipment Sale and Swap will take place at the MAC Court Student Recreation Center on the University of Idaho campus in Moscow, Idaho, on Thursday, November 9 from 6-8 p.m. Entry is only $5 when the swap opens with discount entry later in the evening. U of I students and children under 12 are free, and all proceeds support the Vandal Ski Team. Call the University of Idaho Outdoor Program at 208-885-6810 for more info.

TUNE YOUR SKIS OR BOARD

Get more attune with your ski or board by learning to tune up the base and edges yourself. Find ski tuning kits, wax, and other tuning gear at many local ski shops and some great tutorials, if you need them, online. Check out MountainFlow’s plantbased ski wax and full ski wax kits for a

cool, sustainable ski tune set up.

BINGE-WATCH SKI & SNOWBOARD FILMS

Every season, I watch at least a couple of my all-time favorite ski and ski culture films (“Scapple,” “Valhalla,” “Sinners,” “Afterglow,” and “All.I.Can”). Rally a few friends (of the human or beverage variety) and get inspired and feel more connected to the broader community of shredders with vision out there.

Spokane’s Magic Lantern Theater downtown Spokane also has a great snow sports film playing in November. The film “Full Circle,” which opens Nov. 10, features the story of Trevor Kennison, a plumber by trade and snowboarder only by hobby, who broke his back snowboarding in the Colorado backcountry in 2014. Wheelchair bound, his future was filled with uncertainty. In 2019, he showed up as an unknown amateur in Jackson Hole Wyoming and became the first sit-skier to launch into Corbet’s Couloir at the Kings and Queens of Corbet’s competition. His death-defying 60-foot leap of faith went viral and launched his career as a professional athlete. More importantly, it earned him a spiritual mentor. // Wil Wheaton’s mom had an “I’d rather be shopping at Nordstrom” bumper sticker on her car when he was a kid. He would rather be skiing and has the bumper sticker on his van to prove it.

CROSS COUNTRY SKATE SKI SNOWSHOE RENTALS RENTALS RENTALS $ $ $ 30 / Day 50 / Day 25 / Day Ask Us about Group and Private Lessons for Cross Country Skiing

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58

OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

DEMO DAY! FREE DEMO EQUIPMENT FROM RAMBLERAVEN!

OUT THERE SNOW CELEBRATIONS

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SOLSTICE PIE // DRIED ORANGE SLICE GARLAND // A TRADITIONAL SIMMER POT // THE LAST OF THE LIGHT // VEGGIE SPIRAL PIE // EATING BY CANDLELIGHT // PHOTOS: BRI LOVEALL

CELEBRATING THE DARKEST DAY OF THE YEAR

BY BRI LOVEALL

A FEW YEARS AGO, I stumbled across the

idea of throwing a winter solstice party.

Traditionally a pagan holiday, it’s an opportunity for anyone to celebrate the point when the earth is at its farthest rotational tilt from the sun. Meaning it’s the darkest day of the year. But also that each successive day holds more light.

A thousand years ago, people around the world celebrated the winter solstice in some form to mark the passage of winter. The solstice signified the death and rebirth of the sun. For a people fully dependent on nature and community, it would have meant more than just the return of the light; it would have been a symbol of hope.

I believe we carry within us an ancestral urge to connect to nature, because, for hundreds of thousands of years, we relied on the living world to sustain ourselves. Maybe the melancholic winter ache I experience each season stems not only from a lack of vitamin D, but a traditional observance that is missing from our culture. Celebrating the winter solstice is a way to reconnect to the natural world during a season that can be isolating.

At the very least, throwing a winter solstice party is a great opportunity to eat and

drink with friends and family, which is why I’ve hosted one each December 21 for the last few years. Here are a few ideas to get you started on your own solstice party: Bring the outside in: Do you already have a Yule tree up? Perfect. You’re halfway done with adorning your space with natural elements. Go for a walk and responsibly collect fallen pinecones and pine boughs. Last year I opted to keep most of my Christmas décor (read: plastic) in storage. Instead, I dried orange slices and hung them around my windows and created aromatic bouquets from eucalyptus and rosemary bundles I purchased from the store.

Turn down the lights: There is something about artificial lighting that will always feel off-putting. I’ve yet to come across a man-made light source that encapsulates the warmth and glow of late afternoon sunlight streaming through a window (and yes, I’ve tried the happy lamps). Bring out those votives shoved in the back of your junk drawer and eat your solstice meal by candlelight. Light a fire or, weather permit-

ting, have a bonfire.

Turn up the (right) volume: Create a moody and whimsical playlist that echoes our deep-seated need for human connection.

Source winter provisions: No solstice party is complete without traditional was-

CELEBRATING THE WINTER SOLSTICE IS A WAY TO RECONNECT TO THE NATURAL WORLD DURING A SEASON THAT CAN BE ISOLATING. sail, a hot mulled cider or wine infused with cinnamon, lemon, clove, orange and other spices. Not only does it taste amazing, but it smells delicious. Serve alongside a savory pot pie, creamy soup (my family loves butternut

squash), and homemade bread.

Get out there: Give back to nature and decorate an outdoor tree with homemade birdseed ornaments, fresh or dried apple rings, cheerio garlands, or empty egg cartons filled with cranberries. (Remember to use only twine or other natural materials when creating garlands and fastening ornaments to trees.)

Set your intentions: Winter slows us down. Everything seems to move at a glacial pace (especially my children, who seem to forget how to put on their snow gear every year). But the winter solstice is the perfect time for pause and reflection. It is not the list making of a new year’s resolution, but a period of dreaming before the rush of the warmer months begins. This is the time to imagine a summer garden, learn a new craft, or read a book that celebrates the winter season. It’s a time to follow nature’s lead; unhurried and unbothered as we experience the annual death of the sun and our rotation toward light again. // Bri Loveall is a freelance writer and photographer. This winter she’ll finally teach her children how to ski.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 / OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM

59

BC

Ski & Winter Travel Guide

There are plenty of reasons to head north for winter adventures: deep powder, amazing ski and backcountry terrain, hot springs, friendly people, captivating communities, and killer food and craft beverages. The 30 percent currency exchange discount on everything we get with the U.S. dollar is also a huge bonus, and border crossing with a passport or enhanced ID is super easy.

