Peak Northwest
Hosts Jamie Hale and Chiara Profenna take you to some of the greatest destinations in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.
Thu, April 24, 2025
How to do a spring trip to Mt. Bachelor and Bend
Not everyone appreciates a ski trip in spring, but those who visit central Oregon in the shoulder season might find a newfound fondness for the region. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we take a quick trip to Bend, with a stop for some spring skiing at Mt. Bachelor and a night in Sunriver. From the snowy slopes of the popular mountain to the brewpubs and bike trails around Bend, there’s a lot to do an enjoy on a trip to the region. Here’s how to make the most of an overnighter in the area. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How are the conditions on Mt. Bachelor in the spring? Exploring the streets and sites of Bend. What is there to do in Sunriver? A lot, as it turns out. There’s far more to do around the area. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 17, 2025
Here’s why Warm Springs is a great overnight destination
There are plenty of incredible overnight destinations in Oregon, but what about Warm Springs? Home of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, the reservation has not only beautiful rolling high desert hills, but also the immensely popular Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort and the Museum at Warm Springs. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we outline a brief itinerary for a great overnighter to the central Oregon destination. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: A beautiful Oregon state park is worth taking the longer route to Warm Springs. What you’ll find at the Museum at Warm Springs. What it’s like to stay in a tipi at Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort. How to find a moment of relaxation at the busy Kah-Nee-Ta pools. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 10, 2025
Oregon organization offers outdoor adventures for people of all abilities
Everybody should have access to outdoor recreation, regardless of their abilities. That’s the mission of Adventures Without Limits , an Oregon nonprofit that takes people outside and finds creative solutions to whatever barriers they may be facing. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Anna Eick, program coordinator for the organization. The group has a wide variety of outings through the year, including hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, kayaking and whitewater rafting, Eick said. The trips are open not only to people of all abilities, but also all ages, genders, ethnicities and socioeconomic statuses. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Adventures Without Limits has been a part of the community for nearly 30 years. Some of the most popular excursions they offer. How does the organization adapt to so many different needs? How does somebody know if Adventures Without Limits is a good fit? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 03, 2025
Where to find Oregon’s most famous filming locations
You might be able to recognize a few locations featured in some of the most famous films made in Oregon, like “Twilight” or “The Shining,” but how do you find them all? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we explore the Oregon Film Trail , a series of markers erected at famous filming locations throughout the state. We’re joined by Kristi Turnquist, life and culture for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who has been covering the evolution of the film trail. In recent years, more markers have been going up at locations from the Astoria to Baker City, attracting movie fans and tourists alike. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where and how to find the Oregon Film Trail markers. Why are so many movies made in Oregon? Some of the best movies and TV shows filmed in our state. The future of the Oregon Film Trail will depend on the future of films made in Oregon. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 27, 2025
5 of the most overlooked attractions in the Willamette Valley
If your idea of spring break travel is less Cancun and more Corvallis, then we have a few ideas for you. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we look at some of the most overlooked attractions in the Willamette Valley that are perfect for some family-friendly day trips this spring. While most people will flock to the Oregon coast, Mount Hood or the Columbia River Gorge, you can break the mold by visiting some of these great, off-beat destinations that are sprinkled throughout the region. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: A roadside attraction in Brownsville is perfect for any rockhounds in the family. Why the Albany Carousel is not your average carousel. Find birds of prey and sprawling gardens at a pair of outdoor attractions. Oregon’s Bigfoot museum is a great stop, whether you believe or not. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 20, 2025
5 spots that make Sandy a perfect grab-and-go food town on Mt. Hood
There’s always a good reason to stop in Sandy – especially if you’re in need of a quick bite to eat. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into the small town between Portland and Mount Hood, which entices travelers with breakfast burritos, donuts, bagels and other grab-and-go food options. We have five of the best spots to stop off at, whether you’re going up or coming back down from Oregon’s tallest mountain. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why everybody loves Joe’s Donut Shop. The Shell station in Sandy has a buzzy breakfast burrito – is it worth the hype? Sometimes all you need is a bagel and coffee. Some of the best options at Sandy’s food cart pod. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 13, 2025
Oregon influencer discusses going viral, finding peace in the forest
Maybe you’ve seen the videos come across your social media feed. They show a man, with a backwards hat and hiking poles, grumpily tromping down some beautiful, forested trail. The caption: “going on a stupid hike for my stupid mental health.” On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to southern Oregon resident Andy Neal, creator of the videos, who has been turning his viral moment into a career advocating for mental health and outdoor recreation. Neal, who was relatively new to both filming and hiking when he first went viral in 2022, has since become passionate about the joy and peacefulness that can be found in the natural world. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Neal went viral in the first place. How he has been using his newfound platform since 2022. What is it about the natural world that’s so good for mental health? A few of Neal’s favorite places to go on “stupid hikes.” Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 06, 2025
She Shreds helps women ski, build community on Mt. Hood
At She Shreds clinics, “egos get left behind.” On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Jenn Lockwood, training supervisor at the Mt. Hood Meadows Learning Center, who runs the She Shreds program. Lockwood said the program, which features both camps and clinics, offers women a space to learn together, grow their skills and create community. Participants often stay in touch, she said, and wind up creating their own communities to continue skiing together. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is She Shreds all about? How does this program differ from regular ski lessons at Mt. Hood Meadows? Why it’s important to create a space for women to learn. Advice for people who may be nervous about taking the next step in developing their skills. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 27, 2025
‘Traveling While Black’ series visits the Oregon coast
An internet series dedicated to the experience of Black travelers has paid a visit to one of the best destinations in Oregon. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Anthony and Marlie Love from Traveling While Black discuss their recent trip up the Oregon coast, which will be released in upcoming episodes on their YouTube channel . Based in Seattle, the couple helps travelers connect with Black history in destinations around the country, rating each destination on its amenities, scenery and the comfort level for Black travelers. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How did Traveling While Black get started? What they thought of their first Oregon coast stop in Coos Bay. Finding hidden pieces of Black history in small towns. Why they’re already dreaming of a return trip to the Oregon coast. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 20, 2025
What it’s like to take the train from Portland to Vancouver, B.C.
Plenty of people take the Amtrak train from Portland to Seattle , but how many keep riding all the way to Canada? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, our colleague Veronica Nocera recounts her recent train ride between Portland and Vancouver, B.C. (a route that resumed service in 2023), as well as her weekend north of the border. Nocera, who has taken both a train and a plane between the two cities, offered some insights into the big differences between the two modes of transportation, and whether she’d recommend one over the other for Northwest travelers. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is the train ride experience like? What to do when you arrive in Vancouver late at night. How to get around the city without a car. A plane vs. train ride is a difference in vibes. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 13, 2025
Guide to Oregon’s Dark Sky Country
Oregon is in the middle of a dark sky renaissance. With new Dark Sky Parks, a pair of Dark Sky Communities and one massive Dark Sky Sanctuary, it seems like half of eastern Oregon has suddenly become dark sky country . But what does it mean? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dig into Oregon’s new push for astrotourism, and break down these new designations, all of which come from DarkSky International, an organization dedicated to the protection of the night sky. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What’s the deal with all this “dark sky” stuff anyway? Where are Oregon’s three Dark Sky Parks? The Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary is massive . Why two towns raced each other to become the state’s first Dark Sky Community Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 06, 2025
6 lessons I’ve learned about traveling with a baby
It might not be a shocking revelation that traveling with a baby is a challenge. More shocking is that it’s perfectly doable. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Jamie shares six travel lessons he’s learned from his first six months as a parent – they might not be what you think. Traveling with babies, especially those younger than six months, can be a much different challenge than traveling with kids or even toddlers. Some of the best advice about family travel doesn’t necessarily apply to those who aren’t walking, eating or even sitting up on their own. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The danger of focusing so much on baby that you forget about yourself. Why is accepting help so hard? Why Pack ‘N Plays are a game changer. Your travel dreams don’t necessarily need to fly out the window the moment you have a child. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 30, 2025
How to enjoy this incredible snowpack on Mt. Hood
It’s been a very good year to be a skier in Oregon. With snowpack at great levels as we near mid-winter, snow sports enthusiasts have been flocking to Oregon’s tallest mountain to take full advantage. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about skiing and snowboarding on Mount Hood, from the best places to rent gear, to navigating the sweeping terrain on the side of the mountain. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The best gear rental spots are found just off the mountain. What’s the deal with all the ski areas on Mt. Hood? Preparing yourself for a day on the mountain. How Northwest skiing compares to the Rockies. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 23, 2025
Introducing Chiara Profenna, our new co-host
With the new year, there are some new changes coming to the Peak Northwest podcast. Chief among them is our new co-host, Chiara Profenna, the religion and culture reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who will be replacing longtime co-host Vickie Connor. As we welcome Chiara to Peak Northwest, we bid a fond farewell to Vickie, who has been with the show for nearly three years . While she will no longer be the podcast’s full-time co-host, Vickie will remain onboard behind the scenes. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: A word from Vickie about her departure from the podcast. Introducing Chiara! Chiara is new to Oregon, but has already spent some time exploring the state. What are the top spots on Chiara’s bucket list? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 16, 2025
The biggest astronomical events coming in 2025
Pacific Northwest stargazers have a lot to look forward to in 2025 – even if there’s no solar eclipse on the calendar. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we highlight some of this year’s must-see astronomical events, including a total lunar eclipse, planet parade and plenty of meteor showers to keep your eyes glued to the night sky. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or just enjoy looking up, there’s a lot to appreciate in the cosmos this year. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is the planet parade? Why the “blood moon midnight eclipse” is this year’s marquee event. Which meteor shower should you look for in 2025? Why an “extreme” supermoon may be overhyped – but worth seeing anyway. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 09, 2025
Why Astoria is the fish and chips capital of the Oregon coast
If you’re looking for good fish and chips, you’d do well to stop in Astoria. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we stop by a few of Astoria’s best fish and chip shops, while discussing what it is that makes this place so good for fried fish and French fries. A trio of dedicated destinations show what makes this food scene shine. Just make sure you don’t listen to this episode before lunch. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why Ship Out is a standout on the edge of town. Bowpicker is everybody’s favorite, but does it live up to the hype? Fishmongers holds down the scene in Warrenton. A ton of other options are spread out across town. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 02, 2025
10 perfect Pacific Northwest adventures for 2025
The new year is here, which means it’s once again time to start dreaming and scheming up some fresh Pacific Northwest travels. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we dip our toes into the 2025 Northwest Travel Guide, pulling out a few of the best places to visit and things to do around the region, from outdoor adventures to road trips and more. It’s also time for our annual reminder: Book your travel now, before it’s too late! Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Is Long Beach, Washington having a moment? Introducing Oregon’s newest scenic bikeway. Why nighttime light-up kayaking on Wallowa Lake should be on your bucket list. The Frenchglen Hotel offers an escape into the middle of nowhere. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 26, 2024
Diving into Northwest forests with Ross Reid, aka Nerdy About Nature
What is it about a Pacific Northwest forest? From the smell to the air to the feeling you get among the trees, we talk all about our love of Northwest forests on this week’s episode of Peak Northwest. Special guest Ross Reid, who’s known on social media as Nerdy About Nature , discusses the joy of educating people about forest ecology, and touches on the issues our regional forests face. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Reid became a social media personality. So what is it about Pacific Northwest forests? Forests currently face a host of issues, from logging to climate change. A few of Reid’s favorite forests to visit. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 19, 2024
Oregon’s best soaking pools to warm you up this winter
There’s nothing like a hot spring soak in the coldest, darkest days of the year. Oregon, famously gray and/or chilly for a significant portion of the year, is thankfully home to a wealth of places to go soaking, spread out across scenic landscapes throughout the state. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we explore some of Oregon’s best and most beautiful places to soak, from the wellness spas in Portland to the rustic pools found way out in the high desert. Wherever you are in Oregon, there’s bound to be hot water nearby. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What’s the best place to soak in Portland? Oregon’s forested hot springs have mixed reviews. Why the high desert might be the best place to soak in Oregon. You can always try a McMenamins. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 12, 2024
Portland fire captain is a global adventurer and an inspiration
For some people, one huge adventure is enough to hang your hat on. For Erica Nelson, it’s only the beginning . On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we hear from the Portland fire captain who balances her time with an incredible array of global adventures, from ice climbing to bikepacking and international motorcycle excursions. For Nelson, the adventuring hasn’t been an escape, exactly, but a practice that helps inform her work as a firefighter, offering confidence to help fight against the doubts that have popped up throughout her career. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Firefighting hasn’t been an easy career for Nelson, who has faced physical and emotional challenges. As a female fire captain in Portland, Nelson is in rare company. Nelson’s list of personal adventures is full of incredible accomplishments. What is she doing after retirement? Adventuring, of course. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 05, 2024
Where to eat, shop and hang out at the newly renovated PDX
Holiday travelers at the Portland International Airport will see a lot of changes , both in the way that it looks and the things you can do while you’re there. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we discuss all the new places to eat, shop and hang out at the newly renovated PDX. While travelers might be tempted to rush through the airport on their way to a flight, the new restaurants, shops and spaces at PDX make a great case for taking your time. And with some great dining and shopping options pre-security, the airport might be a good place to spend time even if you’re not leaving town. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Pizza, donuts, pasta and the other new dining options. PDX is full of local shops that are great stops for those leaving or arriving. What’s in store for the next phase of development at the airport? Is the airport a decent dating spot? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 28, 2024
How to see Mt. Hood and the Columbia Gorge, two world-class destinations
Oregonians are no doubt familiar with Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, two of the state’s most popular places to hike, swim, ski and explore, but the two spots are now getting more attention as one world-class destination. Global travel guide Lonely Planet recently named Mount Hood and the Columbia Gorge as one of the best regions to visit for 2025, ranked alongside spots in Switzerland and Nepal. While interconnected and easy to navigate, the two areas feature an overwhelming number of things to do, places to see, and spots to eat and drink. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we highlight some of the best of the best attractions on the mountain and by the river, creating a rough itinerary for anyone visiting the area or planning a trip for out-of-towners. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What’s the best way to navigate the mountain and gorge? The two best places to stay the night. How to choose among all the Columbia Gorge waterfalls. What you do on Mount Hood depends on the season you go. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 21, 2024
A little trip to a tiny house off the slopes of Mount Hood
Have you ever wanted to try out tiny house living? Or go glamping in something other than a canvas tent ? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we get it all on a little camping trip to a tiny house off the slopes of Oregon’s tallest mountain. Our two-night excursion to the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village included a walk along the Salmon River, a cozy afternoon inside Timberline Lodge and a night by the fire under the stars. It was a very different kind of camping trip in a beautiful part of Oregon. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is it like inside one of the tiny houses? The joys and trials of traveling with a baby for the first time. Why Timberline is a great stop in the cold season – and how it could be even better. Why we struggled to find a good place to eat on the mountain. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 14, 2024
Women of color come together with Trail Mixed outdoor excursions
Across the Pacific Northwest, Trail Mixed is bringing people together. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to two leaders of the Portland chapter of the West coast collective, which creates space for women of color to learn, teach and recreate together outside. Vivian Tang and Jenny Bryan talk about what it’s been like to participate and become leaders in the organization, which organizes runs, hikes, climbs and other excursions centered around outdoor recreation. These gatherings have grown a community that is now thriving in Portland and beyond. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly is Trail Mixed and how did it begin? How the organization creates space for people to thrive in the outdoors. The Portland chapter has been growing over the years, as more people discover Trail Mixed. What it means for people to find this kind of community. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 07, 2024
The weird, wild stories behind the names of Oregon’s landmarks
What’s in a name? Or, in this case, what’s in an Oregon place name? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we’re looking into the history behind the names of some of Oregon’s most beloved landmarks, pulling out some truly weird and wild stories from the Southern Oregon to the Columbia River Gorge. Forget everything you think you know about where our natural landmarks got their names. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Mount Hood and the Columbia River both trace their names back to boats. A pair of Columbia Gorge landmarks with surprising histories. Vickie regrets asking about Dog Mountain. Rooster Rock once had a more, uh, colorful name. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 31, 2024
5 of the spookiest hikes in Oregon
What makes a hike spooky? Is it the dark, misty environment of a Northwest fall day? Or the old, abandoned buildings sometimes found on the trail? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we investigate five of the spookiest hiking areas around Oregon, just in time for the dark season. Our picks range from the Oregon coast to the high desert, with plenty of deep, dark forests in between. For those who want to get a little creeped out while exploring outside (or those who don’t), these are the places to know. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Is there anything scarier than the dark, concrete tunnels of an old military battery? One Portland attraction has been haunting hikers for generations. Caving is literally a descent into darkness. Why wildfire burn areas are totally eerie. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 24, 2024
5 Pacific Northwest holiday events worth traveling to
Just about every town in America has a tree lighting event, walk-through light display or downtown shopping night for the holidays, but a few spots like to do something a little extra. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we look at the Pacific Northwest holiday events that might be worth traveling to, from busy winter festivals to visits from Krampus. There’s something delightful about small towns going all out for the holidays, one-upping each other for the biggest, best and busiest events –and offering Northwest travelers a window into local holiday traditions. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why you should check out Leavenworth’s Christmastown, even though it will be a scene. The best light display in Oregon? It might be at a state park on the coast. Get a taste of Victorian Christmas pageantry in this southern Oregon destination. A small town in Washington has a delightfully creepy Krampus tradition. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 17, 2024
6 perfect fall hiking spots close to Portland
With apologies to summer, fall is a perfect season for hiking. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we cover some of the very best fall hiking destinations close to Portland, which areconvenient outings for the ever-shortening days. Covering Mount Hood, the Coast Range, the Columbia River Gorge and Portland proper, these hikes are great places to take in the crisp air, the changing leaves, and all the other sights and smells of autumn. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why Silver Falls State Park is a no-brainer. Two spots in Portland that are perfect for the season. A walk to the tip of Sauvie Island has a fun surprise at the end. The Columbia Gorge and Mount Hood come with an added seasonal benefit: fewer crowds. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 10, 2024
A two week solo backpacking trip exploring the Wallowas
For some adventurers, a two to four day backpacking trip can be the perfect amount of time to disconnect with the business of day to day life and reconnect with the nature around us. But, for others, a longer trip is needed, or in this case, wanted. This week on Peak Northwest podcast, breaking news and enterprise reporter Fedor Zarkhin recounts his most recent trip to the Wallowas, where he backpacked solo for 14 days. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The must-see natural attractions of the Wallowas. What goes into food planning when backpacking for longer stints. Navigating with a good old fashioned physical map. The joys of disconnecting from technology. Multiple majestic mountain goat sightings. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 03, 2024
A first-time triathlete's takeaways from IRONMAN 70.3 Washington Tri-Cities
A triathlon can be a daunting experience. Combine swimming, cycling and running into one event and you have a race that countless endurance athletes look forward to each year. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, host Vickie Connor recounts her latest race: IRONMAN 70.3 Washington Tri-Cities. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where to start as a first-time triathlete. Biking through Richland, Washington’s scenic wine country. What goes into training and nailing down nutrition. The joys of local events in the region to prepare for this race. Finding community through swimming, biking and running groups in Portland. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 26, 2024
How to explore Southern Oregon's highway of waterfalls
If you find yourself traveling from Portland to Crater Lake National Park, consider taking a slightly longer, scenic route to enjoy the trip. This week on Peak Northwest podcast, we talk about a few of the many highlights of Highway 138, lovingly known at Oregon’s highway of waterfalls. The stretch of roadway between Roseburg and Diamond Lake offers numerous stops, including not only waterfalls, but hot springs, riverside campgrounds and hikes with fascinating lava rock formations. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Toketee Falls is just as majestic in person as it is through photographs. Oregon’s third tallest waterfall includes a short hike to get up close and personal. Beautiful camping options. Drive a bit further to eat pizza at Diamond Lake. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 19, 2024
Crater Lake's Ride the Rim bike event is a must-do for Oregon cyclists
If you’re up for the challenge, biking around Crater Lake’s scenic Rim Drive is arguably one of the best cycling routes in the state. Even sweeter, the road is almost entirely closed to vehicle traffic for two days every summer. This week on Peak Northwest podcast, co-host Vickie Connor chats about participating in Ride the Rim 2024 and why the trip is a perfect end cap to your bike summer. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why participating in the annual free event is a more fun and supported way of doing this ride. How far and difficult the full ride is. Opting for a mid-ride cliff jump into the lake is almost always a good idea. Lodging options in the area. You may even have a bear cub sighting. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 12, 2024
A first-timer's guide to the Columbia River Cross Channel Swim
Each year, hundreds of brave swimmers board a sternwheeler boat in the Columbia River Gorge to swim from the Washington side of the river to a finish line in Oregon. It’s an 80-year-tradition, now hosted in Cascade Locks. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, host Vickie Connor recounts her recent open water swim at the Columbia River Cross Channel Swim event. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What it feels like to swim 1.1 miles across the Columbia River. How to prepare for an open water swim. How paddle boarders and kayakers guide you to a safe finish line. Opportunities to learn technique as a beginner in the pool and open water in Portland. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 05, 2024
What to expect running Hood to Coast relay for the first time
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Thu, August 29, 2024
Where to find 6 unique wine experiences in and around Portland
It’s no secret that the Willamette Valley has several epic wine spots and vineyards. But some places are going above and beyond to offer unique experiences in addition to their tasting selections. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we are joined by engagement editor, Julie Evensen and video editor Teresa Mahoney, to chat about some of the coolest spots to drink wine in and around the Portland area. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Portland offers wine experiences where you can get tarot card readings along with your tasting. Ride horseback through several wineries — no car needed. Enjoy your glass with epic views in the Gorge. Create your own adventure by choosing your camp site near a winery. An unassuming wine spot at a garden center. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 22, 2024
How to spend 3 days backpacking Broken Top Loop
If you’re dreaming of a final challenging backpacking trip this summer or wanting a stunning adventure for early fall, Broken Top Loop trail might just be your answer. With emerald green lakes, peaceful stream crossings, plus views of multiple mountain peaks, this trail will leave you in awe of the state’s beauty. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, co-host Vickie Connor recounts her most recent trip to Central Oregon, where she spent three days on Broken Top Loop trail. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why this trail is best for experienced backpackers. An ideal three day, two night itinerary in the backcountry. Choosing between hiking clockwise or counterclockwise on the trail. Why you might want to leave your dog at home for this trip. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 15, 2024
