Podcast
Peak Northwest
Hosted by The Oregonian/OregonLive · EN
Hosts Jamie Hale and Chiara Profenna take you to some of the greatest destinations in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.
21episodes
Episodes
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This deep-cuts bucket list will take you to Oregon's hidden natural treasures
2d ago00:34:50Tap to summarizePeople often assume that outdoors and travel reporter Jamie Hale has been everywhere in Oregon, but even he has a bucket list of places he hasn’t seen. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, Hale opens up his deep-cuts bucket list: destinations around the state that, for one reason or another, he has yet to visit. These places, often remote or rugged in nature, represent a side of Oregon that relatively few people make the trek to see. Still, they contain some truly spectacular sights: towering trees and eroded columns of rock, sweeping sagebrush landscapes and arid, windswept mountains. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What are the Pillars of Rome, and are they worth the drive to see? Three of Oregon’s most remote mountain ranges are rugged adventures. Valley of the Giants has incredible trees that are difficult to reach. The one place Hale regrets not getting to sooner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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These dark, mysterious lava tubes are a perfect Pacific Northwest adventure
1w ago00:32:12Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever wondered what lies beneath your feet as you hike around our local volcanoes, this is the place for you. This week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast explores the dark, mysterious lava tubes of Ape Cave in southwest Washington. Found on the south side of Mount St. Helens, the cave system is a fascinating adventure for Northwest explorers. Between the more challenging upper cave system and the easy lower section, Ape Cave offers an adventure for hikers of all levels. We have everything you need to know about how and when to go check it out. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How was Ape Cave formed and what exactly is it? Why you need to make sure to bring two sources of light into the cave. There are a few very specific rules to keep the cave safe. What’s the difference between the upper and lower cave trails? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Reddit asked our Oregon travel reporter anything. Here’s what he said
2w ago00:39:27Tap to summarizeWhat do you want to know about traveling through Oregon? Reddit users had the chance to ask their burning questions of Jamie Hale, The Oregonian/OregonLive’s outdoors and travel reporter who recently did an AMA (that’s Ask Me Anything) on the r/Oregon subreddit. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, Hale shared some of the best questions from Redditors and dove into his answers. The discussion ranged from federal lands passes to Oregon’s best hot springs and some of Hale’s favorite places around the state. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Some recreation areas aren’t accepting federal lands passes — what’s the deal? What are some of the best places to take toddlers and babies on a summer day? Where is the best place to float near Portland and when is the best time to do it? What are Hale’s favorite places in Oregon? He has more than a few. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Sisters is calling: Everything to do, see and eat in the central Oregon destination
3w ago00:43:42Tap to summarizeOne of central Oregon’s best tourist destinations has it all: good food, great views and easy access to outdoor recreation. And no, we’re not talking about Bend. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we dive into Sisters, a small town that has drawn tourists for decades. While some people make sure to stop at the Sno Cap Drive In and others are drawn in by the Old West facades that line downtown, there is more to Sisters than initially meets the eye. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: Why you need to visit the Best Western alpacas. Food carts are redefining dining in Sisters. Here are the best places to try. A tiny hike with huge views, just a few minutes outside town. How to fully explore the natural beauty around Sisters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Author Jeff VanderMeer, a new Oregonian, on walking, writing and why he loves Portland
Jun 1800:48:22Tap to summarizeAuthor Jeff VanderMeer, best known for the creepy alien nature at the heart of his Southern Reach series, is suddenly engrossed in a different landscape completely: the neighborhoods of Portland. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, VanderMeer, who recently moved to Oregon, talks about his long walks across the city, and all the things he’s discovered along the way. While far from the world of “Annihilation,” Portland has managed to captivate him like few other places have, he said, and the things he’s seeing on his long, sprawling walks across the city are inspiring his upcoming novels. It’s not just the beautiful parks, but the small discoveries on sidewalks and back alleys along the way. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How VanderMeer first fell in love with Portland. His walks often go park to park, running through neighborhoods and reaching up to 10 miles at a time. VanderMeer highlights three of his favorite walks through Portland. How the author works on his books while walking through the city. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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How to plan a perfect summer trip around this gem of the Oregon coast
Jun 1100:40:22Tap to summarizeIf you’re looking for a perfect, low-key summer getaway, look no further than Florence — Oregon, that is. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we explore the central Oregon coast town, home to sweeping dunes, good food and all manner of outdoor activities. Ever wanted to try sandboarding? Maybe you want to kayak a freshwater lake just off the ocean? Interested in exploring a particular species of carnivorous plants? You can find it all in Florence. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: The Florence Rhododendron Festival is the Oregon coast’s answer to Portland’s Rose Festival. Why snowboarders might be at a disadvantage when it comes to sandboarding. The best places to eat in Florence. Sea Lion Caves, Heceta Head and other sights around the area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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What I learned on my very first camping trip in Oregon
Jun 400:31:13Tap to summarizeWhile many Oregonians practically grow up at campgrounds, there are plenty of adults who have never enjoyed a night sleeping under the stars. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, co-host Chiara Profenna recounts her very first camping trip, taken this spring on the Oregon coast. Profenna took her partner and dog out for one night at Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park near Florence. The bare-bones overnighter was nevertheless a huge learning experience for Profenna, who walked away with some worthwhile lessons and a new appreciation for sleeping outdoors. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How Profenna ended up taking her first camping trip as an adult. What to pack (and what not to pack) to go camping. Cooking over the fire vs. going out to eat. Overall lessons from a first time camping experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Meet the sisters who launched a hiking group for BIPOC hikers
May 2800:29:46Tap to summarizeOutdoor recreation hasn’t always felt accessible or inviting to everyone. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we explore AmigxPNW, a group dedicated to creating spaces for Black, brown and Indigenous communities of color to connect through hiking, camping and outdoor exploration across the Pacific Northwest. Guests Maria Velador Gonzales and Diana Velador Gonzales, co-founders of AmigxPNW, share how the group got started, how people can join upcoming hikes and why representation and community matter in outdoor spaces. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How and why AmigxPNW was created. What first-time participants can expect from the group’s hikes and events. Why representation matters in outdoor recreation spaces. How community-building can help people feel more connected to nature and each other. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Free foraging walks are teaching people to harvest invasive species
May 2100:34:55Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever been curious about foraging in the wild, or felt intimidated by where to start, this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast is for you. Foraging can seem like a daunting hobby to get into, but it doesn’t have to be. On this week’s episode, we explore Wildwood Folk School, a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching people how to forage for wild plants, understand local ecosystems and build community through outdoor education. Guest Shelby Lynn, foraging instructor for Wildwood Folk School, shares insights into their programs, how to get involved and why foraging is about more than just finding food. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: What exactly is a folk school. Wildwood Folk School’s free foraging plants walks and other programs. The essentials of foraging responsibly and targeting invasive species. How to use your bounty for cooking, crafting or medicinal purposes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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What you need to know before hiking Dog Mountain, the iconic wildflower destination
May 1400:44:02Tap to summarizeWith spring now fully sprung, and the wildflowers out in full force, it’s time for the annual pilgrimage to Dog Mountain. On this episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we dive into everything you need to know before tackling the iconic Columbia River Gorge adventure, known not only for its flower-strewn meadows, but for the very steep trail to get to them. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to the outdoors, you’ll likely need to do a little planning before taking on the tough little hike. With steep trails, unpredictable weather and loads of poison ivy, there’s a lot to consider. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: When is wildflower season on Dog Mountain? How hard is the hike, really? What to pack for your adventure. Some tips on doing a difficult hike like this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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