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Artwork for Explore Oregon Podcast: The state's most beautiful places and biggest issues

Explore Oregon Podcast: The state's most beautiful places and biggest issues

Zach Urness / Statesman Journal
Search and Rescue
Mount Hood
Oregon Search and Rescue
Oregon Desert Trail
Dark Sky Sanctuary
Oregon Episcopal School
James Kim
Outdoor Recreation
Eastern Oregon
Pacific Crest Trail
Volunteer Organizations
Hood River Crag Rats
Mazamas
Newberry Volcanic Monument
Oneonta Gorge
Oregon Outback
Backpacking
Owyhee Canyonlands
Oregon National Forests
Shellburg Falls

Everything to know about exploring Oregon's best outdoor destinations from the Statesman Journal including where to camp, hike, bike and more.

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes221Founded7 years ago
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Artwork for Explore Oregon Podcast: The state's most beautiful places and biggest issues

Latest Episodes

In this episode, host Zach Urness dives into the sale of 92-foot Abiqua Falls and the effort to preserve it as a new park. Urness talks with outdoors writer and author Adam Sawyer about what makes Abiqua Falls so special and the unique space it's occ... more

In this reposted episode, host Zach Urness talks with Randy Dersham, director of the documentary film "Oregon's Boat." The film, which won the award for Best Feature at the Oregon Documentary Film Festival, is now available to watch for free on YouTu... more

In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness previews the upcoming Oregon legislative session and outdoor-related bills that will be considered this February. Topics include: - A potential legal fix to the lawsuit and affordability... more

In this episode, host Zach Urness talks with Oregon state climatologist Larry O'Neill about the state's lack of mountain snow and whether it's going to rally this winter. Then, they talk about where 2025 ranked in terms of heat, rainfall and other fa... more

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Recent Guests

Randy Dersham
Director of the documentary 'Oregon's Boat'
Documentary Film Director
Episode: Repost: How the McKenzie River Drift Boat became world famous
Pete Wallstrom
Longtime raft guide and business owner
Oregon Outfitters and Guides Association
Episode: What outdoors bills are coming to the Oregon Legislature in 2026? Wildlife, liability, permits
Larry O'Neill
Oregon State Climatologist
Oregon State University
Episode: Will Oregon's mountains get any more snow this winter? Plus, where did 2025 rank in terms of heat, rain?
Debbie Colbert
Director of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the first woman to hold that position.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Episode: Trailblazing Oregon Fish and Wildlife director talks fishing fees, wolves, coho boom and more
Dan Shryock
An award-winning journalist and travel writer dedicated to cycling in Oregon.
Episode: The glory of Oregon's 'scenic bikeways' with author Dan Shryock
Mike Gurley
Expert mountaineer and climb leader with the Shemeckadins
Chamecadans
Episode: 10 best Oregon mountain climbs that don't require ropes
Lisa Sumpton
Director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Episode: Oregon's state parks face closures and cuts. Here's the director's plan to avoid that
Franziska Weinheimer
Owner and operator of Hike Oregon
Hike Oregon
Episode: 10 spectacular backpacking trips for each month of summer (repost)
Gabe Howe
Executive Director of the Siskiyou Mountain Club
Siskiyou Mountain Club
Episode: Oregon's wildest place: The Kalmiopsis Wilderness and why it's stunning in spring (repost)

Host

Zach Urness
Host who brings expertise in outdoor recreation and environmental topics, providing insights into Oregon's natural landscapes and exploration opportunities.

Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars from 139 ratings
  • Wish there was a different host…

    The subject matter of this show is great and I love that it spans local history, outdoor opportunities and natural resource issues. However I find the host to be lackluster, to the point where I have bailed on some episodes.

    Apple Podcasts
    3
    Sitka541
    United Statesa year ago
  • Stay out of Oregon!!!!!

    The last thing Oregon needs is more tourists to come and disrespect the land and locals.

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    plopler
    United States2 years ago
  • Host is the best

    I always learn from this podcast. The host is great and makes we want to explore all the places he talks about.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    growinthesun
    United States2 years ago
  • Great info! Love this podcast

    Hey, thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge! I really appreciate your info. Great podcast.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    mountainlivin
    United States2 years ago
  • Outstanding journalism & information

    I moved to Oregon in 2018 and luckily discovered this podcast shortly there after. Zach Urness produces well research highly interesting content that has enhanced my understanding of Oregon and nature in general. I enjoy this podcast so much I share it with friends and family, and have actually almost subscribed to the statesman based on the podcast alone. Zach, if you read these reviews, I am really curious about the music that starts every show. Is that your guitar playing or someone else’s?

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    jamwcats
    United States2 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

There are some critiques regarding the host's delivery style, with suggestions for a more engaging presentation, although many acknowledge the quality information provided.
Many listeners appreciate the diverse topics and local history discussed, reflecting well-researched content that enhances understanding of Oregon's outdoor activities.
Listeners express a strong passion for the natural beauty of Oregon and find practical recommendations helpful for planning outdoor adventures.

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Will Oregon's mountains get any more snow this winter? Plus, where did 2025 rank in terms of heat, rain?
Q: How did we get to the third hottest year on record without those real noticeable things?
Nighttime lows were particularly warm during the summer, contributing to the overall temperature ranking.
Will Oregon's mountains get any more snow this winter? Plus, where did 2025 rank in terms of heat, rain?
Q: So considering that, and we're looking at, I think, you know, 131 years of data going all the way back into the early 1800s. So with that as context, where did 2015 land as far as how hot was it?
2025 was ranked as the third warmest year in Oregon's recorded history since 1895.
What outdoors bills are coming to the Oregon Legislature in 2026? Wildlife, liability, permits
Q: Can you clarify your position and your group's position on the lawsuit aspect?
Liability waivers do not block lawsuits but help to weed out those without merit, allowing valid claims to still reach the courts.
What outdoors bills are coming to the Oregon Legislature in 2026? Wildlife, liability, permits
Q: What happens if it fails again?
If the bill fails again, outfitters might be in a dire situation similar to that of the ski areas, struggling to get insurance and operate.
What outdoors bills are coming to the Oregon Legislature in 2026? Wildlife, liability, permits
Q: So what's being considered this upcoming legislative session?
There is a simple bill that makes liability waivers enforceable for voluntary activities like rafting and skiing, which outfitters hope will pass.

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast

What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

The series focuses on outdoor exploration and the natural beauty of Oregon, emphasizing various recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, biking, and camping. Each episode frequently features expert insights, tips, and historical narratives related to the state's diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Notable themes include outdoor ethics, conservation efforts, and practical advice for engaging with Oregon's unique natural resources. The inclusion of local stories and interviews with knowledgeable guests creates a comprehensive resource for outdoor enthusiasts, making it particularly appealing to individuals interested in Oregon's adventure opportunities and environmental issues.

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1. Peak Northwest
2. Outside Podcast
3. Freakonomics Radio
4. Today, Explained
5. The NPR Politics Podcast

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this podcast launched 7 years ago and published 221 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on this podcast?

Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Randy Dersham
2. Pete Wallstrom
3. Larry O'Neill
4. Debbie Colbert
5. Dan Shryock
6. Mike Gurley
7. Lisa Sumpton
8. Franziska Weinheimer

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