5 challenging long-distance hikes on the Oregon coast
If you’ve spent the summer working yourself into peak hiking shape , there are some great trails to test your endurance, not in the mountains but by the beach. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we get into five long-distance hikes on the Oregon coast, climbing the steep cliffs and headlands, past rocky tide pools and down onto the sand. Utilizing the long, snaking trail systems at some of the best parks on the coast, hikers can find places to hike for 12 miles, 15 miles, 20 miles or even longer. What the coast lacks in sheer elevation, it makes up for in distance, with so much of the Pacific coastline taken up by public lands. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Cape Lookout’s three trails can be connected for one long hike. The Fort to Sea Trail is a classic adventure on the north coast. Why Yachats is home to some of the best long-distance hiking on the coast. Ecola and Oswald West state parks have some seriously long trail networks. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 08, 2024
Kah-Nee-Ta resort is Oregon’s newest vacation destination
Kah-Nee-Ta is back , just in time for the second half of summer vacation. The beloved Warm Springs resort is not completely back to its former glory, but a piece of it has been renovated and reopened as Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort, setting it up as the hottest new vacation destination in Oregon. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into the hot spring soaking pools, take a spin on the lazy river, and cool off in the poolside cabanas, giving you everything you need to know about the new Kah-Nee-Ta resort. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What’s the history with Kah-Nee-Ta? Everything you need to know about the big renovation Overnight lodging options, including lodge rooms and teepees What’s happening with the other parts of the old resort? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 01, 2024
A road trip to some of Oregon’s least visited state parks
Summer means big crowds at Oregon’s busiest state parks, places like Silver Falls and Fort Stevens, which draw millions of visitors each year. But what about those other parks? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we take a road trip to some of the least visited state parks in Oregon, all clustered together in a rural, remote part of northeast Oregon. Here, you won’t find crowds – or, at some spots, much of anything. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where exactly are these little state parks? Finding pockets of beauty at Red Bridge. Which parks might not be worth your time. A delightful afternoon at Catherine Creek State Park. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 25, 2024
How to make the most of one night at Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is one of those places where you can, and probably should, spend a few days exploring. Between Rim Drive, the historic lodge and loads of nearby hikes , there’s enough there for days of adventure. But sometimes you don’t have that time. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we go through a recent one-night visit to Oregon’s famous national park, discussing how to make the most of a short trip to the caldera. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where to stay in and around the park. Going early in the season might mean fewer crowds, but also less to do. Stopping for gas and stumbling onto a pair of gorgeous waterfalls. Where to find great hiking off the rim of the lake. -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 18, 2024
A wild expedition to peak of Mount Shasta
Mountain climbers may consider Mount Shasta one of the easier Pacific Northwest mountains to ascend, but it’s no easy feat. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, our colleague Fedor Zarkhin , breaking news and enterprise reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, recounts his wild expedition to the top of the towering Cascade Mountain peak, sharing his stumbles and successes along the way. Making it to the top of the volcano requires more than 7,000 vertical feet of climbing, with an ice axe and crampons required toward the top. Those who can handle the physical feat may get stymied by weather. The reward is in the climb itself – and the stunning natural beauty found on one of the tallest mountains in the region. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Fedor ended up climbing Mount Shasta with a stranger. Tackling the difficult climb, five steps at a time. Why a recent shopping trip at the outdoors store ended up paying off. Why are physical challenges like this so appealing? -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 11, 2024
Searching for Bigfoot in the Northwest wilderness
Plenty of people talk about Bigfoot , but what is it like to go out searching for the famous cryptid? On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we talk to Samantha Swindler, videographer and features reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who recently went out into the wilderness with a pair of Bigfoot hunters. Her experience took her deep into the woods of Sasquatch mythology – and deep into the literal woods as well. She came back with a few ideas about the Pacific Northwest’s most famous monster, and some information about the people who dedicate their lives to finding it. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is the allure of Bigfoot in the Pacific Northwest? Sam recounts her camping trip in the Washington wilderness. These Bigfoot hunters are also looking for something else: missing people. One theory about all those Bigfoot sightings in the Northwest. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 04, 2024
Where to find uncrowded hikes in Oregon
With the Fourth of July weekend upon us, you might find yourself wanting to explore outside. But, you might face the conundrum of knowing your typical go-to spot will have an influx of other people there, too. If that’s you, have no fear, there are plenty of places to explore, it’s just a matter of knowing where to look. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Jamie and Vickie peel back the curtain on hikes less traveled in Oregon. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: A family-friendly hike near a body of water to cool down. An overlooked beach for a coastal destination. Where to backpack and put your legs to the test. Crossing into Washington for a hike in the Columbia River Gorge. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 27, 2024
Light-up kayaks, railroad hikes and more to do in Joseph
Just when you think you’ve seen and done everything in Northeast Oregon, you discover something new. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Jamie recounts his latest trip to Joseph, where he found even more to see and do in the remote corner of the state, from light-up kayaks to a railroad hike and a tour of one fascinating general store. Between the mountains, small towns, glacial lakes and wild rivers, there really is no shortage of things to do in this part of Oregon. It’s going to take a few more trips – or a dozen – before we consider Northeast Oregon to be thoroughly explored. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why the Kokanee Inn is a great place to stay in Joseph. Taking a nighttime light-up kayak tour of Wallowa Lake. What is M. Crow and why is it become such a big deal in Northeast Oregon? A railroad hike along the Wallowa River. What’s left to do in Joseph? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 20, 2024
8 low tide treasures on the Oregon coast
Summer low tides have arrived on the Oregon coast , uncovering a host of intertidal adventures. From tide pools to secret beaches, there are a lot of things to see on the rugged coastline when the tide goes out – as long as you can do so safely. Exploring the intertidal areas in Oregon is rewarding but dangerous. Between slippery and jagged rocks, rough cliffs, sea creatures and the rising tide, there are a lot of hazards to consider. Leave your flip flops at home. Those who show up prepared can expect to find a whole new universe to explore: a place where strange, colorful creatures occupy the cracks of exposed rock, where underwater caves and tunnels open up, albeit briefly, to land walkers like us. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The Neskowin ghost forest is a bucket list low tide attraction. Thors Well and Devils Punchbowl are more than just dramatic names. How to find the hidden shipwrecked boiler in Boiler Bay. Why Lost Boy Beach is one of the most dangerous low tide adventures. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 13, 2024
My Epic Adventure: Cycling Seattle to Portland with Jenna Bikes
Seattle to Portland bike ride is one of the most anticipated cycling events in the region. Thousands of endurance riders gather to bike more than 200 miles over the course of one or two days. While it might seem like a daunting ride, with enough preparation and training, the event can be extremely rewarding and confidence-building. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest podcast, we hear from Jenna Phillips, a.k.a Jenna Bikes, about her time participating in and training for Seattle to Portland. This episode is the latest installment of My Epic Adventure, a sub-series of the podcast. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The Seattle to Portland route has many beautiful and awe-inspiring views. How to make the transition from bike commuting to endurance riding. What supports are available throughout Seattle to Portland. How Jenna fueled for the long ride. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 06, 2024
A first-timer's guide to bike packing at an Oregon state park
Bike packing is the ultimate mix of cycling and camping. It’s also one of the best ways to explore Oregon, especially in the summer months, whether you’re biking through towns or traveling through the backcountry. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, co-host Vickie Connor recounts her first and recent bike packing trip and all the reasons she loves this new hobby. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is needed to go bike packing? How you can pack for a one-nighter (spoiler alert: you can pack more on your bike than you might think). An example of an introductory trip within an hour of Portland. Why bike packing might be just a little bit more enjoyable than backpacking. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 30, 2024
Making the outdoors more inclusive with Wild Diversity
How do you bring more diversity into the Pacific Northwest’s outdoor recreation areas? Try following the lead of Wild Diversity . On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we speak with Mercy M’fon, founder and co-director of Portland-based nonprofit, which is actively working with BIPOC and LGBTQ communities to get greater representation outdoors. M’fon takes us through the origins of Wild Diversity and explains how the organization is going far beyond just hosting hikes, making an impact on the wider outdoors scene in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How and when did Wild Diversity start? Wild Diversity hots more than just hikes. How the organization is influencing the greater outdoors scene in the Northwest. What the future of Wild Diversity might look like. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 23, 2024
How to explore Oregon’s famous Waterfall Corridor: Peak Northwest podcast
From the towering heights of Multnomah Falls to the delicate spray of Fairy Falls, there’s a lot to love about the Waterfall Corridor – and there are a lot of people to love it with. One of the most popular attractions in Oregon, the eight-mile stretch of the Columbia River Gorge is known for its stunning scenery and big crowds, which swell every spring and summer. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we break down everything you need to know to visit, from avoiding peak times to securing the necessary permits. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where exactly is the Waterfall Corridor? Everything you need to know about the Multnomah Falls permits. How to avoid the summer crowds. Some of our favorite waterfall hikes in the corridor. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 16, 2024
Perfect summer day trips around Oregon
Epic summer vacations are nice, but there’s something to be said about a simple day trip. Here in western Oregon, it’s incredibly easy to find any number of beautiful day trips , with the ocean, mountains, forest, rivers and desert all found within a three-hour radius. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into a few great options for this summer. Day trips prove that you don’t need a big budget or lengthy itinerary to enjoy an adventure –you don’t even need a car. As you make your summer vacation plans, consider these local excursions that make vacation quick, easy and (relatively) stress free. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The key to dealing with Cannon Beach traffic jams? Go by bus. Breitenbush Hot Springs is a perfect place to unwind for the day. Day hikes big and small are found in the Tillamook State Forest. You’ll never see everything on the Fruit Loop in one day, but that’s probably for the best. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 09, 2024
What to see, eat and do in Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach does not usually make the lists of best beach towns . Narrow it down to the north Oregon coast specifically, and it still faces stiff competition with Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Astoria, Seaside and Pacific City. That could be even more reason to go. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we take a weekend trip to Rockaway Beach to discover all the overlooked destination has to offer. With corn dogs, ice cream, fried fish and kitschy shops, it definitely has a classic beach town vibe, while the beaches themselves can be expansive, quiet and beautiful. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What’s the deal with Rockaway Beach anyway? Why Pronto Pup is corn dog church. Exploring the many beach access points. Skip the rental for a hotel room with a kitchen, balcony and ocean-facing hot tub. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 02, 2024
4 Oregon landmarks that almost became national parks
As it stands, Oregon only has one full-fledged national park at Crater Lake. If things had gone differently, we could have had more . On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive back through time to talk about four places around the state that were once considered for national park status – and why they weren’t ultimately picked. We also discuss whether or not the National Park Service should reconsider. Do Oregon’s beautiful natural landmarks deserve more respect? Or would it be a terrible idea? Here are some highlights from this week’s show: A national park at Hells Canyon? Would it be worth it? Why Oregon’s tallest mountain seems like a natural pick. An Oregon Coast national park proposal captured the public’s imagination. How the National Park Service did Silver Falls dirty. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 25, 2024
Why Oregon City is such a good day trip destination
It should be no surprise that the historic town at the intersection of the Willamette and Clackamas rivers, where people have been gathering and celebrating since time immemorial, is a great place to spend the day. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we go out exploring Oregon City , a perfect day trip close to Portland, especially in the spring and summer when the town is buzzing and blooming with activity. It might be the city’s cultural significance and history that’s so appealing. Or it could be the good food scene, which always makes a day trip more enjoyable. Maybe it’s just the charming Municipal Elevator, which takes pedestrians to the upper part of town. Listen along and then go find out for yourself what makes Oregon City so special. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Jamie explains why Oregon City has drawn him over the years. Coffee, a walk and a ride in the Municipal Elevator. Why the McLoughlin Promenade is the best thing in town. Exploring the many riverside parks in Oregon City and West Linn. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 18, 2024
Returning to Saddle Mountain, a Coast Range classic
Saddle Mountain has long been one of the most popular hikes in Oregon’s northern Coast Range, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, but for two years it remained shuttered, leaving hikers to find other trails to climb. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, a few months after the state park’s big reopening , we return to the classic Coast Range adventure, mounting the saddle and taking in the panoramic views. Those returning to Saddle Mounain will find new features, some big changes and the same beautiful scenery that made this spot so popular in the first place. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie talks about what drew her to Saddle Mountain this spring. What’s new now that the park is back open? What it’s like to hike to the top of Saddle Mountain. Why this is a great trail for the beginning of spring. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 11, 2024
What non-gamblers can do at Spirit Mountain Casino
If you’re not into gambling in any form, is there any reason to visit a casino ? Oregon’s casinos may not have the same allure as our beautiful natural attractions, but they remain among the most popular destinations in the state. For people more apt to hike the Cascades or explore the coast, is there any appeal? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we take a trip to Spirit Mountain Casino in Grand Ronde to find out, exploring all the non-gambling aspects of the Coast Range attraction. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Jamie explains why he has stayed away from casinos – and why he visited this one. Food and drink are a big draw at Spirit Mountain. Searching for all the best places to sit and read in the casino. Other nearby attractions make Spirit Mountain a good home base. -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 04, 2024
Changes in store for Mount Hood climbers this year: Peak Northwest podcast
New Mount Hood climbing permits are being implemented this year , in an effort to help educate the public about the risks associated with ascending the 11,245-foot peak. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we spoke with Ryan Matz, the climbing ranger program manager for Mt. Hood National Forest, who went over the new permits and offered some helpful tips and safety information for prospective climbers. Matz also told us why he loves climbing to the top of the towering volcano, which attracts thousands of climbers each year. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How are climbing conditions looking this year? What’s the deal with the new permits What do people need to know before trying to climb Mount Hood? Matz shares his experiences climbing the mountain. -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 28, 2024
Exploring Oregon’s new Dark Sky Sanctuary: Peak Northwest podcast
Oregon is now home to the largest Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world, but found in a remote corner of the state, some people may be left wondering how, exactly, to explore it. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we break down this 2.5 million acre swath of southern Oregon, highlighting some of the best places there to go stargazing/ While remote, this part of the state features some truly breathtaking scenery, as well as amenities like hot springs, campgrounds and a historic fire lookout that offer special kinds of cosmic getaways. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Hart Mountain is a rugged high desert destination with a relaxing hot spring campground. Summer Lake Hot Springs is an incredible place to soak under the stars. The Drake Peak Lookout is a great rental – if you can snag a reservation. Lakeview is the biggest town inside the sanctuary, and a good place to stock up on supplies. -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 21, 2024
Snorkeling and scuba diving to an ancient Oregon forest
Oregon isn’t much of a snorkeling or scuba diving destination in the way people typically think of the activities: There are no tropical waters here, no clownfish or coral reefs. What Oregon does have is Clear Lake, a beautiful setting high in the Cascade Mountains where divers and snorkelers can swim through crystal clear waters to an ancient underwater forest . On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we speak to Bend-based freelance journalist Haley Nelson, who shadowed scuba divers at the lake last summer. She talks of a beautiful, otherworldly scene, which divers must brave frigid waters to see. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Clear Lake, and its underwater forest, were formed. Just how cold is the water anyway? Diving in Clear Lake requires some specialized gear. There are other things to do at Clear Lake, other than explore underwater. -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 14, 2024
Exploring Portland’s hidden stair walks
You don’t have to be a stair freak to appreciate the many hidden stairways around Portland. The stairways lead through charming neighborhoods and beautiful parks, found in nearly every corner of the city. On this week’s Peak Northwest podcast, we string those stairways together for three beautiful stair walks – perfect outings to get your legs moving at the start of spring. Based on the book “Portland Stair Walks” by local author Laura O. Foster, these excursions are just the beginning. You can find more stair walks and other urban adventures in her book, or by wandering on foot and finding them yourself. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why should you climb stairs for fun? Mt. Tabor Park offers stairways in a beautiful natural setting. The Kings Heights Stairs are serious business. A stair walk along Alameda Ridge is like a treasure hunt. -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 07, 2024
The best Oregon coast beaches for spring break
The Oregon coast is no Cabo San Lucas, but it is one of the best spring break destinations in the Pacific Northwest. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we highlight 10 of the best beaches on the Oregon coast , from Astoria to Brookings. Whether you’re looking for beachside restaurants or quiet getaways, there’s a perfect place for you here. The Oregon coast may not have reliably sunny skies or water that’s warm enough to swim in, but it does have an abundance of natural beauty and a diversity of options for those seeking a little time in the sand. Who needs Cabo when you have Cannon Beach? Here are some highlights from this week’s show: North coast beaches come with a lot of variety – and, typically, crowds. The central coast is much rockier, but there are several sandy beaches to check out. South coast beaches are beautiful and more wild, rewarding coast adventurers. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 29, 2024
The coolest astronomical events coming in 2024
Is this the year you finally see the Perseid meteor shower? Will you be traveling to see the big solar eclipse? Can you catch a glimpse at one of the comets streaking through the sky? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into some of the coolest astronomical events coming in 2024 – adjust your stargazing calendars accordingly. And while many of these events can be seen in your own backyard, they’re always better viewed under clear, dark skies. That could mean a trip to some of Oregon’s best stargazing spots, like Steens Mountain and the Prineville Reservoir. After all, beautiful landscapes and cosmic events pair nicely. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Two comets are expected to be visible this year, one in spring and another in fall. A total solar eclipse will cross America, but the Pacific Northwest won’t get much of a show. It’s a tough year for meteor showers, but there are still a few good options. The supermoon lunar eclipse should be a good show. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 22, 2024
Oregon events worth traveling to in 2024
There are few better ways to get to know Oregon than through the many different events that take place throughout our state every year. The Pendleton Round-Up, UFO Fest and Tamkaliks Celebration, to name a few, all show a different facet of this fascinating place. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we discuss which events are worth making a road trip to see, and why they can be such a joy. Whether you’re into rodeos, powwows, kite festivals or beer festivals, there’s something great in Oregon to see and do. Here are some highlights: A trio of events on the Oregon coast offer fun throughout the year. The UFO Fest is one of the weirdest events in the Willamette Valley. Why you should head out to the Pendleton Round-Up. Some great events have already happened, so mark your calendars for 2025. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 15, 2024
Why you should visit Seattle by train
Seattle, the biggest city in the Pacific Northwest, is a great local vacation option, boasting fascinating attractions, good food and outdoor recreation options both urban and wild. Portlanders, who famously loathe visiting their sister city to the north, might find the trip much more enjoyable simply by switching up the way that they get there. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we break down what a train trip to Seattle can look like, and how traveling by rail can unlock a much more enjoyable experience. Visiting the local restaurants, museums and parks can be a lot more attractive when you don’t have to worry about sitting in traffic jams – who knew? Here are some highlights: How does the train to Seattle work? How easy is it to get around town once you’re there? Good food, interesting museums and beautiful parks await. Jamie tries to convince Vickie to give this trip a chance. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 08, 2024
How to celebrate Oregon’s 165th birthday
Happy birthday, Oregon! In case you weren’t aware, the state of Oregon is turning 165 years old this Feb. 14. To mark the occasion, this week’s episode of Peak Northwest is dedicated to celebrating the state we call home. But how do you celebrate our state? Maybe it’s by visiting a local history or cultural museum. It could mean spending time in Salem, the state capital. Or maybe all you want to do is get out on a trail and appreciate some of the natural beauty Oregon is famous for. We have a few ideas to get you started. Here are some highlights: Salem and Oregon City are both important in Oregon’s history, and both great places to spend a day. Oregon’s tribal museums offer some pre-colonial history. There are a number of good local history and cultural museums to explore. Which state parks are the best for celebrating Oregon’s birthday? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 01, 2024
The joys and challenges of traveling alone
Solo travel can be one of the most joyful and rewarding experiences you can have, but it can also require a good dose of caution. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we dive into the world of traveling alone, speaking from our own experiences to offer some tips on not only staying safe but getting the most out of your trip. Here are some highlights: How can you stay safe while traveling alone? What are some ways to get the most of the experience? Things to add to your pack list that you may overlook. Some of our most memorable solo travel experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 25, 2024
A beginner’s lessons in cross-country skiing
Trying something new can always be a bit scary, especially when that something new involves strapping boards to your feet and propelling yourself across the ice and snow. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive right into the trepidation, as Vickie tries cross-country skiing for the first time, traveling with outdoor recreation group Trail Mixed to the Teacup Nordic Snow Park on Mount Hood. The experience naturally proved to be a fun adventure, but was it enough to turn Vickie into a snow sports person? Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Vickie got involved with Trail Mixed and ended up on skis. What’s the difference between cross-country skiing and downhill skiing? What was it like learning to ski? Why Teacup is a haven for Nordic skiers on Mount Hood. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 18, 2024
Revisiting camping in comfort at Oregon State Park cabins and yurts
Programming note: This is a rebroadcast of an excellent episode from December, 2021. If you enjoy camping but don’t love sleeping on the ground, there’s a nifty solution at some of Oregon’s most popular state parks. In addition to the tent and RV sites that populate campgrounds, some parks come equipped with additional accommodations: cabins and yurts that offer a more comfortable way to spend the night. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we discuss what to expect and what to bring with you if you’re looking to do a little state park glamping. While far from a luxury hotel, these cabins and yurts offer a much cozier way to stay the night immersed in nature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 11, 2024
Winter adventures in the Pacific Northwest
The snow is finally falling in the Cascade Mountains, meaning it’s high time to get going on those winter adventures. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we’re joined by former co-host Jim Ryan, who discusses a pair of exciting ski trips on his horizon this winter: a trek to the Tilly Jane A-Frame on Mount Hood and a vacation to the slopes of Banff National Park in Canada. Ryan, a lifelong snow enthusiast, gets into everything from flying with skis to convincing skeptical friends to join up on a magical ice-skating experience. Here’s the full episode: The Tilly Jane A-Frame offers a different kind of way to spend the night in a snowy forest. Canada’s Banff is a beautiful national park and resort town with a lot to offer winter visitors. Flying with ski gear presents a host of possible complications. Why you shouldn’t be too disappointed (yet) about the weak snowfall this season. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 04, 2024
Exploring Mount Hood’s beautiful Salmon River Trail
When you think about lush, Pacific Northwest forests, the image you conjure might as well be of the Salmon River Trail . The 14-mile hiking trail in the Mt. Hood National Forest is famous for its dense evergreen forest, easy river access and many backpacking sites, drawing small crowds of outdoor enthusiasts on just about every sunny day of the year. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we cover everything you need to know about the beautiful Salmon River Trail, including when, how and why you should go check it out. Here’s the full episode: What are the specs on the Salmon River Trail? Jamie’s autumn hike on the trail was an amazing experience. Vickie’s sunset trail run took her to an incredible view. Why this is a great spot for beginner backpackers. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 28, 2023
Where in the Northwest are we traveling in 2024?
