Why aren’t there more huckleberries on Huckleberry Mountain?

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, a recent trip to the Mt. Hood National Forest leads to an investigation of the fickle huckleberry plants, which are especially susceptible to the whims of the natural world around them.

With a warming climate, in a place that is regularly ravaged by wildfire, what becomes of our beloved huckleberry season?

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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You’ve never toured the Columbia River Gorge quite like this.

With dozens of waterfalls, small towns, hiking trails and viewpoints spread out across both Oregon and Washington, there are a lot of ways to explore the scenic river corridor east of Portland. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we explore one of the crazier ways to do it: a zigzag road trip.

Come along as we take a whirlwind trip to one of the most scenic places in the Pacific Northwest, crossing bridges and pulling off the highway for some seriously incredible views.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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Those of us who live in the Pacific Northwest have probably fielded the same question from friends and family who fly into town to visit: I’ll be exploring the area for a week – where should I go?

With so many natural wonders, incredible restaurants, beautiful attractions and charming towns across the region, that can feel like an impossible question to answer. How do you pick between the Columbia River Gorge and the Oregon coast? How can you play favorites among our volcanic peaks? And what about the many treasures of the high desert?

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we break down the many options for Northwest travelers, discussing the pros and cons of each place. Whether you’re a tourist yourself or helping others plan, this episode is for you.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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With snow melting and trails opening up, late summer is officially mountain climbing season in the Pacific Northwest.

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest we’re taking advantage of the season to climb to the top of one of central Oregon’s most scenic peaks: South Sister.

The sweeping volcano west of Bend is known as one of Oregon’s more baggable peaks, and is beloved for its alpine lakes and stunning views. Vickie recently tackled the climb and came back with a wild story from the mountain.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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It’s always nice to bond with your parents, but how many people choose to bond over a 100-mile bike ride?

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk to Lizzy Acker, trending news reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, who spent a warm day this summer on a century ride with her dad.

Taking a route from Portland to Troutdale and back, the father-daughter duo enjoyed a great adventure that included sunshine, river views, lemonade and a just a few challenges on the way.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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Looking for incredible coastal views? Make your way to the Boardman Corridor.

Officially known as the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, the 12-mile stretch of the southern Oregon coast is known for its big views, beaches and hiking trails, all found off a series of pull-outs alongside U.S. 101.

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we get into all the best sights to see at the Boardman Corridor, as well as some tips on navigating the sometimes confusing trailheads and parking areas.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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A big cosmic show is coming this weekend, and conditions should be good to see it from Oregon.

The annual Perseid meteor shower, one of the most reliably spectacular astronomical events of the year, will be peaking on Aug. 12 and 13, bringing beautiful streaking meteors to the night sky.

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we talk all about how, when and where to see the Perseids, and explain what exactly it is you’ll be looking at.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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-- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor

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Looking to round out summer with a few good leg-burners? You’ve come to the right place.

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we dive into some of the toughest hiking trails around the Portland area, finding them at Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge and the Coast Range.

These are not your average day hikes – they’re intense climbs meant only for the hardiest of hikers.

We have all the details to help you settle on the best hike for you, from mileage and elevation gain to the necessary precautions at each place. If you’ve spent the season on some of the easier and more moderate trails, this might be the time to challenge yourself.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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-- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor

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Programming note: This is a rebroadcast of an excellent episode from July, 2021.

This week on the Peak Northwest podcast, we discuss how to enjoy Olympic National Park: from the coastline to the forest, lodges to campgrounds.

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Programming note: This is a rebroadcast of an excellent episode from September, 2022.

The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens is considered the most destructive volcanic eruption in United States history. The explosion reduced the mountain’s elevation by about 1,370 feet. Today, hikers and mountaineers set off to the volcano for the day-long adventure to climb to the top. The reduced elevation makes the trek suitable for beginner mountaineers, too.

On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, co-host Vickie Connor talks about her first volcanic summit at Mount St. Helens.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

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