Add it all up and times have never been better to plan BC winter adventures!

SKI & SNOWBOARD RESORTS APEX MOUNTAIN RESORT

Location: Penticton, B.C. Summit: 7,175 ft.

Lifts: 2 chairs, T-bar, & magic carpet Runs: 79 marked; 40+ unmarked Vertical: 2,000 + ft.

Annual Snowfall: Nearly 20 ft.

From Spokane: 5 hours Why Go: Dry, light powder; over 12,000 acres of backcountry/slackcountry terrain; close to amazing Okanagan Valley wineries.

BALDY MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT

Location: Oliver, B.C. Summit: 9th highest ski resort in Canada (7,580 ft.)

Lifts: 2 + T-bar and magic carpet Terrain: 35 alpine runs, 360 acres of trails, and 240 acres of glades Annual Snowfall: 25 ft.

From Spokane: 4.5 hours Why Go: Dry Okanagan powder; no crowds; 80% beginner and intermediate terrain.

BIG WHITE SKI RESORT

Location: Kelowna, B.C. Summit: 7,606 ft.

Lifts: 16 Patrolled area: 2,765 acres Vertical: 2,550 ft.

From Spokane: 4.5 hours Why Go: The second-largest ski resort lift system in Canada with real Champagne powder (and minimal lift lines); 100% ski-in ski-out accommodations; huge, vibrant village with over 20 restaurants and bars and plenty of offthe-slopes fun; super family friendly with new magic carpet and plenty to do for all ages and abilities (even for non-skiers).

EXPLORE THESE WINTER DESTINATIONS IN SOUTHEAST BC Vertical: 3,550 ft.

Snowfall: 30 ft.

From Spokane: 5 hours Why Go: Fernie is an action-packed, realdeal ski town with seemingly endless resort and backcountry skiing and snowboarding; the views of jagged Rocky Mountain peaks above town will blow your mind.

KICKING HORSE

Location: Golden, B.C. Summit: 8,218 ft.

Lifts: 4 Skiable acres: 3,486 Vertical: 4,314 ft.

Snowfall: 24 ft.

Inbounds chutes: 85+ From Spokane: 6.5 hours Why Go: New terrain was added in 2018; 60% advanced & expert terrain including 85+ inbounds chutes; and the fifth-biggest vertical in North America!

KIMBERLEY ALPINE RESORT

Location: Kimberley, B.C. Summit: 6,500 ft.

Lifts: 5 Resort acres: 1,800+ Vertical: 2,465 ft.

Snowfall: 13 ft.

From Spokane: 4.5 hours Why Go: Some of the sunniest skiing and riding in the Kootenays; over 40% of the terrain is intermediate; friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

PANORAMA MOUNTAIN RESORT

Location: Invermere, B.C. Summit: 8,038 ft.

Lifts: 10 Resort terrain: 2,975 acres Vertical: 4,265 ft.

Annual Snowfall: 16+ ft.

From Spokane: 5.5 hours Why Go: Top 10 vertical in North America; 75% of the runs are suitable for beginners and intermediates.

PHOENIX SKI AREA

Location: Grand Forks, B.C. Lifts: 2 (T-bar and rope tow) Terrain: 15 runs Vertical: 800 ft.

From Spokane: 3.25 hours Why Go: Great place for families to ski together and beginners of any age to learn; super unique community ski hill vibe.

RED MOUNTAIN RESORT

FERNIE ALPINE RESORT

Location: Fernie, B.C. Summit: 7,000 ft.

Lifts: 10 Skiable acres: 2,500 60

Location: Rossland, B.C. Summit: 6,807 ft.

Longest Run: 4.3 miles Lifts: 8 Skiable Acres: 3,850

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Vertical: 2,919 ft.

Annual Snowfall: 300 inches From Spokane: 3 hours Why Go: Huge, excellent terrain. $10/run in-bounds cat-skiing; epic tree-skiing and in-bounds steeps; nearly 82% of the terrain is intermediate to advanced; unique on-mountain lodging options including the Nowhere Special Hostel and on-mountain Constella Cabins on the backside of Granite Mountain.

REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Location: Revelstoke, B.C. Lift-top Elevation: 7,300 ft.

Skiable Acres: 3,121 Longest Run: 9.5 miles Vertical: 5,620 ft.

Annual Snowfall: 30-45 ft.

From Spokane: 6 hours Why Go: Biggest vertical in North America; incredible in-bounds expert terrain; 45% intermediate terrain; new lift and beginner terrain added in 2019/20.

SALMO SKI HILL

Location: Salmo, B.C. Annual Snowfall: Plenty From Spokane: 3 hours Why Go: Fully-lit night skiing; great family-friendly terrain with a rowdy t-bar; old-school community ski hill on the way to Nelson.

SILVERSTAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

Location: Vernon, B.C. Summit: 6,280 ft.

Lifts: 11 Runs: 132 Skiable Acres: 3,282 Vertical: 2,500 ft.

Annual Snowfall: 275 inches From Spokane: 6 hours Why Go: Colorful, ski-in, ski-out midmountain village; all-inclusive lift ticket includes access to alpine slopes, Nordic trails, tubing, ice skating, and fat bike and snowshoe trails; B.C.’s third-largest resort and Canada's largest daily-groomed crosscountry trail network.

Patrolled area: 4,270 acres Vertical: 2,893 ft.

Annual Snowfall: 19+ ft.

From Spokane: 8 hours Why Go: True to its name, Canada’s second-largest ski area soaks up over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year on average.

WHITEWATER SKI RESORT

Location: Nelson, B.C. Summit: 6,700 ft.

Lifts: 5 Skiable Acres: 3,247 Vertical: 2,014 ft.

Annual Snowfall: 40 ft.

From Spokane: 3 hours Why Go: New Raven quad chairlift and terrain for 23/24 season. 40 feet of Kootenay pow annually (on average); 55% advanced in-bounds terrain and incredible liftaccessed backcountry; friendly vibe, no cell service, legendary food, and proximity to Nelson, B.C.’s mountain town amenities.

