Explore Oregon: Making the most of the outdoors: Recent Episodes
Statesman Journal
Everything to know about exploring Oregon's best outdoor destinations from the Statesman Journal including where to camp, hike, bike and more.
We also dive into the area's unique history, including a Native American princess turned to stone, a tragic wildfire and one of Oregon's biggest drug busts.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with an Oregon wildfire chief about why the 2026 season has been historically bad and what to expect for the rest of the summer.Urness talks with Kyle Williams, the Oregon Department of Forestry's deputy director of fire operations, about the seemingly endless number of fires burning in central and eastern Oregon, how they started and why they've grown so large. They talk about firefighting tactics and what to expect on the west side of the state the rest of summer. Likely this week, Oregon will burn more acres than have ever been recorded in a modern fire season — and it'll happen before the calendar even hits August.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about one of Oregon's great river trips — the Wallowa-Grande Ronde River. The float trip, which includes segments of both rivers, can be done as a day-trip or a multi-day adventure into a beautiful roadless wilderness of northeast Oregon. The river is known for being fairly friendly with rapids that are not super challenging, but it does require understanding the river, campsites and details like shuttles and water levels. In this podcast, Urness explains everything folks need to know to get on the water.
Host Zach Urness and intern Makenzie Stamets talk about the future of what was once among state's most beloved campgrounds: Yellowbottom Recreation Site.Located in the Quartzville corridor northeast of Sweet Home — and just past Green Peter Lake — the area is home to old-growth forest, beautiful swimming holes and unique activities like gold panning. For years, Yellowbottom was the anchor for visiting the area and staying overnight. But issues with giant trees caused the site to close. Now, the Bureau of Land Management is laying out its plan for the future of Yellowbottom and its place in the Quartzville corridor.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and intern Makenzie Stamets talk about an accessible rock climbing area in Mount Hood National Forest near the town of Zigzag.French's Dome is a classic rock climbing location near Portland that is a well-loved day trip for locals. It offers both the peace of relaxing in the shade and the thrill of adventure in climbing rock as high as 200 feet for views of Oregon's tallest mountain. Stamets talks with a few beginner rock climbers about what led them to make the tricky transition to outdoor climbing and why French's Dome is a great spot to try it out.
along with 11-year-old backpackers Nate and Mary Evans, who share their thoughts from a kids' perspective.The group picks out 12 great backpacking trips that land on the easier side and are good fits for younger backpackers (or just someone looking for an easier trip).
In this episode, Zach talks about the new trail system being constructed to access the popular site known as Blue Pool on the McKenzie River east of Eugene.Urness talks with Willamette National Forest recreation program manager Matt Peterson about what the new $3.4 million system will showcase and the reason for it.Also known as Tamolitch Falls, the site has become one of the most popular, overrun and often troubled sites in the Central Cascades. There have been frequent accidents and issues with parking.
and author of the blog Into the Outside; and Jared Linkhart, a longtime rafter and river sage to boaters learning to get their family on the water.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with the U.S. Forest Service about when the Opal Creek area will finally reopen.The 35,000-acre wilderness and recreation area was severely burned and closed by the Beachie Creek Fire in September of 2020. It was hoped that popular sites such as Three Pools, Little North Santiam Trail and Henline Falls would reopen this summer, but those plans have been delayed. Acting Detroit district ranger Jonah Gladney and deputy forest supervisor Michelle King explained what's happening and when the Opal Creek area will finally reopen.
Hill picks 10 of her favorite lookout hikes and all the details needed to visit. She also talks about the history of lookouts, etiquette for visiting lookouts and how to spend a night in one. To buy the book or attend one of Hill's events, visit her website at: https://cherylhill.net.
U.S. Forest Service chief Tom Schultz defends reorganization plans in interview by Zach Urness / Statesman Journal
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks about the popular mini cabins at Detroit Lake State Park and great places to visit nearby during the spring. The cabins were originally intended as staff housing for seasonal employees, but in the off-season, they've becoming popular for visitors that might otherwise not visit. Urness talks to the rangers who made the cabins happen, before highlighting five fun adventures nearby that are good to visit in spring.
a new style of building that could improve the health of Oregon's forests, boost the rural economy and create cheaper affordable housing in Portland and beyond.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with Oregon State Representative Ken Helm, D-Beaverton, about landmark legislation to protect Oregon wildlife and a host of other legislative issues.Helm talked about passage of a bill to rise $38 million for wildlife programs through an increase in the state's transient lodging tax. He also touched on other issues from the recently completed 2026 session including a bill meant to save Oregon's outdoor recreation industry, a bill to halt any sell-off of public lands and the purchase of Abiqua Falls for a new park.Helm also spoke about a controversial bill he authored that requires all non-motorized boats to get a Waterway Access Permit, which cost $20 annually. Previously, it was only required for boats 10 feet and shorter. Money from the program will pay for boat inspection stations to halt spread of invasive mussels, but the bill prompted significant backlash.
which covers the state's best-known searchers, high-profile disasters and how both shaped modern search and rescue.The book and podcast cover famous disasters on Mount Hood, how groups such as the Mazama's began Oregon's early search and rescue tradition and even the state's biggest political crisis.
In this episode, host Zach Urness dives into the sale of 92-foot Abiqua Falls and the effort to preserve it as a new park.Urness talks with outdoors writer and author Adam Sawyer about what makes Abiqua Falls so special and the unique space it's occupied in becoming one of the state's most loved places. They also talk about the waterfall going up for sale and concerns that brings. Then Urness talks with Travis Williams, executive director of the Willamette Preservation Trust, about efforts by the Oregon Legislature to purchase the waterfall and combine it with other nearby land to create a new recreation site.
The film, which won the award for Best Feature at the Oregon Documentary Film Festival, is now available to watch for free on YouTube or at the film's website. Dersham describes the evolution of one of the world's most famous boats — the McKenzie River Drift Boat — that took place in Eugene and on the McKenzie River.The boat evolved under a series of colorful fishing guides, woodworkers and adventurers to become the ideal boat for navigating whitewater rivers across the West.
to access public lands sometimes cut off by private land- An effort to reduce the number of people who need to purchase Waterway Access Permits to float small boats on rivers and lakes- Gov. Tina Kotek nominated Kacey KC to become lead the embattled Oregon Department of Forestry. She'll need to be confirmed by the Oregon Senate this February.- Oregon's ski areas are struggling to stay open amid the worst snow season in Oregon since 2015, and it's not expected to get any easier.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with Oregon state climatologist Larry O'Neill about the state's lack of mountain snow and whether it's going to rally this winter. Then, they talk about where 2025 ranked in terms of heat, rainfall and other factors from this past year. The year 2025 was the third-warmest in records that date back to 1895 and O'Nell talks about why that was the case and other temperature trends seen in Oregon in recent years.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about:The delayed start of winter recreation season, but the encouraging opening of Hoodoo Ski AreaStorm damage and the closures of numerous popular outdoor recreation sitesThe most interesting people and places that we covered in 2025
In this reposted episode, host Zach Urness talks about the mythic Grove of Titans, a collection of the largest redwood trees on earth, located just south of the Oregon and California state line. This podcast, which originally published in 2021, focuses on a recently completed trail system that provides access to the Grove inside northern California's Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Previously, the grove was closed after overuse and crowding brought damage to the trees and surrounding forest. Zach details what makes the Titans, which rise 320 feet and are 1,500 years old, so unique and special. He also details the history of how the grove was discovered by scientists and big tree hunters in the 1990s and then subsequently damaged by overuse and internet fame.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks with Debbie Colbert, director of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Colbert became the first female director of ODFW, an agency tracing its history back to the 1800s, in May of 2024.In the podcast, she talked about her background as a field scientist and her first year as director, before jumping into hot-button topics like fee increases for fishing and hunting licenses, the future of Oregon's hatcheries and wild fish, wolf management, whale entanglement and some big wins for like the coastal coho salmon recovery.
In this episode, host Zach Urness reposts his tips and tricks to finding the perfect Christmas tree in Oregon's national forests.With a $5 permit, you can travel far and wide in the national forests to find a tree to bring home — whether you live in Portland, Salem, Eugene or elsewhere. It's not always as easy as it seems, however. The podcast breaks down where to get a permit, which forest to target, what elevation to find success and other tips on exploring in the snow.
in 2024, talks about what inspired the book, his eight favorite rides and what he discovered along the way. The routes Shryock rode took him through deep forest, over the Cascade Mountains, onto the Oregon Coast and into eastern Oregon canyons.
In this episode, host Zach Urness looks at the curious case of how a non-native fish, walleye, showed up at Lookout Point Reservoir and was then flushed into the Upper Willamette River Basin.Urness interviews two fish biologists about how walleye, a tasty but controversial fish, were discovered at the reservoir east of Eugene and spawned to become a fishery popular with anglers. In 2023 and 2024, the walleye were pushed downstream by deep reservoir drawdowns and have been getting caught in new places. Biologists are waiting to see if walleye will establish a new population — which could be bad for endangered salmon and steelhead.
- A ghost wagon rising from the Detroit Lake- A major drug bust on the Oregon Coast that led to a beautiful collection of trails- The history of Hoodoo Ski Area- Why it's dangerous to visit Proposal Rock with a significant other- Valley of the Giants and the Grove of Titans
Favorite podcast tales volume 1: Betrayal in Grants Pass, a nuke at Cape Kiwanda, D River showdown by Zach Urness / Statesman Journal
Host Zach Urness breaks down how the government shutdown is impacting Oregon's public lands and three other news stories focusing on wildfires, salmon and Douglas fir trees.Urness talks about the status of national parks and monuments such as Crater Lake and the Painted Hills during the closure, before talking about how bad the 2025 wildfire season was compared to recent years.Finally, he talks about the rebound of coho salmon on the Oregon Coast and the historic "dieback" of Oregon's Douglas fir trees in southwest Oregon and in the Willamette Valley.
In this episode, host Zach Urness highlights five Cascade Mountain lakes where you can hike and catch good-sized trout.This shorter episode includes how to find the lakes, what you can catch there and how to bring them in. The lakes in question are all in the Mount Jefferson and Three Sisters wilderness areas and are home to rainbow, brook and brown trout.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with outdoors intern Rose Shimberg about backpacking the 40-mile trail around Mount Hood: the Timberline Trail.In late August, Shimberg spent three nights backpacking the loop, journeying through terrain including waterfalls, high alpine landscapes, lush forests and deep canyons. She reports on how to navigate the trail's notorious stream crossings and the status of the "blowdown section" that was closed for years by downed trees. Shimberg also talks about where to find cell service, find an amazing breakfast and spots on the trail to not miss.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with an Oregon ranger that saved hundreds of people from the path of the deadly 2020 Labor Day Fires. Nikki Swanson, Sweet Home district ranger for Willamette National Forest, spurred a major evacuation and closure of the Mount Jefferson Wilderness just days before the Lionshead Fire burned the area and nearly 200,000 acres on Sept. 7-8, 2020. She is credited with saving a number of lives five years ago. “She is a hero, not properly thanked,” Linn County Commissioner Will Tucker said.
