Peak Northwest

The Oregonian/OregonLive
  • 4.5 (114)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hosts Jamie Hale and Chiara Profenna take you to some of the greatest destinations in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.

  1. How to get into cross-country skiing, even if you’ve never touched a ski

    DEC 18

    How to get into cross-country skiing, even if you’ve never touched a ski

    It might not the most accessible snow sport, but cross-country skiing is a lot easier to get into than some people think. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Michael Russell, restaurant critic for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who is also a Nordic skiing enthusiast. Russell recounts his journey from spectactor of the 2018 Winter Olympics to an avid cross-country skier. As Russell tells it, anybody can get into cross-country skiing, whether you’ve ever touched a ski or not. While Nordic skiers can work their way up to the level of elite athletes (or do their best to), the sport can be easy to pick up, especially if you’re just trying to have a nice day in the snow. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How the Winter Olympics inspired Michael Russell to try out Nordic skiing. There are levels to cross-country skiing. The best places in Oregon to ski. How Michael Russell almost ate snow in front of his idol, Jessie Diggins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min
  2. 5 perfect gifts for an Oregon outdoor adventurer

    DEC 11

    5 perfect gifts for an Oregon outdoor adventurer

    Who needs things when you could get the gift of an incredible outdoor adventure? On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we get into the spirit of giving, highlighting some of the best experiential gifts for outdoor adventurers. There’s nothing wrong with a new pair of socks and an REI gift card, but what about the gift of a tree climbing trip or a relaxing soak in some of Oregon’s most serene hot springs? We have all the details on how to secure gift cards for some of the best outdoor experiences in the state. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Tree climbing at Silver Falls is one of the most unique adventures in Oregon. Whale watching is one of the best experiences for your money. Want to go big? Consider a hot air balloon ride. What’s better than the gift of relaxation? This hot spring is the perfect place to do it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    29 min
  3. Why everybody is obsessed with these festive holiday trains

    DEC 4

    Why everybody is obsessed with these festive holiday trains

    You don’t have to be a fan of “The Polar Express” to enjoy these holiday trains – though it might help. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we look at some of Oregon and Washington’s most popular holiday-themed excursions on historic railroads, which have officially kicked off for the season. Some trains cater specifically to fans of “The Polar Express” while others offer the typical accoutrements of the holiday season: lights, cookies, cocoa and Santa. They’ve become some of the most popular and best loved holiday traditions in the region. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How the two “Polar Express” trains are bringing the story to life. What you need to know about all the holiday train rides in the region. These historic railroads offer a variety of rides year-round. What is it that people love about trains? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    25 min

  4. NOV 27

    Oregon ski season: What to expect for 2025-26

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    26 min
  5. Chanterelle mushroom foraging for beginners

    NOV 20

    Chanterelle mushroom foraging for beginners

    Are you mushroom foraging curious? Maybe you’ve been out a few times, but haven’t known what to look for? Worry not, the world of chanterelles is close at hand. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we get an education from Jess Liotta, an independent mushroom forager and guest instructor for Trackers Earth, a local organization that teaches outdoor skills. Liotta dives into the basics of mushroom foraging, discusses how to get over our fears and, crucially, tells us what to do with all those tasty chanterelles. While many foragers jealously guard their knowledge, Liotta is happy to share. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What makes the Pacific Northwest so good for mushrooms? Getting over your fear of mushrooms, one nibble at a time. How to get started foraging for chanterelles. Liotta’s favorite chanterelle recipe, which is perfect for Thanksgiving. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    30 min
  6. How to (safely) explore king tides on the Oregon coast

    NOV 13

    How to (safely) explore king tides on the Oregon coast

    King tide season is almost here. The exceptionally high tides, which in 2025 will occur in November, December and January, according to the Oregon King Tide Project, are an opportunity for excitement on the Oregon coast, but come with a heavy dose of caution for anyone hoping to see them. Before you pull on your rain gear and head out into the elements, here is everything you need to know about the king tides this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 min
  7. This Oregon surfer is making waves on Team USA

    NOV 6

    This Oregon surfer is making waves on Team USA

    found freedom, confidence and community. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, host Chiara Profenna talks with Purry, a blind surfer from Oregon who was recently named to Team USA Para Surfing. At 40, Purry discovered adaptive surfing and has since become an advocate for accessibility and inclusion in outdoor sports. From navigating Oregon’s cold, wild coastline to preparing for her upcoming debut at the U.S. Open Adaptive Surfing Championships in Oceanside, California, Purry shares how she trains, connects with other adaptive athletes and embraces the ocean on her own terms. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Purry found surfing later in life and what it’s taught her about confidence and resilience. What adaptive surfing looks like in practice, from team support to navigating waves with a guide. The growing adaptive sports community and how organizations like AmpSurf are helping others get involved. Why highlighting adaptive athletes matters and how listeners can support Team USA Para Surfing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    31 min

  8. OCT 30

    This organization is transforming Black Oregonians’ outdoor experiences

    For many Oregonians, the outdoors is a place of adventure, but it can also be a space for community and belonging. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, host Chiara Profenna talks with Dr. Shirley A. Jackson, volunteer leader for Outdoor Afro Oregon and west regional leader for the national organization reconnecting Black people to land, water and wildlife through outdoor education, recreation and conservation. From local hikes and bird watching to cosmic tubing and jump roping, Jackson shared some of the ways she cultivates community by increasing access to Oregon’s natural spaces. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Outdoor Afro is building community and connection in Oregon’s natural spaces. Ideas for enjoying the outdoors through fall and winter, rain or shine. Ways to get involved and join upcoming Outdoor Afro events. Why creating inclusive, welcoming spaces in nature matters for everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    29 min
See All (319)

Trailer

4.5
out of 5
114 Ratings

About

Hosts Jamie Hale and Chiara Profenna take you to some of the greatest destinations in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.

Information

  • Creator
    The Oregonian/OregonLive
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    319
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Oregonian/OregonLive
  • Show Website
    Peak Northwest

You Might Also Like