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.

Explore Oregon: Making the most of the outdoors

Best Oregon mountain climbs that don't require a rope

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.

Oswald West and the genesis of Oregon's public beaches

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.

Hike ancient volcanoes to epic wildflower meadows in 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.

What's next for Opal Creek and the Ancient Forest Center

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.

What to know for summer 2021 in Oregon's outdoors

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.

Best campsites, floats on the Willamette River

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.

What is fastpacking? And counting down beautiful wilderness trips in Southern Oregon

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.

Find your new favorite hikes around Salem

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.

New permit system to change hiking in Three Sisters, Mount Jefferson wilderness areas

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.

Emily Halnon talks about breaking Oregon Pacific Crest Trail speed record

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.

Bandon's bountiful outdoor options on the south Oregon Coast

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.

Oregon marine board chief talks permits, boating incidents and best places to float

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.

Saving Silver Falls State Park from the Labor Day fires

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.

Ray Benson Sno-Park: Winter playground named for Salem legend

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.

Adventure and history await on the Tillamook Coast

Everything to know about exploring Oregon's best outdoor destinations from the Statesman Journal including where to camp, hike, bike and more.

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Explore Oregon: Making the most of the outdoors

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