About the Author

Grant McOmie

Grant McOmie is a Pacific Northwest broadcast journalist, teacher and author who writes and produces stories and special programs about the people, places, outdoor activities and environmental issues of the Pacific Northwest. A fifth generation Oregon native, Grant’s roots run deepest in the central Oregon region near Prineville and Redmond where his family continues to live.

Let’s Go Oregon

July 11, 2014
Trying something new that’s a bit risky takes no small amount of courage – but if you’re eager to learn and you’re certain it’s right for you, a new activity can turn into exciting outdoor adventure. Learning new outdoor skills is more accessible than ever before thanks to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s program called… More
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Portland Region , State Parks , Parks, Forests & Wildlife Areas , Trip Ideas , Attractions ,

Iron Mountain Hike

July 3, 2014
On a dreamy summer morning, the South Santiam River flows fast and clear and provides a fine place to start a day that promises a simmering afternoon. US Forest Service Ranger Jennifer O’Leary said that Yukwah Campground puts you in touch with Cascade Mountain adventures. “There are so many recreation opportunities available along the river… More
found in
Willamette Valley , Hiking & Backpacking , Trip Ideas ,

Let the Summer Camping Begin

June 27, 2014
Looking for your next summer camping spot in Oregon? Here are four favorite summer camping destinations that are a bit off the beaten path or offer unique features the entire family will enjoy. Nestucca River Scenic Byway The Nestucca River sings on its way to the sea and you may hear its song! It’s a place… More
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Camping , Trip Ideas ,

Luckiamute River

June 20, 2014
The Little Luckiamute River cuts a bee-line through eastern flanks of the Oregon Coast Range before it falls in an ear-shattering moment at Falls City, while less than three miles away another sort of “fall” happens when mountain bikers gather and catch big air across a little piece of heaven called Black Rock Mountain. It’s… More
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Willamette Valley , Falls City , Lakes & Reservoirs , State Parks , Parks, Forests & Wildlife Areas , Rivers & Streams , Bicycling , Trip Ideas , Outdoor Recreation , Attractions ,

Underground Tour of Fort Stevens State Park

June 6, 2014
There are so many reasons to visit Fort Stevens State Park: perhaps to dig a supper from the sea; or catch a summer trophy from the Columbia River estuary; or take your home on the road for camping adventures! No doubt about it, Ft. Stevens is made for the good times, according to park manager… More
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Oregon Coast , Warrenton , State Parks , Parks, Forests & Wildlife Areas , Museums , Trip Ideas , Attractions ,

McKenzie River Drift Boat Trout

May 30, 2014
You can tell a lot about a “community’s pride” by the parades they put on. Each spring on the McKenzie River, there is a dandy and all of it is handmade! Folks from all over the country gather to parade down the McKenzie River in drift boats. It’s a chance to connect with old friends… More
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Willamette Valley , Vida , Lakes & Reservoirs , Guides & Charters , Parks, Forests & Wildlife Areas , Rivers & Streams , Fishing , Trip Ideas , Outdoor Recreation , Attractions ,

Pacific Crest Trail Wilderness Logout

May 23, 2014
Despite warm summer-like temperatures, some of Oregon’s most prized mountain wilderness areas are just waking up from winter. In the Mark O Hatfield Wilderness - prized for silence, solitude and stunning scenery - you won’t hear phones, radios or TV. Yet each spring, you may hear the unique raspy tones of cross-cut saws at work… More
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Mt. Hood & Columbia River Gorge , Parks, Forests & Wildlife Areas , Hiking & Backpacking , Trip Ideas , Attractions , Events ,

Oregon Cannons Come Home

May 16, 2014
Rich Mulcahy likes to say, “When the tide goes out, my treasure table is set.” There’s something about treasure hunting that’s irresistible and compelling; especially when it touches Oregon history and offers unique outdoor adventures too. “I think it’s that I am going after something that’s been lost and I am digging in the sand… More
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Oregon Coast , Astoria , Trip Ideas ,

Cascade Locks: Heart of the Gorge

May 9, 2014
A journey up the Columbia River Gorge is always a treat. It’s the chance to reconnect with special scenery and places and activities in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. There are so many faces to the Columbia River Gorge: it’s a place where light and shadow dance across ancient basalt cliffs… More
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Mt. Hood & Columbia River Gorge , Cascade Locks , Historic Sites & Oregon Trail , Trip Ideas , Attractions ,

Spring Rhododendrons

May 2, 2014
It's nice to know that Mother Nature can treat us to what we enjoy most at this time of year: clear skies and warm sunshine! That’s especially true in western Oregon as spring hits its stride with amazing colorful shows at three spring getaways for the price of one drive. Join me for a gas… More
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Trip Ideas ,