Happy 2024! With New Year’s only days away, we’re already looking ahead to a busy year of Pacific Northwest travel. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Jamie and Vickie do some scheming and dreaming about another year of travel, planning trips big and small, from the high desert to the Pacific coast. Whether you love visiting a small town, are looking for a wild outdoor adventure or an interesting new attraction, there’s something here for you to look forward to. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why Burns might be the perfect place to anchor some high desert adventures. The Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness on Mount Hood is ripe for exploration. LOGE Alta Crystal looks like a good base camp at Mount Rainier. Why you should take a road trip to the Northwest’s new troll sculptures. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 21, 2023
Does Instagram lead to overcrowding in Oregon’s parks?
A common complaint on social media is that photo sharing apps like Instagram directly lead to the ruination of outdoor destinations by encouraging crowds of people to visit. It’s a popular sentiment, but is it really true? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we interview a pair of researchers behind an Oregon State University study that suggests the reality is much more complex. While Instagram posts may be responsible for some of the increasing crowds, there are many other factors at play. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How was this study conducted? Instagram’s influence accounts for a very small percentage of park visits. What else could be driving crowds to Oregon parks, if not social media? Social media affects visitor behavior in other ways. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 14, 2023
How to find hidden glass floats on the Oregon coast
Every wanted to find hidden treasure on the beach? Finders Keepers is making that dream a reality. The year-round event hides decorative glass floats on the beaches of Lincoln City, encouraging people to walk the sand and look for the small treasures. But what are the odds you’ll find one? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talked to Stephanie Hull, event and outreach coordinator for Explore Lincoln City, which runs Finders Keepers. She talked all about the history of the event, the process of making and hiding the floats, and how you can go about finding one yourself. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How did Finders Keepers get started? What’s the deal with these floats? Special drop days up your odds of finding a float, with dozens or hundreds hidden at once. What are some tips for finding a float? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 07, 2023
How to cut down your own Christmas tree in Oregon
Christmas tree shopping in Oregon is often a bring-your-own-hand-saw occasion. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we eschew the store-bought experience to discuss two ways to cut down your own Christmas tree locally. There are pros and cons to both U-cut farms and harvesting from the forest, but each provides a similar experience – an outside, muddy boots, sawdust experience – that (for the right people) injects a little more magic into the holidays. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie tells the tale of her first U-cut experience in Oregon. Pair your Christmas tree cutting with… hot dogs? Jamie remembers harvesting a tree from the Mt. Hood National Forest. Everything you need to know before getting a Christmas tree permit. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 30, 2023
My Epic Adventure: Bike touring through the San Juan Islands
Is island hopping better by bike? On this week’s Peak Northwest podcast, we take a bike tour across the San Juan Islands, one of the most scenic destinations in the Pacific Northwest, courtesy of Kristine de Leon, business reporter at The Oregonian/OregonLive. Plenty of people visit the Washington islands, found in the Salish Sea off the coast of Vancouver Island, and while most opt to take their cars, many travelers prefer to tour two wheels. The slower pace allows more time to soak in the beautiful scenery, and offers a more adventurous way to go. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly is bike touring anyway? A more complex trip required a little more planning in advance. Along for the ride: a sweet dog with a complicated name. Some of the best memories from the journey, which stretched across three islands. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 23, 2023
Where to stay while exploring around Bend
Bend is one of Oregon’s best jumping off points for natural adventures , whether you’re skiing Mount Bachelor, climbing South Sister or biking around the high desert. But where should you stay while you’re there? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we dive into our favorite places to sleep in Bend , including boutique motels, a local hostel and a McMenamins with an ornate soaking pool. There are obviously many more lodging options in town. Our list does not get into any Airbnbs, corporate chain hotels or backcountry campsites. There are also many places we simply didn’t get to. But if you can’t figure out where you’re going to sleep after paddling the Deschutes River or taking a brewery tour, these should at least get you started. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Several boutique motels have added modern design and amenities to refurbished buildings. Bunk+Brew is a European-style hostel with an extremely Bend vibe. Would you sleep in an old Catholic school? What if there was an incredible soaking pool? Tumalo State Park has a year-round campground just a few miles outside of town. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 16, 2023
How to make an herbal first aid kit
Making a first aid kit doesn’t have to mean buying tubes of pre-made ointments and salves, it can be as easy as harvesting plants from your own garden or from nature. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to herbalists Madrone McCarthy and Tessa McKee, who teach people about the practices of healing wounds with plants. Whether you have a cut, a burn or have wandered into a patch of poison oak, there’s a plant that can help you. Some are commonly found alongside the trail, making them very useful in a pinch, though most are easily grown in a backyard garden, and can be powdered or turned into salves and tinctures. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly is herbal first aid? Yarrow is especially good at stopping bleeding, among other things. St. Johns Wort has many uses, including healing deep puncture wounds. Plantain is abundant in forests, and very useful for healing. How to turn plants into salves and tinctures. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 09, 2023
Why Tumalo Falls is one of the best waterfall hikes in Oregon
Most people stick to the west side off the Cascades to find good waterfalls , but just across the mountains is another incredible waterfall hike at Tumalo Falls. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about the Tumalo Falls Loop Hike , a Bend-area adventure that features nearly a dozen beautiful waterfalls along a relatively short and accessible trail. The waterfalls are found along Tumalo Creek, which runs from the slopes of Broken Top down to the Deschutes River. If you want to experience the loop hike, you’ll want to go during the right season and start early in the day, as crowds tend to descend upon the popular trail even on weekdays. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where is Tumalo Falls and when is the best time of year to go? What are the waterfalls like on the trail? Why it might not be worth doing the full loop hike. Some other things to do around Bend while you’re there. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 02, 2023
How to stay active inside during the rainy season
With the rainy season upon us, we’re headed inside. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we talk all about our favorite ways to stay active and spend time inside during the darkest and rainiest months of the year. From yoga and indoor climbing to soaking pools and trip planning, there are a lot of different ways to spend the season. None of that is to say you can’t continue to get outside this time of year. Ski season is coming soon, and rainy day hikes are always a joy, but it’s always nice to find some balance with inside time as well. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How yoga can help keep you limber during lulls in activity. Soaking pools are a joy on cold, rainy days. Indoor climbing gyms can help you practice or learn new skills in the offseason. The importance of striking a balance between staying active and allowing yourself to relax. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 26, 2023
Old military batteries are a creepy attraction on the coast
It’s not every day you come across ruins in an Oregon forest. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we explore the old military batteries – concrete bunkers built after the Civil War – that still stand at state parks at the mouth of the Columbia River. From the massive complex at Fort Stevens State Park in Oregon to the many batteries at Cape Disappointment and Fort Columbia state parks in Washington, the structures offer a different way to tour the spectacular area. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a different kind of state park attraction, these old batteries are a fascinating attraction. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly are these things? What’s it like to tour an old military battery? Fort Stevens State Park is a great place to get the history. Cape Disappointment has two interesting batteries and so much more to see. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 19, 2023
A road trip to Oregon’s haunted places
Do ghosts haunt Oregon? There’s only one way to find out. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Samantha Swindler, videographer and features reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who has made it her business to tour the spookiest places around the state. Swindler talks about sleeping alone in purportedly haunted hotels, touring Old West ghost towns and researching ghost stories around the state. If spooky history is your idea of fun, this is a trip for you. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Does the Lady in Blue haunt the Geiser Grand Hotel? Hotel Condon in central Oregon is supposedly haunted. Shaniko is a ghost town that may also be home to some actual ghosts. Checking out the all-around spookiness of Knight Hall in Forest Grove. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 12, 2023
The annular solar eclipse is this week. Revisiting how to prepare for it
Programming note: This is a rebroadcast with updates of an episode from February, 2023. An annular solar eclipse is crossing Oregon this fall , and whether you’re an eclipse-head or a casual stargazer, you’ll probably want to go check it out. The eclipse is Oct. 14. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about how to prepare for the big cosmic event. Because while the annual solar eclipse won’t be quite as awesome as the total solar eclipse from 2017 , it will still be a spectacular sight to behold, creating a “ring of fire” in the sky above Oregon. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is an annular solar eclipse? When and where is the eclipse happening? Are there any particularly good places in Oregon to see it? When will the next eclipse come to Oregon? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 05, 2023
Where and when to find peak fall color in Oregon
Our green Pacific Northwest forests are about to turn shades of red, yellow and orange. Oregon’s remarkable fall color is best paired with striking scenery like towering volcanoes and raging rivers. From the highest elevations down to the coast, there are plenty of places to find that perfect combination, ushering in the season with incredible views. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we look at the Fall Foliage Prediction Map to see where and when peak fall color will be coming to Oregon. No matter where you plan to spend your autumn days, there’s bound to be some color nearby. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Early October brings fall color to Oregon’s central Cascade Mountains. Why Portland is one of the best places to see fall color. Steens Mountain is a surprisingly good fall destination. “Larch marching” through Washington. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 28, 2023
Exploring caves at the Lava Beds National Monument
Ever wanted to explore a cave? Lava Beds is the place to be. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, our colleague Janet Eastman tells us about her experience exploring the caves at Lava Beds National Monument , found just across the border in northern California. Featuring more than a dozen caves of various complexity, Lava Beds is a great place to either dip your toes into cave exploration or do some serious spelunking. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What kind of gear do you need to go caving? Janet talks about her experience in the caves. It’s easy to opt out of more difficult excursions if you’d prefer to take it easy. There are a lot of other things to do and see at Lava Beds, outside of the cave systems. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 21, 2023
Searching for huckleberries on Huckleberry Mountain
Why aren’t there more huckleberries on Huckleberry Mountain ? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, a recent trip to the Mt. Hood National Forest leads to an investigation of the fickle huckleberry plants, which are especially susceptible to the whims of the natural world around them. With a warming climate, in a place that is regularly ravaged by wildfire, what becomes of our beloved huckleberry season? Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Jamie recounts his hike up Huckleberry Mountain. There are several reasons why huckleberries may grow in some places and not others. Where are some good places to find huckleberries? Despite the lack of berries, Huckleberry Mountain was still a great hike. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 14, 2023
How to do a zigzag road trip through the Columbia Gorge
You’ve never toured the Columbia River Gorge quite like this. With dozens of waterfalls, small towns, hiking trails and viewpoints spread out across both Oregon and Washington, there are a lot of ways to explore the scenic river corridor east of Portland. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we explore one of the crazier ways to do it: a zigzag road trip . Come along as we take a whirlwind trip to one of the most scenic places in the Pacific Northwest, crossing bridges and pulling off the highway for some seriously incredible views. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly is a zigzag road trip? All the tolls and fees you need to keep in mind when traveling the Gorge. Viewpoints galore greet visitors to the Washington side of the river. The Wildflower Corridor may not be in bloom, but it’s still a gorgeous stretch. Saving the best for last with a home stretch in the waterfall corridor. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 07, 2023
A visitor’s guide to the Pacific Northwest
Those of us who live in the Pacific Northwest have probably fielded the same question from friends and family who fly into town to visit: I’ll be exploring the area for a week – where should I go? With so many natural wonders , incredible restaurants, beautiful attractions and charming towns across the region, that can feel like an impossible question to answer. How do you pick between the Columbia River Gorge and the Oregon coast? How can you play favorites among our volcanic peaks? And what about the many treasures of the high desert? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we break down the many options for Northwest travelers, discussing the pros and cons of each place. Whether you’re a tourist yourself or helping others plan, this episode is for you. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The Columbia Gorge-Mount Hood loop is a perfect road trip for visitors. Why Cannon Beach is the go-to north coast destination. Olympic National Park is big, beautiful and absolutely worth a trip. Some places are beautiful but just too far to recommend for a quick trip. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 31, 2023
Climbing to the summit of South Sister
With snow melting and trails opening up, late summer is officially mountain climbing season in the Pacific Northwest. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we’re taking advantage of the season to climb to the top of one of central Oregon’s most scenic peaks: South Sister. The sweeping volcano west of Bend is known as one of Oregon’s more baggable peaks, and is beloved for its alpine lakes and stunning views. Vickie recently tackled the climb and came back with a wild story from the mountain. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The gear and preparation you need to climb South Sister. What’s the best way to approach the climb? The struggle and the beauty of the experience. A surprising summer storm made for an exciting summit. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 24, 2023
What it’s like to take a 100-mile bike ride with your dad
It’s always nice to bond with your parents, but how many people choose to bond over a 100-mile bike ride? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Lizzy Acker, trending news reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who spent a warm day this summer on a century ride with her dad. Taking a route from Portland to Troutdale and back, the father-daughter duo enjoyed a great adventure that included sunshine, river views, lemonade and a just a few challenges on the way. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How a failed attempt fueled the desire to reach 100 miles. Their route ran largely along bike paths from Portland to Sugarpine Drive-In. What is it like to ride with your dad? How Lizzy is using this experience to get ready for Cycle Oregon. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 18, 2023
Take a trip to the scenic Boardman Corridor on the Oregon coast
Looking for incredible coastal views? Make your way to the Boardman Corridor . Officially known as the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor , the 12-mile stretch of the southern Oregon coast is known for its big views, beaches and hiking trails, all found off a series of pull-outs alongside U.S. 101. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we get into all the best sights to see at the Boardman Corridor, as well as some tips on navigating the sometimes confusing trailheads and parking areas. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly is the Boardman Corridor? Arch Rock and Natural Bridges are two of the most popular attractions in the area – for good reason. The Thomas Creek Bridge is a major feat of engineering. A trio of beaches offer opportunities to get to the sand, with varying levels of difficulty. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 10, 2023
How to see the spectacular Perseid meteor shower
A big cosmic show is coming this weekend, and conditions should be good to see it from Oregon. The annual Perseid meteor shower, one of the most reliably spectacular astronomical events of the year , will be peaking on Aug. 12 and 13, bringing beautiful streaking meteors to the night sky. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about how, when and where to see the Perseids, and explain what exactly it is you’ll be looking at. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What are the Perseids? Why this year is a particularly good year to watch the meteor shower. Some of the best dark sky locations to watch the show. Star parties are a great way to watch the meteor shower with likeminded people, and learn a little more about the cosmos. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 03, 2023
Where to find the hardest hikes around Portland
Looking to round out summer with a few good leg-burners ? You’ve come to the right place. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into some of the toughest hiking trails around the Portland area, finding them at Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge and the Coast Range. These are not your average day hikes – they’re intense climbs meant only for the hardiest of hikers. We have all the details to help you settle on the best hike for you, from mileage and elevation gain to the necessary precautions at each place. If you’ve spent the season on some of the easier and more moderate trails, this might be the time to challenge yourself. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Our “hard” hikes include a pair of beautiful spots on Mount Hood. The “harder” hikes feature some popular places on the Washington side of the Columbia Gorge. A pair of “hardest” hikes go up some of the steepest inclines in the area, with lots of mileage to keep your heart pumping. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 27, 2023
Revisiting Olympic National Park's trails, beaches, campsites and lodges
Programming note: This is a rebroadcast of an excellent episode from July, 2021. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss how to enjoy Olympic National Park: from the coastline to the forest, lodges to campgrounds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 20, 2023
Revisiting what it's like to summit Mount St. Helens for the first time
Programming note: This is a rebroadcast of an excellent episode from September, 2022. The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens is considered the most destructive volcanic eruption in United States history. The explosion reduced the mountain’s elevation by about 1,370 feet. Today, hikers and mountaineers set off to the volcano for the day-long adventure to climb to the top. The reduced elevation makes the trek suitable for beginner mountaineers, too. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, co-host Vickie Connor talks about her first volcanic summit at Mount St. Helens. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie chats about the three different terrain sections of the Mount St. Helens climb via Climber’s Bivouac trailhead. How to snag a permit during peak climbing season. Vickie discusses what she packed that was most helpful. Tips and tricks for having the most enjoyable summit possible. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 13, 2023
An epic road trip from Portland to Alaska
There are tons of incredible road trips in the Pacific Northwest. You can loop the Olympic Peninsula , drive the length of the Oregon coast , cruise the Cascade Mountains or head out to the treasures of the high desert. A road trip to Alaska is on a whole other level. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we talk with our colleague, photographer Dave Killen, who made the epic trip from Portland to Alaska with his partner and their two dogs in a vintage Volkswagen bus he rebuilt himself. The three-week excursion was full of good hiking, incredible scenery and a lifetime of memories. How, exactly, do you go about planning a trip of this magnitude? And is it a reasonable excursion for the everyday Northwest adventurer? Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why choose a road trip to Alaska? There are a couple different routes to get up there. What were some of the most scenic places along the way? Seeing (or hearing) wildlife is bound to happen in this part of the country. Are there any challenges specific to this kind of trip? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 06, 2023
Our favorite Oregon trips of 2023 (so far)
Between wildflower hikes, scenic bike rides, tree climbing and tide pooling, the first half of 2023 has been especially active for the Peak Northwest crew. On this week’s episode of the podcast, we run through our favorite trips from this year so far, crossing almost the entirety of Oregon, from the roaring ocean, over the mountains to the arid high desert. If you’re still looking for some spring or fall travel ideas around the Pacific Northwest, we have some excellent ideas for you. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: A vintage airstream with a quick walk to the coast is hard to beat. Day tripping through the wildflowers in the Columbia River Gorge. Our most adventurous adventures of the year. How to pull off a spur of the moment trip to Bend. Rainy days at the Oregon coast are a relaxing way to travel. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 29, 2023
How to explore Oregon’s wild Owyhee Canyonlands
If you want to get away and really get away, you might try escaping to Owyhee. Located along the Owyhee River on the far eastern side of Oregon, the Owyhee Canyonlands are a remote high desert getaway with places to hike, boat, fish and explore. Even the drive is incredible. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all things Owyhee, giving a primer on exploring the far-flung destination. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How exactly do you get to Owyhee? What can you do there? The best places to explore while you’re out in the canyonlands. There are a few good places to anchor your trip, though all involve a lot of driving. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 22, 2023
Tree climbing is the latest adventure at Silver Falls State Park
