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These reports are a tool to use in conjunction with maps, weather forecasts, and wildfire maps- they are not all inclusive and please note that conditions are apt to change rapidly (And I cannot be liable for any trail conditions).
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Map and Compass Navigation: Why Every Outdoor Adventurer Should Learn This Essential Skill
In a world filled with GPS apps and smart devices, traditional map and compass navigation may seem outdated. But when batteries die, signals disappear, phones fall into rivers, or those PNW weather conditions change unexpectedly, knowing how to navigate with a map and compass can be one of the most valuable outdoor skills you possess. Whether you enjoy hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, hunting, or backcountry exploration, learning basic navigation builds confidence, impro
tmschales
11 minutes ago4 min read


Why Renting Outdoor Gear is a Great Way to Adventure
Flying with trekking poles is a challenge! We have a variety of brands and types of poles available to rent so you have one less thing to fit in your suitcase. The Columbia River Gorge and Pacific NorthWest offer endless opportunities for adventure. From mountain biking scenic trails to paddling our waterways, camping under the stars, or exploring snowy landscapes in winter, there is always something new to discover. Getting started often has a heavy gear start up cost; and i
tmschales
Jun 163 min read


Basalt Beauty in the Columbia River Gorge
One of the many basalt Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge Towering cliffs, dramatic waterfalls, and rugged canyon walls throughout the Columbia River Gorge make it one of the Pacific Northwest’s most stunning landscapes. Beneath the captivating beauty lies an incredible geological story; the creation of those towering cliffs began with one of the largest volcanic events in Earth’s history. Between 17 and 6 million years ago, enormous fissure eruptions opened across easter
tmschales
Jun 122 min read


COURAGE QUEST- MOAB, UTAH
The Roundtable Institute is offer this unique, transformative Women's Leadership Retreat in Moab, Utah. Trish from Trails Diverged will be guiding the hikes, while Stacy and Priya provide coaching and leadership training. Packed with adventure, glamping, and reflection; this is a chance to get away and discover more. Register and learn more at https://www.theroundtableinstitute.com/courage-quest
tmschales
Jun 61 min read


Beginner’s Guide to Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is one of the best ways to explore the outdoors, challenge yourself, make new friends, and experience adventure on two wheels. Whether you’re looking for scenic forest trails, adrenaline-filled descents, or simply a new way to stay active, mountain biking offers something for everyone AND beginners are WELCOME. If you’re new to the sport, getting started can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t need expensive gear or expert skills to enjoy your first ri
tmschales
Jun 35 min read


Why Private Tours Are the Ultimate Way to Experience the Outdoors
In a world full of crowded trailheads, packed itineraries, and one-size-fits-all experiences, private tours offer something refreshingly different: freedom, personalization, and connection. At Trails Diverged, private tours aren’t just a premium option, they’re the foundation of how meaningful outdoor experiences are created AND they are priced similarly to our public tours! Any of our activities can be a private tour; mountain biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, backpa
tmschales
May 53 min read
Interview with Lost Terrain Tours
We sat down with Lost Terrain tours to talk about what we are doing out here in the Pacific Northwest. Watch the video of our interview on their YouTube channel here: And if you are heading to the other coast, check out the adventures they offer! I loved meeting these folks and seeing that their values align with all of the things I believe in at Trails Diverged.
tmschales
Apr 291 min read


7 Reasons to Hire a Guide for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
Planning an outdoor adventure is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. From route planning and gear selection to safety concerns and changing weather conditions, there’s a lot to think about before you even step onto the trail. That’s why more people are choosing to explore with a professional guide. At Trails Diverged, guided experiences are designed to make the outdoors more accessible, safe, and meaningful. Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned adventurer
tmschales
Apr 283 min read


Why Outdoor Activities Are Great For Corporate Retreats
Group of first time snowshoers near W'yeast Mt. Hood, Oregon Corporate Retreats Are the Reset Your Team Actually Needs In a world of endless meetings, Slack notifications, and back-to-back deadlines, it’s easy for teams to lose connection with each other and the purpose behind their work. Workplace challenges can even put people against each other and cause a loss of human-ness. That’s where corporate retreats come in; done right, they’re not just a “perk”, they’re a powerful
tmschales
Apr 213 min read


Trails Diverged in the Columbia Gorge News
We were featured this week in the Columbia Gorge News. Click the link below to check out our story! https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/business/getting-outside-with-trails-diverged/article_00bcc289-dbbc-4df5-9a84-af7c26e7d96a.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawRJ8WRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFjZm1NSGNBWkpIVTdNdWJCc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHo1nV5eebDqghcoH_T4yydWl2gw2o78WEKFVAgEid0C5W3ykfqxktqjWumie_aem_R45Ci9RhNp1qvmcuzIhViQ
tmschales
Apr 131 min read


The Value of a Women's Outdoor Community
Check out our article on OutdoorsNW Magazine to learn more about why we love offering Women's Adventures! https://outdoorsnw.com/the-value-of-a-womens-outdoor-community/ Women's Mountain Bike Retreat 2025
tmschales
Dec 1, 20251 min read


Is it safe to travel solo as a female?
Check out our article in OutdoorsNW magazine https://outdoorsnw.com/solo-female-travel-in-the-outdoors/?fbclid=IwdGRjcAM6jr9jbGNrAzqOt2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAAEe04_9ldrIrmKQRl4TLZ_xbpSeCLvZ19T5LCFIZ8VYPnWU7SInZEiG4HgtPG4_aem__RY1wCV3XAbylUNj5kMsOw Solo Ascent of Mt. Adams, 2025
tmschales
Sep 19, 20251 min read


A Local's Top 5 Columbia Gorge Area Hikes
Check out our article in Outdoors NW Magazine and our favorite local hikes! https://outdoorsnw.com/a-locals-5-favorite-hikes-in-the-colum...
tmschales
Aug 20, 20251 min read


Rideaway Podcast
Rideaway recently interviewed Trish for their podcast; Here's a link to learn more about how Trails Diverged started, our vision for the...
tmschales
Aug 13, 20251 min read


FarOut App: The Backpacker’s BFF
Check it out: https://alnk.to/hDskV2G Whether you're gearing up for a thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail or planning your next section...
tmschales
Jul 10, 20253 min read


How to Choose the Right Outdoor Guide: 8 Keys to a Fun & Safe Guided Experience
Hiring an outdoor guide can transform your trip from a good experience to a great one. Whether you're heading out on a multi-day...
tmschales
Jul 1, 20254 min read


5 Things In My Med Kit/ 1st Aid Kit
Supplies for Real-Life Wilderness Experiences My first aid kit shifts depending on whether I’m solo backpacking, day hiking, guiding, or...
tmschales
Jun 30, 20254 min read


Which parking pass do I need for parking at Columbia Gorge trailheads?
Oregon State Parks Pass and Washington Discover Pass If you're a visitor (and sometimes as a local!), figuring out which pass you need...
tmschales
Jun 29, 20253 min read


3 "Easy" Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge
Looking for something a little less intense? Check out our article on Discover Hood River! Click Here for some hiking recommendations
tmschales
Jun 20, 20251 min read


Silver Star Mountain Trail Condition Report
Via Grouse Vista Trailhead Skamania, Washington Silver Star Mountain, Washington Parking Pass Needed : Discover Pass Date of Visit:...
tmschales
Jun 19, 20253 min read
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