Peak Northwest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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