End of Summer Staff Picks
Must-dos before the season ends!
Natasha Boska – One More Float
Assuming fire season doesn’t end up precluding it, we’ve got some camping on the books to look forward to as well as a couple of outdoor concerts. Aside from that, before the cool nights turn into cool days I hope we can squeeze in one more float down the McKenzie River. While I’ve lived here for 17 years now, 2020 was the first time I got into either of the rivers that define our metro area. Our group hasn’t done the same stretch more than once so far, but I so enjoyed the last trip on my new SUP that I hope we’ll be able to head back out Camp Creek Road to put in once more this summer.
Vonnie Mikkelsen – A trip to Sahalie and Koosah Falls
The weather in the valley this summer has been spectacular! I’ve taken full advantage, hitting many of the beautiful trails around town, but haven’t made it out of town and feel the urge to conquer at least one of those on my bucket list. So I’ll be heading to the Koosah and Sahalie Falls Trail to soak in the lush canopies of the Willamette National Forest and let Ellie (the dog) splash around in the clear waters of the McKenzie River. The adventure being incomplete without a good meal and pup treat, we’ll wind our way back to town and drop in at a friendly watering hole that will take us and, of course, eat to our heart’s delight.
Adam Tamarkin – Catch one Last Eugene Emeralds Game
Before the warm summer evenings begin to fade into fall, take in a night of baseball. The Eugene Emeralds have only two can’t-miss home games left in August – the 30th and 31st – but the Ems’ season will not end there. Playoff baseball is returning to Eugene this season, and the Emeralds are right in the thick of the action, locking up a spot in the Northwest League Championship Series after securing the first-half championship with a 38-25 record. The first two games of the 2022 NWL Playoffs will be played at PK Park at 7:35pm on September 12th and 13th. Head out to PK Park and cheer on your hometown team!
Max Molzahn – Cruise from Dorris Ranch to Clearwater Park (and back!) on a bike
The ride from Dorris Ranch to Clearwater Park on Willamalane’s Middle Fork Path is as nice as they come. Pedal out along the river to soak in the weather and view, then make sure to stop in downtown to re-hydrate. You’ll find many options, but if you’re still on your bike, The Pedaler has you covered with indoor bike parking as you grab a drink and a bite to eat.
Paige Sharpe – The Block Party Springfield
We have our calendar marked for The BLOCK party, which is back again this summer! On September 9th, beginning at 5pm, businesses from Pioneer to 5th on downtown Main Street Springfield will be hosting a party complete with music, food, family games, street art, and more!
Dani Thompson – Choose your own (trail) adventure!
We love to spend a portion of the summertime on trails we have not yet hiked before. With an adventurous pup by our side, we are very content exploring the countless trails that are just minutes from our back door. From urban hikes, to trails that are family friendly, Eugene Cascade’s and Coast provides a great list on their website to find a hike that you haven’t yet crossed off your bucket list!