Host Zach Urness talks about plans to reopen beloved Opal Creek, the five year anniversary of the Labor Day Fires and about traveling to Washington's North Cascades National Park.Earlier this month, Urness reported that Opal Creek was likely to have a limited reopening in 2026 while also detailing the struggle of victims of the Labor Day Fires five years later. Finally, Urness talks about the beauty and challenge of visiting Washington's North Cascades.
In this episode, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Mariah Johnston talk about how to go whale watching in Depoe Bay to see giant whales — specifically from a boat.Located along Oregon's central Coast, Depoe Bay is known as the whale watching capital of the Oregon Coast and home to the worlds’ smallest harbor. Urness and Johnston discuss how to book a $30 to $50 boat tour, avoid sea sickness and experience the giants up close during the summer and fall months.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks to outdoors intern Rose Shimberg about two of Oregon's subterranean destinations.Urness and Shimberg talk first about the Lava River Cave, a mile-deep lava tube outside of Bend and the longest in Oregon. They go into the formations you can see and the different ways to reserve a trip to the popular destination.In the second half, they discuss the Mitchell Point Tunnel, which opened earlier this year to hikers and bikers. Recreating the crown jewel of the historic Columbia River Highway, the tunnel offers stunning views of the Gorge, with multiple hikes nearby to explore.
In this episode, first published in 2021, Zach talks to mountain climb leader Michael Gurley about the best high mountain hikes and climbs that don't require ropes in Oregon. Zach and Michael pick 10 different mountain peaks that Oregonians in good shape can attempt with a hike or "scramble" climb, provided they've got strong legs, strong lungs and a good plan. The climbs they cover include multiple routes that rise above 9,000 feet, and two that ascend above 10,000 feet, in mountain ranges in the Cascades, Siskiyou, Elkhorn and Wallowas.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Mariah Johnston talk about how to swim, boat and fish in the water of Crater Lake National Park’s for the last time until 2029.Located in southern Oregon, Crater Lake is home to the deepest lake in the United States at 1,949 feet. Beginning next year, the only trail leading to the water will close for a three year construction project. That makes this August and early September the last time you can take a boat tour, swim or fish in the lake until almost the end of the decade.Urness and Johnston discuss how to plan the trip and how to experience the deep, blue water in the state's only national park while you still can.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about hiking, camping and fishing for rare brown trout at Linton Lake in the Three Sisters Wilderness. Located a mile off McKenzie Pass Highway 242, Linton Lake features old-growth forest, a place to swim, one of Oregon's tallest waterfalls and some of the most fun hike-in fishing in the state. Urness talks about the how to make the trip and how to have a good day on the water.
In this episode, host Zach Urness interviews Oregon Parks and Recreation Department director Lisa Sumption about the challenging future for Oregon's state parks system.The parks system includes more than 250 recreation sites and 50 campgrounds and was visited by a record 56.6 million people in 2024. However, OPRD is expecting to face a 14% shortfall by 2027. That could mean layoffs to rangers and even closing some parks.In the podcast, Sumption explains the shortfall and plans to fix it by raising revenue through new and creative streams of income. It's her hope to fund the park system without asking for taxpayer funding or any tax increase.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Mariah Johnston talk about the newest railbiking site in Oregon — this one within striking distance of the Willamette Valley.Santiam Excursion Trains is based in Lebanon and recently added a new railbike adventure in Sweet Home. It travels 6 miles on the old Sweet Home Branch line, where abandoned buildings and wildlife are plentiful.Mariah talks about the highlights of the trip, how to book a ride and the history of the rail line and railbiking in general, which has become increasingly popular across the state.
In this episode, host Zach Urness reposts a favorite podcast about snorkeling crystal clear rivers, creeks and backcountry lakes.This episode, first recorded in 2019, covers the equipment needed and locations where you can explore underwater canyons and come nose-to-nose with a confused fish.
In this episode, host Zach Urness and intern Mariah Johnston discuss the biggest news in Oregon's outdoors from the past few weeks.Zach starts off by discussing the latest wildfire forecast, the fight against the sale of federal public lands and some of the biggest takeaways from the Oregon legislative session — including new fees for fishing and boating. In the second half, Zach and Mariah discuss a more diverse collection of news stories, including troubling news for Oregon's grey whale population, E-bikes being allowed at Oregon State Parks, new parking rules for Suavie Island's beaches and a handful of other topics.
In this episode, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Mariah Johnson detail how to hike, float and explore a lake with one of the most beautiful views of Mount Hood — but that in past was known as "Mud Lake." Johnson visited Trillium Lake, near Government Camp, one of the more popular summer recreation sites, home to a place to rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, in addition to a nice hiking trail and campground. Johnson also details why the lake was once known as "Mud Lake," and the fact that it was once in a movie starring Jimmy Stewart.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach Urness talks to fish biologist Stephan Charette about one of the best places to catch fish in Oregon: smallmouth bass on the John Day River.In this episode, first published in 2022, Urness and Charette talks about why the fishing is so good, where and how to land them and the upside and downside of so many fish.
In this episode, host Zach Urness reposts and updates details on one of Oregon's greatest overnight float and fishing trips — the John Day River.In this episode first published in 2020, but updated this year, Urness and former co-host David Davis break down the river's most famous segment, how to get a permit and what makes this trip so special. They also dive into the history of the man the river is named for — John Day — and explain why his name is plastered all over Oregon.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about the experience of floating through an active wildfire on the John Day River, in addition to a story about an evacuation of a state park and how it was saved from the flames of the Ferry Fire.Earlier this month, Zach floated through the 10,000-acre Ferry Fire that was burning on the John Day. In the second half, Urness tells the story of Cottonwood Canyon State Park, also on the John Day, that was evacuated on June 11, had a firefight and was burned over on June 12, but thanks to smart planning by its staff, didn't lose any major buildings and is able to reopen on June 20.
In this edition, host Zach Urness focuses on how to fish the state's hike-in alpine lakes with expert angler and fish biologist Jeff Ziller with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.Ziller has worked on stocking and surveying Oregon's mountain lakes since the 1980s. In the first half of the podcast, he talks about where to find fish in Oregon's mountain lakes, what type of fish can be had and how they got there in the first place.In the second half, Ziller breaks down the best methods to catch rainbow and brook trout, how to clean and eat them, and which taste best.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach and guidebook author Franziska of Hike Oregon pick 10 of their favorite backpacking trips for June, July, August and September as the high outdoor recreation season gets underway.In this podcast, first recorded in 2023, the trips recommended include shorter and longer backpacking routes, from 15 to 55 miles in length, in the Wallowa, Elkhorn, Cascade and Klamath-Siskiyou mountains.Franziska, the owner and operator of the website Hike Oregon, also has a new book that recently came out — "52 MORE Hikes for 52 MORE Weeks: In the Willamette Valley, Central Oregon Cascades & Coast."
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about upgrades coming to Silver Falls State Park along with places in Oregon that almost became national parks — but never quite made the cut.In the first half, Urness talks about the new outdoors shop, campground and visitor center planned for Oregon's largest state park as part of expanding development at the park. In the second half, Urness talks about why Silver Falls didn't become a national park — even through it was strongly considered back in the 1920s. Then, he talks about five other locations that almost became national parks but were held back for different reasons.
In this episode, host Zach Urness reports on a project in Eugene that will add a mountain biking park and expand the size of the city's Ridgeline Trail system for hiking.The city plans to add 12 miles of new trail at Suzanne Arlie Park and South Eugene Meadows, opening up the city's first trails built specifically for mountain biking while also creating new hikes and expanding hiking routes. It's been a long road for the city to embrace mountain biking. The project also moves the city closer to its ultimate goal of having trails that connect from Fern Ridge Reservoir to Mount Pisgah.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about the reopening of the Whitewater Creek road and trail into the Mount Jefferson Wilderness east of Detroit.The trail has long been one of the most popular in the Mount Jefferson area but it's been transformed by two major wildfires that have kept it closed since 2020. The road and trail is finally open now, and there are some amazing views and adventures to be had right now — in the early season — and later in the summer as well.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about the reopening of the Whitewater Creek road and trail into the Mount Jefferson Wilderness east of Detroit.The trail has long been one of the most popular and iconic in the Mount Jefferson area but it's been transformed by two major wildfires that have kept it closed six of the last nine years and all the way since 2020. The road and trail is finally open now, and there are some amazing views and adventures to be had right now — in the early season — and later in the summer as well. Zach breaks down easy, medium and challenging trips here for the spring and summer, and also provides the background story on the two wildfires that roasted this area.
In this edition, host Zach Urness takes a deep dive into perhaps the wildest place in Oregon — the Kalmiopsis Wilderness.This episode, originally published in 2022, focuses on the 180,000-acre wilderness in southwest Oregon. It's home to deep river canyons, wildflowers found nowhere else on earth and rivers so clear they seem made of liquid glass.Zach is joined by Gabe Howe, executive director of the Siskiyou Mountain Club, to pick their 10 favorite hikes and backpacking routes in the Kalmiopsis, including the Illinois River Trail, Vulcan Lake and the pristine Upper Chetco River.The Siskiyou Mountain Club and other trails groups in Oregon have been significantly impacted by the federal cuts and are all looking to raise money to support their mission of keeping trails clear.
In this episode host Zach Urness covers a range of outdoors news topics, including: -Why this is the last summer to swim, fish or take a boat tour at Crater Lake National Park until 2029.-Why this was a very good, but also tragic, ski season in Oregon-Why Oregon set a record for visits to its state parks system-Also: Detroit Lake drawdown, Oregon is drought free, state of the wilderness permit season and the status of endangered wolves and snowy plovers.
Repost! In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks about Oregon's wildflower hotspots and the best times to see them with expert Greg Lief.Lief, who runs the website OregonWildflowers.org talks about some of Oregon's most interesting blooms and the best times to visit places such as the Columbia Gorge, Old Cascades, Coast Range and Eastern Oregon to find the best of nature's fireworks display.This episode was originally posted on April 18, 2024, but all the information should be about the same as last year in terms of wildflower blooms times.