HOT SPRINGS

AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS RESORT

A short drive north from Nelson, the natural hot springs were first visited by the Ktunaxa First Nations peoples for healing and rejuvenation. Today the resort is fittingly owned by Yaqan Nukiy, the Lower Kootenay Band of the Ktunaxa Nation of Creston, B.C. Ainsworth Hot Springs includes warm, mineral-rich waters in a pool and a natural cave without the sulfur odor associated with some hot springs. There’s also a cold plunge pool, stunning views of Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains, and onsite hotel and excellent Ktunaxa Grill restaurant. 4 hours from Spokane.

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS RESORT

Canada’s largest natural mineral hot spring with views of the Canadian Rockies. Resort includes a hot pool; large, warm swimming pool; and dive pool. There are a variety of lodging and dining options at the resort and an on-site, family-friendly ski hill. 5 hours from Spokane.

HALCYON HOT SPRINGS

SUMMIT LAKE SKI AND SNOWBOARD AREA

Location: Nakusp, B.C. T-bar: 1 Acres: 30 Vertical: 500 ft.

From Spokane: 4.5 hours Why Go: Laid-back, old-school Kootenay ski experience.

SUN PEAKS RESORT

Location: Kamloops, B.C. Summit: 7,060 ft.

Lifts: 13

This remote and beautiful resort along Upper Arrow Lake 20 miles north of Nakusp, B.C., is on the way to Revelstoke and an incredible destination all its own.

Enjoy mineral-rich natural hot spring pools, a kid's spray park, and majestic lakeside views of the Monashee Mountains.

Multiple on-site lodging options and the highly praised Alcédo restaurant. 5.5 hours from Spokane.

NAKUSP HOT SPRINGS

This community-owned hot springs in

the Selkirk Mountains near the village of Nakusp and Upper Arrow Lake consists of two pools (one warm, one hot) fed by nearby natural springs. Rental chalets, camping and snowshoeing trails are nearby.

5.25 hours from Spokane.

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS

Two large pools (one hot, one warm) provide soaking in natural mineral water within Kootenay National Park near the communities of Radium and Invermere. 5.5 hours from Spokane.

FAT BIKING

You can find fat biking trails, shared Nordic trails, and rentals at many of the ski resorts listed in this guide, but some of the best singletrack winter bike trails are being groomed in and around Rossland, Cranbrook, and Fernie, B.C. ROSSLAND, B.C.

Ride over 12k of machine-groomed trails around Rossland, including loops pieced together from the Centennial Trailhead, RED Mountain Resort, or in town. Stop

by Revolution Cycles for fat biking trail maps and local advice or for bike rental or gear needs. The Redstone Golf Course in Rossland also has groomed fat biking trails.

There are typically ridable sections of trail (depending on conditions) on both sides of the highway at the Seven Summits Trail trailhead (check out the new Cedar Trail).

FERNIE, B.C.

Beginner, intermediate and expert riders will find a variety of groomed and user-packed trails for fat biking right out of downtown Fernie and another 12k of groomed multi-use trails at Fernie Alpine Resort. Book a “learn to fatbike” session at Fernie Alpine Resort and spend a few hours with an experienced guide. Visit Tourismfernie.com for updated trail and grooming info and a winter recreation map or stop by one of the local bike shops for recommendations.

CRANBROOK, B.C.

Cranbrook has valley terrain that is similar to Spokane and North Idaho, with plenty of flats and rolling hills that make for a great groomed fat bike trails system. Grooming typically happens in the South Star Cross Country Ski Area and the Cranbrook Community Forest, with up to 60-70k of trails groomed each winter that include options for all levels of riders. Check out Trailforks, the Wildhorse Cycling Club, or Cranbrook Community Forest Society Facebook pages, or Gerick Sports for trail beta and updates.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

British Columbia has over 50 Nordic skiing areas across the province, with many of them located within an hour or two from the U.S. border. Most alpine ski and snow-

board resorts have groomed cross-country trails, and many communities have additional cross-country trail systems that are regularly groomed with excellent facilities and nearby amenities.

SILVERSTAR RESORT/SOVEREIGN NORDIC CENTRE

LAKE

Canada's largest network of daily-groomed cross-country ski trails begins at the SilverStar Mountain Resort near Vernon, B.C. Connected to SilverStar’s 55k of worldclass trails is another 50k of groomed Nordic trails at Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre (dual mountain passes available).

NELSON NORDIC TRAILS

Located 10 minutes south of Nelson on Highway 6 at the Whitewater Ski Area turnoff, the Nelson Nordic Ski Club maintains 30k of groomed trails (classic and skating tracks) for all levels. The trail system includes a day lodge, two warming huts, and 1.5k of lit trails for night skiing.

awareness are essential). These popular skitouring meccas offer endless opportunities to start exploring on your own; however, avalanche risks abound so go prepared.

KOOTENAY PASS: Just north of the border near Salmo and Creston, this popular backcountry area can get crowded on weekends. Excellent terrain on both sides of the highway.

WHITEWATER SKI RESORT: Whitewater’s

spectacular in-bounds riding is just the beginning of what this gateway to backcountry terrain has to offer those equipped to access the powder fields and steeps you can’t see from the lodge.

ROSSLAND/RED MOUNTAIN RESORT: There

are plenty of backcountry ski tours in the Rossland Range as well as lift-accessed touring possibilities from the resort and cat skiing. Check RED’s backcountry page for any updates to their touring policy and visit Backcountry Skiing Canada’s

Rossland page for more info.

FERNIE: The long season and jagged Rocky

Mountain peaks around Fernie make for dramatic ski touring and splitboarding out of the resort and other nearby alpine areas.

Two local cat skiing operations make for a great guided option to explore the backcountry.

ROGERS PASS: This legendary backcountry destination between Revelstoke and Golden demands respect and a keen awareness of avalanche dangers. The big mountain terrain has gained a reputation that attracts skiers from around the world.

BACKCOUNTRYSKIINGCANADA.COM: This treasure trove of backcountry ski and splitboarding route recommendations, forums, and other valuable information and resources will help you explore B.C.’s wide range of backcountry options wisely. // (OTO)

BLACK JACK SKI CLUB TRAILS

Five minutes north of Rossland, the 40k Black Jack cross-country trail system is one of the premier Nordic areas in western Canada and the closest B.C. trail system to Spokane. In addition to the groomed classic and skate skiing trails, there is a 2.5k lit night-skiing loop.