Maybe you liked to climb trees as a kid, but this is a whole other level. A new company in Oregon is taking people high into the canopy of an old-growth forest, offering a new perspective and a thrilling adventure. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Leo Rosen-Fischer, founder of Tree Climbing at Silver Falls , which takes people hundreds of feet above the forest floor at Silver Falls State Park. The experience of climbing into the forest canopy, as Rosen-Fischer tells it, is like nothing else. And the adventure of ascending up the trunk of a living giant is one you won’t soon forget. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is this tree climbing experience like? It can be hard work ascending a tree, but there are special tools to help those who need it. What’s it like to be high in the forest canopy? If you like tree climbing, try tree camping at Silver Falls. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 15, 2023
Soak in the idyllic beauty of Breitenbush Hot Springs
Is there anything better than soaking in a hot spring, breathing in the cool mountain air? We don’t think so. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we gush about one of our favorite resorts in Oregon, a place where you can truly disconnect from the outside world. Whether you’re at Breitenbush Hot Springs for the day or staying a couple of nights, it’s a little slice of paradise that all but forces you into a state of relaxation. We have everything you need to know about the resort, and an impassioned endorsement of the retreats they provide. Here’s the full episode: What and where is Breitenbush Hot Springs? What’s the deal with nudity in the hot springs? How the resort has been building back after a devastating wildfire in 2020. What you can expect when you go on a retreat. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 08, 2023
See the alien beauty of Oregon’s John Day Fossil Beds
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to explore another planet, you don’t need to leave Earth to do it – or even Oregon. The John Day Fossil Beds of central Oregon are a strange natural attraction that seem out of this world. Between the glowing colors of the Painted Hills, the strange prehistoric fossils found underground and the blue badlands that emerge from the desert, this is a place like no other. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we explore all there is to see at the national monument, with tips on how to see it all for yourself this season. Bring water, grab your camera and get ready to be wowed. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly are the Fossil Beds? The Painted Hills and beyond: everything you should see while you’re there. How should you plan a trip out there? What you should bring to stay safe while exploring. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 01, 2023
My Epic Adventure: Jamie's first backpacking trip
First-time backpackers often like to go on shorter, easier trips to break their packs in. It can helpful to go with friends who have a little experience, or pick spots that are closer to society just to be safe. A solo five-day trip into bear country is a bold foray into backpacking. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we continue our My Epic Adventure series with a tale from our own Jamie Hale, who recounts his very first backpacking trip on the Rogue River Trail in southern Oregon. With blisters, bears, snakes and ticks, it’s a true Oregon backpacking adventure. But one luxurious twist made the trip a bit easier to handle, and gave Jamie some much-needed rest along the way. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Jamie landed on this particular trail for his first backpacking trip. What is the Rogue River Trail like? Backpacking into bear country can get a little dicey. Spending a night at Paradise was a game changer. What to know before backpacking the Rogue River Trail yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 25, 2023
Biking Madras Mountain Views Scenic Bikeway
With countless mountain peaks in view, rolling hills and one of the most breathtaking views of Cove Palisades State Park, it’s hard for cyclists to not love Madras Mountain Views Scenic Bikeway. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Vickie chats with Jamie about her most recent bike trip to central Oregon, where she biked 29-mile loop to celebrate her birthday. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie shares her thoughts on her first visit to central Oregon. Oregon is home to 17 different designated scenic bikeways scattered throughout the state. A breakdown of the route and what to expect. Options for lodging, including camping, for this trip. Our favorite place to grab a cinnamon roll in Madras. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 18, 2023
How to spend a weekend in Yachats
Of all the beach towns on the beautiful stretch of Pacific coastline in Oregon, Yachats might well be the most charming . Located on the rocky shores of the central Oregon coast, Yachats features a small but bustling corridor of restaurants and small businesses, with forested trails, tide pools, beaches and towering sea cliffs found nearby. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Jamie recounts a recent trip to Yachats, where a spring rainstorm forced some last-minute adjustments and allowed for a fresh take on the coastal town. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where to find the best fried fish in Yachats (and the best on the Oregon coast). A tour of some of the small shops in town. The Ya’Xaik Trail is a small, but fascinating hike. Tide pooling on a rainy Easter Sunday. The Yachats restaurant scene has a lot to offer. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 11, 2023
The joy of tide pooling on the Oregon coast
Welcome to the weird, wonderful world of tide pooling. Both primal and alien, tide pools are chock full of interesting life, from tiny shore crabs to giant green anemones. Exploring these intertidal areas is a cherished pastime on the Oregon coast, but what do you need to know to get started? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Jamie Kish, a marine biologist and tide pool ambassador based in Yachats, who not only offers some tide pooling tips, but dishes on her own love of these strange, beautiful ecosystems. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Jamie’s journey from east coast kid to Oregon coast enthusiast. What kind of creatures can you find in a tide pool? Are Oregon’s tide pools endangered by climate change? What’s the best way to get started going tide pooling? Jamie’s not only a scientist, but a skilled tide pool photographer. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 04, 2023
How to tour the wildflower corridor of the Columbia Gorge
Wildflowers are everywhere in the Columbia River Gorge, but one small stretch of the scenic area is more jam-packed with flowers than the rest. This wildflower corridor of the Columbia Gorge, located between Mosier and Lyle, is home to several beautiful recreation areas, where being among the blooms can be as easy as stepping out of your car, or as difficult as hiking up the side of a mountain. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dig into six incredible spots to see the flowers bloom, located on both the Oregon and Washington side of the Columbia River. If you want to see the wildflowers, you’ll want to act fast: they won’t stick around forever. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Mosier Plateau is one of the newer wildflower hiking areas in the gorge. Rowena Crest is home to some of the best blooms in the area. Trails have recently been expanded at the beautiful Lyle Cherry Orchard. A universal access trail Catherine Creek makes it much easier to see the flowers. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 27, 2023
Try a vintage Airstream hotel on the north Oregon coast
Imagine rolling out of your vintage Airstream trailer, walking across the road and reaching the sand, ready for a beautiful day at the beach. That fantasy can be a reality at Hart’s Camp Airstream Hotel at Pacific City on the north Oregon coast, the destination for this week’s episode of Peak Northwest. Located steps away from Cape Kiwanda – not to mention all the shops and restaurants in Pacific City – Hart’s Camp rents out several Airstream trailers, cottages and cabins beside its sister property, Cape Kiwanda RV Park, which has sites for RVs and tents. After a spring trip to the Airstream hotel, we have the scoop on everything you need to know to check it out for yourself. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where exactly is the Airstream hotel located? An outdoor patio and shower offer a little more breathing room outside the trailer. Cape Kiwanda is a short walk away. There are a few other outdoor attractions close by to check out. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 20, 2023
How to take a car-free trip to Mount Hood
Love hanging out at Mount Hood, but hate driving up to the mountain? Do we have some good news for you. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Lizzy Acker, trending news reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who recently wrote about the experience of travelling by bus to Oregon’s tallest mountain. The latest in Acker’s car-free travel series once again features her 3-year-old daughter, Nona, who joined along for snowy walks, skiing and snacking along the way. Taking the bus to Mt. Hood is one thing, but bringing along a toddler is a whole other adventure. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The bus routes that lead from Portland up to Mount Hood. How difficult was taking public transportation up the mountain? An afternoon with Nona in Government Camp. The Summit Ski Area is not only more accessible, but cheaper and less crowded than the other Mount Hood ski resorts. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 13, 2023
Little lakes are hiding in the Clatsop State Forest
Forget everything that comes to mind when you think about “a day at the lake” – these spots aren’t it. That doesn’t mean the little lakes of the Clatsop State Forest , found on the north end of Oregon’s Coast Range, aren’t worth checking out. Despite lacking amenities and featuring little in the way of actual water, they nonetheless make interesting attractions for year-round hiking between Portland and the coast. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk about where and how to find spots like Soapstone Lake and Spruce Run Lake, places that may offer little to fishers, boaters and sunbathers, and instead exist as quiet little attractions tucked into the timberlands. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where do you find this concentration of little lakes? Bloom Lake is easily accessible, right off the highway. Lost Lake might be the only spot here that can rightfully be considered a “lake”. At Soapstone Lake you’ll likely see more newts than people. To get to Spruce Run Lake, you need to tackle a steep little trail through the timberlands. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 06, 2023
My Epic Adventure: How to hike the Wildwood Trail in a single day
Hiking the entirety of the Wildwood Trail is a classic Portland bucket list item, and something many people accomplish – just not in one day. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to two local hikers who took on the famous 30-mile trail in Forest Park , with tips and words of caution for anybody else who feels up to the challenge. The hikers, Rachel Dumont and Noelle Crombie, who is the enterprise reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, said the adventure was difficult, but incredibly rewarding. And as nice as the scenery was, the real reward was sharing the challenge together, they said. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why Rachel and Noelle decided to day hike the Wildwood Trail. How they prepared (or didn’t prepare) for the big hike. Their mood while hiking was nice and carefree – until it wasn’t. What advice would they give hikers looking to follow in their footsteps? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 30, 2023
Revisiting the artist behind the Circles in the Sand on the Oregon coast
Programming note: This is a rebroadcast of an excellent episode from July, 2021. Be sure to visit the Circles in the Sand Labyrinths this year. Denny Dyke’s elaborate sand drawings are a sight to behold. But to experience the labyrinths for yourself is an entirely different experience. Dyke has since 2011 been drawing the labyrinths into low-tide Oregon beaches, and his Circles in the Sand project really took off in 2015, when he started working on it full-time. This past year he’s seen more people than ever show up at his southern Oregon events, or “draws,” estimating upwards of 400 people each day. For Dyke, a religious practitioner, his “dreamfields” are more than interesting attractions, however. They’re deeply spiritual creations that offer real healing to those who walk them. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we catch up with Dyke about his project. Some highlights: Dyke describes the labyrinths and provides a visual of what they look like. He shares how he got started creating labyrinths. He details how he and his artists create the designs. Dyke explains why Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint in Bandon became his go-to spot for drawing labyrinths. He describes how he contends with beach conditions. He explains that Circles in the Sand is more than a neat attraction: It’s an attempt to spread love, joy, peace and harmony — and offer real healing to people who visit. Jamie and Jim give listeners the lowdown on other things to do in Bandon. View the full Circles in the Sand schedule at sandypathbandon.com . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 23, 2023
Overlooked attractions of the north Oregon coast
Traveling to the coast this spring, but tired of the same attractions? We have you covered. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we’re headed back to the north Oregon coast to explore some overlooked attractions , just in time for spring break. There’s nothing wrong with Cannon Beach and the Tillamook Creamery, but have you seen the spectacular beauty of Niagara Falls? Stood beneath the Rockaway Big Tree? Spied upon elk at Jewell Meadows? If you’re itching to try something new, you’ve come to the right place. There’s a lot more to see on the north coast than rocks shaped like haystacks. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Oregon’s Coast Range is full of spectacular waterfalls. Where to find the coast’s biggest trees (and stumps) The Fort to Sea Trail is one of the best day hikes on the Oregon coast. Spring break may be your last best chance to see elk at Jewell Meadows. One state park offers three different environments to explore. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 16, 2023
Breaking down barriers for skiers with disabilities
For some skiers, it’s not as easy as heading up to the mountain, strapping on a pair of skis and hitting the slopes. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we speak with Carl Burnett, an adaptive ski racer who has been working with Oregon Adaptive Sports , a nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking down the barriers faced by athletes with physical, cognitive and developmental disabilities. In winter, the organization heads to three Oregon ski areas to give people access to specialized equipment and training that might be otherwise be difficult to access. In summer, they do the same thing on cycling, hiking and mountain bike trails in central Oregon. According to Burnett, the mission is not just about helping skiers with disabilities, but showing the rest of the community what’s possible. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What are the different barriers faced by skiers with disabilities? Gaining access to the outdoors can be a profound experience for those who might find it difficult to get there. How do you teach somebody who’s new to a sit ski? Opening up the mountain to skiers of all abilities can be inspirational for the whole community. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 09, 2023
Snowshoeing on Mt. Baker and exploring Bellingham
Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to get out and active during the winter, especially for those who don’t ski or snowboard regularly. For co-host Vickie Connor, the activity seemed like the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in the winter, especially as someone who is wary of knee injuries, after an ACL tear years ago. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Vickie chats with co-host Jamie Hale about her first snowshoeing experience on Mt. Baker, as well as the rest of her roadtrip there. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie talks about snowshoe rentals and logistics. Bellingham is a great roadtrip stopping point if you’re driving from Portland or Seattle. Upper Lodge to Artist Point trail near Mt. Baker Ski Area is a great introductory, yet heart-pumping trail for first-timers. Where to eat and stay around Mt. Baker. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 02, 2023
My Epic Adventure: Nordic skiing through the Methow Valley Trail system
On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest podcast, we catch up with former host, Jim Ryan. Jim takes us through his nordic ski trip on the Methow Valley trail system, near Winthrop, Washington, for the latest installment of My Epic Adventure, a sub-series of the podcast. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: You can spend the night on trail in reservable huts. How to get a trail pass for your trip. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 23, 2023
Go for a sled dog ride at Mt. Bachelor in Bend
What’s better than spending a snow day with a pack of happy pups? Visitors to central Oregon’s Mt. Bachelor can have that experience by booking a sled dog ride with Oregon Trail of Dreams, an organization run by professional mushers in Bend. Currently run by Rachael Scdoris, the first legally blind person to finish the Iditarod, the one-hour rides offer a brief introduction into the fascinating world of dog sledding. Hop in a sled and you can enjoy some time with a few of her nearly 100 Alaskan huskies, who clearly love what they do. Whether you’ve always dreamed of this kind of adventure, or simply enjoy finding new ways to get outside in the winter, the dog sled rides are guaranteed fun in central Oregon. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly happens on these dog sled rides? What kind of dogs pull the sleds? What happens when you get to drive the sled. Oregon Trail of Dreams owner Rachel Scdoris has a fascinating story. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 16, 2023
How to prepare for the annular solar eclipse
An annular solar eclipse is crossing Oregon this fall , and whether you’re an eclipse-head or a casual stargazer, you’ll probably want to go check it out. The eclipse isn’t happening until Oct. 14, but if you want to see it, you’d do well to start planning now. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about how to prepare for the big cosmic event. Because while the annual solar eclipse won’t be quite as awesome as the total solar eclipse from 2017 , it will still be a spectacular sight to behold, creating a “ring of fire” in the sky above Oregon. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is an annular solar eclipse? When and where is the eclipse happening? Are there any particularly good places in Oregon to see it? When will the next eclipse come to Oregon? Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 09, 2023
How to find healing in nature
This episode first aired on January 14, 2021. We all know that nature can be healing, but sometimes it’s not just as easy as going outside. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we spoke with Zoë Presley, a Portland-based psychotherapist and forest therapy guide, to help us understand how best to find healing in the great outdoors. With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, political unrest and economic stress, there are a lot of good reasons to seek refuge in nature right now. And while outdoor recreation can be great for physical health, going outside can also help heal trauma, depression, anxiety and other mental or emotional health issues. Accessing that kind of healing sometimes requires a completely different approach to spending time outside. Fortunately, there are plenty of places around the Pacific Northwest to practice. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Finding healing in nature requires coming in with the right intention, slowing down and being in the moment. You don’t need an extraordinary view to experience awe in nature. Forest therapy is a specific approach to finding healing in nature that’s helpful for many people. Healing through nature can be even more important during the coronavirus pandemic. “Forest bathing,” which doesn’t require going to a forest. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 02, 2023
My Epic Adventure: Cat snowboarding the backcountry at Anthony Lakes
The dream of snowboarding or skiing down fresh, untouched powder in the backcountry is well and alive at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort in northeast Oregon. All with the help of a powder cat. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest podcast, we hear from one of The Oregonian/Oregon Live’s sports editors, Tim Brown, as he recounts his first cat-snowboarding experience at Anthony Lakes, for the latest installment of My Epic Adventure, a sub-series of the podcast. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Tim explains what cat-skiing and snowboarding is and how it works. Tim gives us a play-by-play of his first few runs down the mountain and what it felt like. How to book at cat-skiing trip at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort . Hint: have a plan with your friends and a few open dates ready to go. Food and drink recommendations from Tim near the resort. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 26, 2023
Exploring the treasures of the High Desert Museum
Those used to the lush rainforests of western Oregon might be tempted to think there’s little to see on the more arid side of the Cascade Mountains. The High Desert Museum is here to prove that notion wrong. Located just south of Bend, the museum has spent the last 40 years introducing visitors to the nature, art and people of eastern Oregon. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we speak to Dana Whitelaw, executive director of the museum, about the permanent and rotating exhibitions, as well as the resident animals that make the museum so special. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What can visitors expect to find at the High Desert Museum? There are a lot of animals who call the museum home. The museum won a prestigious award in 2021. New exhibitions are coming to the museum all the time. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 19, 2023
Exploring the backcountry of Silver Falls State Park
If you’ve only ever seen the waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park , you may be missing out. While most visitors to Oregon’s waterfall wonderland are content to stick to the famous Trail of Ten Falls , there are also more than 35 miles of backcountry trails to explore, winding their way through the bulk of the 9,200-acre state park. A day or overnight trip to the backcountry is an easy way to find solitude in one of Oregon’s busiest parks, whether you’re hiking, mountain biking or riding horseback. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we’ll take you to the trails, cabins and trees that make up this quiet adventure. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The backcountry at Silver Falls is extensive, but considerably less explored than the main part of the park. The Buck Mountain Loop is a great way to see a big chunk of the backcountry. Cabins at Smith Creek Village are a nice alternative to the state park campground. The Howard Creek Loop is an easy hike for those who want to dip their toes into the backcountry. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 12, 2023
My Epic Adventure: Roadtrip through to the Alvord Desert, Steens Mountain and Brookings
Thanks to COVID-19, the summer of 2020 was fraught with event cancellations, furloughs and social distancing. But not all was lost. People still also used this time to get away and get outside. Roadtrips were a common way to do this. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest podcast, we hear from The Oregonian/Oregon Live’s transportation and housing reporter, Jayati Ramakrishnan, for the latest installment of My Epic Adventure, a sub-series of the podcast. Jayati spent six days traveling by car far and wide throughout Southern Oregon. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Jayati and her friend drove from Portland to the Alvord Desert in one day. This roadtrip was Jayati’s first camping experience. Alvord Hot Springs can surprisingly get pretty crowded. Steens Mountain was a favorite sight of the trip. Jayati knows the best Thai spot in Brookings and perhaps even the state. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 05, 2023
2023 Peak Northwest Travel Guide
Making your travel plans for 2023? Need a little inspiration? We can help with that. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into the latest Northwest Travel Guide and pull out 10 great ideas for the year ahead. From outdoor adventures on mountain trails to relaxing hot spring getaways, there’s something here for everyone. And between the many beautiful places in Oregon and Washington, there’s no shortage of spots to explore. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Consider visiting towns that may be overlooked, like Salem and Forks. Head to the southern Coast Range for some incredible waterfalls. Pamper yourself at Breitenbush Hot Springs or the Salish Lodge & Spa. The Pacific Bonsai Museum is a great roadside attraction near Tacoma. Take a road trip on the Hood River Fruit Loop. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 29, 2022
Our favorite trips of 2022