Host Zach Urness talks with Trailkeepers of Oregon executive director Steve Kruger about the group's mission and how federal cuts and a funding freeze could make it difficult to maintain hiking trails on public lands this summer and in future years.Kruger talks about the work TKO does in using volunteers to clear, fix and maintain trails, in addition to building bridges. He then talks about how a federal cuts and a funding freeze — in which agreed to grants and payments aren't being distributed — appears likely to hamper maintaining trails in the foreseeable future.
In this episode, host Zach Urness interviews Salem ice climber Forrest "Frosty" Gill about the fun and challenge of ascending frozen waterfalls and ice flows across Oregon and the West.Gill talks about the equipment and technique used for ice climbing, the beautiful places it can take you and his journey in learning the sport through the Salem-based Chemeketans outdoors club and climb school. This past February, Gill climbed frozen Paulina Creek Falls in Central Oregon but has also climbed in Alaska, Montana and Colorado.
What do the federal cuts mean for Oregon's public lands? Plus, Detroit Lake mini cabins by Zach Urness / Statesman Journal
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks with Randy Dersham, director of the new documentary film "Oregon's Boat." Dersham describes the evolution of one of the world's most famous boats — the McKenzie River Drift Boat — that took place in Eugene and on the McKenzie River. The boat evolved under a series of colorful fishing guides, woodworkers and adventurers to become the ideal boat for navigating whitewater rivers across the West. The film recently recently won the award for Best Feature at the Oregon Documentary Film Festival.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with two Oregon researchers that just published a study about a massive underground aquifer below the Central Cascade Mountains east of Salem and Eugene. Leif Karlstrom, a University of Oregon earth scientist, and Gordon Grant, a hydrologist with the U.S. Forest Service, discuss an aquifer they estimate as containing 81 cubic kilometers of freshwater — or roughly as much water contained in three Lake Meads, the largest reservoir in the United States.Karlstrom and Grant talk about how the aquifer is formed, where it's located (roughly between Mount Jefferson and south of McKenzie Pass) and why it's important in a warming future. They also talk about how it fuels many of Oregon's most famous rivers and spurs dramatic volcanic eruptions at places such as Sand Mountain.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks about three different things: -Snowshoeing, skiing or micro-spike hiking at Maxwell Sno-Park, plus spending the night in its two cozy snow shelters.-The plan to drop Detroit Lake to its lowest level in history, in a controversial plan aimed at saving endangered spring chinook salmon but that could also impact fishing, access and water quality at the reservoir east of Salem. -The controversy surrounding offseason recreation on McKenzie Pass Highway 242. Are you allowed to ski, snowmobile and bike on the scenic highway between Sisters and McKenzie Bridge when the snow gates are closed during the winter and spring? The answer used to be yes, but now, it's a lot more complicated.
In this edition, host Zach Urness highlights the best adventures the Statesman Journal outdoors staff wrote about in 2024.In part II, Urness talks about a roadtrip to the Oregon Outback — plus its "dark sky sanctuary" — along with why Oakridge is considered among the United States' best places to mountain bike. He also talks about diving into an underwater forest of Clear Lake, float tube fishing Oregon's alpine lakes, backpacking Broken Top Loop and new sections of whitewater that have appeared on the Klamath River after dam removal.
In this episode, host Zach Urness highlights the best adventures the Statesman Journal outdoors staff wrote about in 2024.In this part I episode, Urness talks about the troubled but beloved Umpqua Hot Springs during its "quiet season" and exploring snow shelters in the winter backcountry near Gold Lake Sno Park. Other adventures highlighted include summer skiing on Mount Hood — even during an extreme heatwave — along with mountain biking a historic road and how to visit one of Oregon's most beautiful but semi-secret waterfalls. Part II of this countdown should be posted around the New Year.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about a collection of stories including the start of winter recreation season, the controversial drawdowns at Green Peter Reservoir and some fun winter adventures including skiing, hiking at Silver Falls and celebrating "yurtmas" by touring Christmas lights at the Coast.The podcast features interviews from KLCC in Eugene and considers why a plan to save endangered salmon has become so controversial, while other topics include new waterfall hiking loops at Silver Falls State Park, record setting coho salmon runs and one of the state's most epic Christmas lights displays.
In this episode, host Zach Urness and intern Alexander Banks talk about the iconic — and popular — hike to Pittock Mansion. Beginning in the heart of Portland, the route takes hikers through Forest Park landmarks and up to one of the most beautiful vistas in the Rose City. For additional prospective, Banks also talks with guidebook author Matt Reeder about what makes the hike special. Finally, Zach offers a few of Portland's other best hikes.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with three people who worked to rebuild a stunning mountaintop fire lookout in southern Oregon where visitors can spend the night.In 2020, Bolan Mountain Lookout was burned by the Slater Fire. Four years later, a district ranger and the leader of a nonprofit, along with his dad, spearheaded rebuilding a lookout with one of the state's most unique vistas. In the podcast, Scott Blower, Wild Rivers District Ranger of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, along Gabe and Lee Howe, of the Siskiyou Mountain Club, talk about the challenge and inspiration of rebuilding an iconic structure and how to make it even better than it was before.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with a Klamath River outfitter about how the largest dam removal project in United State history has transformed the river by returning salmon and opening new stretches of river hidden for over a century. Will Volpert, owner of southern Oregon's Indigo Creek Outfitters, has been rafting every stretch of what he's dubbed the "New Klamath" after dam removal to document, map and prepare for commercial trips and summer recreation on a stream that looks a lot different after four dams and reservoirs were removed near the Oregon and California state line. Volpert talks about being surprised by a salmon in a class IV rapid, exploring the river as it carves through an old dam sites and reservoirs, and running major rapids only recently discovered.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks with Oregon State Climatologist Larry O'Neill about the forecast for the winter of 2024-25. O'Neill details why a forecasted weak La Nina system could result in a cooler and wetter winter than normal and what that means for the state overall, including for skiing and winter recreation.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Elliott Deins talk about backpacking the Three Sisters Wilderness and "float tube fishing" in Oregon's backcountry lakes. Deins breaks down one of Oregon's most beautiful and challenging backpacking routes, the Broken Top Loop, including how many miles it takes, where you can camp and the major highlights — and there are many. Urness talks about hiking into the Mount Jefferson Wilderness carrying a "float tube" — basically an inflatable chair — that allows for far superior fishing at alpine lakes. Urness explains the upsides and downsides and some of the best places to fish in the Jefferson area.
In this episode, host Zach Urness goes deep on the record coho salmon runs in the Upper Willamette Basin. Urness talks with Chris Kern, the west region manager for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, about what makes coho unique, why their numbers have been skyrocketing and how anglers can catch them.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about three different major stories involving salmon in Oregon. And, he posts a really fun song about salmon sent to him by a reader. Stories: -A record-breaking run of coho salmon in the Upper Willamette Basin-Salmon reaching spawning grounds on the Klamath River for the first time in over a century -The tough situation at Green Peter Reservoir, where one type of salmon (kokanee) has been sacrificed for the hoped rebuilding of another (spring chinook). Finally, Urness ends by posting a catchy song about salmon.
In this episode, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Skyla Patton get excited about the peak season for finding Oregon's delicious and beautiful state mushroom.In an interview first recorded in 2022, Patton breaks down everything about the Pacific Golden Chanterelle, including where and when to find it, how to eat it, how to get permits to harvest them and trickier questions including whether you can over-harvest the beloved mushroom.The two discuss everything from the science of why chanterelles grow across western Oregon, best recipes and what the evidence suggests about cutting them or pulling them from the ground.
In this edition, Zach talks about a collection of outdoor stories including: -A group of women who went backpacking in the Three Sisters Wilderness and had to evacuate when multiple wildfires ignited all around them. -A record wildfire season for acres burned in the PNW and Oregon. -Contrasting views on how to protect Oregon's Owyhee Canyonlands. -One of Oregon's most beautiful waterfall views and why there's not an official trail leading to it.
In this episode, Zach talks with outdoors journalism intern Elliott Deins about how to explore underwater at Clear Lake.Deins reports on the origins of Clear Lake, what makes it interesting, why it’s a hotspot for divers and the best gear to plunge into the frigid waters.With consistent visibility over 100 feet and water temperatures around 40 degrees year-round, it’s always a good time for a dive in Clear Lake.Deins talks with experts about the uniqueness of “the world’s biggest swimming pool”— and exploring a sunken forest that feels like a different planet— while detailing dive locations, why you should stay off the bottom and recommendations for a good day at Clear Lake.
In this edition, Zach interviews Bonnie Henderson, an expert on backpacking and thru-hiking the Oregon Coast Trail. Henderson, author of the book "Hiking the Oregon Coast Trail: 400 Miles from the Columbia River to California," talks about what makes the trail unique and the best ways to pull off a trip. September can be a great month to explore the OCT, with smaller crowds but still nice weather. Henderson talks about the differences in each segment of the trail while detailing critical factors such as the best season to backpack, why reading tide tables is important and where you'll need to arrange for ferry rides to cross large bays.
In this episode, host Zach Urness updates some of the latest news about Oregon's state parks system, including major fee increases to camp and visit, before launching a deep dive into how the park system came together over 100 years. Urness talks with associate parks director Chris Havel and historian Christy Sweet about the park system's long, winding and goofball history. It makes for a fun listen for anyone on a Labor Day Weekend road trip in Oregon's outdoors.The story centers on the colorful and bombastic Sam Boardman, known as the "father of Oregon's state parks system," who built the system from the ground up beginning in the 1920s. It's a story of ambition and conservation, of colorful characters, near-calamity and rebirth.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with outdoor intern Emma Logan about the best mountain bike destinations across Oregon. The two break down the best spots to ride near Mount Hood, on the Oregon Coast and in central, southwest and eastern Oregon. The destinations range from smaller trail systems new to the scene to internationally recognized trails in Oakridge. Urness and Logan discuss their favorite trails, what make those areas unique and how mountain bike trails have changed over the years.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with outdoor intern Emma Logan about mountain biking in Oakridge. This small town has put itself on the map with a world class trail network. With over 300 miles of trails, Oakridge is one of the six gold-level ride centers in the world and has been dubbed "Mountain Biking Capital of the Northwest." This episode includes an interview with Marcello Ojerio, a bike mechanic and longtime local rider who works at the Oakridge Bike Shop. Ojerio talks about what makes Oakridge trails special, how to pick the right ride and how to handle wildfires and smoke that have impacted the area the past few years.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness returns to one of the state's great backyard gems — the Willamette Water Trail. Urness highlights his two favorite places to float and camp on the mainstem Willamette, that features surprisingly beautiful scenery, wildlife habitat and camps just a stone's throw from cities such as Eugene, Corvallis and Salem. Then, Urness plays an interview from 2021 with former Willamette Riverkeeper executive director Travis Williams — now with Willamette River Preservation Trust — about the best floats, history and things to know about being on the Willamette.
