Peak Northwest

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Sisters is calling: Everything to do, see and eat in the central Oregon destination

June 25, 2026

One of central Oregon’s best tourist destinations has it all: good food, great views and easy access to outdoor recreation. And no, we’re not talking about Bend. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we dive into Sisters, a small town that has drawn tourists for decades. While some people make sure to stop at the Sno Cap Drive In and others are drawn in by the Old West facades that line downtown, there is more to Sisters than initially meets the eye. Here are some highligh...

Author Jeff VanderMeer, a new Oregonian, on walking, writing and why he loves Portland

June 18, 2026

Author Jeff VanderMeer, best known for the creepy alien nature at the heart of his Southern Reach series, is suddenly engrossed in a different landscape completely: the neighborhoods of Portland. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, VanderMeer, who recently moved to Oregon, talks about his long walks across the city, and all the things he’s discovered along the way. While far from the world of “Annihilation,” Portland has managed to captivate him like few other places have...

How to plan a perfect summer trip around this gem of the Oregon coast

June 11, 2026

If you’re looking for a perfect, low-key summer getaway, look no further than Florence — Oregon, that is. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we explore the central Oregon coast town, home to sweeping dunes, good food and all manner of outdoor activities. Ever wanted to try sandboarding? Maybe you want to kayak a freshwater lake just off the ocean? Interested in exploring a particular species of carnivorous plants? You can find it all in Florence. Here are some highlights...