Bhutan trekking show funds opposition to Mt. Spokane ski expansion

Wed., Feb. 22, 2012

$Nestled deep in the Himalayas between India and Tibet, Bhutan remains one of the worlds most remote and least-visited countries. Less than 5,000 foreigners a year visit the Buddhist kingdom, and only a fraction of them trek through old-growth forests and up spectacular river gorges to reach the 25,000-foot peaks that protect its northern border. John Roskelley, a climber, trekking guide and former Spokane County Commissioner, explored the area thoroughly and presents slide programs on his adventures. (John Roskelley)$

Nestled deep in the Himalayas between India and Tibet, Bhutan remains one of the worlds most remote and least-visited countries. Less than 5,000 foreigners a year visit the Buddhist kingdom, and only a fraction of them trek through old-growth forests and up spectacular river gorges to reach the 25,000-foot peaks that protect its northern border. John Roskelley, a climber, trekking guide and former Spokane County Commissioner, explored the area thoroughly and presents slide programs on his adventures. (John Roskelley)

By Rich Landers richl@spokesman.com (509) 459-5508

Tonight’s program on trekking in an exotic land is aimed at funding a local issue at Mount Spokane.

Spokane mountaineer John Roskelley will present a program on trekking in Bhutan tonight, 6 p.m., at the Community Building, 35 W. Main.

Donations benefit Save Mt. Spokane Coalition. RSVP: aswan@landscouncil.org.

The Spokane Mountaineers has voted to join The Lands Council in opposing a plan to expand the alpine ski area at Mount Spokane.

Roskelley, a mountaineer and former Spokane County commissioner, has been an outspoken opponent to adding a chairlift and opening ski runs on what’s now considered the “backside” of the Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park.

* This story was originally published as a post from the blog "Outdoors Blog." Read all stories from this blog