In this episode, host Zach Urness gives an update on the fast-developing wildfire season in Oregon and then posts and interview that dives into how beloved places such as the Opal Creek area reopen post wildfire.First, Urness breaks down some of the fires burning across the state after a major lightning storm ignited a number of new blazes near Oakridge, Diamond Lake, the McKenzie Corridor and all other corners of the state. Then, Urness posts an interview that he did with Portland City Cast on how the Opal Creek area is doing now, four years after the 2020 Labor Day Fires. He details what the area looks like and plans for how it will eventually reopen. He also talks about the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire and its lasting impact, and the legacy of the 2003 B&B Complex.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with outdoor intern Emma Logan about summer skiing at Timberline Lodge and Ski Area on Mount Hood. Timberline offers the only place to ski in the middle of the summer in North America. From the top of the Palmer snowfield, skiers stand at over 8,000 feet and are immediately transported back into a winter state of mind. This episode includes an interview with John Burton, the Director of Marketing and Public Affairs of Timberline. Logan and Burton discuss the history of summer skiing on Mount Hood, the elite level training and what anyone should know before heading out and giving it a try.
Host Zach Urness talks with long-distance hiker, photographer and gear-maker James Parsons about a variety of topics, including the little-known Chinook Trail in the Columbia River Gorge. Parsons, probably best known for his photography through his Extreme Oregon Instagram page, talks about the strange place outdoor photography finds itself in 2024, his favorite long-distance hikes and his new business, Magnet Designs, making and selling outdoor clothing. Then, he spotlights a little-known long-distance route through the Columbia Gorge known as the Chinook Trail, and which parts make for excellent backpacking and which parts offer a fairly brutal experience.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about the wildfire forecast for the summer of 2024 and the fires burning right now. Urness lays out what type of wildfire season is expected using interviews with fire weather meteorologists, who explain how drought, fuel moisture and El Nino to La Nina weather patterns could impact wildfires across the state this summer. Urness breaks down the hot spots for fire danger, and where active wildfires have already had an impact on summer 2024 in the state.
In this episode, Zach talks about the Elkhorn Mountains and Anthony Lakes area of Eastern Oregon. Urness breaks down the what makes the Elkhorns such a striking range, the best time to visit, where to stay and what to do when visiting. There's no shortage of hikes, alpine lakes, fishing, backpacking and wildlife to enjoy — along with an Old West ghost town with a haunted suction dredge (that you are allowed to visit).
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about one of Oregon's most beautiful and historic trails that is often overlooked. The Santiam Wagon Road was once the primary route connecting the Willamette Valley to Central Oregon in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today, the roadway has been transformed into a beautiful trail best explored on 18 miles and six segments in the Tombstone Pass area east of Sweet Home. Sweet Home district ranger Nikki Swanson joints the podcast to break down the route's history and the best way to experience it nowadays.
In this episode, host Zach Urness reports on two beloved places — one that is reopening after a major wildfire and another that just closed because of a huge landslide. Shellburg Falls Recreation Area reopened this past weekend, and Urness talks about how the experience of visiting the 100-foot waterfall and surrounding trails has changed — in some cases dramatically. Then, Urness reports on how a debris flow has closed access to Valley of the Giants, home to some of Oregons largest and oldest trees in the Coast Range located west of Salem.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about the Oregon Outback and Summer Lake area, a land of desert canyons, hot springs, hikes and quite possibly Oregon's best restaurant. The region was recently established as a dark sky sanctuary, but Urness looks at all the daytime adventures, along with the best time to visit and places to stay. He talks about Crack in the Ground, Cowboy Tree Diner and Summer Lake, among many other places to fish, bird-watch, hunt, hike and explore.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks to ultra runner Emily Halnon of Eugene, who back in 2020 set the speed record for the Oregon segment of the Pacific Crest Trail. Halnon ran the Oregon PCT's 460 miles in 7 days, 19 hours and 23 minutes — an average of 57 miles per day. She set the record for both male and female runners. In the podcast — and in a recently published book — Halnon talked about doing the run to honor her mother, who died of a rare form of bone cancer. Halnon's recently published a book about her experience called "To the Gorge: Running, Grief, and Resilience & 460 Miles on the Pacific Crest Trail." She's currently on a book tour in Oregon and elsewhere. See her page, emilyhalnon.com, for a full list of book tour stops.
In this edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks about a program that allows harvesting plants from national and state forests and replanting them your own backyard.With the program, you can transplant ferns, saplings and even wildflowers into your own yard for free. It's called the "forest products free use permit" and we'll tell you how you can use it to go on your own plant hunt.
In this episode, Zach talks about Oregon's wildflower hotspots and the best times to visit with expert Greg Lief. Lief, who runs the website OregonWildflowers.org and the Facebook group Oregon Wildflowers, talks about some of Oregon's most interesting blooms and the best times to visit places such as the Columbia Gorge, Old Cascades, Coast Range and Eastern Oregon.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks about the rebound of one of Oregon's most iconic fish from near extinction. Urness was interviewed by Think Out Loud host Dave Miller on Oregon Public Broadcasting about why this year's run of winter steelhead in the Upper Willamette Basin was so special. After their population nearly crashing in 2017, the sea-run trout returned their best numbers in two decades this year. The interview was based on a story Urness wrote on the subject titled: "Once in 'extinction vortex,' Willamette winter steelhead post best returns since 2004."
In this episode, host Zach Urness revisits the Oregon Desert Trail, a challenging but beautiful route designed to open the eyes of hikers to the wonders of the high desert.Urness talks about why spring is a time to consider hiking or planning a short or long-distance trek along the 750-mile route that travels from just outside of Bend all the way to Lake Owyhee State Park. Urness get expertise from Renee Patrick, trail coordinator for the Oregon Natural Desert Association about everything hikers need to know about undertaking the route, and just what makes it special.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks about the recently established Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary — the largest such sanctuary in the world. The 2.5 million acre sanctuary, located east of Lakeview near towns such as Plush and Adel in southeast Oregon, becomes the largest dark sky sanctuary in the world. Urness is joined by Bob Hackett, executive director of Travel Southern Oregon, to talk about what a dark sky sanctuary actually is, how it was established and how people can best experience it. They also talk about how dark skies are measured, and how they compare to what we see in the Willamette Valley.
In this episode, host Zach Urness takes listeners to the snowy wonderland of Willamette Pass, a great place to visit during the spring snow season. Even as the days get warmer and longer, there is still lots of snow on Oregon's mountain passes, which makes for a fun recreation season for skiing, snowshoeing and other activities. Urness highlights a rustic lodge to spend the night, wooden shelters hidden in backcountry snow and even hot springs to enjoy about an hour southeast of Eugene.
In this episode, Zach talks about the beloved and troubled slot canyon known as Oneonta Gorge.Named by a famous photographer of the 19th Century, this was once gem in the Columbia Gorge that featured an off-trail trip below high walls to a dramatic waterfall.But Oneonta became one of the first places “blown up” by early social media, particularly Instagram. The crowds brought lots of problems until the Eagle Creek Fire closed it in 2017 — and has kept it closed all the way to present day. This podcast looks at that backstory, including how the Gorge got its name, and reports the latest on when and whether it will ever reopen. It features interviews with Tom Kloster, a longtime writer and explorer, who writes the WyEast Blog, and former Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area recreation offer Stan Hinatsu.
In this episode, Zach reposts an episode about visiting Oregon waterfalls covered in snow and ice.With heavy snow forecasted in the lower elevations of the Cascade Mountains this coming week, Zach decided to post a podcast he originally recorded four years ago that details the best places to ski or snowshoe to Oregon’s best waterfalls covered in snow.The waterfalls are at their best following a nice fresh low-elevation snow, which makes this coming week a fun moment to go winter waterfall hunting.
In this episode, Zach Urness talks about a ski or snowshoeing trip to ice-covered Paulina Creek Falls in Newberry National Volcanic Monument in Central Oregon. Urness details what makes the trip unique, including a snowy waterfall, alpine lake, high peak, hot springs and even a backcountry restaurant. He talks about when and how to do the trip, how difficult it is, and additional options like snowmobiling.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks with author Glenn Voelz about the rise of Oregon's search and rescue, from the pioneer age to the modern era.Voelz is author of the book "Oregon Search & Rescue: Answering the Call," which covers the state's best-known searchers, high-profile disasters and how both shaped modern SAR. The book and podcast cover famous disasters on Mount Hood, how groups like the Mazama's began Oregon's SAR tradition and even the state's biggest political crisis.
In this episode, Zach chats with Hoodoo Ski Area general manager Matthew McFarland. McFarland talks about a challenging 2023-24 season, the decision to allow more kids to ski for free and how to groom ski runs so they can be open with less snow than in the past. He also talks about the economics of running a smaller ski area that serves as a "feeder" for the larger resorts in Oregon and across the West.
In this episode, Zach talks about some of the latest Oregon outdoors news including: -The latest $85 million verdict in the class action wildfire trial against PacifiCorp-How hot Oregon was in 2023 and the anniversary of the last Cascadia Subduction zone earthquake-A lawsuit against the U.S. Forest Service for failing to suppress the Beachie Creek Fire before it exploded into a deadly inferno -Controversial plans for logging on state forests and legislation to conserve southeast Oregon's Owyhee Canyonlands.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks to National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Burling about the most recent freezing rain event in the Willamette Valley. They discuss why the Willamette Valley and northwest Oregon is uniquely suited for impactful freezing rain events and ice build up, and what happens in the sky to create freezing rain. Zach also talks about some of the major impacts in Eugene, Springfield and Portland from the ice storm of 2024.
In this episode, Zach Urness breaks down the incoming blizzard and beginning of winter recreation season, along with a feature on the glory and trouble of Umpqua Hot Springs. In the first half, Zach talks about the incoming snow, what impact it will have on winter recreation in Oregon and some suggestions for snowy places to travel. In the second half, Zach talks about a feature he just wrote on the glorious but troubled Umpqua Hot Springs in southern Oregon. Zach talks about how to get to the hot springs in winter — when the hot springs are quieter — and about the many years of abuse that the hot springs and soakers endured around 2015 and '16.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness is joined by Hike Oregon's Franziska Weinheimer to pick their favorite destinations from the past year 2023. Urness and Weinheimer feature rafting trips, backpacking routes and snowy adventures with epic views in a podcast meant to help others plan their trips for the coming year.
In this edition, host Zach Urness breaks down the 10 biggest news stories in Oregon's outdoors and environment from 2023. Urness details some good news, such as the continued population growth of the western snowy plover from the brink of extinction, and some bad news, such as the closing of Salem Summit Company, with lots of news and analysis in between.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks with guidebook author Matt Wastradowski about their favorite places for a combination outdoor adventure and meal or drink. They travel to every corner of the state, talking about some of the state's best brewpubs, cowboy diners and seafood stops that also happen to be near big mountains, wild rivers and excellent hikes.