KIMBERLEY NORDIC CLUB TRAILS

The Kimberley Nordic Club hosts a 33k, first-class groomed trail network including double track, single track, and a center skating lane. The trail system on the edge of Kimberley includes a 3.3k lit loop for night skiing, a lodge with bathrooms, and a warming hut.

FERNIE NORDIC TRAILS

There are over 50k of groomed crosscountry trails around Fernie, from beginner circuits to advanced trails. You can explore one of these different trail systems in the spectacular wilds of the Canadian Rockies each day of your trip: Fernie Alpine Resort, Fernie Golf Club, Island Lake Lodge, Montane, and the Elk Valley Nordic Centre.

PAULSON CROSS-COUNTRY SKI TRAILS

There is an excellent Nordic trail system close to the town of Castlegar. The Castlegar Nordic Ski Club grooms 52-kilometres worth of trails at the Paulson Cross Country Ski Trail system 20 miles from downtown.

BACKCOUNTRY

Scoring untracked backcountry powder on skis or a splitboard in the KootenayRockies region of B.C. can take on many forms, from earning your turns on day tours, fully-catered hut trips, and verticalmaximizing cat ski or heli ski adventures (avalanche/backcountry gear, training, and

TAIN RESORT. // POWDER DAY AT RED MOUN ROSSLAND PHOTO COURTESY OF TOURISM

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BC

Ski & Winter Travel Guide

CANADA’S LARGEST SKI-IN, SKI-OUT RESORT

By Derrick Knowles

Find big terrain with adventures for everyone at Big White only 4.5 hours away

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BIG WHITE SKI RESORT

MAKING IT BACK UP TO BIG WHITE last season after a two-year pandemic hiatus felt a bit like returning to a home away from home. Since 2015, our family has made a pilgrimage at least once a year to this snow magnate between the Okanagan Valley and the Monashee Mountains. With a summit that rises up over 7,000 feet east of Kelowna, BC’s, wine and lake country, Big White typically catches frequent dumps of light and fluffy powder all season long.

Aside from the relatively reliable snow quality and depth (24.5 feet on average annually), the allure that has fueled our repeat family adventures is largely due to the expansive amenities within ski-boot walking distance. The mountain’s layout facilitates a laid-back ease when it comes to getting everyone (from kids to non-skiing grandparents) moving around the mountain to their own happy places. In our case, this has ranged from child-free early-morning first-chair powder runs and late-night pub carousing to late-start beginner runs with little ones followed by family tubing missions and large group dinners.

When it comes to getting around the mountain easily, the biggest thing that sets the resort apart from others in our region is that Big White happens to be Canada’s largest totally ski-in, ski-out resort village.

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That means, no matter where you stay at the 7,355-acre resort, from a luxury vacation home to a budget-friendly condo or hotel room, you’ll be minutes from sliding your way to one of 16 lifts to get after your choice of 119 designated runs.

For staying several days on a mountain, Big White has the most expansive on-mountain amenities of any Inland PNW resort we’ve visited by far. It’s basically a ski town on the mountain with a “village” that truly has a village-like vibe with a wide, bustling center lined with restaurants, cafes, pubs, hotels, condos, and services including a wellstocked grocery store and the usual lodge, ski shops, and other skier/rider amenities.

Another big part of the attraction to Big White for us is the genuine, friendly atmosphere, be it enthusiastic cross-border conversations with Spokane-loving Kelowna locals on the chairlift or with the ubiquitous and always enthusiastic Aussie resort employees who typically have no clue where we’re from but will chat us up like we’re old mates nevertheless.

BIG AND DIVERSE TERRAIN

When it comes to terrain, there are certainly other Pacific Northwest resorts with more extreme offerings, but what Big White uniquely delivers is a diversity of terrain with an equitable mix of expert, intermedi-

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ate, and beginner runs (18% beginner, 54% intermediate, 22% expert, and 6% extreme to be exact). The abundance of runs for all ability levels will make everyone in a diverse group of family or friends happy.

THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT ON THE SLOPES

Even the most hardcore skiers and snowboarders put the boards away at some point on a ski trip, and some beginners, kids and families may only have the capacity for a half day or so of skiing and riding. On a trip to Big White, the question isn’t what is there to do after hitting the slopes, but how to fit it all in! Here are some favorite options: • Go ice skating at Canada’s highest iceskating rink. Bring your own skates or rent some at the Happy Valley Lodge.

• Take a dog sled tour or horse-drawn sleigh ride.

• Go tubing at Big White’s thrilling surfacelift-accessed tubing area that includes five fast lanes.

• Enjoy the serenity of a quiet snowshoeing tour on 14k of snowy forest trails (rentals and tours are available).

• Create your own Big White pub crawl by visiting a few of the eight lounges, pubs and bars on the mountain. Many venues offer regular live music, DJs, and other

entertainment, including bingo and trivia nights.

• Take your time dining out at one or more of the 23 eating and drinking establishments.

• Enjoy family-friendly events every night of the week, including Big White's popular Carnival Night on Saturdays where the Village Centre Mall is transformed into a magical carnival.

• Shop for ski and snowboard gear, and, as of fall 2023, get around 30% off whatever you buy thanks to the currency exchange rate favoring the U.S. dollar. There are several gear shops located in the Village Center Mall.

GETTING THERE

Located a little over a 100 miles north of the border from central Washington, Big White is a 4.5-hour drive from the Spokane area on scenic, two-lane roads. Head north on Highway 395, and, if road conditions are good, take the Boulder Creek Road shortcut near the community of Orient (watch for the sign for Curlew), then on to the Midway Border Crossing (open 9 a.m.5 p.m. daily). If road conditions are less favorable, continue north to the Canadian Border at Christina Lake and hop on the much-better-maintained BC-3 and navigate your way to the Big White Road turnoff. (Sponsored by Big White)

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BASECAMP KELOWNA Enjoy winter adventures with urban amenities in the heart of B.C.’s wine country By Derrick Knowles

Full-Service Ski Shop

Wax/Tune - Custom Boot Fitting EXPANDED RENTAL/DEMO FLEET

SKIS / BOARDS / SNOWSHOES MOUNTAINEERING / ICE CLIMBING / ALTAI HOKS 3220 N DIVISION ST. SPOKANE, WA

rambleraven.com (OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK)

ICE SKATING AT KELOWNA’S STUART PARK RINK. // PHOTO: DARREN HULL STUDIOS COURTESY OF TOURISM KELOWNA

LOCATED IN THE ARID Okanagan wine country of southcentral B.C., the city of Kelowna is an urban and cultural hub in a super scenic location right on the shores of massive Okanagan Lake. Surrounded by vineyards, farms and plenty of mountains, the greater Kelowna area (population 235,000) has all of the amenities you could want in a small Canadian city— including a thriving culinary, music, and arts scene—but with easy access to loads of winter outdoor recreation opportunities.

