Posts by Shelly Stevens
Republic, WA: Where History, Fossils, and Wide-Open Adventure Meet
A town shaped by gold, grit, and discovery Tucked into the mountains of Ferry County, the town of Republic began as a gold-rush boomtown in the late 1800s. Prospectors drawn by rich ore deposits transformed a remote landscape into a lively mining hub filled with hotels, saloons, and supply stores. Though the rush eventually quieted,…
Read MoreUnearthing Deep Time at the Stonerose Fossil Site in Republic, WA
A window into a 50-million-year-old world In the quiet mountain town of Republic, Washington, visitors can step into a landscape shaped nearly 50 million years ago during the Eocene Epoch. At that time, the area was not forested high country but an ancient lake basin where plants, insects, and fish lived and were gradually preserved…
Read MorePeaceful Fishing Spots and Picnic-Ready Eats
With so much nature around, it’s easy to plan the perfect day. One way is to pick up delicious local food and go fishing in the scenic waters of Stevens, Pend Oreille and Ferry Counties with a waterside picnic. We matched some of our favorite fishing spots with local restaurants that serve to-go food, so…
Read MoreUnplugged Weekend Getaway: Cozy B&Bs, Bookstores & Nature Walks in Northeast Washington
In our busy world, sometimes the best way to recharge is to slow down, unplug, and savor the small things, like a quiet walk in the woods, a steaming cup of coffee at a local café, or reading a good book by the fire. Luckily, Northeast Washington is practically made for that kind of getaway. …
Read MoreWinter Adventures in Northeast Washington: Beyond the Lifts
A Wonderfully Wild Gateway to Adventure Winter is about slowing down, breathing in the cold pine air, and finding beauty in the quiet, and with millions of acres of land, this corner of the state offers a kind of winter magic that doesn’t need crowds or chairlifts. You can easily enjoy the incredible stillness of…
Read MoreCamping for Every Comfort Level in Northeast Washington
Your perfect campsite is waiting Looking for the perfect camping spot in Northeast Washington? Whether you’re into glamping, primitive camping, or something in between, this region has a campsite for every comfort level- from lakeside RV hookups to backcountry solitude deep in the Colville National Forest. This guide covers where to camp, what amenities to…
Read MoreFrolic & Forage in Northeast Washington
You’ll find plenty of delicious goodness in this neck of the woods If you’re looking for something outdoorsy to do that ends in tasty loot and a sense of accomplishment, then Northeast Washington’s forests and farms have just the thing. Wild huckleberry-picking, morel hunting, and visiting u-pick farms are some of our state’s favorite pastimes.…
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Step Back in Time
at the Ansorge Hotel Museum
Still standing and remarkably untouched after more than a century in the quiet frontier town of Curlew, Washington, the Ansorge Hotel Museum offers more than just a glimpse into the past- it invites visitors to step into it. A museum and historic landmark, this striking two-story building captures the spirit of a bygone era and…
Read MoreWeekend Wander: A Fall Colors Road Trip through Northeast Washington
Start: Spokane, WA Fall is calling! Hit the road for a weekend of golden tamaracks, riverside reflections, and cozy small-town charm. This loop through Northeast Washington is perfect for leaf-peepers, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys the scenic route. Day 1: Spokane to Metaline Falls Breakfast in Chewelah Over the Mountains and Through the Woods…
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200 years of Fort Colvile:
Reflections on a Complex History
This year marks the 200th anniversary of Hudson’s Bay Company establishing Fort Colvile [sic] near present-day Kettle Falls, Washington. It’s a milestone in the history of Northeast Washington—a moment to reflect not only on the fur trade and European expansion but also on the deep and lasting impacts on the Indigenous peoples who called this…
Read MoreExplore Chewelah
A Wonderfully Wild Gateway to Adventure Situated in the heart of the Colville River Valley, Chewelah, Washington, is a small town with deep roots and a welcoming spirit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply looking to experience local charm, Chewelah is a fantastic destination in Northeast Washington. A Town with a…
Read MoreColville National Forest: A Landscape of Beauty, Heritage, and Adventure
Located in the northeastern corner of Washington State, the Colville National Forest is a vast and rugged landscape brimming with adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery. Covering nearly 1.5 million acres, this national forest offers a blend of mountain ranges, lakes and rivers, and dense woodlands that provide a home for diverse wildlife and a haven…
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Chasing Waterfalls: A Scenic
Northeast Washington Adventure
Day 1: Waterfalls, Scenic Byways & Cozy Stays Morning: Midday: Afternoon: Evening: Day 2: Waterfalls, History & Grand Views Morning: Midday: Afternoon: Evening: Day 3: Grand Falls & Farewell Treats Morning: Midday:
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Hidden Lakes & Quiet Trails:
A Nature Lover’s Getaway
Day 1: Swan Lake Serenity Morning: Afternoon: Evening: Day 2: Long Lake Exploration and Republic Visit Morning: Afternoon: Evening: Day 3: Ten Mile Trail Hike and Farewell Swim Morning: Afternoon: Evening: Note: Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on hikes. Be prepared with appropriate gear, and be aware of local wildlife,…
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A Three-Day Family Adventure:
Canyons, Caves & Cascades
Day 1: Waterfalls & Wonders Morning: Afternoon: Evening: Day 2: Canyon Views & Hidden Falls Morning: Afternoon: Evening: Day 3: History & Trails Morning: Afternoon:
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