In this edition, Zach talks about the massive winter storm arriving in Oregon's mountains — and ski areas that have announced openings — along with the drinking water crisis in Sweet Home and Lebanon, new permits for Mount Hood and a variety of other news stories. Urness touches on how to explore the landslide-closed road on Cascade Head and visit beautiful Harts Cove Trail, along with looking at Oregon's proposed drone rules and why Butte Creek Falls has been closed for three years.
In this episode, outdoors intern Olivia Stevens transports listeners to what was once a booming logging town in northeastern Oregon. It was also a town where Black people lived and worked at a time when it was illegal for them to do so because of Oregon's racist laws. Now, 100 years after the founding of Maxville, a descendant's efforts to bring to light the triumphs and challenges of Black loggers in Oregon are gaining widespread traction at the Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with outdoors intern Olivia Stevens about her experience exploring the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve in northeast Oregon. While the Zumwalt may not be the main draw for visitors to the Enterprise and Joseph area, its managers make a compelling case for taking the a remote drive there. Visitors to the prairie can hike four beautiful trails for views of native grassland and nearby canyons. Stevens spoke with The Nature Conservancy, the environmental nonprofit that owns the 51-acre preserve, and visits with Oregon State University students about the importance and difficulty of preserving the prairie into the future.
In this episode, host Zach Urness forecasts the upcoming winter with state climatologist Larry O'Neill. The two discuss whether this winter will be rainy, snowy, dry or warm, and looked at how the El Nino weather pattern would likely impact the next few months. Specifically, the two talked about how the strength of this year's El Nino could determine whether Oregon has a wet or dry winter.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks with the godfather of sandboarding in Oregon and across the world — Lon Beale. They talk about how to get started sandboarding on the Oregon Coast and its dunes, why it's so much fun and how the sport started. Beale talks about some of the best places to ride, how the sport has advanced and how he designed the world's first modern sandboards. Beale is the owner of Venomous Sandboards and the Sand Master Sandboarding Park & Store in Florence.
In this episode, outdoors intern Olivia Stevens takes listeners through a Eugene author's unusual strategy to finishing the Pacific Crest Trail. Rather than the traditional experience of completing the trail from the borders of Mexico to Canada in one go, Bob Welch hiked the 2,650 miles in 17 chunks over 11 years. Welch recently published a book about his experience, “Seven Summers (and a few Bummers): My Adventures on the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail.” He will speak about the book and sign copies at Tsunami Books in Eugene on Thursday at 7 p.m. and at the Corvallis public library at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 7. Stevens talked to Welch about the PCT, trail magic and the pros and cons of sectioning out the iconic trail from Mexico to Canada.
In this episode, host Zach Urness talks about why fire investigation reports from the devastating 2020 Labor Day Fires still have not been finished or released by Oregon officials. Zach was interviewed about his in-depth reporting on the subject by Dave Miller, host of Think Out Loud on Oregon Public Broadcasting. They talk about where the investigations stand after three years, why it's taking so long, what we know and how California does thing differently.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness breaks down Oregon's 2023 wildfire season and puts it in prospective compared to recent years. Zach details the acres burned, homes lost and air quality impact around Oregon, along with the biggest fires of the year and big takeaways from the season. Then he talks with Alex Robertson, a longtime firefighter and regional fire director for the U.S. Forest Service, about what firefighters saw in 2023.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Olivia Stevens talk about some of the best things to do in the Wallowa Mountains. Olivia highlights overlooked campsites, cultural sites and museums and some new hikes in northeast Oregon's Joseph-Enterprise-Wallowa Lake area. Then, Zach posts a full episode that breaks down everything to know about the area with an episode originally recorded in 2018.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and outdoors intern Olivia Stevens walks listeners through a unique experience on Wallowa Lake in the remote northeastern town of Joseph. A small, family-run company out there recently became a viral sensation after a social media influencer posted a video paddling through the glacial lake at night in light-up, clear boats.Olivia took the nighttime clear bottom kayak tour herself, and talks about whether the experience lived up to the hype driven by all the online attention. She also talked to the family that owns the company JO Paddle about how the business of clear bottom kayak tours and rentals began, as well as where they hope to take it in the future.JO Paddle will open reservations for their next season of tours and rentals on January 1. To learn more, go to their website.
In this episode, outdoors intern Olivia Stevens brings listeners to Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area to watch and listen to one of Oregon's most majestic animals — Roosevelt elk. Jewell Meadows, located in the Coast Range east of Seaside, is popular place where visitors can see up to 200 elk in one visit. Stevens highlights the sound an elk makes while "bugling" during mating season, breaks down how this popular wildlife refuge and talks about why it's making a trip to visit with refuge mangers and volunteers.
In this episode, Zach talks with University of Oregon astronomy professor Scott Fisher about the upcoming "ring of fire" solar eclipse. The annular eclipse, while not quite as dramatic as the 2017 total solar eclipse, will showcase the moon blocking the sun in Oregon beginning at 9:13 a.m. on Oct. 14 and traveling across a wide swath of the state. Fisher, also the director of Pine Mountain Observatory in Central Oregon, talks about where to best see the eclipse, what's happening in the sky and how it's different from the 2017 event.
In this episode, Zach breaks down how to boat camp at Waldo Lake in a year when many campgrounds and roads are still closed due to last year's Cedar Creek Fire.
While two of the campgrounds at Waldo are closed, you are allowed to load up a canoe or kayak with camping equipment and head to "dispersed" campsites that dot the lake's shoreline.
Zach explains what's legal and open this year, before adding a podcast that looks at where to find the lake's best campsites, what to expect and how to plan a trip.
In this episode, Zach talks to Sisters district ranger Ian Reid about the spectacular recreation and plans for new trails in this Central Oregon town.
They start by focusing on the Three Creek Lake — one of Oregon's best base camps for adventure. They talk about how to best plan a trip, where to camp, fish and hike, along with detailing some potential changes that could be coming to the area.
In the second half, Ian breaks down a new trail plan for the Sisters area. The plan includes new downhill mountain biking trails, opening trails in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness and tweaking popular trails, including those in Canyon Creek Meadows.
In this edition, host Zach Urness and intern Abigail Landwehr talk about a visit to Bohemia Mountain and a festival honoring its rich past.
Southeast of Cottage Grove, the name of the mountain is probably best known for the town-wide annual celebration. Every summer, Bohemia Mining Days attracts a number of people from across the state and further.
But the surrounding area offers more than just the festival — visitors can also explore trails, campgrounds and the captivating mining history of the peak. Pieces of the mining district’s past also sit in between the pines, including a ghost town abandoned three times.
Urness and Landwehr talk about the past and present of the area and offer a guide on what to explore during a trip to Bohemia Mountain. Interviews from longstanding locals, razor-driving visitors and the Bohemia Mining Days Festival’s deputy are also featured in the episode.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach updates the status of the Mount Jefferson Wilderness this summer and breaks down a glorious three-day backpacking loop about a glorious three-day backpacking loop.
Then, he plays an older episode that highlights all the best places to hike and backpack in the Jefferson Wilderness while detailing the seven major wildfires that have marked the area and their lasting impact.
Zach is joined by guidebook author Matt Reeder, who has written multiple books about the Jefferson, for a truly comprehensive breakdown on one of the most beautiful areas in the state.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks about the glory of rafting the Lower Deschutes River with expert boater Jared Linkhart.
They talk about how the high desert scenery, big rapids and riverside campsites make it the state's most popular rafting trips and how to make it happen — either with an outfitter or by running your own boat. Jared breaks down the different segments of the river, talks about how to run the biggest rapids, find the best campsites and get permits.
The podcast is also joined by Jared's two kids — Emma and Jacob — who talk about how they learned to run the rapids of the Deschutes and their favorite parts of experiencing it.
Jared, of Dundee, is a longtime rafter and river sage to boaters learning to get their family on the water. He runs multiple Facebook groups, including Whitewater Families of the PNW.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach looks at a billion-dollar plan that involves using "fish taxis" and "fish Disney Worlds" to save endangered spring chinook in the Upper Willamette Basin.
The plan centers on moving salmon around dams with massive trucks, and allowing the fish to spawn in the upper river that in the past was blocked by dams. The hope is that is to rebuild wild salmon numbers that have fallen to around 4,000 to 7,000 fish per year, down from 300,000 historically.
The podcast is based on Zach's in-depth reporting on a massive, multi-billion dollar plan proposed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
In this episode, Zach and outdoors intern Abby cover a wide variety of outdoor news including:
-The reopening of Waldo Lake and the Breitenbush Highway, and what it allows access to, including Hawk Mountain
-The sad news of Salem Summit Company planning to close
-Same-day camping reservations at Oregon’s state parks
-Perhaps the oldest site of human occupation in North America
-The verdict of the 2020 Labor Day Fires class action trial
-How not to get stuck on Proposal Rock
-Grey whale numbers are down, Oregon wolf acts oddly and the discovery of sunflower sea stars on the Coast
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks with City Cast Portland about the upcoming wildfire season and why fire danger has suddenly skyrocketed to high levels after a wet and snowy winter.
Zach also breaks down some of his favorite places to hike in wildfire scars, tells the tale of how Don Myron escaped the Labor Day Fires by sheltering in the middle of a river and offers some tips on not igniting wildfires of you own.
Finally, Zach talks about the Boulder Fire burning near Mount Hood and why there's a good chance it could hang around for much of this summer.
In this edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness and intern Abigail Landwehr talk about one of the most beautiful but troubled spots on the Oregon Coast — God's Thumb, also known as The Thumb.
The basalt peak that juts above the ocean north of Lincoln City has become an extremely popular destination but the hike to its top is unofficial, crossing over private land and bringing a host of problems for locals.
Urness and Landwehr talk about the problems and look at why a plan to improve the area hasn’t happened. They talk to the Lincoln City mayor and hikers who recently visited the area.
In this edition, Zach talks with southern Oregon expert Ryan Ghelfi about backpacking in the wild and beautiful Klamath-Siskiyou Mountains of southwest Oregon and extreme northwest California.
It’s an ideal year to backpack in the area due to wildfire danger that’s lower than it has been in many years, following California’s historic snowpack that has tamped down fire concerns — at least for the moment.
Zach and Ryan talk about wild and remote places right on the Oregon-California border such as the Red Buttes, Siskiyou and Kalmiopsis Wilderness areas, then drop into the even more spectacular Trinity Alps and Marble Mountain wilderness areas — and more.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach and guidebook author Franziska Weinheimer pick 10 of their favorite backpacking trips for late June, July, August and September as the high outdoor recreation season gets underway.
