Out & About: Long-distance hiking workshop in CdA

OUTDISTANCE – A workshop for hikers planning major-league backpacking commitments is scheduled in Coeur d’Alene by people who’ve walked the talk.

The second annual Inland Northwest Winter Ruck will feature programs by five Triple Crown achievers who have thru-hiked the country’s three 2,000-plus-mile trails

The event will run 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Feb. 13 at Lake City Community Church, 6200 N. Ramsey Rd.

“This clinic is designed for anyone interested in doing a long-distance hike,” said Bob Turner, organizer. Turner and his daughter, Joy, hiked the PCT in 1997. At that time, Joy, 15, was the youngest thru-hiker to complete the PCT.

Each of the presenters has hiked a minimum of 8,000 miles and completed the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalachian Trail and the Continental Divide Trail.

“They will share from their hard-earned adventures,” Turner said. “Other long-distance hikers who have traveled thousands of miles also will be sharing from their experiences.”

Triple crowner Melanie Simmerman, author of the Pacific Northwest Trail Town Guide, will share her journey on the Pacific Northwest Trail, which runs from the saltwater of Western Washington east to Glacier National Park.

Other topics covered in the day-long workshop include:

- Lightweight backpacking.

- Vital information about the PCT, AT, PNT and other long trails.

- Trail and town etiquette.

- Food and re-supply.

- Safety and navigation.

“Attendees are encouraged to bring their backpack and prospective gear,” Turner said. “Then one of our experienced members will review the gear in a one-on-one pack shake down. The goal will be to create a lighter weight pack tailored to you and your desires.

“This is a great opportunity to visit and learn from some very experienced hikers.”

Cost is $5 for hiking association members and $10 for nonmembers.

Light breakfast and a chili lunch provided for those who preregister online at ALDHAWest.org or call Turner, (208) 772-2552.

Tax yourself for critters

OUTFUND – Fish and game management in Idaho is funded mostly by hunting and fishing license fees. That leaves most nongame programs at the mercy of voluntary contributions by wildlife enthusiasts.

Two easy ways to help fund programs for critters ranging from bluebirds to wolverines include:

- State income tax forms have an option to donate any amount of a refund to the Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund administered by Idaho Fish and Game.

- Vehicle license plates featuring a bluebird channel funding to the nongame program.

Info: tinyurl.com/ID-nongame