SKI OR SNOWBOARD TWO RESORTS FROM ONE TOWN

Top on the list is the city’s day-trip distance from two destination resorts that cater to skiing, snowboarding and Nordic skiing locals and tourists alike: Big White Ski Resort (just under an hour’s drive east) and SilverStar Mountain Resort (about an hour and a half drive north of town). In addition to world-class snow and terrain, both resorts have plenty of on-mountain lodging and lively and unique village culture, but by basing your trip out of Kelowna, you can explore both resorts in one trip from one hotel or rental home.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING AND SNOWSHOEING MECCA

Slinging Soup Since 2001

Take out-Dine In & Catering 117 N Howard St. Spokane

(509) 459-1190 64

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Serious Nordic skiers likely already know about the trails around Kelowna, but anyone who enjoys even the occasional quiet snow-gliding forays through snowy forests, whether on cross-country gear or snowshoes, owe it to themselves to become better acquainted with the Kelowna area. With over 200 kilometers of groomed Nordic and snowshoe trails both in town and up at the mountain resorts, there are definitely more trails to explore than you can fit in one trip.

In West Kelowna, the Telemark Nordic Club has over 50k of cross-country trails, and there are rentals available on site. In the foothills east of town, the Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club has 75k of

groomed and track-set trails with rustic warming cabins. Up at Big White, you’ll find 25k of trails for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing with rentals available at the Happy Valley day lodge. And, finally, two Nordic meccas, the Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre and SilverStar Mountain Resort, are connected by trails that create the largest cross-country skiing network in Canada, with over 100k of groomed and track-set trails (lodge facilities and rentals available).

URBAN ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, DRINKING AND DINING

After a day of sliding, gliding or trekking through mountain snow, explore downtown Kelowna's thriving arts, music and culinary scene. Start the night off with a drink and appetizer at one of the city’s many craft breweries, cideries, distilleries or wineries before having to make the tough decision of what amazing restaurant to eat at. Fresh, local ingredients dominate many menus thanks to Kelowna’s proximity to so many farms, ranches and orchards. After dinner, explore the many artist studios and galleries, catch a play at one of the theatres, or find a live music act at one of the Kelowna area’s 50 live music venues.

If you haven’t had your fill of the great outdoors, take a stroll to Stuart Park on the downtown Kelowna waterfront.

Watch the skaters at the free outdoor skating rink or join the fun. The park is also home to the signature public art piece Bear, a steel frame in the shape of a grizzly bear that pays tribute to Kelowna’s settlement on the shores of Okanagan Lake and “Kelowna” being an English translation of the Okanagan / Syilx First Nation word for “grizzly bear.”

Kelowna also has frequent events throughout the winter, including the high-energy, family-friendly Valley First New York New Years celebration at Stuart Park downtown.

(Tourismkelowna.com.)

THE HEALING MINERAL WATERS OF AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS

BC

Ski & Winte Travel Guid

e

r

PHOTO COURTESY OF AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS RESORT RIGHT: PHOTOS: SHALLAN KNOWLES

THE HOT SPRINGS at what is today Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort north of Nelson, B.C., were first visited by the Ktunaxa First Nations peoples who experienced the waters as a welcome respite after a long day of hunting, fishing, and gathering roots and berries in what is now known as the Kootenay region.

Since time immemorial, the Ktunaxa people have utilized this site as a place for healing. After battle, warriors would soak in the spirit waters (nupika wu’u) to ease the wounds sustained in the fight to defend their beautiful territory.

The hot springs continued to heal resort visitors with their soothing and relaxing water for hundreds of years. Originating around the Cody Caves, above and to the east of the resort, the water flows down through fractures in the rock, increasing in temperature at a rate of 40°C per kilometer until it hits a lakeshore fault—a rock layer

on a 45 ° angle. Hydraulic pressure forces the water up along the fault until it emerges at the resort. The warm mineral water enters the hot springs system at a temperature of 117°F before it is cooled to an average of 108°F for the 150-foot horseshoe caves and an average temperature of 96°F for the main lounging pool.

Today Ainsworth Hot Springs is owned by Yaqan Nukiy, the Lower Kootenay Band of Creston, B.C., returning the Ktunaxa peoples to this significant land so that they may share their appreciation with others. The soaking pool and cave are open for public entry by reservation only Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. (last entry at 6 p.m.) and Mondays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Registered hotel guests have complimentary access to the hot springs between the hours of 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. while staying at the resort. (Sponsored by Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort)

AINSWORTH HOT SPRINGS MINERAL CONTENT

Unlike a spa, the hot springs at Ainsworth contain the following minerals (in parts per 100,000), which many value for their alleged healing properties. The relaxing, mineral-rich waters are also free of the sulfur odor associated with some natural hot springs.

• Calcium Carbonate - 35.25 • Calcium Sulphate - 68 • Magnesium Carb - 35 • Magnesium Sulphate - 74 • Sodium Carbonate - 57,60 • Sodium Sulphate - 31

• Sodium Chloride - 6.08 • Potassium Chloride - 5.42 • Lithium Chloride - 28 • Silica - 11.70 • Iron and Alumina - 2.44

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WELCOME TO SILVERSTAR MOUNTAIN The mountain means something different for everyone. If you’re like us, it’s one part love for the people we do it with and one part commitment to pushing ourselves. It all meets where family flows together in a natural landscape covered with 100% from-the-sky snow. If this sounds like you and yours, join us, knee deep in joy and lifted high by our village vibe.

AT SILVERSTAR, PROGRESSION COMES FROM THE HEART

ANYONE WHO HAS FOUND themselves

QUIETLY CRUSHING IT SINCE 1958

skisilverstar.com

floating through our fine BC-interior powder, whooping it up with their kids on our playful terrain, racking up laps on our backside glades, chasing a friend down our double black chutes or railing super smooth berms in our bike park knows that progression is fueled by more than learning. It comes from inside, an inextinguishable fire in our hearts.