The trips recommend include shorter and longer backpacking routes, from 15 to 55 miles in length, in the Wallowa, Elkhorn, Cascade and Klamath-Siskiyou mountains.
They also talk about snow levels in the mountains, wildfire danger for the summer and the third year of the Central Cascades wilderness permit system, among other topics.
Weinheimer, the owner and operator of the website Hike Oregon, also talks about new hiking booklets that break down the best hikes near different towns across the state.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks with Leo Rosen-Fischer, expert of recreational tree climbing in the Pacific Northwest and owner of Tree Climbing at Silver Falls.
They talk about exactly what recreational tree climbing is — using ropes, a harness and other equipment to ascend high up old-growth trees — before detailing the types of giant trees you can climb in the backcountry of Silver Falls State Park.
They talk about how tree climbing works for younger kids and older adults, how you can actually camp at the top of a nearly 300-foot tree and how Rosen-Fischer and state parks officials ensure the activity is not harming the trees or displacing animals.
In this episode, Zach and Charlie talk about the curious case of Saddle Mountain State Natural Area — one of the state's most beautiful peaks and hikes that has been closed frequently the past three years.
The episode includes an interview with park ranger Eric Crum, who explains the difficulty in reopening the park's trail and the reasons for the ongoing closure. They look at when the park and trail will reopen and what will be different about it.
Charlie and Zach also talk about the rare and endangered plants on Saddle Mountain, how the peak was once a prehistoric island and the pros and cons of closing public lands in the name of safety.
In this episode, Zach and journalism intern Charlie Gearing focus on the glory of Oregon's kokanee salmon. The landlocked sockeye salmon have become increasingly popular for anglers for a number of reasons — mainly that they're delicious and easier to catch. Zach and Charlie talk with two expert kokanee anglers about the fish's backstory — how these salmon became landlocked — and how to best catch them in places like Green Peter Reservoir and Detroit Lake.They also get into what the fish eat, how they naturally spawn — and turn bright red in the process — and how best to eat them.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach and outdoors intern Charlie Gearing talk about the glories of the Crooked River.They talk about why it's one of the state's best fly-fishing streams while also highlighting the area's hiking, camping, boating and even bungee jumping. On the subject of fly-fishing, Charlie interviews Jeff Perin of the Fly Fisher's Place in Sisters for a full breakdown on the best flies, what to target and where to fish.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks with Smith Rock State Park manger Matt Davey about big changes coming to one of the state's most iconic places. The park's master plan is being developed that will bring changes to parking, hiking, camping and drone use a place increasingly popular for rock climbing and hiking. Davey outlines plans for a new visitor's center at the park and how the new parking areas will reshape the experience for rock climbers, hikers and anyone else who travels to the park.
In this episode, Zach talks about the latest developments in Oregon's Labor Day Fires. He details a mega trial that began this week that pits victims of the fires against Pacificorp — the utility whose power lines are blamed for igniting some of the fires and bringing widespread destruction. Zach also updates access to areas burned areas in the fires — including the Opal Creek and Mount Jefferson areas — before talking about good places to hike and observe the scars left behind by the fires. Finally, Zach reposts a podcast recorded in the wake of the Labor Day Fires that talks about the week before the fires, what happening when the fires exploded and some of the aftermath.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks with noted guidebook author Matt Reeder about the best spring hikes in every corner of the state and his latest book, "Extraordinary Oregon! 125 Fantastic Hikes Across the State of Oregon." Zach and Matt talk about 10 of the best but over overlooked spring-specific hikes in the state. They travel to a coastal hike below massive sea walls, into the rugged Badger Creek Wilderness and journey into a narrow crack in a vertical wall of Steens Mountain.Matt also talks about his motivation for the book and what makes it stand out compared to other guidebooks that showcases Oregon. You can buy "Extraordinary Oregon!" in plenty fo places online, but the best is at his website, The Ruddy Hill Press.
In this episode, Zach talks with two raft guides about one of Oregon's most famous stretches of whitewater — Hell's Corner Canyon on the Upper Klamath River. This summer will be the last chance to raft the segment of whitewater during summer before dam removal makes future trips different, and perhaps impossible, during the year's hottest months. Pete Wallstrom, owner of Momentum River Expeditions, and Bart Baldwin, owner of Noah's River Adventures, both in Ashland, talk about what makes the river special in its current state, how dam removal will change it and what the future holds for recreation on the Klamath River.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks to Oregon State Climatologist Larry O'Neill about the incoming El Niño pattern and what it means for the state, in addition to an overarching discussion about Oregon's climate future. O'Neill touches on the differences between the La Nina pattern Oregon has been under, and the El Niño one that is expected to arrive next winter and could bring extremely warm conditions. He also gets into how increasingly warm Oregon have impacted the state so far and what we're expected to see in the future.
In this edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks about why it's so important to enjoy Oregon's robust snowpack and long ski season before rounding up a few good spring break travel ideas and highlighting some recent outdoors news. Zach details how Oregon's ski areas are staying open through April and even May this year due to a good snowpack and mentions some spring deals that make getting on the lifts a bit cheaper. He then highlights a snowshoe and ski route to a snow shelter at the base of the Three Sisters. Because of a potential El Nino pattern next year, this spring might be the best snow conditions for a while, according to Oregon State Climatologist Larry O'Neill, who makes a brief appearance on the podcast. Finally, Zach highlights two outdoor-themed museums worth visiting during spring break, whale watching advance and then a handful of news reported recently including: The revival of the western snowy plover on the Oregon Coast Two fatal accidents in the backcountry, and another death at Oregon’s deadliest spotMore struggles for Oregon’s iconic trees — this time of the Douglas firs of the Klamath-Siskiyou
In this edition, Zach heads to the ancient forest of the Salmon River hiking trails between Portland and Mount Hood. Zach talks about the easy, medium and difficult way to explore one of Oregon's most spectacular old-growth temperate rainforests. The podcast highlights Wildwood Recreation Site and Salmon River hiking trails heading into the Salmon Huckleberry Wilderness, breaking down how to backpack, day-hike and explore the area. He also highlights some extreme whitewater kayaking to visit the area's hidden waterfalls and a trip to an abandon fire lookout at the top of a nearby mountain.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach talks to Eric Davis about how to go snowboarding on the Oregon Coast after a rare coastal snowstorm. Snowboarding is very rare on the Oregon Coast or Coast Range due to the ocean's moderate temperatures, but Davis has made it happen twice now, including last week, when he went snowboarding at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area with his 5-year-old daughter and captured some unique photos and video in the process. In the podcast, Davis explains how he tries to find snowboarding opportunities in the Coast Range and the magic of snowboarding above the ocean last week on a the "Great Dune" at Cape Kiwanda.
Host Zach Urness wraps up the latest outdoors news before heading out on the state's best snowy waterfall trips. In the first half of the episode, Urness hits on the end of timed entry permits for the Columbia Gorge's waterfall corridor, Oregon's snowpack jumping to 108% of normal with more on the way and the future of outdoor recreation business in light of lawsuits, an Oregon Supreme Court decision and new legislation. In the second half, Urness talks about his favorite trips to snow-covered waterfalls.
In the latest edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach wraps up the latest outdoors news and includes a handful of fun places to travel in February during this newsletter-style podcast. Zach talks about the series of dead whales that washed up on the Oregon Coast last month and looks at whether it's a big deal or not, along with dispelling the notion that Oregon will once again use dynamite to explode the whale carcasses, as the state attempted in the 1970s. He also touches on a string of historically hot years in the Beaver State, the number of boating deaths in Oregon and a handful of other newsy topics. Finally, Zach highlights two great places to travel in February including skiing or snowshoeing at Gold Lake Sno-Park and traveling to the Oregon Redwoods.
In this episode, Zach talks about the growing momentum to reintroduce sea otters on the Oregon Coast with Chanel Hason, director of outreach and community relations for the Elakha Alliance. They talk about how returning sea otters to the Coast could help save kelp forests — and why that's important — along with why the fuzzy marine mammals were wiped out in the first place and how reintroduction could work.
In this episode, Zach talks about all the big new changes at Silver Falls State Park.Park officials are planning a new trailhead and waterfall trail, a new campground and visitor's center, all while expanding the park by upgrading a backcountry area now known as the Smith Creek Village.Zach talked to Silver Falls manager Chris Gilliand and operator of the new Smith Creek Villages Brooke Gerken.Zach also details other updates at the park, including the return of guided tree climbing, adventure races and the network of backcountry trails.Finally, he touches on the history of how the park came together and was saved by a landscape photographer from Silverton named June Drake.
In this episode, Zach takes a winter road trip to Crater Lake National Park and talks about how to get the most out of your journey. Oregon’s only national park becomes a winter wonderland during the year’s coldest months, becoming an amazing place to snowshoe, ski, snow camp or just get views of the lake while sitting indoors. But the journey to Crater Lake also offers opportunity. The mountain highways leading to the park feature waterfalls, hot springs and snow adventures. Zach offers a roadmap to some of his favorite spots along the way and returning from Crater Lake.
A series of research studies and surveys published over the past few months have revealed a troubling trend — some of Oregon's most iconic trees are dying or struggling in record numbers. In this edition, Zach talks to Oregon Department of Forestry Christine Buhl about recently documented die-offs of western redcedar, Oregon's true fir species, Douglas fir and the insect invasion of Oregon white oak. Taken together, says Buhl, the studies reflect how Oregon's hotter and drier climate is damaging the state's most beloved trees at record rates. Buhl talks about what's going on, what Oregon's forest of the future might look like and what can be done to mitigate some of the problems.
In this episode, outdoors intern Makenzie Elliott talks to Daniel Hasselschwert, the owner of Ossies Surf Shop in Newport about all things surfing on the Oregon Coast.The two discuss what makes Oregon such an interesting place to surf and why people can surf the waves year round. They also talk about what it takes to start surfing with things like taking lessons and finding the right gear. Hasselschwert also shares why he loves the sport of surfing and why he believes it is so popular and loved by many.Elliott also reflects on her first surf lesson she took with Hasselschwert at Ossies Surf Shop. She discusses what it was like surfing for the first time and what she learned while in the water.
In this episode, Zach talks with wilderness chef and forager Kayla Sulak about the art of camp and wilderness cooking while highlighting a few of her favorite recipes for wild mushrooms, fish and game.
They're also joined by experienced angler and hunter Mason Krupka to talk about the process of harvesting and hunting Oregon's wild bounty and the best methods for cooking it all up into something delicious.