As the new year rapidly approaches, we are dreaming up adventures ahead with itineraries, reservation reminders and more. But we would be remiss to gloss over 2022 and its awe-inspiring trips, big and small. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we each count down our top five trips from the past year. Some adventures were big physical feats, while others allowed space to simply connect with a new town or a peaceful spot in nature. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie recounts her two most physically challenging trips: summiting Mount St. Helens and biking around the rim of Crater Lake. Jamie explored many, many beaches on the southern coast. Exploring Joseph and the Wallowa mountains for a Peak Northwest video episode made the list for both Vickie and Jamie. One of Jamie’s favorite trips was a serendipitous stay in Central America for a wedding. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 22, 2022
Deschutes River Trail is a beautiful high desert destination
Fresh fall snow is coating the high desert trails of eastern Oregon, and few are more beautiful than the Deschutes River Trail in Bend. Found just southwest of town, the trail is nearly nine miles long, running along the river through the Deschutes National Forest. Along the way, hikers and mountain bikers can find several beautiful waterfalls and stretches of calm river that are perfect spots for kayaking. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we’ll talk all about the Deschutes River Trail, with details on where, how and when to check it out. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Don’t get this confused with other trails that go by the same name. Waterfalls are the main highlight of this stretch of the Deschutes River. Kayakers and mountain bikers can see the trail, too. Connector trails lead to points beyond, north into Bend and south to Sunriver. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . -- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 15, 2022
My Epic Adventure: Taking the bus to Cannon Beach for a weekend
A trip to the Oregon coast is almost always a magical experience . Oregon’s Cannon Beach is one of the closest coastal towns to Portland. With cute shops and boutiques, a great selection of restaurants and of course, Haystack Rock, there is good reason why so many people choose to spend a day trip or weekend there. What could possibly sweeten the deal, you ask? Not having to drive. On this week’s Peak Northwest podcast, we get into our second episode of our new sub-series, My Epic Adventure , with The Oregonian/OregonLive’s life and culture reporter, Lizzy Acker, as she recounts her most recent trip to Cannon Beach. Lizzy traveled entirely by bus to the coast with her three-year-old daughter. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Lizzy breaks down the logistics of the two-bus trip. How to keep kids entertained on the bus. Restaurant and lodging recommendations from Lizzy. Exploring the beach at night with clear skies makes for great stargazing. We hear from Lizzy’s daughter herself on her takeaways from the trip. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 08, 2022
How to hike to the smallest lighthouse in Oregon
Looking for good views, nice trails, quiet beaches and a quaint lighthouse? No need to head to the coast – just drive out to Sauvie Island. The Warrior Rock Lighthouse , officially the smallest lighthouse in Oregon, is found at the northern tip of Sauvie Island near Portland, serving as a beacon for ships on the Columbia River and a landmark for anyone who hikes out to see it. The lighthouse was built at the end of the 19th century, commissioned by the U.S. government to help ships avoid a large bedrock reef jutting out from the island, according to various articles and histories published over the years. And while the Warrior Rock Lighthouse has long since been automated (and closed to the public), it remains a fascinating landmark on an already beautiful hike along the Columbia River. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we’ll reveal how, where and when to go see it. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where is the Warrior Point Trail? How difficult is the hike? What’s the history of the Warrior Rock Lighthouse? What else should hikers know about this adventure? Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 01, 2022
Hunting for mushrooms on the Oregon coast
A rainy fall and mushroom season pretty much go hand in hand. If you’ve seen mushrooms growing on hikes, but haven’t foraged with the intent of eating them, you’re not alone. Hunting and identifying mushrooms can take years of studying. Some are great and tasty, while others strike worry, for fear of being poisonous. But if you’re interested in getting into mushroom foraging there is good news: the region has plenty of learning opportunities for beginners. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, Vickie and Jamie discuss their most recent Peak Northwest video shoot at Fort Stevens State Park. Guided by two rangers, who regularly lead mushroom hunting hikes, they foraged with the goal of eating some mushrooms for lunch. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: There are plenty of books and resources for getting into mushroom identification. Why the Oregon coast is great for mushroom growth. How to pick and clean a mushroom. Matsutake mushrooms are delicious cooked over and open campfire. How to join a mushroom hike at Fort Stevens State Park. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 23, 2022
Explore Oregon and Washington state parks for ‘Green Friday’`
If you’re looking to walk off that Thanksgiving dinner or avoid shopping malls like the plague, there’s another tradition for you: Green Friday. Celebrated by state parks in both Oregon and Washington on the day after Thanksgiving, and sometimes called Autumn Day or Native American Heritage Day, the fee-free holiday waives all parking fees at parks where they’re normally charged. While park fees, which run from $5 to $10 per vehicle, are pretty nominal compared to the price of gas needed to get to those recreation areas, it’s a nice gesture and a good excuse to get outside. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we have a few suggestions for those interested in celebrating this year. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The history of Green Friday in the Pacific Northwest. Which Oregon state parks normally charge fees? A few of the best state parks in Oregon to check out this season. Washington has plenty of amazing state parks, too. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 17, 2022
My Epic Adventure: Biking the rim of Crater Lake National Park
Rim Drive in Crater Lake National Park is the scenic 33 mile route that goes around the entirety of the lake. Biking Rim Drive offers an incredible route filled with breathtaking views of the lake, canopies of trees and challenging elevation changes. Closed for a good portion of the year due to snow, Rim Drive is a bucket list ride for cyclists who find time to do it when the weather and conditions are just right. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we kick off our new sub-series, My Epic Adventure, with Vickie’s recent ride around the rim of Crater Lake. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Logistics and breakdown of riding Rim Drive. (Disclaimer: this is a pretty challenging ride). Training and preparation needed for the ride. Lodging options in and around the park. Details for the official 2023 Ride the Rim event. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 10, 2022
Why Manzanita is one of the best small towns in Oregon
This fall, a bit of news came out that isn’t news to many Oregonians: Manzanita was named one of the most beautiful small towns in America . That’s according to a list created by Architectural Digest, which included the north Oregon coast town with a two-sentence writeup highlighting the fact that visitors can see “beach dunes and mountains in one view.” Locals and regular visitors to the coast know there’s a lot more to Manzanita than just views (though the views are pretty great). On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we’ll get into all the best places to see and things to do while you’re hanging around town, from big hikes to cozy restaurants right off the beach. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What’s the general vibe of Manzanita, compared to other coast towns? Surfing, hiking, kayaking and horseback riding are all available just outside of town. There are plenty of good food options in Manzanita. The Manzanita Schoolhouse is a fun rental for a big group of people. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 03, 2022
Revisiting the epic Wilson River Trail in the Coast Range
Programming note: This is a rebroadcast of an excellent episode from October, 2021. Go hike this epic trail! The Wilson River Trail runs almost 24 miles through the Coast Range, offering hikers a variety of options for excellent fall excursions. Situated on the north side of Oregon 6, the highway between Hillsboro and Tillamook, the trail snakes through a lush, quiet forest featuring deciduous trees that change color in the fall. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss the many ways to explore the trail. Some highlights: Jamie details his recent trips to the Wilson River Trail, where he encountered few other hikers. He and Jim discuss how to best day-hike the trail. Jamie notes that the Tillamook Forest Center is closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We kick around the trail’s backpacking, trail running and long-distance hiking options. Jamie touches on the trail’s mountain biking and horseback riding options. He dives into plans to extend the trail. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 27, 2022
Overcoming the obstacles of hiking with disabilities
People using mobility devices, who are blind or who live with cognitive impairment all enjoy outdoor recreation, yet for hikers with disabilities there are still many obstacles in the way. Overcoming those barriers is the goal of Access Recreation , a Portland organization dedicated to supporting hikers with disabilities through its own website, Access Trails , in addition to conducting trainings with land management agencies to help them provide those resources as well. On today’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, Jamie spoke with Georgena Moran, founder of Access Recreation, who has spent the last two decades dedicated to this work while finding ways to access hiking trails herself. With so many different kinds of disabilities and barriers that hikers may face, just disseminating basic information about trails can be vitally important, Moran said, from providing pictures of parking lots to offering descriptions of trail surfaces. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Hiking with disabilities reveals challenges that some able-bodied hikers may not be aware of. Access to information is one of the biggest barriers for hikers with disabilities. How Access Recreation works with land management agencies to get more information out there. A few of the best accessible hikes around the Portland area. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 20, 2022
How to spend a weekend in Leavenworth
If you want a taste of Bavaria in the Pacific Northwest, then Leavenworth, Wash., is the place to go. You can indulge in bratwurst, pretzels and beer while wearing lederhosen, all while being surrounded by Bavarian architecture. Even the McDonald’s and the gas station are in theme. The town is also located at the base of the Cascades, making it a gateway to standout hikes and climbs. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk about where to eat, sleep and adventure, in and around Leavenworth. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Our favorite restaurants serve classic German fare, but a standout soup spot stole our hearts. Oktoberfest and Village of Lights are just a few of the many festivals the town hosts. Leavenworth Reindeer Farm gives you a chance to feed some furry friends (and possibly meet Santa). Where to find thousands of nutcrackers. How to hike in the Alpine Lakes wilderness and potentially see some larch trees chancing colors. Here’s the full episode: Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. -- Vickie Connor and Jamie Hale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 13, 2022
Touring the beautiful Applegate Valley wine country
Down in southern Oregon, tucked away in the foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains, there’s a small but mighty wine scene just waiting to be explored. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about the Applegate Valley wine country, where a wide variety of grapes grow among some seriously beautiful scenery. Nestled between Grants Pass and Medford near the California border, the wine region makes a perfect day trip while visiting southern Oregon, made complete with stops at places like the town of Jacksonville, Applegate Lake and the McKee Covered Bridge. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Jacksonville is a great place to anchor your trip to the Applegate Valley. Why spitting is a great approach to wine tasting. There are 18 wineries in the region, but we stopped at four standouts. Spend a few more days and you can find a lot more to do in southern Oregon. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 06, 2022
Guero Bird Club keeps bird watching fun
Birding is for everyone. That’s the philosophy at Guero Bird Club , a Portland bird watching group run by local torta restaurant Guero, which for the last year has been leading regular bird walks for beginners and experts alike. On today’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Audrey Tawdry, co-founder of the Guero Bird Club, who brings a sense of community to her bird walks that she hosts at parks around the city. Started in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the club is a part of the modern bird watching boom that focuses more on fun than bird counts. You can find the Guero Bird Club at guerotortas.com/birdclub or on Instagram @guerobirdclub . Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Guero Bird Club got its start in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic. The club draws bird watchers of all ages and abilities. Birding became more of a mindfulness exercise during the pandemic. Tips for beginner bird watchers. Adding lyrics to birdsongs make them easier to identify. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 29, 2022
Exploring the Hood River Fruit Loop in a single day
The Hood River Valley consists of more than 15,000 acres of irrigated farmland. If you enjoy fresh picked fruit, or better yet, picking your own fruit, you’re in for a special treat at the Hood River Fruit Loop. With 35 miles of country back roads, the Fruit Loop offers 27 different orchards, farm stands, bakeries, flower fields, wineries and breweries. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk about planning a full day of exploring the Hood River Fruit Loop, after visiting for our most recent Peak Northwest video series shoot. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie and Jamie discuss how they chose their five stops on the Fruit Loop. There are plenty of animal friends to pet, feed or just watch on the loop Where to find some of the best pear pizza we’ve tasted. What fruit you can find and what season to find it in. Nearby hikes to explore. Hint: One of our favorite waterfalls is just a short drive away. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 26, 2022
How to run the iconic Hood to Coast relay
Known as the Mother of all Relays, the world’s longest running and walking relay race starts at the base of Mount Hood at Timberline Lodge. Over the course of two days, athletes run nearly 200 miles to the Pacific Ocean. Now, you might be thinking, who in their right minds would do such a thing? For the past 40 years, tens of thousands of athletes come out to run or walk the course. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about the ins and outs of the Hood to Coast relay with The Oregonian/OregonLive’s audience engagement editor, Julie Evensen, who ran it on August 26-27. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Julie explains what an overnight running event looks like. Hint: Some sleep in an open field. Julie shares the preparation and training that goes into Hood to Coast. There is bacon at the finish line. How to enter the lottery for 2023. Other relay races in the area are a great way to get into this type of event. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 15, 2022
How a La Grande girl became the World Elk Calling Champion
Maybe you’ve seen a herd of elk before. But have you heard the herd? Better yet, have you tried calling one over? If you have no idea what an elk sounds like, you’re not alone. Lucky for you, there are many people who not only know the sounds of elk, but compete in imitating their noises. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we had the chance to talk with colleague Sam Swindler, who recently met with Ella Lees, the youngest ever Women’s World Elk Calling Champion. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: 12-year-old Ella Lees started elk calling lessons with her uncle, Mike Kaup, when she was nine. Elk sounds vary from grunts, screams and coos. Elk callers use a diaphragm reed along with a bugle tube to replicate the noises. Hear what an elk battle sounds like between Ella and her uncle. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 08, 2022
Eastern Oregon roadtrip: Shaniko, Condon, John Day and Baker City
Driving out to eastern Oregon offers travelers an opportunity to see some of the state’s finest desert terrain. If you plan your trip just right, and take a few less traveled roads, you’re in for a treat of small town exploration, too. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk with colleague, Sam Swindler, video producer and reporter for Here is Oregon, who just got back from an epic reporting trip across the state. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Sam explains the (potentially ghostly) history in Shaniko. There is a tiny Powell’s bookstore tucked away in the town of Condon. Kam Wah Chung state heritage site is a National Historic Landmark in John Day. Baker City has a lot to love: from Oregon Trail Interpretive Center to Sweet Wife Baking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 01, 2022
What it's like to summit Mount St. Helens for the first time
The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens is considered the most destructive volcanic eruption in United States history. The explosion reduced the mountain’s elevation by about 1,370 feet. Today, hikers and mountaineers set off to the volcano for the day-long adventure to climb to the top. The reduced elevation makes the trek suitable for beginner mountaineers, too. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, co-host Vickie Connor talks about her first volcanic summit at Mount St. Helens. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie chats about the three different terrain sections of the Mount St. Helens climb via Climber’s Bivouac trailhead. How to snag a permit during peak climbing season. Vickie discusses what she packed that was most helpful. Tips and tricks for having the most enjoyable summit possible. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 25, 2022
Mount Hood’s north side offers spectacular views and endless adventures
Mount Hood holds endless adventuring opportunities. Famous for being a playground for ski and snowboard enthusiasts, the south side of the mountain receives a lot of love, rightfully so, for places like Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood Meadows and Mount Hood Skibowl. But the north side of the mountain offers plenty of activities, too, especially in the summer. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we recount our last trip to the north side of Mount Hood, where we filmed for Peak Northwest’s video series. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: McNeil Point is a tough but rewarding hike with incredible views of Mount Hood. Lost Lake offers numerous camping accommodations. Boat, kayak and paddle board rentals are available for Lost Lake visitors. Parkdale has a great brewery and a mysterious lava flow. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 18, 2022
How Oregon's state parks went from afterthoughts to icons in 100 years
A lot can happen in 100 years. In the century years since Oregon christened its first state park, the system has transformed into a global attraction. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, Jamie and Vickie discuss the state parks system’s place in society today and ponder where Oregon goes from here. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: · The founding history – including Sarah Helmick State Recreation Site, the first state park · How cars played a critical role from the outset · The hard times and the good times, money wise · How Instagram is playing a role today Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 11, 2022
How to spend a summer day on Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island is a popular place, and it’s no surprise why: The sprawling Columbia River island is home to hiking trails , beaches , berry farms and more – the recipe for a perfect summer day. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dig into the best trails to hike, the best beaches to lounge on, and a few of the best farms to stop at while you explore the island. Pack your sunscreen, pick up a parking permit, and show up early if you can. Sauvie Island is calling. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Between the Wapato Greenway, Oak Island and Warrior Point, there are plenty of great hiking options. What’s the scoop on Sauvie Island’s beaches? Farms on the island are perfect family-friendly destinations in both the summer and fall. Listen to Peak Northwest anywhere you get your podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 04, 2022
Outdoor concert venues and amphitheaters to visit this summer
Music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike have a wealth of options when it comes to hearing music live and outdoors. Portland concertgoers can make a four-and-a-half hour drive to dance to sweet tunes as the sun sets behind a gorge. There’s also the option 30 minutes away to sit out on a lawn with friends as big artists rock out. Either way, making it to an outdoor show is a must every summer for many people. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we chat about a few of the many outdoor concert venues in the region. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: McMenamins Edgefield brings big name acts to a Troutdale lawn where concertgoers can sit back and relax, without traveling too far from Portland. McMenamins Grand Lodge is a new concert venue, similar to a smaller version of Edgefield with unbeatable sunsets. Portland venues to enjoy without leaving the city. The Gorge Amphitheater is one of the most breathtaking spots to enjoy live music and worth the longer drive. Wear your sunscreen. And other tips and tricks to a successful concert experience outside. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 28, 2022
Find a suburban hiking adventure this summer
You don’t need to drive out into the Columbia River Gorge or up the slopes of Mount Hood to get into nature – there are plenty of places to get outside in Portland’s suburbs. From Hillsboro to Troutdale, Oregon City to Battle Ground, there are forested trails, mountain hikes, riverside walks and wildlife refuges to explore. Better yet, they’re often located near great restaurants, shopping districts and public transit hubs. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dig into some of the best suburban adventures for the summer. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Sauvie Island and Oxbow Park are great options on either side of Multnomah County. Hiking up cinder cones and through a forested canyon in Clackamas County. Beaverton has accessible hiking areas as well as great food nearby. Don’t miss the beautiful natural areas across the Columbia River. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 21, 2022
Adventuring with kids in the great outdoors
Getting outside with your kids can be one of the most rewarding experiences. If not just for your little one to see nature’s great splendor, then for you, the adult, to leave home too, and take a nice breath of fresh air in the forest. There are plenty of family friendly adventures worth seeking out in the Portland-metro area. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we chat with two parents from The Oregonian/OregonLive’s newsroom: engagement editor, Julie Evensen, and podcast editor, Andrew Theen. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Favorite spots in and around Portland to take young kids hiking. Julie and Andrew’s must-haves when packing for an outing. Kid-friendly gear that has worked (and not worked) for Julie and Andrew. Shifting expectations for a smooth outing, especially with multiple kids. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts to hear new episodes every Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 14, 2022
The best places to eat and drink in Eugene
People tend to travel to Eugene for the University of Oregon or its many outdoor recreation opportunities – or for the upcoming World Athletics Championships – but the Willamette Valley town also boasts one of Oregon’s best food scenes. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Michael Russell, restaurant reporter and critic for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who recently wrote a guide to Eugene’s essential restaurants . With everything from sushi to pizza, Eugene specializes in farm-to-table dining and creative approaches to cuisine, not unlike many of restaurants up in Portland, Russell said. The food scene serves tourists and students well, but it’s also worth a trip down to Eugene on its own. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is the general vibe of Eugene’s dining scene? Michael Russell breaks down his top five restaurants in town. There are also good craft breweries in town worth a visit. Outdoor excursions around Eugene offer a chance to burn off all those calories. Subscribe to Peak Northwest anywhere you listen to podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 07, 2022
