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.

Tillamook Salmon

September 27, 2013
If you spend much time traveling across Oregon right now, you will begin to see and feel the early signs of the changing seasons. For me, one of the surest signs of the transition from summer to fall is the chance to cast a lure or troll bait for salmon along coastal Oregon. This week,… More
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Oregon Coast , Fishing , Trip Ideas ,

The First Ride on the Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway

September 19, 2013
Oregon highways can be busy blurs when traffic speeds by at a nerve shattering rate. I prefer to slow down, get out of the race, set my own pace and roll on two wheels for travel across my home state. This week, cycling gained new ground and new supporters who took time to explore a… More
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Portland Region , Forest Grove , Bicycling , Trip Ideas ,

Youth Outdoors Hunting Clinics

September 16, 2013
Fall is just around the calendar corner and for many people it’s a time of year that signals the start of Oregon’s fall hunting seasons. I recently joined two groups of hunters trying their hands at special pheasant hunts designed just for them across some of Oregon’s premier wildlife areas. I recently traveled to the… More
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Hunting , Trip Ideas ,

Lewis & Clark Paddled Here: Blind Slough

September 8, 2013
On a clear day, the view atop Bradley State Scenic Wayside to the Columbia River is astounding! Picnic tables invite a longer stay in this prime day use site just off State Highway 30 near Astoria, but it’s the river view that begs closer inspection. So give in and try something new with paddlers who… More
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Kayaking , Trip Ideas ,

Thundereggs: Oregon Treasures in the Dirt

August 30, 2013
If you’re like me, you’re bound to be curious when traveling the wide-open spaces of Oregon. I need to know everything I can. That’s how it was when we headed south on US 97 searching for the forty million years of geologic history found in the Oregon state rock called “Thundereggs.” I cherished these magical,… More
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Central Oregon , Madras , Parks, Forests & Wildlife Areas , Trip Ideas , Attractions ,

A Silvery Rush of Salmon

August 23, 2013
A huge rush of silvery salmon – more than a million fish strong and fresh from the ocean are swimming into the Columbia River this summer. Who wouldn’t like to catch one? For thousands of lucky anglers - with rods and reels in hand – a huge return of salmon has meant some of finest… More
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Oregon Coast , Astoria , Fishing , Trip Ideas ,

Explore The Oregon Trail

August 18, 2013
History runs deep across Oregon’s varied landscapes, where a treasure trove of places and activities reveal much about our past. In fact, one region in particular offers plenty of hands-on lessons in history that – with a little imagination – can transport you to a very different Oregon. Upriver from Hells Canyon at Farewell Bend… More
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Eastern Oregon , Baker City , Historic Sites & Oregon Trail , Museums , Trip Ideas , Culture & History , Attractions ,

Hells Canyon

August 9, 2013
Mark Yates makes his living in the deepest gorge in America. He’s a 12-year veteran river guide who loves to share his vast “backyard” with folks eager to see an unchanged piece of Oregon from a different point of view.  We met Yates at the Hells Canyon Creek Recreation Site, the put-in point for a… More
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Eastern Oregon , Guides & Charters , Parks, Forests & Wildlife Areas , Boating & Jet Boating , Trip Ideas , Outdoor Recreation , Attractions ,

Star Party

July 26, 2013
Oregon’s often brilliant summer days offer varied recreation possibilities that continue after the sun goes down at two Oregon State Parks. You may choose to visit either Rooster Rock State Park or L.L. Stub Stewart State Park this summer where the night sky is the drawing card for hundreds who attend OMSI’s Star Parties. So bundle up for… More
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Dark Sky , Educational Activities , Trip Ideas ,

Discovering Willamette Valley Wine Country

July 19, 2013
Oregon’s Willamette Valley is noted for delicious wines, so it is no surprise that vineyard communities are increasingly turning to outdoor recreation for new ways to explore the countryside. Here are three unique discoveries in Yamhill County that may entice you to grab hiking boots, binoculars, a paddle and a life jacket. Plus, don’t forget… More
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Willamette Valley , Newberg , Trip Ideas ,