The mushroom, fish and game are all staples of Oregon's outdoors and something most people can harvest with a bit of focus and research, and many of the recipes Kayla highlights are one-pan meals made on a skillet.
To find more recipes and information from Kayla, follow her on social media on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.
In this episode, outdoors intern Makenzie Elliott looks into the recently published "Travel Guide to Oregon Indian Country."
The guide, which was created by Travel Oregon in partnership with Oregon's nine federally recognized tribes, highlights events, outdoor activities and other attractions like tribal museums and casinos.
Makenzie talks with Travis Hill, the chief operating officer for Umpqua Indian Development Corporation and a contributor to the guide, about the creation of this travel guide, what he hopes comes from the guide and why a guide like this is important to tribal communities.
Hill also mentions some outdoor activities and events people can explore around the Umpqua area, which is located in southern Oregon in the Roseburg area.
In this episode, Zach breaks down the biggest stories from the summer of 2022.
He details the wildfire season and how this year compared to previous seasons, including acres burned, homes lost and days with unhealthy air. He also gets into the summer climate, Oregon's "year of the permit," conservation legislation and recreation trends that include growing anger and hostility among campers.
Zach then talks about covering a sad and strange tale of a hike, a plane crash and reality television star Heavy D in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness.
In this podcast, Zach revisits some of his favorite interviews from the earliest days of the Explore Oregon Podcast. First, he talks about the life of whales off the Oregon Coast, including how new whale moms keep their calves safe from predators.
After that, he talks with two environmentalists about Oregon's wildest old-growth rainforest. In the second half is an interview with a woman who worked as a fire lookout for three decades.
In this episode, Zach and outdoors intern Makenzie Elliott talk about the best adventures in the touristy Central Oregon town of Sisters along with why the town looks as though it's the setting for a Wild West movie. They talk about some of the best places to camp and hike outside of town, from Three Creek Lake to the Mount Jefferson Wilderness, while also focusing on close-to-town biking and horseback riding adventures. They also take a dive into the town's history including why every storefront is required to have an Old West theme to it, and how they set the town up as a tourist destination far earlier than many other places in the state.
In this episode, Zach talks to Hipcamp founder and CEO Alyssa Ravasio about the rise of private campgrounds in Oregon and across the West. Private sites are becoming an increasingly popular option as Oregon's public campgrounds have fewer spaces available and are often sold out during summer.
Ravasio talks about how her company recruits farmers and ranchers to open their land to camping in areas near Bend, Mount Hood and the Oregon Coast where demand for campsites is high but supply is low. She explains the differences between a HipCamp and traditional campsite and talks about how it helps create value in rural communities without the land being developed.
In this episode, Zach and outdoors intern Skyla Patton prepare for the peak season for finding Oregon's delicious and beautiful state mushroom: the Pacific Golden Chanterelle.
Skyla breaks down where and when to find chanterelles, how to eat it, how to get permits to harvest them and trickier questions including whether you can over-harvest the beloved mushroom.
The two discuss everything from the science of why chanterelles grow across Western Oregon to best recipes to proper what the evidence suggests about cutting them or pulling them from the ground.
In this episode, Zach talks to wildfire meteorologist Eric Wise about a weather pattern known simply as "east winds," which fueled the 2020 Labor Day Fires and last weekend's widespread power shutdowns and wildfires that brought evacuations to Salem, Estacada and Oakridge.
Wise explains where the east winds come from, why they make Oregon wildfires so explosive and whether climate change is making them more powerful or frequent. In other words, are scary east wind events a "new normal?"
The second half of the podcast features Zach making an appearance on Oregon Public Broadcasting show Think Out Loud. The show's host, Dave Miller, interviews Zach about a recent story about the slow pace of final investigation reports about the causes of the 2020 Labor Day Fires.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach welcomes a trio of fun guests to talk about about going backpacking with kids and the best places to visit.
Zach is joined by Bonnie Henderson, his co-author of the guidebook "Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon," along with 11-year-old backpackers Nate and Mary Evans, who share their thoughts from a kids' prospective.
The group picks 12 great backpacking trips that land on the easy side and are good fits for younger backpackers (or just someone looking for an easier trip).
Nate and Mary talk about everything from what treats to bring on backpacking trips to how to keep kids engaged, while Zach and Bonnie share tips from a parent's prospective.
In this episode, outdoor intern and fungus enthusiast Skyla Patton talks all things mushroom hunting with pro forager and mycoeducator Rachel Zoller, better known as Yellow Elanor.
In this episode, Zach talks to fish biologist Stephan Charette about one of the best places to catch fish in Oregon — smallmouth bass on the John Day River. He talks about why the fishing is so good, where and how to land them and the upside and downside of so many fish.
In this shorter episode, Zach talks about the reopening of Jefferson Park, perhaps the most beautiful alpine destination in Oregon, and how to get there in the wildfire-burned landscape. Then he gets into the "extra-effort permit loophole" that should help you reach beautiful places in Jefferson, Sisters and Washington wilderness areas. Finally, they travel to Waldo Lake to talk about whether it makes sense to visit Oregon's famously clear lake with a large wildfire burning nearby.
In this episode, Zach and Skyla head down Highway 199 to visit southwest Oregon's rugged and beautiful Illinois Valley. It's a place where you can sleep in a treehouse resort, go off trail at the Oregon Caves National Monument, visit art galleries featuring crystal artwork and reach mountain swimming holes, alpine lakes and big summits with a short drive. Zach and Skyla also talk about the controversial "sweet cron" sign along Highway 199 and some tasty eats in towns such as Cave Junction.
In this episode Zach hits on the biggest stories of Oregon's summer. He touches on: 3:20: Wildfires and closures in place in Oregon at Waldo Lake, Diamond Peak. 7:20: The McKinny Fire on the Oregon-California border and what's at risk in that magic part of the world. 19:40: The reopening of 180,000 acres of pubic land including Opal Creek, Breitenbush, Jeff Wilderness. 24:50: New permits to climb Mount Hood. 27:20: Crowded campgrounds and how to score a few sites on the Coast. 38:00: Best backpacking trips in S. Oregon and N. California.
This episode is all about Oregon's heat wave. To start, Zach is interviewed on Oregon Public Broadcasting about ways to stay safe and get outdoors amid 100 degree temps. Then, Zach talks about the latest on plans to reopen iconic forest burned in the Labor Day Fires around Mount Jefferson, Detroit and Opal Creek. Finally, Zach and Statesman Journal outdoors intern Skyla Patton pick 10 of Oregon's best swimming spots.
In this episode, dive into the Clackamas River, notorious for giving Portland its whitewater bug.
Zach interviews Pete Giordano, owner of Blue Sky Rafting, as they look at how the river has changed after the Riverside Fire, which kept the stream closed last summer, and how it hasn't.
Pete details the best sections of the river for big rapids, the best places for a lazy float and good areas to camp, swim, SUP and fish on this wild tributary of the Willamette. They also touch on the history of early hydroelectric power and about camping at Milo McCarver State Park.
In this episode, Zach and three river experts pick the 20 best river trips in Oregon for whitewater thrills and overnight camping adventures. They talk about what makes streams such as the Rogue, Deschutes and Clackamas rivers so incredible and detail how to make the trips happen while also covering lesser-known streams.
Guests on the episode include: Zach Collier, owner of Northwest Rafting Company
Jacob Cruser, co-author of "Paddling Pacific Northwest Whitewater" and author of the blog Into the Outside
Jared Linkhart, a longtime rafter and river sage to boaters learning to get their family on the water
In this episode, Zach brings back a second volume of his favorite stories from the past 70 episodes of the podcast. This edition features:
Why Hood River was once called "Dog River" A major drug bust that led to beautiful collection of trails A ghost wagon rising from the Detroit Lake The history of Hoodoo Ski Area Why it's dangerous to visit Proposal Rock with a significant other
In this episode, Zach brings back a collection of his favorite stories from the first almost 70 episodes of the podcast. It's the first of two podcasts that include fun stories about Oregon's most famous places, and this edition features naked mountain men, a princess turned to stone and a coastal town feuding with a fifth grade class from Montana.
There's no place quite like Steens Mountain, a 50-mile fault block mountain that rises almost to almost 10,000 feet above the Alvord Desert in southeastern Oregon. It's a place where you can backpack into deep gorges, explore a stunning alpine lake in a basin a vertical mile above the desert and camp at numerous sites along Oregon's highest roadway. In this episode, Zach talks with Anne White with the Oregon Natural Desert Association about all the wonders and styles of outdoor recreation at Steens.
In this episode, Zach takes a trip to the high desert mountain and wildlife mecca of Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. Joined by expert Michael O'Casey, of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, they talk about the area's hot springs, majestic animals and best hikes in this little-traveled corner of the state.
In this episode, Zach is joined by Oregon outdoors author Franziska Weinheimer, the owner of the website HikeOregon.net, to talk about 16 summer road trips that include hiking, camping, floating, fishing and exploring all corners of the state.
Oregon's state parks showcase many of the state's most beautiful places as well as the largest and most iconic campgrounds. But how did this system of over 350 parks, recreation areas and the Oregon Coast come together? It's a story of ambition and conservation, of colorful characters, near-calamity and rebirth. Zach talks to an associate director and historian for the deep dive on the last 100 years of Oregon parks.
In this episode, Zach interviews Willamette National Forest supervisor Dave Warnack about the agency's new plan to reopen 170,000 acres of forest that burned in the Labor Day Fires in 2020. The plan includes providing access this summer to iconic places such as Opal Creek, the northern Mount Jefferson Wilderness, and other places that are currently closed due to safety concerns.
In this episode, Zach talks about the wildlife-packed wonders of the Willamette Valley wildlife refuges. Home to over 10,000 acres of forest, ponds, hills and one of the richest collections of birds on earth, the refuges make for great close-to-home hiking, according to guest Sam Bartling with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
In this episode, Zach is joined by Gabe Howe, director of the Siskiyou Mountain Club to talk about what might be Oregon's wildest place, the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. They break down the 10 best hikes and backpacking routes, while discussing the megafires, unique geology and wild rivers that make this area so enchanting. Howe details how his club restored the wilderness' trails after major wildfires.
In this episode, Zach talks with Mount Hood Meadows lead ski instructor Tyler Barnes about the best ways to get kids started with downhill skiing and snowboarding while keeping costs within reason.
Zach takes a deep dive into the Columbia River Gorge, breaking down the best hikes and best places to eat, the history and geology, and the latest news on permits, crowding, post-fire recovery and what comes next for Multnomah Falls, Dog Mountain and Oneonta Gorge. Special guests include author Matt Wastradowski ("Moon Columbia River Gorge & Mount Hood") and Stan Hinatsu (U.S. Forest Service).