'In A Landscape' brings classical music to the spectacular outdoors
When you think about classical music, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a performance in a beautiful concert hall with perfect acoustics and a large stage. Hunter Noack, creator and pianist of In A Landscape , had other plans. Originally from Newport, the Oregon-raised musician has brought his classical performances to mountains, lakes, deserts and the coast, all with a Steinway grand piano in tow. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we chat with Noack about In A Landscape after we saw him perform live at Wallowa Lake State Park. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Noack tells us about his inspiration for In A Landscape. The music Noack chooses is intentional based on the location of the performance. Stories from some of the most (literally) heated locations. The logistics of traveling to remote areas with a grand piano. How audience members have a uniquely interactive experience by listening with headphones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 29, 2022
Exploring the eastern Oregon town of Joseph at the foot of the Wallowa Mountains
It may be one of the farthest-flung tourist towns in Oregon , but Joseph is well worth the long drive to get there. Peak Northwest podcast hosts Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor spent a busy few days in town and left feeling like they'd barely scratched the surface of things to do there. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The Jennings Hotel is a great place to stay, with modern amenities and a convenient location. Wallowa Lake is a must-visit for anybody visiting town. We packed a lot of adventure into our two full days in town, exploring the mountains, the town and more. What places and activities are we looking forward to on our next visit? If you’re a fan of this show and are interested in potentially sponsoring it - email our marketing people at advertise@oregonian.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 23, 2022
Vickie's first time exploring the south-central Oregon coast:
A trip to the south-central Oregon coast for a work trip stole the heart of podcast co-host Vickie Connor, as she explored this part of the state for the first time on a four day work trip. Filled with natural wonder from anemones to sea lions and phenomenal rock formations on the beach, this section of the Oregon coast is guaranteed to leave you with a feeling of awe and admiration. Plus, the trip is doable in a short span of days. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where to stay and eat in Bandon. Experiencing Circles in the Sand labyrinths. Driving up the 101 from Bandon to Portland. Viewing sea lions and seals at Simpson Reef Overlook. Hiking the Oregon dunes. If you’re a fan of this show and are interested in potentially sponsoring it - email our marketing people at advertise@oregonian.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 16, 2022
Local day trips to explore, as Oregon gas prices continue to soar
It’s not just the rain that’s been putting a damper on spring adventures in Oregon – record gas prices have also been making us rethink our weekend day trips to the coast or Columbia Gorge. Not content to simply complain about what we’re paying at the pump, on this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we tick off some local excursions around the Portland area, including close-in hiking trails and area towns to explore. If a lengthy day trip is too rich for your taste, you can always take the opportunity to check out some local destinations that you might have overlooked. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Sauvie Island is more than just beaches, there are several great hiking trails to explore. You don’t need to go way out into the Columbia Gorge for a good outdoors experience. Head to Portland’s suburbs for a wealth of hiking opportunities. Local cities like Vancouver and Salem are great for day trips or overnighters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 09, 2022
The McKenzie River Trail is a gateway to scenic beauty
With waterfalls , hot springs and crystal-clear lakes , the scenery on the McKenzie River Trail is among the very best in Oregon. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we talk all about the 26.4-mile hiking trail , found in Oregon’s central Cascade Mountains east of Eugene, and all there is to see along the way. Whether you’re hoping to tackle the whole trail this summer or checking out the day hikes this fall, there’s a lot to enjoy and appreciate about the trail. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Clear Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Oregon. Two waterfalls are found on one short loop hike on the trail. Blue Pool is a popular destination for day hikers. Hot springs on the McKenzie River Trail are really hit or miss. Where can you stay on and near the trail? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 02, 2022
Fat Girls Hiking encourages folks to get outside, no matter your size or background
Oftentimes, stereotypes portray outdoor adventurers to look a certain way or have a specific background. But access to the outdoors is meant for everyone to enjoy, even if you didn’t grow up exploring all corners of the forest. Even if summiting mountains at record speeds isn’t your thing. For so many, just getting outside and having a good time is a huge accomplishment. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk with Summer Michaud-Skog, founder of Fat Girls Hiking movement and author of “Fat Girls Hiking: An Inclusive Guide to Getting Outdoors at Any Size or Ability.” Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Summer discusses how Fat Girls Hiking got started. We ask Summer about some of her favorite hikes. Summer tells us about her book and what she hopes people get from it. How you can join in on a Fat Girls Hiking trip. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 26, 2022
Waterfall kayaking takes whitewater adventure to the next level
One of the best parts about enjoying our great outdoors is that you can make your time as relaxed or as intense as you wish. You can hike a nice trail to see tall, awe-inspiring waterfalls. You can enjoy some calm, flat waters atop a kayak. Or you can combine the two, take the risk factor up tenfold and paddle your sit-in kayak down a 100-foot tall waterfall (after a lot of training and preparation, of course). Waterfall kayaking is a niche sport that takes kayakers years of whitewater experience to work toward. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk with Michael Jonsson, a waterfall kayaker we spotted at Eagle Creek as he took on Punchbowl Falls and more with two friends. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What is waterfall kayaking and how do you get into it? Michael shares some of his favorite falls to kayak. Michael shares some details we didn’t see at Eagle Creek. How you can make your way to eventually kayak at this level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 19, 2022
Don't sleep on the Bear Hotel, a whimsical attraction in southern Oregon
You may have seen the whimsical bear statues placed around downtown Grants Pass in the summer, but have you ever wondered where they go to hibernate? Their off-season home, a place called the Bear Hotel , is one of the most fascinating under-the-radar attractions in southern Oregon, offering a fun, family-friendly place to spend an afternoon. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Melissa Vierra, marketing manager of Evergreen Federal Bank – which owns and operates the Bear Hotel – to find out more about the colorful attraction. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly is the Bear Hotel? What are some fan favorites among all the bear statues? There’s a lot more than bear statues in the Bear Hotel. More things to do and see in Grants Pass and southern Oregon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 12, 2022
What you need to know about the new Columbia River Gorge permits
The Columbia River Gorge is a staple for Pacific Northwest adventures. From awe-inspiring trail views, to waterfalls and wildflowers, the gorge is a must-see destination, especially with its close proximity to Portland. Visitors this summer, however, will need to do an extra layer of research. It’s a new world in the Gorge during peak hiking season, and chances are you’ll need a permit -- and a plan -- ahead of time. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Jamie and Vickie discuss when the new Columbia River Gorge car permit will go into effect, how to purchase it and how it will be enforced. What trail needs a special permit during wildflower season. What parking permits are required throughout the gorge. Vickie shares some of her favorite gorge hikes. Jamie chats about his favorite wildflower trails. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 05, 2022
Introducing our new co-host, Vickie Connor
Peak Northwest is undergoing some change this spring, with a brand new co-host just in time for the busy travel season. Replacing our original co-host, Jim Ryan – who recently left for Seattle – is Vickie Connor, a videographer for The Oregonian/OregonLive who also works on the Peak Northwest video series . On this week’s episode, we get to know all about Vickie’s background, her interests and what kinds of adventures she’s excited to tackle this year. As a recent transplant to the Pacific Northwest, there’s a lot for her to see. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Vickie didn’t learn to love the outdoors until a little bit later in life. What kinds of travel and outdoor excursions does she enjoy? Dog-friendly adventures are a huge part of her Northwest travel plans. Vickie takes us through her Pacific Northwest bucket list. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 28, 2022
A goodbye to co-host Jim Ryan
Before it was a podcast — or had a name at all — Peak Northwest was Jim Ryan’s offbeat brainchild. Jim, at the time a breaking news reporter, pitched Oregonian/OregonLive editors a video series about how to set out on signature Oregon adventures. The concept stuck — kind of. The news organization launched the Peak Northwest video series , then the podcast , in fall 2019. Video shoots have since taken Jim to the top of Oregon’s tallest mountain , into the waters of the Pacific Ocean and along all 30.2 miles of Portland’s Wildwood Trail . The podcast has given him a chance to talk with an array of passionate guests and share some of our region’s many wonders. But this is Jim’s last episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, as he started a new job Monday as an editor for The Seattle Times. Fear not, Peak Northwest is continuing on with a new co-host and more adventures. In his final episode, Jim shares some of his favorite Oregon places, along with memories from his time in Portland and sentiments about Peak Northwest. Some highlights: Jim tells a story about the formative experience of climbing Mount St. Helens for the first time. He discusses some of his favorite places in Oregon: Mount Hood and Smith Rock State Park among them. Jim details the magic of northwest Oregon’s forested trails, shouting out two of his favorites: the Eagle Creek and Wildwood trails. He describes his appreciation for Portland as a “generalist’s paradise” and shares details about his new job. Jamie Hale provides a primer about the future of Peak Northwest as videographer Vickie Connor joins the podcast as co-host. Jamie and Andrew Theen, podcasts editor, surprise Jim with a montage of funny soundbites. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 21, 2022
Scheming the perfect 3-day spring weekend
Long weekends are cause for celebration — and a prime time for road trips. While we hardly shy away from covering some serious ground during standard two-day weekends, an extra day off gives us an opportunity to set our sights a bit farther afield. And with Memorial Day weekend on the not-too-distant horizon, we decided to dedicate this episode of the Peak Northwest podcast to a collection of top-notch destinations that require a bit more driving than many would like to cram into a two-day weekend. Some highlights: Jamie and Jim wax poetic about the possibilities three-day weekends provide. They rattle off a variety of recommendations for long spring weekends. (Spoiler: Destinations range from Oregon’s Alvord Desert to Washington’s Olympic National Park .) Jim sneaks in a spring skiing suggestion. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 14, 2022
Where to find the best beaches on the southern Oregon coast
There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches on the Oregon coast – especially on the southern coast, home to some of the best sands in the state. Running roughly from Reedsport to the Oregon-California border, the southern Oregon coast features sweeping sand dunes, towering cliffs, tide pools and incredible ocean views. Picking favorites on this stretch of coastline is a tall order. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we do our best to play favorites, pulling out three beaches that stand out above the rest, and picking some of the southern coast’s best non-beach attractions for good measure. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Floras Lake is one of the most fascinating beaches on the southern coast. Tap into your inner child at Sisters Rock. Secret Beach is not much of a secret. There’s a lot more to do on the southern Oregon coast than just visit beaches. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 07, 2022
Fishing 101 with Bill Monroe
The Northwest is an angler’s paradise. The region’s rivers, lakes and coastline boast ample opportunities for fishing and other outdoor pursuits. But we’re far from angling experts here on the Peak Northwest podcast. So we recruited Bill Monroe — who covers fishing, hunting and wildlife for The Oregonian/OregonLive — to give us a primer on one of his favorite pastimes. Some highlights: Bill provides an overview of fishing in the Northwest. He lets us in on the magic of angling and why it’s special to him. Bill rattles off some of the fishing he’s looking forward to in the coming months. He provides tips for people looking to try fishing and recommends some spots for newcomers. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 31, 2022
What to do at Valley of the Rogue, Oregon’s busiest state park
If you had to guess which Oregon state park sees the biggest crowds, you might try busy destinations like Silver Falls or Smith Rock, or maybe big coastal parks like Fort Stevens or Beverly Beach. You probably wouldn’t think of Valley of the Rogue, which was far and away the busiest state park in 2021 , as it has been for years. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Nathan Seable, the man in charge at Oregon’s busiest state park site, to find out why so many people visit – and why most of them are missing out on the southern Oregon park’s best attractions. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Where and what is Valley of the Rogue State Park? Home to a busy rest stop, much of the park is overlooked. Valley of the Rogue is also one of the busiest state park campgrounds in the region. The Rogue River offers great recreational opportunities in the park. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 24, 2022
How to go stargazing in Oregon
On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we talk to Bob Grossfeld, manager of the Sunriver Observatory, where visitors can peer through telescopes to see the wonders of the cosmos. Those who can’t make it out to the observatory can still go stargazing on their own, he explains, with nothing more than a pair of binoculars. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 17, 2022
Do go chasing waterfalls...along Oregon's southern Coast Range
When most Oregonians want waterfalls, we head to the Columbia River Gorge , home to dozens of iconic plunges. But travel toward the Oregon coast instead and you can find many more waterfalls hidden in the forests of the Coast Range mountains. We dedicated a Peak Northwest podcast episode back in 2020 to the waterfalls in the northern part of the range. And on this week’s episode, we talk about some of the most impressive waterfalls in the southern Coast Range. Some highlights: Jamie and Jim describe the splendor of a stroll through the forest, seeking waterfalls that are especially beautiful this time of year. Jamie details the difficulty of finding some of the waterfalls in the southern Coast Range. We discuss a selection of Jamie’s favorite southern Coast Range plunges. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 10, 2022
Take a spring break road trip down Oregon 47
You can always head out to the Oregon coast for spring break, but if you’re hoping to avoid the crush of crowds, consider sticking around the Willamette Valley instead. There’s plenty of fun to be found closer to the Portland metropolitan area, and one corridor in particular where you’ll find a wide variety of attractions that are perfect for a spring break trip: Oregon Route 47. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about the Willamette Valley highway that runs from Clatskanie to McMinnville, cutting through the coast range forests and wine country on its way. From bike paths to hiking trails, food carts to roadside attractions, there’s a lot to find along Oregon 47. Whether you’re taking spring break along with Oregon’s public schools this month, or in need of some trip ideas for later this season, the scenic highway is a perfect place to explore. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 03, 2022
Take a trip to Oregon’s most overlooked state parks
Oregon’s state parks saw more visitors than ever in 2021, but not all parks were packed with people. Among the least-visited state park sites – generally tiny waysides or out-of-the-way parks – there are plenty of overlooked attractions. From waterfalls to ocean beaches and high desert wonders, these stunning parks deserve a little more attention. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dig into five overlooked state parks in Oregon, discussing how, when and why you should pay them a visit. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Two high desert destinations in central Oregon offer fascinating geologic attractions and beautiful trails. An overlooked park in the Columbia Gorge is a good jumping-off point for nearby adventures. Humbug Mountain is easy to miss, but definitely worth a stop on the southern Oregon coast. Golden and Silver Falls is a waterfall wonderland, buried deep in the coastal mountains of southwest Oregon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 24, 2022
Turning a skijoring skeptic into a believer
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we connect with national skijoring champion Jessica Pulliam, who tells us all about the thrilling sport — in which dogs (or horses or vehicles) pull people on skis. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 17, 2022
Where to play, eat and sleep on Mount Hood this winter
Huge crowds of people flock to Mount Hood’s ski areas and sno-parks on beautiful weekends, enjoy the day and drive right back home — only to find themselves stuck in the gridlock of U.S. 26 . It doesn’t have to be that way. With so many great places to see, and so much to do on Mount Hood — not to mention night skiing and other off-peak activities — you might be able to skip some traffic and spend more time on the mountain while you’re at it. This week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast provides a snapshot of some of the best restaurants, attractions and adventures to check out on Mount Hood this winter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 10, 2022
A winter trip to Seaside
Want to check out Seaside, but trying to avoid the crowds? A winter trip is a perfect way to explore all the north Oregon coast town has to offer. On the latest episode of Peak Northwest, Jim Ryan and Jamie Hale break down all the goodness Seaside has to offer. They hit on: - The food scene - The hiking scene - The resplendent winter light Read Jamie’s reports about Seaside See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 03, 2022
How to go Dungeness crabbing for the first time on the Oregon coast
Crabbing is a Pacific Northwest pastime. We gave it a shot late last year, heading out onto Nehalem Bay for a video shoot with an expert from Kelly’s Brighton Marina . And this week on the Peak Northwest podcast, the marina’s owner, Colin Davis, joins us for a discussion about how to go Dungeness crabbing for the first time. Some highlights: Jim references his crabbing trip on Nehalem Bay. Colin breaks down the basics about crabbing. We talk about what first-timers should know before heading out. We discuss crabbing regulations. Colin lets us in on the best time of year to go crabbing. He fills us in on the different experiences of crabbing from a boat or dock. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 27, 2022
How to play in the snow without spending all your cash on downhill skiing, snowboarding
Downhill skiing is one popular way to experience the majesty of the mountains, come wintertime. But there are plenty of other options for those seeking a different kind of mountain experience. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss snowy activities that don’t involve buying a lift ticket or spending time at a ski resort. Check out this guide to Oregon Sno-Park s, read Jamie’s story about his first-ever snowshoeing trip and peruse our guide to Mount Hood in the winter . Watch the latest Peak Northwest video to see Jim try surfing on the Oregon coast . [This is a rebroadcast of a January 2020 'before times' edition of the pod] See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 20, 2022
Enjoying the brews and views of Cascade Locks
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss the beer, cider and wine scene in Cascade Locks — as well as ways to enjoy the outdoors in and around the small Columbia River Gorge town. By the end of the episode, you'll be itching to get in your car — or on your bike — to get to there. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 13, 2022
Northwest Travel Guide 2022
We dig into this year's Northwest Travel Guide and talk about some ideas for the year ahead, from small towns to big outdoor adventures. Spoiler alert: There are many great ideas. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 06, 2022
What to wear for a winter adventure in the Pacific Northwest
Whether you're hiking through a rainy forest, going skiing or exploring the high desert this winter, it's important to dress properly for the conditions. We have tips on what to wear for your outdoor adventures, from head to toe. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 30, 2021
Dense forests of northwest Oregon are a rainy respite in winter
If you're looking for a place to get outside during the dark, rainy days of Oregon winter, look no further than the dense rainforests that surround us. https://www.oregonlive.com/travel/2021/12/forested-hikes-in-northwest-oregon-are-a-perfect-way-to-appreciate-the-rainy-season.html See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 23, 2021
Diving into the Portland dining scene: Peak Northwest podcast
The Peak Northwest podcast normally heads to the great outdoors, but this week we’re keeping it inside for a chat with dining critic Michael Russell about his recent list of Portland’s best new restaurants. Think of it as fuel for your next hike or skiing excursion. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 16, 2021
Previewing Oregon’s ski season
It’s not quite winter — just yet , at least. But it is ski season. And snow is beginning to pile up in the mountains. In this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, hosts Jamie Hale and Jim Ryan offer a preview of Oregon’s ski season. Some highlights: Jamie and Jim discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to affect the ski season. We relay the Climate Prediction Center’s Mount Hood forecast for December 2021 to February 2022. We break down what’s new at Mount Hood resorts and at Mt. Bachelor this season. We provide tips for traveling to and from the mountain — and what to pack in your car. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 09, 2021
Getting into peak holiday spirit
Whether it’s cutting down and decorating a tree, preparing festive dishes for family and friends, or simply spending time with loved ones, the holiday season is steeped in tradition. In this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, hosts Jamie Hale and Jim Ryan reflect on the holiday season by sharing their traditions — and hearing the pastimes of fellow Oregonian/OregonLive journalists. Some highlights: Jamie and Jim discuss their holiday traditions — or lack thereof. Jamie shares a surprising pick for his favorite Christmas album. Several Oregonian/OregonLive journalists share their holiday traditions. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 02, 2021
Camp in comfort at Oregon State Park cabins and yurts
If you enjoy camping but don’t love sleeping on the ground, there’s a nifty solution at some of Oregon’s most popular state parks. In addition to the tent and RV sites that populate campgrounds, some parks come equipped with additional accommodations: cabins and yurts that offer a more comfortable way to spend the night. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we discuss what to expect and what to bring with you if you’re looking to do a little state park glamping. While far from a luxury hotel, these cabins and yurts offer a much cozier way to stay the night immersed in nature. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 25, 2021