Progression is what attracts us here in our youth and keeps us here, young-atheart, for a lifetime. It is the great, ageless desire to keep discovering new terrain,

keep challenging our skills, keep fueling our love for our sport . . . season, upon season, upon season. And while this place serves up the goods to make progression a lifelong pursuit, it is our tight-knit community that stokes the fire.

This eclectic collection of passionate people bring heart and core together: long-time locals, new-to-Canada staff, and guests from both down the road and halfway around the world. All of them gather here in our spirited ski-in ski-out village with the same goal: to be in a place they love with people who love the same things. We share the fire inside and respect anyone who wants to see where the mountain can take them.

Everyone is welcome, but we’re here for the heart core. Welcome to SilverStar Mountain Resort. (Sponsored by SilverStar Mountain Resort)

Magical Retreat in the Kootenays

a

3609 Highway 31, Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC

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Photo: Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism

BC

Ski & Winter Travel Guide

FIND YOUR FAIRYTALE

The City of Castlegar in British Columbia is a storied wintertime destination with great snow for skiing and warm sunshine for fishing. By Vince Hempsall

FAT BIKING IN THE SELKIRK MTNS NEAR CASTLEGAR. // PHOTO: STACKED FILMS COURTESY OF DESTINATION CASTLEGAR

NESTLED IN THE SELKIRK MOUNTAINS

of British Columbia, an easy three-hour drive north of Spokane, Wash., the city of Castlegar is a fairytale destination in the winter months because it offers dreamy snow for skiing and snowmobiling as well as mild temperatures and lots of sunshine for fishing and paddling.

NORDIC SKIING

With the strong American dollar, a family vacation in Castlegar can last twice as long as one in the U.S. and there’s every form of recreation to enjoy, including some of the best nordic skiing in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you prefer fast skate skiing for fitness or relaxed classic through untouched powder, there is something for every Nordic skier visiting Castlegar. The local club maintains 30 miles of track in the mountain pass near the city from November to March and there are innumerable free trails to explore in the valley bottom including the 100-mile-long Columbia & Western Rail Trail (CWR trail) that follows alongside the Arrow Lakes.

ALPINE AND BACKCOUNTRY SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING

If downhill skiing is more your thing, Castlegar is conveniently located between the world-class resorts of Red Mountain and Whitewater, where, on average, 40 feet of snow falls every season.

Accommodation is significantly cheaper in the city than on the slopes and the selection of aprés spots is far greater given there are 17 local restaurants, bars, and a brew pub to choose from. There’s also a wealth of backcountry options, including a half dozen lodges in the nearby Valhalla mountain range and the 30-mile-long

Bonnington ski traverse that starts just south of the city and winds its way past four huts.

Not too hot, not too cold.

Juuuuuust right.

Castlegar is a fairytale destination, with some of the mildest winter temperatures in BC’s interior.

There’s great snow for skiing & sledding, and lots of warm sunshine for fishing, paddling, and fat biking.

Combine it all with cozy nights around the fire and you’ll be living happily ever after.

SNOWMOBILING

For those more interested in motorized fun, the Castlegar Snowmobile Association maintains 45 miles of trails and three huts in the Norns mountains.

And, as with backcountry skiing, there are vast acres of untouched terrain to explore in the three mountain ranges surrounding the city.

WINTER FISHING

Bring your boat and take advantage of the mild temperatures and warm sunshine in the valley. Castlegar is located at the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay rivers and at the terminus of the 144-milelong Arrow Lakes system, and fishing is excellent year-round. Some of the largest rainbow and bull trout have been caught during the winter months in the waters surrounding the city, and the walleye fishing is particularly good as they tend to stay closer to the surface.

In fact, the temperatures are so mild in Castlegar during the winter, it’s not unheard of to see kayakers, paddleboarders, and canoeists exploring the local waters from December to March. Take all those outdoor recreational opportunities found around the city as well as the wide range of eateries, art galleries, an indoor community pool complex with hot tub, and family-friendly accommodations including the Super 8, which has a kid’s water slide and theme rooms, and Castlegar will have you living happily ever after. (Sponsored by Destination Castlegar)

w w w. d e s t i n a t i o n c a s t l e g a r. c o m

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BC

Ski & Winter Travel Guide

WEST KOOT WINTER WONDERLAND Load up the boards and fat bike for a mountain-town tour on British Columbia’s West Koot Route By Derrick Knowles

LEFT: WINTER RIDING IN ROSSLAND. // PHOTO COURTESY OF TOURISM ROSSLAND NORDIC SKIING NEAR CASTLEGAR. // PHOTO: RYAN FLETT COURTESY OF DESTINATION CASTLEGAR

THE WEST KOOT ROUTE connects over a

dozen communities in the West Kootenay Region of southeast British Columbia just a few hours north of Spokane. The towns and small cities are as diverse and rich with character as the mountain- and lake-filled wild landscapes that make up this rugged corner of the Northwest. All of those mountains mean an abundance of outdoor winter adventures are possible without the crowds you’d expect in the states. Load up your boards, bikes, skinny skis and snowshoes and hit the road for a magical time north of the border!

ROSSLAND

The closest destination on the West Koot Route to the Spokane area, the historic mining town of Rossland is a real-deal ski bum town and the home to the renowned powder grounds of RED Mountain Resort.

With its nearly 3,000 feet of vertical and massive 3,850 acres of terrain, RED is comparable size-wise to some of the biggest resorts in North America, just way more real and uncrowded! Ski off five different peaks, score $10 in-bounds cat skiing runs, chow down at Canada’s only snowbound taco truck, and soak up some suds and high-energy vibes at Rafters Bar, once rated the #1 après ski spot in the world

by Powder Magazine. With 300” average annual snowfall, fresh snow is often in the cards, but just in case, Big Red Cats serves up mind-blowing glade and tree skiing on 20,000 acres of backcountry terrain.

While RED has a growing list of excellent lodging options and a few places to eat and imbibe after a day of powder slashing, 68

Rossland, a few-minutes drive from the resort, offers plenty of lodging, provisions, and nightlife options. Once you’re settled in for your stay, everything a well-rounded ski town needs is within walking distance, or, in the case of getting to and from RED, a quick ride on the Rossland Ski Bus. Places to rest your head range from budget to comfortfocused rooms. The historic downtown harbors an eclectic array of restaurants, bars, cafes, ski and gear shops and liquor and grocery stores.