The number of people rescued from Oregon's outdoors has risen sharply in the past few years. But why? Zach talks with Scott Lucas, state search and rescue coordinator about why Oregon has seen so many rescues, how people get into trouble and how to avoid getting lost.
Zach and SJ outdoors intern Eddy Binford Ross debate their 15 favorite winter adventures in Oregon. They talk about how to ski and snowshoe at Crater Lake in winter — and why it's better than summer — while breaking down a visit to a snowy fire lookout, waterfalls covered in ice and why the Oregon Coast Trail makes for great off-season trips.
A new trail system was recently completed that provides access to to the Grove of Titans inside California's Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. We'll talk about how this is a huge win and give you details on visiting these giants.
Zach and David revisit how to head into Oregon's national forest and find a Christmas tree for just $5.
They break down a program from the U.S. Forest Service that allows bringing home a tree less than 12 feet tall from the mountains.
Zach talks with Jordan Dodge, a board member of the Willamette Valley Mushroom Society and a commercial mushroom seller, to learn the tips and tricks to finding these amazing edibles in Oregon forests.
Zach and Eddy Binford Ross report on the status of Shellburg Falls, one of Oregon's most popular waterfall hikes that was burned by the 2020 Beachie Creek Fire.
Zach is joined by Beth Dayton of the Salem Area Trail Alliance to talk about new mountain bike trails at Silver Falls State Park and work SATA has done bringing new trails to the Salem area.
Zach interviews Bonnie Henderson, an expert on backpacking and thru-hiking the Oregon Coast Trail.
Henderson talks about the differences in each segment of the trail — which are most scenic or challenging — while detailing critical factors such as the best season to backpack, why reading tide tables is important and where you'll need arrange for ferry rides to cross large bays.
In this episode Zach and David discuss the summer of 2021 and its extreme heatwaves, new permit systems and of course wildfires.
Then, new outdoors intern Eddy Binford-Ross travels to Sisters to share one group's quest to restore a forgotten trail in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness.
Zach interviews Eric Davis, owner and operator of @OregonCoastAgates, about the best places to find agates on the Oregon Coast and some pro tips to have a successful hunt.
In this edition, Zach interviews guidebook author Matt Reeder about the best places to explore in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness, an 111,000 acre backcountry paradise that has been shaped by wildfire.
There's a new trail linking Corvallis to the Oregon Coast. Zach talks with Gary Chapman, president of the C2C Trail Partnership, to learn more about more this long-anticipated route that takes hikers and bikers from the Willamette Valley to Ona Beach.
In this edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach and David talk about how to hike and camp on the "quiet" side of Mount Hood before interviewing Dave Tragethon about chairlift hiking at Mount Hood Meadows.
In this episode we’re talking with a mountain guide about some of the best Oregon climbs that do not require ropes. These are spectacular peaks where all you need are strong legs, strong lungs and strong planning to reach some of the state’s most dramatic views.
In this episode we explore Oswald West State Park and look at how Oswald West the former governor saved Oregon beaches from private interests, creating the unique public ownership that Oregonians enjoy to this day.
Zach and David talk about hiking among ancient volcanoes east of Salem to the state's best collection of summer wildflowers in an area known as the Old Cascades.
Zach talks with Dwayne Canfield, interim executive director of the Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center, about the wildfire damage to one of Oregon's outdoor gems.
In this edition, we’re previewing what’s expected to be a chaotic season in Oregon’s outdoors and how to navigate wildfire closures, permits and drought while also highlighting some great places to visit during this strangest of summers.
Zach is joined by Travis Williams, executive director of Willamette Riverkeeper, to talk about the best floats and campsites just a stone's throw from Oregon's largest cities along the Willamette Water Trail.
In this edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach is joined by well-known trail runner and ultramarathoner Ryan Ghelfi to talk about the art of "fastpacking" — a combination of trail running and backpacking.
Ryan and Zach then pick their favorite wilderness spots within the mythic "State of Jefferson" — otherwise known as Southern Oregon and extreme Northern California.
Zach and David are joined by outdoors author Adam Sawyer to discuss the best hikes in and around the Salem area.
Salem might not have the same outdoor buzz as Eugene and Bend, but it features a beautiful collection of forested urban hikes and nearby trails that lead to wildflowers, wildlife refuges and waterfalls.
We explain how a new permit system will change hiking and backpacking in the Three Sisters, Mount Jefferson and Mount Washington wilderness areas, and what it means when the permits go on sale April 6.
We're joined by Emily Halnon to talk about her incredible feat to run 57 miles per day over mountain wilderness to set the speed record on the Oregon section of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Zach and David highlight Bandon's best adventures and events, from beach hiking to a sand art exhibition to mountain biking, camping and boating on a "new river." They also dive into the area's unique history, including a Native American princess turned to stone, a tragic wildfire and one of Oregon's biggest drug busts.
Zach is joined by Larry Warren, director of the Oregon State Marine Board. In the first half, we'll talk about the big stories surrounding boating on Oregon's waterways. Then, we'll pick our top boating, rafting and paddling destinations across the state.
In this week's edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach and David talk to Silver Falls State Park ranger Chris Gilliand about the night wildfires came terrifyingly close to burning Oregon's iconic state park.
Home to more than 70 miles of cross-country, snowshoe and snowmobile trails and featuring three backcountry snow shelters, Ray Benson features sweeping views of Mount Washington and Three-Fingered Jack.
We'll talk about hidden beaches of white sand, explore little-known pathways such as the Steam Donkey Trail and take a dive into the area's fascinating history, from a plan to create a nuclear power plant at Cape Kiwanda to a love-struck sea captain who asked for his lady's hand in marriage at a certain rock.
Zach and David close the books on 2020 with a look back at the year's biggest stories in Oregon's outdoors.
Stories covered include a ghost wagon that rose from Detroit Lake, a man that escaped the Labor Day fires by sheltering on a river and the death of conservation icon George Atiyah.
In this episode, we discuss your best options for getting outside this winter and what to changes to expect. We also replay the Oregon State Parks draft from an earlier interview with state parks director Lisa Sumption.
In this episode Zach and guidebook author Matt Wastradowski talk about the best hikes of Oregon's McKenzie Pass.
The historic wildfire season burned and closed many iconic waterfalls while the continued impact of COVID-19 and storm damage has shuttered others. We talk about some of the best-known waterfalls in Northwest Oregon and whether they're open or closed, burned or unscathed.
In this episode, hosts Zach Urness and David Davis talk about the outdoor paradise around Southern Oregon's Grants Pass while discussing the history of the town's name — which includes murder, betrayal and a Civil War general.
Urness, who lived in Grants Pass for six years, also talks about meeting the founder of Dutch Bros and the glory of the Rogue River, the Illinois River, local mountain biking spots and the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve.
Zach speaks with Lisa Sumption, the director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, and longtime parks spokesman Chris Havel to talk about why parks were shut down, how they've been impacted and what comes next — including when yurts and cabins will reopen.
In our first mini-podcast, we detail four of our favorite things to do around Hood River, Oregon. From a leisurely bike ride along the Columbia, to wild rafting trips, to fruit farms and wildflowers.
In this edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, hosts Zach Urness and David Davis talk about the genesis of the fires that ripped through the Santiam Canyon the night of Labor Day 2020 and into the next morning, devastating communities up and down the canyon.
On this episode we'll take you to the second-longest undammed river in the United States which snakes through deep, isolated canyons in Eastern Oregon for a trip that features beautiful camping, great fishing and mellow rapids.
In this episode we're joined by Chandra LeGue, author of Oregon's Ancient Forests, to talk about the best tree-focused hikes in Oregon.
In this episode we're joined by marine expert Luke Parsons to talk about the majesty of the whale migrations along the Oregon Coast.
In this week's edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, Zach details his favorite winter activity, visiting waterfalls shrouded in snow and ice.
Zach is joined by fishing poet and Western Oregon University professor Henry Hughes to talk fishing at Detroit Lake.
Outdoors writer Zach Urness shares how to make an adventure out of finding your special Christmas tree in Willamette National Forest.
In this week's edition of the Explore Oregon Podcast, we pick the best things to do on Willamette Pass.
We're taking a look at a unique program of the National Forest Service that allows people to harvest plants (with permit) for personal use. We'll tell you how to take advantage and where to go.
We run down our favorite lighthouses on the Oregon Coast and how you can climb to the top.
In this episode, we talk about kayak and canoe camping at Waldo Lake, one of the clearest and most beautiful lakes in Oregon.
While many spend the night at the lake's three developed campgrounds, you're also allowed to load up a boat with camping equipment and head to "dispersed" campsites that dot the lake's shoreline.
Zach finds inspiration from dives performed by biologists conducting fish counts and discusses a combination of hikes into the backcountry and underwater snorkeling. We look at snorkeling opportunities on the Collawash River, Little North Santiam, Elk Lake Creek and more.
A quick look at destinations along the South Santiam River including House Rock Campground and Iron Mountain.
Outdoors editor Zach Urness speaks with Renee Patrick, coordinator for the Oregon Desert Trail, about the challenging eastern Oregon route that will open the eyes of hikers to the wonders of the high desert.
We sit down with Sen. Ron Wyden to discuss the Oregon Wildlands Act and the creation of a new wilderness area around Devil's Staircase.
Whether you're a ski fan looking for some fresh powder, a first-time snowshoer, a family looking to sled, or want to take in the majesty of a waterfall during winter, we'll detail the best way to make it happen.
In this episode outdoors editor Zach Urness and producer David Davis are joined by Salem Summit Company's Tori Mullins to highlight gear they can't live without.
We'll run down the options for escape in the Wallowa Mountains and the town of Joseph. From easy going family adventures to full blown wilderness feats.
In this second part of a special report where we explore limited entry in Central Cascades wilderness areas, we'll revisit this trail near McKenzie Pass which was one of the first applications of limited entry in Oregon.
Hiking and camping in three of Oregon's most popular wilderness areas will be restricted starting in 2020, an attempt by outdoor officials to limit damage from growing crowds of visitors.
The U.S. Forest Service announced a decision Thursday to install a permit system limiting the number of people in the Mount Jefferson, Three Sisters and Mount Washington Wilderness areas.
In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, outdoors editor Zach Urness and producer David Davis discuss the fascinating history of these 'tall houses' located deep in the woods.
Learn the history behind Willamette Valley's favorite state park, we share the best way to take in the waterfalls and where to avoid the summer crowds.
Often overlooked, Lincoln City has just what you need for a quick day trip or overnight to recharge and get out on the Oregon Coast.
With many Oregon destinations being 'loved to death', we'll tell you where to seek out great hikes without the crowds.