Ultra running events (events longer than a marathon distance) are up 1,000% in the last decade according to The Guardian. Although racing events have the most visible presence, here in the Pacific Northwest there are a couple intriguing variations on the ultra running theme. Aspire Adventure Running, one of Northwest …

Within the progression of ultra running, Ras & Kathy Vaughan are rather unlikely activists. Ras’ first backpacking trip at age 11 ended with his Boy Scout troop being rescued by helicopter. When Ras and Kathy met in 1996 neither had any formal athletic experience, and Ras in particular was doing …

Like all athletic disciplines, ultra running has its own unique vocabulary which can be off-putting at first. For starters, the term “ultra running” is a bit of a misnomer. A major misconception is that “ultra (and trail) running” involves running at all times. Yes, depending on the route, the very …

Located along the southwest coast of Vancouver Island, the West Coast Trail (WCT) is called “the (backpacking) trip of a lifetime,” and it’s been on my hit list for over 20 years. Because of the relatively remote location, it is as much a project as a backpacking trip, and I …

More than just a ski club, Central Oregon Nordic Club (CONC) invites members to maintain friendships throughout the year with hikes & work parties. While Mount Bachelor clings tenaciously to her snowy cap despite the advance of Spring, the Nordic ski season is winding down for most members of the …

What an exceptional weekend to play! Saturday was a ~50 mile “urban cycling” outing from Seattle to Edmonds where we made the requisite bakery stop. The tour was complete with a stroll across the Ballard Locks, a classic Seattle sight on a summer weekend morning: The day’s ride organizer has …