Thanksgiving break
We're taking a week off for Thanksgiving, but we'll be back next week with more Pacific Northwest adventures. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 18, 2021
Touring the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a stunning destination in every season, with Cascade Mountain views , beautiful lakes and outdoor adventures right off the highway. Whether you're gearing up for a winter ski trip or planning your next summer road trip, here's what you need to know about the beautiful byway in Oregon's central Cascades. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 11, 2021
Santiam Pass and McKenzie Pass make one super scenic loop
The Santiam Pass-McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway is one super scenic loop drive, taking you across two mountain passes, past beautiful waterfalls and forested trails, and to some of Oregon's most fascinating roadside attractions. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 04, 2021
Hiking, climbing and sightseeing at Smith Rock
On this week's episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss why fall is our favorite time to visit central Oregon's Smith Rock State Park. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 28, 2021
Exploring the otherworldly Oregon Dunes, just in time for "Dune"
What better way to celebrate the release of the new film adaptation of "Dune" than by exploring the landscape that inspired the sci-fi epic in the first place: the stunning Oregon Dunes. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 21, 2021
Exploring the Wilson River Trail, a quiet Coast Range gem:
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss how to day hike and backpack the Wilson River Trail in the Tillamook State Forest. It's a gem, alright. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 14, 2021
How to be prepared for when the Big One hits
Marilyn Bishop, founder of Cascadia Quake Kits, discusses what Pacific Northwest residents should do to be prepared for the Big One on this week's episode of the Peak Northwest podcast. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 07, 2021
Foraging for mushrooms in the Pacific Northwest
It's mushroom season in the Pacific Northwest! To help you in your fungal foraging, we talk to herbalist and experienced forager Chris Smaka about what to look for and how to find it. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 30, 2021
Plan a fall road trip on Oregon's scenic byways
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss Oregon's scenic byways: driving routes that snake their way through every beautiful nook and cranny of the state. Buckle up for a beautiful auditory journey across this wonderful state. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 23, 2021
Finding, and appreciating, Oregon's covered bridges
Did you know Oregon has dozens of covered bridges (54) all over the state? On the latest episode of Peak Northwest, Jamie Hale and Jim Ryan discuss the simple wonders in getting off the main drag and finding Oregon's delightful covered bridges. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 16, 2021
Oregon's least and most popular state parks in 2020
Which state parks saw the most visitors last year, and which saw the least? We break down the numbers from a truly strange year that saw state park visitation plunge across the board. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 09, 2021
Introducing Oregon’s newest backpacking trail
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss the Corvallis-to-the-Sea Trail . Running about 60 miles from downtown Corvallis to Ona Beach south of Newport, the long-distance hiking and mountain biking trail crosses through a dense Coast Range forest, using old logging roads and newly cut trails. Like the neighboring Oregon Coast Trail, some sections of the hike require walking along the shoulders of open roads. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 02, 2021
How to end summer in the PNW
The end of summer looms, but that doesn't mean the end to exciting adventures around Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. On the latest episode of Peak Northwest, Jim and Jamie float a bunch of wonderful options for end of summer activities across the region. [Note: This episode was recorded in 2020 and we held it back due to the catastrophic wildfires, but everything still resonates] See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 26, 2021
How to explore the Lower Rogue River in southwest Oregon
Take a hike, go backpacking, paddle downriver or spend a few nights relaxing at a lodge. There are so many different ways to experience the wild and scenic Rogue River. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 19, 2021
Hiking, biking and sightseeing at Crater Lake
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss hiking, biking and sightseeing options at Oregon's lone national park. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 12, 2021
An Oregon landscape painter on capturing stillness in the wild
On the latest episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, artist Yong Hong Zhong talks about how he pivoted from a career in animation to becoming a renowned watercolors painter. We talked about his method, how people can pick up a paintbrush and start capturing moments in the wild and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 05, 2021
Oregon's redwoods deserve your respect
Most people head to the spectacular redwood groves of northern California, passing by the beautiful, but admittedly smaller, redwoods on the south Oregon coast. We defend our state's honor and discuss what those trees are like, why you should visit and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 29, 2021
Meet the artist behind Oregon's spectacular 'Circles in the Sand'
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we connect with the artist who leads the “Circles in the Sand,” events on the southern Oregon coast. You're going to want to listen to this one twice. The artist, Denny Dyke, drops wisdom left and right. We also talked about other fun things to do in Bandon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 22, 2021
How to plan your outdoor adventures during wildfire season
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss what you should know before planning a trip during Oregon's wildfire season. Reporter Kale Williams also breaks down how Oregon's changing climate is contributing to the state's wildfire season. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 15, 2021
Eagle Creek is finally back open to hikers (again)
After a brief reopening was spoiled by landslides earlier this year, the Eagle Creek Trail has reopened once again , giving many hikers their first taste of the Columbia River Gorge trail since the Eagle Creek fire closed it in 2017. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 08, 2021
How to enjoy Olympic National Park's trails, beaches, campsites and lodges
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss how to enjoy Olympic National Park: from the coastline to the forest, lodges to campgrounds. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 01, 2021
What search & rescue personnel want you to know before hitting the trail
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we're joined by two search & rescue volunteers who share what they want hikers to know before hitting the trail and what hikers should do if they require a rescue, among other topics. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 24, 2021
A Klamath teacher's quest to climb Washington's 100 tallest mountains
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we connect with Jason Hardrath , an Oregon teacher who's trying to climb the 100 mountains on Washington's Bulger List... in 50 days. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 17, 2021
Exploring Low Tide on the Oregon Coast
When the tide is out, there's so much more to discover along Oregon's coastline. From tide pools to hidden treasures, we have the best things to see and do, along with tips on how to stay safe while you're out there. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 10, 2021
Outdoor Dangers in the Pacific Northwest
Heading out into the wilderness is a rich and beautiful experience, but it also comes with some inherent risks. From sneaker waves to hungry bears, we'll go over all the biggest dangers people face in the outdoors, and how to stay safe while you're out there. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 03, 2021
100 Things to do in Oregon
On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, reporter Lizzy Acker joins us to discuss a list of over 100 Oregon destinations made for those looking to get back out and explore now that it’s becoming safer to do so. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 27, 2021
Where to hike and visit on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge
The Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge is often overlooked in favor of the popular attractions on the Oregon side of the gorge. But the Washington side has plenty to offer in its own right. And this week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss where to hike and visit on the oft-jilted side of the gorge. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 20, 2021
The best places to visit, eat and drink in Oregon's capital city
There’s far more to see in Salem than the state Capitol topped with a golden lumberjack, and far more to do than visit the state fair. The “Cherry City” boasts a vibrant food scene, beautiful public gardens and riverfront parks, all nestled into the center of the Willamette Valley. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we detail the best attractions, outdoor spaces and places to eat and drink in Oregon's capital city. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 13, 2021
Exploring Oregon's central coast
It’s hard to play favorites when it comes to the Oregon coast, yet we find ourselves returning, time and again, to the central stretch of our coastline. Looking for natural wonders? How about Cape Perpetua and the Oregon Dunes. Want a beach town to settle into? Try Yachats, Newport or Depoe Bay. There are good restaurants everywhere and roadside attractions galore, from the Sea Lion Caves to Thor’s Well and Ripley’s Believe it or Not. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we highlight some of the best places to see on the central Oregon coast, helping you plan your own perfect getaway out to the ocean – just don’t expect to see it all on one trip. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 06, 2021
Exploring Silver Falls’ waterfall wonderland on the Trail of Ten Falls
The Northwest is home to some seriously incredible waterfall hikes, but there’s nothing else quite like the Trail of Ten Falls, which passes by 10 beautiful waterfalls in Silver Falls State Park. The waterfalls are the result of millions of years of geology, formed as streams and creeks cut through layers of ash and volcanic basalt, deposited by eruptions in the Cascade Mountains. They range from the 177-foot South Falls to 27-foot Drake Falls, each beautiful in its own unique way. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we offer a primer on the spectacular Trail of Ten Falls — and what else Silver Falls State Park has to offer. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 29, 2021
How nature built the Pacific Northwest we love to explore
The Northwest is home to a host of fascinating natural features, from the Columbia River Gorge to the coastline and Cascades. But have you ever wondered what natural forces have shaped the landscapes we love? This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we connect with Leslie Moclock and Jacob Selander , the authors of “ Rocks, Minerals, and Geology of the Pacific Northwest ,” for a primer on our region’s geology. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 22, 2021
How to see wildflowers in the Columbia River Gorge
There are few sites more beautiful than fields of wildflowers over the Columbia River Gorge. Already one of the most scenic places in the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia Gorge gets a big splash of color each spring as rolling hills on either side of the river fill with yellow, purple, pink, white and red flowers. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk about not just where to go to see the flowers, but also when to visit and how to enjoy them responsibly. Read Jamie’s full story, How to see wildflowers in the Columbia River Gorge. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 15, 2021
Make the most of Portland’s sprawling Forest Park
Forest Park is one of the best natural spaces in Oregon, and one of the best urban forests in the U.S. It’s no wonder that so many people cherish the Portland park. But accessing Forest Park isn’t as easy as other outdoor recreation areas. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we dive into Portland’s sprawling urban forest, going over the trailheads, trails and best sites to see while you’re there. Read Jamie’s full story, Forest Park unraveled: How to discover Portland’s sprawling urban forest . See Jim’s video about running the length of the Wildwood Trail through Forest Park. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 08, 2021
Help scientists by taking snow measurements on your next backcountry trip
Meet Dave Hill and Nina Aragon, two Oregon State University researchers behind the Community Snow Observations project, which enables backcountry users, such as snowmobilers and snowshoers, to submit snow depth measurements using a mobile app. Those measurements are important for more than just recreation, as they help researchers better understand the snowpack and hazards such as avalanches. They also support water runoff models that inform us about water resources, ecology, tourism and the effects of a changing climate. Jim took a trip to Santiam Pass earlier this year, during which Dave and Nina taught him how to take proper snow depth measurements. The trip was captured in the latest episode of the Peak Northwest video series. Find it here: https://youtu.be/V6os0rGRZVM Find the Community Snow Observations project communitysnowobs.org . You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 01, 2021
5 great evening hikes for longer days
As the sun sets later and later this spring, we’re getting a little more time every evening to get out and explore the nature. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we take a look at some of the best spring evening hiking spots around the Portland metropolitan area and break down our top five favorites. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 25, 2021
Planning (but not actually taking) our dream vacations
On this week's episode of the show, we depart the beautiful Pacific Northwest — purely hypothetically, of course. As many folks dream of vacations they'll take post-pandemic, we share some of the big trips we've dreamed up. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 18, 2021
Shoulder season travel shows a different side of the Pacific Northwest
Traveling during the shoulder season – just before or just after the peak season for tourism – is not just a way to beat the crowds, but an opportunity to see the Pacific Northwest in a whole new light. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we go over some of our favorite shoulder season destinations and some of the precautions you might need to take before heading out there this spring. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 11, 2021
The keepers of Oregon's hiking trails (and how you can help)
On this week's episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, two representatives from the nonprofit Trailkeepers of Oregon discuss what it takes to maintain hiking trails and how you can get involved. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 04, 2021
How 2 campers got stranded in the Oregon mountains and survived
Henry Backus and Matisse Nash set out late to the Cascade Mountains from Portland. The two planned to stay the night at a secluded campsite east of Eugene, then visit a nearby hot springs in the morning. What was supposed to be a quick overnighter turned into a three-day nightmare, as heavy snow started to fall in the mountains, trapping their car on a remote forest road. Their story is a cautionary tale for all who venture out to Oregon’s mountains in winter, but also one that shows how to escape a hairy situation with some quick thinking, hard work and a little bit of luck. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 25, 2021
Watching whales on the Oregon coast
Gray whales will once again migrate past the Pacific Northwest this spring, bringing some 25,000 of the massive mammals to the Oregon coast. Even though that seems like a sizable crowd, they can be hard to spot. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we have some whale watching tips and tricks that are sure to help you out. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 18, 2021
How to camp in the snow
Aching to go camping? You don't have to wait for warmer weather. We provide a rundown of how to go snow camping in the snow — and stay warm while you're out. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 11, 2021
Cannon Beach a lively winter destination, despite COVID complications
Watch a powerful storm batter the coastline, hike through a lush coastal rainforest, enjoy a good meal from a local restaurant and catch a radiant sunset over Haystack Rock. Winter is a magical time at Cannon Beach, and one that scores of tourists have been enjoying this season , even as the experience is blunted by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss what this winter has been like at the tourist town on the north Oregon coast, and how to navigate the restrictions and risks brought about by COVID-19. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 11, 2021
Cannon Beach a lively winter destination, despite COVID complications
Watch a powerful storm batter the coastline, hike through a lush coastal rainforest, enjoy a good meal from a local restaurant and catch a radiant sunset over Haystack Rock. Winter is a magical time at Cannon Beach, and one that scores of tourists have been enjoying this season , even as the experience is blunted by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss what this winter has been like at the tourist town on the north Oregon coast, and how to navigate the restrictions and risks brought about by COVID-19. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 04, 2021
Spotting bald eagles in southern Oregon
If you’re looking for bald eagles, head to the border between southern Oregon and northern California. Every winter, the Klamath Basin hosts the largest concentration of bald eagles in the continental U.S., according to the Klamath Basin Audubon Society. The birds tend to hang around between late November and early March, with the largest numbers showing up in January and February, so it’s the right time to head to the Oregon-California border and scope out the eagles for yourself. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we break down what you want to know before heading off on a bird watching trip to see bald eagles in the Klamath Basin. Photojournalist and eagle enthusiast Mark Graves joins us later in the show. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 28, 2021
How to make travel plans for an uncertain 2021
On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss the challenges of travel planning in a strange and uncertain year, using this year’s Northwest Travel Guide as a jumping-off point to generate a few ideas. Uncertainty doesn’t have to mean stagnation, but the unique circumstances surrounding this year will require Pacific Northwest travelers to be strategic and creative See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 21, 2021
What will it take to turn an old rail line into the 86-mile Salmonberry Trail?
Late last year, Peak Northwest co-host Jim Ryan took a tour of the Salmonberry Trail , a historic rail line that’s currently closed to the public but could one day become an 86-mile multi-use path connecting the Portland area to the Oregon coast. For this week's episode of the podcast, we connected with Jon-Paul Bowles, executive director of the Salmonberry Trail Foundation and Jim's guide on the Salmonberry last year, to learn more about the rails-to-trails project. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 14, 2021
How to find healing in nature
We all know that nature can be healing, but sometimes it’s not just as easy as going outside. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we spoke with Zoë Presley , a Portland-based psychotherapist and forest therapy guide, to talk about "forest bathing" and help us understand how best to find healing in the great outdoors. Read Jamie’s previous story about finding healing in nature at home during the pandemic. Learn more about forest therapy online , You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 07, 2021
The rise of the rookie hiker
Crowded trailheads. Packed campgrounds. Busy beaches, rivers and lakes. Oregon outdoor recreation areas saw a huge flood of visitors in 2020 , many of whom were new to outdoor recreation. We discuss the crowds and offer some advice for people who don’t have a lot of outdoor recreation experience. (Don’t miss our previous episodes on Camping 101 , Backpacking 101 and relieving yourself responsibly while in nature .) You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 31, 2020
Building the ultimate adventure vehicle
Many outdoor enthusiasts have dreamed of building their ultimate adventure vehicles— the type of rigs you can use to get where you’re going and sleep comfortably along the way. For this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we caught up with Brooke Weeber , a Portland-based artist and adventurer who built out her own adventure van in 2020. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 24, 2020
Out on your own: How to travel solo
Traveling with friends and family is fun, but there’s something special about enjoying the Pacific Northwest on your own. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into both the joys and difficulties of solo travel – from day hikes to road trips – getting some advice from Kim Waara, an avid solo traveler based in Portland. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 17, 2020
Utah monolith conjures memory of Alvord Desert designs
A mysterious monolith placed in — and later removed from — the Utah desert captivated the country this fall. And while we were following the twists and turns of the story, our minds wandered back to another high-profile case that raised questions about art and vandalism in nature , this on in southeast Oregon. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 10, 2020
Where to find a perfect fir for the holidays? Try a national forest
Why pay top dollar for a perfect Christmas tree when you can pay a nominal fee, tromp off into the woods and cut down your own ? While you might not walk away with the prettiest fir in the world, harvesting your Christmas tree from the national forest is a Pacific Northwest pastime – and a great excuse to get outside this time of year. On this week’s episode, we get some advice from Heather Ibsen, public affairs officer with the Mount Hood National Forest, who has a lot of experience cutting Christmas trees from the forest. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 03, 2020
16 Columbia River Gorge waterfalls in 1 day
Back before the COVID-19 pandemic set in here in Oregon, Peak Northwest co-host Jim Ryan schemed up a mission: try to see as many Columbia River Gorge waterfalls as possible — from sunrise to sundown. He recruited co-host Jamie Hale and video producer Brooke Herbert, and they headed out to the gorge. By sundown, they’d seen 16 waterfalls — and captured each of them on camera. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, Jim and Jamie relive the trip, which spanned from Vista House to Starvation Creek Falls. Check out the new Peak Northwest video episode about the excursion . You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 26, 2020
Staying active during the dreary days of a Northwest winter
As the Northwest weather turns dreary, we're looking for ways to stay active through the winter — especially this year, when we're staying close to home. We'll also take a look back at lessons learned from Oregon's first coronavirus shutdown. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 19, 2020
Hiking the Tillamook Burn, 70 years after the wildfires
As the smoke clears on yet another devastating wildfire season in Oregon, questions naturally begin to arise: How bad is it? When can we go back? How long will it take for the forests to grow back? Answers don’t always come quickly or easily, but to the question of “how long,” we can at least turn to some of the forests in Oregon that have been devastated by other major fires – most notably the Tillamook Burn. The Tillamook Burn was actually a series of wildfires that burned the same part of the northern Coast Range every six years between 1933 and 1951. And while it’s not a perfect comparison to some of the recent wildfires, the re-growing forest there can offer hope to those feeling despondent over the fire damage this year. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss the many hiking trails that wind through the Tillamook State Forest, exploring a forest in the process of recovery nearly 70 years after the Tillamook Burn. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 12, 2020
What will Oregon’s ski season look like during the pandemic?
