Lifestyle

The author's toddler and dog walking on the trail, with trees on side and a downslope on the other.

On Walking a Toddler in the Woods

Personal essay by Lisa Laughlin reflecting on how motherhood has changed how she experiences trails, hiking, and the great outdoors.

Lisa Laughlin February 10, 2022

Black bear walking across a clearing in a forest.

Why Washington’s Spring Bear Hunt Was Canceled

Washington Fish & Wildlife Commission made the controversial decision to cancel the 2022 spring bear hunt only because of a tie-vote.

Adam Gebauer February 9, 2022

Illustration of a car attached to reindeer, like Santa's sleight, flying through the sky.

Ski Bum Advice ~ Poem: The Night Before Skiing

Seasonal parody poem by OTO's official ski bum Brad Northrup -- a former ski racer, coach, and ski industry professional.

Brad Northrup February 8, 2022

3 Steps For Healthy and Balanced Goal-Setting

Three key questions to guide self-reflection for improving wellness and to help align priorities and set goals that enhance life balance.

Out There Outdoors February 8, 2022

Illustration of a person fatbiking on a snow covered trail.

Winter Fatbike Racing: The Pursuit of Ultra Fatness

Long-distance winter fatbike racing is grueling, but that's why some riders say they do it. Meet Inland NW bikers who embrace the challenge.

Justin M. Short February 8, 2022

Kayaker taking short drop from a rock into whitewater river.

Trip Report: North Cascades Whitewater Kayaking

Bridge Creek to the Stehekin River is a remote, multi-day, self-supported whitewater run through the North Cascades to Lake Chelan, Wash.

Out There Outdoors February 7, 2022

View of cross-country ski tips along snow groomed corduroy trail..

Ski for Light Helps Adaptive Skiers

Ski for Light promotes skiing for individuals with vision and mobility-impairments, and Spokane Nordic Ski Association members were to attend a now-canceled event.

Out There Outdoors January 31, 2022

Bikes parked at Riverside State Park's Nine Mile Falls Dam area.

Imagine Bikepacking a New “Spokane Trail”

What if Spokane had a long-distance trail encircling the city that connected parks and conservations areas using existing trails & pathways?

Derrick Knowles January 28, 2022

The view of downtown from Palisades Park's Rimrock Drive: urban downtown Spokane in the distance, with forest between rocky outcropping and city center.

Easy Strolling & City Views At Palisades Park

Palisades Park's Rimrock Drive, a wide gravel path perched above the western edge of downtown Spokane, is ideal for a quick walk or run.

Lisa Laughlin January 28, 2022