Explore Oregon Podcast: The state's most beautiful places and biggest issues

Latest Episodes:

Oregon Desert Trail: Discover Oregon's high desert Jun 11, 2019

Show notes

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.

Oregon Wildlands Act: Senator Ron Wyden on the fight for Oregon's last primeval rainforest Mar 11, 2019

Show notes

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.

Sno-Parks: Finding your snow on Santiam and Willamette Pass Feb 11, 2019

Show notes

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.

Gear we love for Oregon's outdoors Dec 20, 2018

Show notes

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.

From the mild to the wild in Oregon's Wallowa Mountains Dec 01, 2018

Show notes

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.

Limited Entry Part 2: How limited entry saved the Obsidian Trail Nov 24, 2018

Show notes

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.

Limited Entry Part 1: Limited entry comes to the Oregon wilderness Nov 17, 2018

Show notes

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.

Fire lookout towers: Your guide to booking a night Nov 03, 2018

Show notes

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.

Silver Falls State Park: Wild history, best hikes and where to avoid crowds Aug 23, 2018

Show notes

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.

Oregon's Coast Range: Where the crowds aren't Aug 23, 2018

Show notes

With many Oregon destinations being 'loved to death', we'll tell you where to seek out great hikes without the crowds.