Peak Northwest The Oregonian/OregonLive

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.


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-- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor
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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.


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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.


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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.


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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.


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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.


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