Given that Rossland locals are as passionate about biking as they are about snow riding, it’s no surprise that Rossland is also a ski town with a fat biking problem. Largely viewed as something to do between powder dumps just a few years ago, riding the miles of groomed snowy singletrack around Rossland has of late become a draw of its own for fatty-rollin’ out-of-towners.

If Nordic is your winter sport of choice, Black Jack Ski Club across the highway from RED features 50k of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing, including 2.5k of lit trails for night skiing. Or, a few miles up the highway at Strawberry Pass, ski tour or snowshoe in to one of 12 funky yet functional day-use cabins for lunch or a snack around a wood stove fire. Visit Tourism Rossland at Tourismrossland.com for more info and winter adventure inspiration.

CASTLEGAR

A choose your own adventure town that’s close to just about everything you could want to do outside in the winter. Back in the day, I wouldn’t think twice about bouncing around from one adventure to

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the next and sleeping wherever just to wake up, move on, and do it all over again in a new place. But these days, often with my family in tow, I’ve grown to appreciate settling in to a place and not having to pack and unpack more than necessary. Castlegar, a small city located at the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers, is the perfect home base for multi-day winter adventures in the Kootenays.

Conveniently located a short drive from two legendary BC ski resorts—RED Mountain (35 minutes) and Whitewater (55 minutes)—you can stay put and watch and wait for the weather to play out before committing to one or the other. If the conditions aren’t cooperating, there are endless backcountry skiing and splitboarding options close by.

For those looking for a serene glide through the forest, there are also excellent Nordic trails close to town. The Castlegar Nordic Ski Club grooms 52-kilometres worth of trails at the Paulson Cross Country Ski Trail system located 20 miles from downtown.

The expansive snowmobile terrain is also a big draw. There are several zones around Castlegar with groomed and ungroomed snowmobile routes ranging from beginnerfriendly forest roads to more advanced steep slopes and open, ungroomed meadows. The Castlegar Snowmobile Association maintains several warming cabins and grooms over 70k of trails around Castlegar in the Norns, Ladybird and Goose Creek areas.

Back in town, Castlegar has everything you’ll need for the perfect winter getaway, including a wide range of lodging and res-

taurant options. Part of the unique draw of Castlegar is the beautiful and friendly smalltown setting, and compared to urban areas in the U.S., the pace of life in this often-sunny river town is more laid back.

Make the time to walk the downtown streets after a day of outdoor adventures and check out the dozens of impressive sculptures on the Castlegar sculpture walk.

(Castlegar is known as the sculpture capital of Canada!) There are several other winter walking trails around town too. Or take the kids sledding (aka tobogganing) at one of the local hills or ice skating at the outdoor skating rink. Find more trip planning info at Destinationcastlegar.com.

ARROW LAKES & SLOCAN VALLEY

The expansive wildness that I love about the B.C. Kootenays quickly becomes even more intense as you drive north from Nelson or Castlegar into the Slocan Valley.

Mountains and water frame your view and the epic ski terrain that flies by your window as you drive north includes the makings of fairy tale ski resorts, yet this mostly pristine country largely remains the playground of backcountry enthusiasts.

One could earn their turns climbing up and sliding down world-class terrain through endless pow on day trips in these mountains all winter long, but the big draw for many skiers and snowboarders who come from all over the world is the concentration of helicopter and snowcat-accessed backcountry huts and lodges. From these cozy mountain oases, guests get access to remote, truly world-class ski touring terrain

LEFT: GEARING UP IN DOWNTOWN NAKUSP // PHOTO: KYLE HAMILTON COURTESY OF ARROW SLOCAN TOURISM BELOW: WHITEWATER SKI RESORT MAGIC. // PHOTO: KARI MEDIG, COURTESY OF NELSON KOOTENAY LAKE TOURISM BOTTOM: NAKUSP HOT SPRINGS. // PHOTO: LEE ORR COURTESY OF ARROW SLOCAN TOURISM

or heli-accessed adventures. Trips range from multi-day guided and fully-catered all-inclusive packages as well as DIY adventures. Once you and your crew are all set up in one of the many lodges or huts spread out in the surrounding Monashee and Selkirk mountains, days are filled with ski touring or heli-skiing legendary powder that can range from extreme alpine terrain more suited for advanced skiers and snowboarders to naturally gladed slopes that can be enjoyed by a wider range of abilities.

More off the radar but definitely worth a visit for any aficionado of smaller community ski hills, the Summit Lake Ski and Snowboard Area is the perfect laid-back winter adventure destination for any mixed group or family looking to play in the snow their own way at their own pace. Located 16k southeast of Nakusp, Summit Lake offers old-school T-Bar access to 30-acres of slopes. Plus, there’s a day lodge, rental shop, and night skiing on Friday nights.

After all of that time sliding through deep snow, nothing beats a soak in hot mineral water. 35k north of Nakusp, Halcyon Hot Springs Resort takes soaking to the next level. The pools, with gorgeous Upper Arrow Lake and Monashee Mountain views, are the perfect relaxation reset with cabin and cottage lodging options scattered in the surrounding forest. Plan to eat at the on-site restaurant Alcédo for what may be the best restaurant at a hot springs resort anywhere.

Nakusp Hot Springs, 16k east of Nakusp, offers an amazing community soaking experience at this non-profit-run pool. Properly soaked with mood-enhancing minerals, you should be plenty relaxed and ready to

fit right in with the laid-back vibe of the local lakeside communities of Nakusp, New Denver, or wherever you’re staying in the valley. Explore the Arrow Lakes and Slocan Valley area online and find more trip-planning resources at Arrowslocan.com.

NELSON AND KOOTENAY LAKE REGION

Out of all of the stops along a winter tour of the West Koot Route, Nelson offers the most urban cultural amenities, from craft dining and imbibing choices to boutique and mom and pop shopping, arts (check out the self-guided mural tour), and health and wellness experiences including yoga, spas, retreats and more. Even though Nelson has a more small-city feel and doesn’t have a ski resort on its doorstep, don’t get the wrong idea: this magical and historic community surrounded by mountains and overlooking Kootenay Lake is a skiers’ town.