On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we speak with Dave Tragethon from Mt. Hood Meadows about what precautions the ski resort has made amid the coronavirus pandemic, and what skiing will look like this season. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 05, 2020
Hiking around Camas, a surprising suburban escape
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we make the case for spending that time hiking in Camas — the small suburban town in southwest Washington. And to help us out, we brought on Camas resident Sally Hale, who just happens to be Jamie's mother. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 29, 2020
Oregon’s spookiest travel destinations
On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast , we’re highlighting some of the spookiest travel destinations in Oregon, whether you’re planning a Halloween vacation or are in search of a spooky day hike for the season. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 22, 2020
Getting hooked on fly fishing
Oregon’s rivers and lakes hold endless appeal, beckoning enthusiasts of all kinds to their chilly waters. There are the swimmers and boaters, the kayakers and the stand-up paddleboarders. And then, of course, there are the anglers: those casting out in search of their latest catch. Peak Northwest podcast hosts Jim Ryan and Jamie Hale are fishing novices. But on this week’s show, colleague and avid angler Rosemarie Stein gives them the rundown on Oregon fly fishing . You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 15, 2020
Meet the Oregon runner who made record time on the PCT this summer
Seven days, 19 hours, 23 minutes. That’s how long it took Eugene resident Emily Halnon to run the length of Oregon, from south to north, on the famed Pacific Crest Trail this summer. Halnon set a new record time on the Oregon section of the PCT, which totals over 450 miles, and raised more than $33,000 for rare cancer research in the process. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, Halnon discusses her record-setting run, the planning it required and the reason she set off in the first place. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 08, 2020
The best things to do in Astoria (even now)
Head to the mouth of the Columbia River, where the mightiest river in the American West meets the biggest ocean on the planet, and you’ll find one of the greatest little cities in Oregon. Astoria has always had a lot to offer visitors, and that remains true amid the coronavirus pandemic – though it understandably changed the tourism experience . On this week’s Peak Northwest podcast, we talk about what visiting Astoria is like these days, and the best things to do while you’re there. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 01, 2020
6 places to see Oregon's finest fall color
Oregon is an evergreen state, known for its iconic Douglas-firs and their coniferous brethren. But come autumn, the state’s deciduous trees can also put on quite the show — bursting with fall color and making some of our beloved outdoor areas even more beautiful. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 24, 2020
Meet the Portland runner who set the fastest time around Mount Rainier
The Wonderland Trail circles Mount Rainier, rising and falling through jaw-dropping, arduous terrain over the course of roughly 90 miles. For most, the trip is measured in days. But for a select few, it takes only hours. Portland ultrarunner and middle school teacher Tyler Green recently became the fastest person to circle Mount Rainier via the Wonderland Trail — claiming the fastest known time, or “FKT,” with a record of 16 hours, 40 minutes and 55 seconds. Green spoke last month with Peak Northwest hosts Jamie Hale and Jim Ryan about his record-setting run. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bonus · Thu, September 17, 2020
A message from Jamie and Jim
With wildfires still burning across the Northwest, we're putting some of the episodes we'd already recorded on the shelf. Instead, we talked a little this week about the fires, their effects on people across the region and, of course, how they’ve affected some of the outdoor spaces we treasure. We'll be back with more episodes soon. Meanwhile, please stay safe and healthy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 10, 2020
We'll be back soon
In light of the devastating wildfires in Oregon and across much of the West Coast, our planned episode about late summer travel spots just didn't seem appropriate. Be safe, stick close to home, and consider staying inside if there's smoke in the air. Hang in there. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Thu, September 03, 2020
4 day trips to 4 different Oregon landscapes
On a recent week of vacation, Jamie took four day trips to four different ecosystems within three hours of Portland, finding a safe way to visit several stunning landscapes in a short period of time. On this week’s episode, Jamie talks about his various excursions, from the slopes of Mount St. Helens to the Oregon coast, and from lush forests to the arid high desert. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 27, 2020
Climbing 3 mountains on an Oregon Cascades road trip
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, Jim gives us the lowdown on his adventure climbing three of Oregon’s beautiful mountains in three days. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 20, 2020
Washington's volcanoes: What to do at Mount Adams, Rainier, St. Helens
Mount Hood towers over Portland, but these other volcanic peaks aren't all that far, and they have a lot to offer. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 13, 2020
Backpacking Mount Hood's Timberline Trail
The Timberline Trail is one of Oregon’s most iconic footpaths. It circumnavigates Mount Hood over roughly 40 miles, traveling through forests, across rivers and through gorgeous meadows — providing backpackers with spectacular views at every turn. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we connected with Portland hiker Kyla Skerry, who recently solo-hiked the trail. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 06, 2020
Find a lake to beat the heat
Hot summer weather has a way of convincing you to ditch your worldly obligations with a single destination in mind: one of Oregon’s stunning lakes. Our previous episode on Oregon hot springs, referenced in this episode: https://play.acast.com/s/peaknorthwest/oregonhotsprings You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 30, 2020
Backpacking 101
While the rewards of backpacking abound, it can be difficult to get started — and plan your first trips. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we cover some backpacking basics and provide recommendations for hikers seeking a night or two in the backcountry. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 23, 2020
How to take better pictures in nature
The Pacific Northwest is home to plenty of awesome scenes of natural beauty , but capturing that moment in an awesome photo requires a little more effort. Here are some tips, tricks and tools of the trade to help you take better pictures outside. You don't need anything more than your phone. Check out Jim’s great photo from a recent climb up Three Fingered Jack. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 16, 2020
Camping 101
This episode of the Peak Northwest podcast is all about planning and packing for your next overnight outdoor excursion. We've got tips for beginners and experienced campers alike. You can support this podcast and our local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 09, 2020
Get back in hiking shape after a spring inside
After months of sticking close to home, hikers in the Pacific Northwest are finally getting back out on the trail. But for those of us who have become a little out shape during the pandemic, as well as those who may be getting into hiking shape for the first time, those first couple hikes can be a struggle. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we’ve offered up 10 tips for feeling better on the trail, from what you eat to how you breathe. Check our updated list of what outdoor spaces have reopened and what’s still closed before going out. You can support this podcast and local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 02, 2020
Where to escape the crowds at popular outdoor areas in Oregon
It can be hard to escape crowds in a normal year, let alone a time when more people than ever are sticking close to home and in search of an escape into nature. One way to beat the crowds is to skip the popular areas and head to some lesser-known hiking trails and other natural areas. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we offer up a dozen lesser-known spots at three of Oregon’s most popular recreation areas: the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood and the Oregon coast. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 25, 2020
How to spice up your camp cooking
It’s high time to dial in your camp cooking setup. We aren’t exactly experts in this department. So we enlisted the help of Samantha Bakall , a freelance food, diversity and travel writer who’s long honed the art of whipping up a delicious camp meal. Subscribe to Six Feed, a newsletter that Samantha co-authors about local dining during the pandemic, at sixfeed.substack.com . You can support this podcast and local journalism with a subscription to OregonLive. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 18, 2020
Headed back outside? Our recommendations for where to go
Summer is only days away, and many outdoor spaces have reopened amid the coronavirus crisis.But the question remains: Where should I go? This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we offer some recommendations for people looking to get their nature fix. Take a look at Oregon's wilderness areas . Check our regularly updated list of what outdoor spaces have reopened and what areas are still closed. You can support this podcast and local journalism by subscribing to OregonLive. Go to OregonLive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 04, 2020
How to plan a day trip during the coronavirus outbreak
Many outdoor areas throughout the region have reopened after being closed because of the coronavirus pandemic . But just because your favorite outdoor area is open doesn’t mean you should expect business as usual when you arrive — or that you should travel there at all. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss how to plan safe, responsible day trips during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Check our regularly updated list of what outdoor spaces have reopened and what areas are still closed. Have a question for us about how to navigate the outdoors in the COVID-19 age? Leave a voicemail on our podcast hotline, 503-221-4345, or send a voice memo to podcasts@oregonian.com . We hope to answer some of your questions on future episodes. Support this podcast and local journalism by subscribing to OregonLive for just $10 a month. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 28, 2020
Tips for hitting the trail during the coronavirus outbreak
As the coronavirus crisis continues, closures and restrictions remain in place for many outdoor areas across the region. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we continue to dig into the complicated issues around recreating outside during the pandemic. Check our regularly updated list of what outdoor spaces have reopened and what areas are still closed. Read Jamie’s story about whether people need to wear a face mask while hiking . View a handy chart about how to handle your business outdoors. Support this podcast and local journalism by subscribing to OregonLive for just $10 a month. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 21, 2020
Outdoor spaces are slowly reopening. Now what?
Trails, parks and boat ramps are slowly reopening in Oregon as we inch our way closer to summer. But with the coronavirus pandemic ongoing, the threat of transmitting COVID-19 in public places means that closures and restrictions remain in place for many outdoor spaces across the state. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we cut through the confusion and answer some of the big questions outdoor enthusiasts have right now. Check our regularly updated list of what outdoor spaces have reopened and what’s still closed before going out. Support this podcast and local journalism by subscribing to OregonLive for just $10 a month. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 14, 2020
Campfire stories: A mountain climbing misadventure and cross-country road trip
In the finale of our campfire stories, producer Dave Killen shares the tale of a mountain climbing misadventure and cross-country road trip. Then, we share a heartwarming story from a listener. We're getting back to more typical Peak Northwest programming, but we've loved hearing and sharing stories from listeners, and we want to keep that going. If you’d like to submit a story, leave a message on our podcast hotline, 503-221-4345, or send a voice memo to podcasts@oregonian.com . Support this podcast and local journalism by subscribing to OregonLive for just $10 a month. Go to oregonlive.com/podsupport . Thank you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 07, 2020
Campfire stories: Our spookiest tales
We're focusing on tales of spooky adventures on this week’s Peak Northwest podcast episode — the latest in our series of campfire tales. Want to submit an outdoors or adventure story of your own? Leave a message on our podcast hotline, 503-221-4345, or send a voice memo to podcasts@oregonian.com . We’re hoping to feature more submitted stories in future episodes, and we’d love to hear from you. Reliable local journalism matters now more than ever. Please support our work for just $10 a month. Subscribe now. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 30, 2020
Campfire stories: Your memorable animal encounters
We asked for your stories from the outdoors. And you delivered, responding with some darn good ones. So this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast — the fourth in our series of campfire tales — features several great stories submitted over the past few weeks. Want to submit an outdoors or adventure story of your own? Leave a message on our podcast hotline, 503-221-4345, or send a voice memo to podcasts@oregonian.com . We’re hoping to feature more submitted stories in future episodes, and we’d love to hear from you. Reliable local journalism matters now more than ever. Please support our work for just $10 a month. Subscribe now . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 23, 2020
Campfire stories: Adventures that pushed us to our limits
We all like to share the best moments from our outdoor adventures, but sometimes our most difficult experiences are the most rewarding. On this week’s episode, we look past the pretty photos to share experiences that pushed us to the limit — and taught us some valuable lessons in the process. We want to hear your stories, too! To submit your own campfire story, leave a message on our podcast hotline, 503-221-4345, or send a voice memo to podcasts@oregonian.com . We’ll be featuring some of our favorites in future episodes, and we’d love to hear from you. Reliable local journalism matters now more than ever. Please support our work for just $10 a month. Subscribe now . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 16, 2020
Campfire stories: Our unforgettable animal encounters
Whether it’s a bear sighting, a critter who gets too close or a feisty creature who wants you to scram, we all have stories about memorable contacts with animals while out in nature. So this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast — the latest in our “campfire stories” series — is dedicated to unforgettable animal encounters. Leave a message on our podcast hotline, 503-221-4345, or send a voice memo to podcasts@oregonian.com . We’re hoping to feature some of our favorites in future episodes, and we’d love to hear from you. Reliable local journalism matters now more than ever. Please support our work for just $10 a month. Subscribe now . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 09, 2020
Campfire stories: A climb takes an unexpected twist; a run-in with a sooty grouse
We’re breaking out some of our favorite campfire stories, and and we want to hear yours! If you’re interested in sharing a story from a past adventure, leave a message on our podcast hotline, 503-221-4345, or send a voice memo to podcasts@oregonian.com . Keep your stories about 3 minutes or less. We hope to include some of our favorites in future episodes. Read Jamie’s story about his trip to the Enchanted Valley. Check out Jim’s report about how firefighters saved the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge. Watch Jim’s latest Peak Northwest video or catch up on past episodes . Reliable local journalism matters now more than ever. Please support our work for just $10 a month. Subscribe now . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 02, 2020
How to stay active while stuck inside
Spring has sprung in the Pacific Northwest, but our favorite outdoor spaces are presently sitting empty, as most of us stick close to home to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus in Oregon. It hasn’t been easy for the outdoorsy among us. After all, a walk around the neighborhood is no hike in the mountains. But there are ways to stay active and sane during this period of quarantine. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we explore some of the routines, workouts and escapes we’ve been trying at home. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 26, 2020
The state of travel and recreation amid the coronavirus outbreak
The ongoing coronavirus outbreak has shaken up life as we know it, with thousands of people in the Northwest becoming sick and many more finding themselves unemployed. Amid the upheaval, a loss of travel and recreation should fall low on our list of concerns. But we, like you, long for days outdoors. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 19, 2020
Tricks for traveling with kids
Traveling with kids can be a challenge, albeit one with great rewards.For this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we talked to a panel of parents to get their tips and tricks about traveling with kids. We also talked to a younger pair of experts on the topic. NOTE: Since the coronavirus outbreak has spread through Oregon and around the world, traveling with kids (or even traveling at all) is not a great idea right now. With that in mind, these tips are great to keep in your back pocket for whenever you hit the road again. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 12, 2020
Our guide to last-minute spring break road trips
Oregon’s spring break is fast approaching. And while lots of spring breakers have their plans set in stone, some others don’t. At least not yet. So this week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we rattle off road trip ideas for the lucky folks who have time off later this month... but don’t quite know what to do with it. We’d be remiss, of course, not to reference the spread of the coronavirus in the Northwest and around the world. We urge spring breakers to stay up on the news and heed the advice of public officials as the virus continues to spread. Check out Jamie’s compilations of spring break destinations around Oregon , the state’s best roadside attractions and spring break ideas around Portland . Plan for warmer days with Jamie’s list of 12 epic summer road trips across Oregon . Listen to our podcast episode about things to do in the snow — especially if you’re interested in our first road trip suggestion. Watch Jim’s most recent Peak Northwest video episode . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 05, 2020
A guide to Portland running, trails and races
The heartiest of runners pound the pavement year-round. But as spring approaches, the prospect of warmer, sunnier days is bound to beckon more runners to Portland’s sidewalks and trails. So before the season turns, we sat down with Oregonian/OregonLive engagement editor Julie Evensen, an avid runner, to talk all things running. Read Jamie’s Portland runner’s guide to check out a compilation of footraces and runs around the city this year. Watch the latest episode of the Peak Northwest video series , where Jim and his partner ski to one of Oregon’s famed fire lookouts. Check out a previous video episode, where Jim and his partner run the 30.2-mile Wildwood Trail . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 27, 2020
Some of Oregon's least popular parks are worth a visit
Oregon has a lot of extremely busy state parks, but it also has plenty of places that see few visitors at all. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we talk to Seth Miller, executive director of the Oregon State Park Foundation, to discuss the least visited state parks from 2019. See Jamie’s story on the 20 least popular Oregon state parks , and the 20 most popular Oregon state parks from 2019. Watch a video of bighorn sheep being flown into Cottonwood Canyon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 20, 2020
Our favorite winter hikes in the Portland area
We discuss a few of our favorite winter options in and around Portland. We also shout out some Portland-area wildlife preserves that are worth a visit. Check out Jamie’s rundown of 10 wildlife preserves close to Portland . Watch a Peak Northwest video episode of Jim running the Wildwood Trail . Head over to the Hoyt Arboretum website to peruse its seasonal highlights. Watch Jim’s most recent Peak Northwest video episode, in which he goes climbing at Smith Rock State Park . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 13, 2020
Chasing waterfalls in Oregon’s Coast Range
We head to the rainy Coast Range mountains to discover hidden waterfalls in the woods. See Jamie’s stories on Niagara Falls and Drift Creek Falls . Also check out our list of the 10 things to pack for a day hike in Oregon , and get some tips on rainy day hiking in our previous episode of the podcast. To find directions to some of the more remote waterfalls, as well other hikes around Oregon, head to OregonHikers.org . Follow Peak Northwest on Instagram at @PeakNorthwest . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaph
Thu, February 06, 2020
Why Bend shines in the wintertime
Bend is a special place any time of year, but we’re particularly fond of Oregon’s high-desert hangout during the wintertime. Read Jamie’s 20 reasons to love Bend , and check out Michael Russell’s beer lover’s guide to central Oregon . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 30, 2020
Playing in the snow: The everything-but-downhill-skiing edition
Downhill skiing is one popular way to experience the majesty of the mountains, come wintertime. But there are plenty of other options for those seeking a different kind of mountain experience. This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss snowy activities that don’t involve buying a lift ticket or spending time at a ski resort. Check out this guide to Oregon Sno-Park s, read Jamie’s story about his first-ever snowshoeing trip and peruse our guide to Mount Hood in the winter . Watch the latest Peak Northwest video to see Jim try surfing on the Oregon coast . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 23, 2020
How yurts helped save Oregon parks
This week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast dives into the surprising history of yurts in Oregon — and why campers went nuts for them. Jamie and Jim are joined by Craig Tutor, the former state parks manager who first put yurts into parks back in the early 1990s. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 16, 2020
Finding the best fish, chips and chowder on the Oregon coast
The Oregon coast’s signature cuisine can be summarized in four words: fish, chips and chowder. We sit down with Michael Russell, the Oregonian/OregonLive’s restaurant reporter and critic, to discuss where to find the coast’s finest. Check out Jamie’s 10 favorite fish and chips spots on the Oregon coast. Read Michael’s rundown of where to eat on the North Oregon Coast . Peruse Jamie’s guide to the chowder belt of the Oregon coast . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 09, 2020
Learn to embrace the rainy day hike
One of the best ways to get through Oregon’s rainy season is to embrace it. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk about the best places to go hiking in the rain, and the preparations you should take before striking off into the elements. Read Jamie’s list of the 12 best rainy day hikes around Oregon . Watch the latest Peak Northwest video to see Jim try out surfing on the Oregon coast . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 02, 2020
How to plan your 2020 Northwest travels
The new year has only just begun, but it’s already high time to start making your 2020 travel plans around the Pacific Northwest. On this week’s Peak Northwest podcast, we go over some helpful tips for booking campsites, hotels and fire lookouts around the region. We also offer up some ideas for trips around Oregon and beyond and dive into some of our own plans for the year ahead. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 26, 2019
Looking back on a year of adventure
Jim and Jamie look back at their respective years of adventure and exploration. Amy Wang, The Oregonian/OregonLive’s newsletter editor and books columnist, talks about her year-long quest to visit 50 fun places. Reporter Shane Dixon Kavanaugh discusses his backpacking trip on the beautiful Rogue River Trail. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 19, 2019
Oregon hot springs beckon this winter
There are natural hot springs all over Oregon and the greater Pacific Northwest, from rustic mountain springs to high desert resorts. We talk with reporter Molly Harbarger and hot spring aficionado Dana Halferty to talk about where to find hot springs, how to soak in them and why these warm water oases are so popular in the first place. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 12, 2019
Ski season preview
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we join The Oregonian/OregonLive's sports trending editor, Tim Brown, to discuss what skiers and snowboarders need to know before heading up to the mountain this season. (And before you take a trip to the mountain, note that the Dairy Queen restaurant we reference in the episode is in Rhododendron — not Zigzag, as we said.) Read Jim's ski season preview 13 places to eat and drink around Mount Hood See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 05, 2019
Hood River’s heralded beer scene
Whether you’re looking for a funky farmhouse, barrel-aged Belgian or impeccable pub ale, Hood River’s breweries offer a pint for every palate . This week, Oregonian/OregonLive beer reporter Andre Meunier discusses the city's heralded beer scene. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 28, 2019
Adventures in the Alvord Desert
This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we’re talking all things Alvord Desert. The seasonally dry lakebed in the far southeastern corner of the state is known for its beautiful cracked playa, stunning scenery and the adventures it affords – from quiet exploring to jet-powered vehicles. Jamie dives into his recent trip to the playa , where he soaked in hot springs, caught a sunset and did some late-night stargazing. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 21, 2019
Is Pendleton more than just a rodeo town?
Everybody knows Pendleton for its rodeo, blankets and whiskey, but you’d be doing the eastern Oregon town a disservice by not checking out all the rest it has to offer. Don't miss Beth Nakamura's photos from the Pendleton Round-Up . Read Jayati Ramakrishnan's stories on navigating the Round-Up and encouraging Portlanders to check out the other side of Oregon . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 21, 2019
Stand-up whitewater paddleboarding on the lower Deschutes River
Welcome to Peak Northwest. This week on the podcast, we discuss Jim’s foray into whitewater stand-up paddleboarding, how whitewater SUPing first got on his radar and what it takes to stay upright on the river. Don't miss this video about the trip . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Trailer · Thu, November 07, 2019
Coming Soon: Peak Northwest
Peak Northwest will take you to some of the most beautiful and interesting destinations in our region. Meet your guides, Jamie Hale and Jim Ryan. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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