Outdoor Family

Sandy beach on an island in Priest Lake.

31 Ways to Explore Inland NW Lakes

OTO writers share their ideas for recreation, adventure, and simply enjoying time at any lake in the Inland Northwest.

Out There Outdoors July 19, 2021

Mountain biking turning a corner on a forested trail at Mt. Spokane

New Summer Camps at Mt. Spokane

Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is hosting a youth Mountain Bike Skills Camp and Mountain Adventure Day Camp.

Derrick Knowles July 11, 2021

Inland Northwest Lake Guide for 2021

Overview of the best lakes in eastern Wash., northern Idaho, western Mont., and southeast B.C., for paddling, fishing, and other recreation.

Amy McCaffree June 25, 2021

Cube Iron Roadless Area - view from summit rocks looking over the valley wilderness.

Adventure Inspiration: 34 Summer Trip Ideas

Our friends in the Inland NW outdoors community share their go-to adventures. Get inspired to explore someplace new this summer.

Carol Corbin June 10, 2021

Children swimming and paddleboarding on Fish Lake, with trees in the background and a sandy beach in the foreground.

8 Family-Friendly Lake Parks for Hiking & Swimming

Favorite regional lake parks in North Idaho and Washington that offer great hiking and swimming options for hot summer days.

Amy McCaffree June 2, 2021

Young child riding his bike on a dirt pump track at Camp Sekani, with Ponderosa pine trees in the background.

5 Lessons I Learned About Riding With Kids

Being outside on and around bikes at a young age will help children develop a life-long passion for this fun, healthy outdoor activity. It may ...

Derrick Knowles June 1, 2021

Students pouring water from cups onto the ground while learning at the Spokane County Water Resources Center. Instructor looks on.

Nature Schools in the Inland NW – 2021

Schools and childcare programs in Eastern Washington and North Idaho that provide play-based, hands-on, outdoor learning and environmental curriculum.

Amy McCaffree May 28, 2021

Main lodge at Camp Four Echoes at dusk with all the lights on and reflection of lodge and lights on the calm, flat surface of Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Outdoorsy Summer Camps in the Inland NW – 2021

Annual list of regional summer camps and nature-based schools to help #OutThereKids live their full-potential during this COVID-era summer.

Amy McCaffree May 28, 2021

Happy teenage girls at Camp Spalding during summer 2020, gathering in a line, looking at camera, smiling behind their COVID face masks, and giving the camera thumbs-up signs. Trees in the background.

Summer Camps in the COVID Era

Re-connecting with nature, being more physically active, and learning social-emotional skills are more important than ever for kids.

Amy McCaffree May 28, 2021