Whitewater Ski Resort is just down the highway, a short scenic drive that will take just enough time to finish a large cup of local’s-choice Oso Negro coffee. Whitewater is a no-frills resort that’s all about the skiing and riding with 2,000 feet of vert and over 3,000 acres of terrain that happens to get some of the most snow in the powblessed Kootenays (40 feet average annually). While Whitewater proudly proclaims the mountain’s lack of cell service, the resort continues to invest in the quality of the skiing and snowboarding experience, adding a new quad chairlift for the upcoming 23/24 season. Whitewater is also your destination for resort-access to extensive out-of-bounds backcountry terrain. While the boundaries

between resort and backcountry are well defined, the Whitewater culture is one that embraces the pursuit of powder in all of its forms inbounds or out. It also must be mentioned that any trip to Whitewater wouldn’t be complete without eating at least once at one of the excellent eateries that serve food that’s so good the resort has its own cookbook!

A little-known fact: the Nelson area has another claim to skiing fame. It’s the cat skiing capital of world! Backed up by having more cat skiing operations in one place than anywhere else on this massive planet, guests can expect powder run after run with day-long vertical drops of up to 18,000 feet or more.

A half hour north of Nelson, Ainsworth

Hot Springs Resort—with public pool soaking sessions, a horseshoe cave, lodging that includes expanded soaking hours, and fantastic dining options—is a welcome oasis in the snowy Selkirk Mountains. If you’re looking to stretch your legs before a soak, head another 15 minutes north to the village of Kaslo, a snowshoer’s paradise with miles of trails winding their way up the Kaslo River from town. Find more info at Nelsonkootenaylake.com.

Start planning your north-of-the-border winter getaway along the West Koot Route at Westkootroute.com. (Sponsored by these West Koot Route Partners)

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LAST PAGE

The Power of the Sublime in Nature

By Bradley Bleck

SUBLIME SNOW CAVE IN WHISTLER'S BLACKCOMB GLACIER. // PHOTO: BRADLEY BLECK

ONE ESSAY I LOVE TO TEACH in my day job

at Spokane Falls Community College is Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Nature.” My love of the essay began when I read that “The charming landscape . . . is indubitably made up of some twenty or thirty farms. Miller owns this field, Locke that, and Manning the woodland beyond. But none of them owns the landscape.” When I understood that, I felt exhilarated.

But why do I feel this way? According to the work of 18th century English philosopher Edmund Burke, it’s by understanding the difference between the beautiful and the sublime. His work “A Philosophical Enquiry into the Origin of our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful” provides an understanding of the way nature works its wonders.

Burke writes that beauty is founded on pleasure. Beauty is light and delicate.

Beautiful things are comparatively small, diminutive in some way. They have a smooth texture with no abrupt edge or angle, no clearly obvious line, yet those lines deviate with some sense of delicacy or fragility.

Burke includes mild colors of light blues and soft greens, weak whites, pink reds, and violets in the beautiful.

What winter provides is more likely to be the sublime. The sublime is founded on pain and terror and is vast in its dimension. It ought to be dark and gloomy, solid and massive. The 70

power of a storm is the power of the sublime.

German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer tells us how to see what is beautiful and what is sublime. He describes beauty as being like the light reflected off a flower or similarly delicate object.

Schopenhauer says beauty fosters a loss of self-consciousness. The sublime is characterized by two conjoined moments of selfconsciousness, when we both turn inward into ourselves and outward to the infinite.

The sublime, as Schopenhauer describes it, begins with the “weakest feeling of the sublime.” This occurs when we experience pleasure from beholding objects that pose no threat to us or are devoid of life. During the winter months, we might experience this in the sight of dew frozen on a spider web, a snowflake upon close examination, or frozen moisture crystallizing on a pane of glass. This could easily overlap with a sense of beauty.

Next is the “weaker feeling of sublime,” where we feel pleasure from and among objects that cannot sustain our lives. This could include looking out upon a landscape covered in freshly fallen snow. For me it’s the excitement when I stand atop a slope, ready to drop into fresh powder, picking a line through trees layered in the snow, no evidence that anyone has been there before me. Some skiers might say this is just what sustains our skiing lives, excluding it from

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the sublime.

We experience the “sublime” when feeling pleasure from objects in nature that threaten to hurt or destroy us. Anyone caught out in a winter storm might experience this. Just how threatening the weather might be would depend upon how well prepared we are, how well dressed, how well equipped, and assuming we don’t have to travel through a blinding whiteout. We might feel this while watching from the protection of our home or other shelter. We can enjoy this mild terror from a safe place, reveling in the power of nature, but protected from it.

With the “full feeling sublime,” we experience an overpowering turbulent Nature, the pleasure from beholding violent, destructive objects. I often think of the Spokane falls during the spring runoff, standing on the Riverfront Park suspension bridge with the violence of the water crashing into and over the basalt outcroppings. Those who have seen the July 2022 video of a collapsing glacier in Kyrgyzstan may have experienced this feeling, as did those who recorded the video, all of whom survived. The video shows the glacier careening down the mountain and across the valley floor. The photographer ducks behind a rock outcropping just as the wave of ice, rock and snow cascades over him. He emerges safe, reporting feeling giddy from the pleasure of survival.

Finally, there is the “fullest feeling sublime,” where we experience the immensity of nature and our place in it, insignificant though we are. I know of no better way to illustrate this than to consider what Emerson writes in “Nature,” that “If the stars should appear one night in a thousand years, how would men believe and adore; and preserve for many generations the remembrance of the city of God which had been shown!”

Most of us are so used to this commonplace occurrence, when we can get away from light pollution, that we fail to see and appreciate the sublimity.

One need not believe in God to experience the sublime in all its pleasure and power. But it is through experiencing the sublime that we can understand and become Emerson’s “transparent Eyeball,” where, he writes, “we are nothing yet see all, where the currents of the Universal Being circulate through us and we are part or particle of God.” For that, I can think of no better reason to get out into the natural world. // Bradley Bleck loves the insight literature and reading provides into nature, living, and his place in the universe. He last wrote about Indigenous place names in the Inland Northwest for the September/October 2023 issue of OTO. He teaches English at Spokane Falls Community College and loves nearly everything Spokane.

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