Welcome to RV Out West

Discover Anacortes, Washington, a seaside community on Fidalgo Island that captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Known as the “Gateway to the San Juan Islands,” Anacortes offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town comfort. Hike the trails of Washington Park, take in sweeping views from Mount Erie, or set out on a whale-watching tour to spot orcas in the wild. After a day of exploring, enjoy local favorites like The Donut House, Compass Wines, or Watermark Book Company downtown.

With its deep maritime roots, walkable streets, and access to nearby Deception Pass State Park, Anacortes is more than a stop on your journey, it’s a destination all its own. Tune in as we share why this Pacific Northwest gem deserves a spot on your next adventure map.

We explore the vital role of the Washington Trails Association (WTA) in protecting and preserving public lands across Washington State. Our guest, Michael, the Policy and Planning Manager at WTA, shares insights into the challenges and opportunities involved in managing trails and natural spaces that millions of people rely on for recreation, connection, and renewal.

Public lands are more than just places to visit, they are critical habitats, cultural touchstones, and essential green spaces that require thoughtful stewardship. Michael discusses how WTA works tirelessly to maintain trails, advocate for responsible land use policies, and engage communities in protecting these treasured landscapes for future generations.

You will gain a deeper understanding of the policies that impact access to hiking trails, the importance of sustainable trail development and the collaborative efforts needed to balance outdoor recreation with conservation goals. The conversation also highlights the crucial role volunteers play in trail maintenance and how WTA’s planning efforts address the growing demand for outdoor spaces while safeguarding the environment.

This episode is a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts, conservation supporters, and anyone passionate about the future of public lands in the Pacific Northwest. Join us as we uncover the dedication behind keeping Washington’s trails open, healthy, and accessible, ensuring that the wild places we all cherish remain protected for generations to come.

There’s something timeless and transformative about America’s public lands. From rugged high desert plateaus to windswept ocean cliffs, these wild, open spaces offer more than just breathtaking views, they tell the story of who we are. In this episode, we explore the deep connection between people and place, diving into the history, meaning, and future of the public lands that belong to us all.

Public lands are not just outdoor destinations; they are living reflections of our shared values. They hold the footsteps of Indigenous peoples, the ambitions of early explorers, and the everyday stories of hikers, campers, anglers, and families who return to them time and time again. These lands are part of our national identity and a powerful expression of democracy, open to all and protected for future generations.

As we recognize National Public Lands Day, we’re reminded that appreciation is only the beginning. True stewardship means showing up, speaking out, and taking responsibility for preserving these irreplaceable spaces. Every trail walked, grove visited, and river crossed calls us to protect what has been entrusted to us.

Join us as we reflect on the magic of public lands, why they matter now more than ever, and how you can take part in ensuring their stories continue long into the future.

Explore the final leg of one of America’s most iconic journeys, the Oregon Trail, through the lens of RV travel in the Pacific Northwest. This episode focuses on the last stretch of the trail, where pioneers faced some of their greatest challenges before reaching the promise of the Willamette Valley. Traveling by RV offers a powerful way to connect with the landscape and history, tracing wagon ruts through Eastern Oregon and visiting sites that still echo with the stories of grit, hope, and perseverance.

We’ll take you to key stops from Lolo Pass in Idaho to the lush lands surrounding the Columbia River that marked the final miles for thousands of people. Along the way, you’ll get practical tips for RV camping, suggestions for historical side trips, and insight into the legacy that shaped the Pacific Northwest.

This episode is all about slowing down, soaking in the land, and reflecting on the journey west, not just of the pioneers, but your own. Discover how the Oregon Trail lives on, not just in textbooks, but in the places you can still visit, explore, and experience by RV.