Late fall can be a tough time to find outdoor activities for kids - it's getting cold for many things, but there isn't enough snow yet for traditional winter activities.  But here is a fun idea - drive north of Spokane to Sullivan Lake and view the Kokanee as they spawn in Harvey Creek.

A Kokanee is actually a Sockeye Salmon that no longer has a outlet to the ocean - they are "landlocked".  Like their anadromous ancestors, these fish travel upstream and turn red as they spawn and die.  This makes them very visible and very beautiful to see, and there are a few local areas where you can partake in this natural wonder.

In Idaho you might consider Trestle Creek on the north side of lake Pend Oreille, and from Spokane you can head north to Sullivan Lake.  Harvey Creek enters this lake from the south end near Noisy Creek Campground.  From the bridge across this creek you can can often see plenty of fish, or walk a short ways upstream to find the pool of fish pictured to the right.

This is a fun fall excursion, because you are going to see lots of fall colors in the trees, and nearby there is another very short hike to Sweet Creek Falls at the rest stop of the same name on Hwy 31.  If you want to stretch your legs more, there are quite a few hiking options along the shores of Sullivan Lake and surrounding area.  A day trip to the NE corner of WA has plenty to offer.

#kokanee #sullivan lake #noisy creek #harvey creek #spawn

Winter seems to have come a bit early to the Inland Northwest, but this may have you thinking about skiing!  Skiing is fun, but expensive.  One great way to save a little money is to go the Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol Ski swap.  This event has been going strong for 50+ years and has over 22,000 items for sale.  It is happening this Saturday from 9a-5p and Sunday from 9a-noon at the Spokane Fair & Expo Center.  Admission is $5, but kids 12 and under are free.  If you need some gear for this coming season, be sure to check it out.  You can get more details at skipatrolskiswap.com/

#skiswap #mtspokane #skiing #skiseason