Pack Goats

Posted: May 9, 2022

Goats have many uses.  Some people raise them for milk and cheese, some for hair, some for meat.  Some people raise them for the joy of showing them, while others keep them for weed and vegetation mitigation.  But as recently as 1982, goats have been given a new assignment…”Beasts of Burden”.  That’s right; goats are becoming the new pack animal of choice!  Pack goats!

Even though a goat can only carry about 50 pounds, compared to a horse, which can carry up to 200 pounds, goats are herd animals that are easily socialized to people.  A well-trained goat doesn’t have to be led, and when grouped, goats naturally establish a lead goat to follow, which they will do, remarkably in the same order each time.  They’ll naturally stay grouped together and follow their “human” and they won’t bolt due to the scent of a predator.  Compare that to a llama that sometimes needs to be dragged, or a horse that could easily get spooked and run away.  They’re perfect for high country trails as their sure-footedness allows them to navigate rougher, steeper terrain than most other domestic animals.

Goats cost less to care for than larger animals, they require less space, and can fit handily in the back of a pickup, so no special trailer is required.  When on the trail they consume a wider variety of plant material than larger animals and consume far less water.  They’ll follow their “human” with no need of a tether, and they’ll usually stay near camp during the overnight hours.  It all sounds pretty good.  Right?  Well, there is a catch.  A well-conditioned goat can only go about 12 miles a day.  And, conditioning is key to making that 12 miles a reality.  An out-of-shape goat won’t even give you a mile before it’s done.

Training goats as pack animals is a fairly easy process for a patient person.  For one thing – it’s nearly impossible to convert an adult goat into a pack goat.  You need to start with babies, and you need to plan to bond with them like you would pet dogs.  They’re smart and they learn quickly, but the first thing you need to learn is how they like to be loved.  Whether it’s a scratching under the chin or long strokes along the back, each goat will let you know what they like best, and that is how you will show it love from then on.  Goats absolutely cannot take heavy-handed training.  Striking your goat will ultimately result in a goat that will forever be problematic.  A loud voice and a squirt bottle will have to be your reprimand.  Just a single syllable yell such as “GET” or “HUP” will provide surprisingly satisfying results!  Physical aggression toward your goats will erode their trust in you and could cause them to be aggressive toward other humans, so never hit or kick your goats.

As you train your goats you need to teach them to stay behind you.  They must learn that you are the alpha and they must stay behind you at all times.  The best way to keep a goat from passing you is to use a walking stick.  If a goat attempts to pass, simply tap it lightly on the fleshy part of the nose and say “BACK”.  It only takes a couple times before they “get it” and listen.

Any gender of goat can be a pack goat, but most people prefer wethers (castrated males).  Does work just fine but can’t carry quite the weight of a male, and bucks are only good for part of the year.  When they’re in rut they can be unruly as well as smelly.  With the right goat and equipment, you and your goats can all look forward to many enjoyable adventures together!

For more information on pack goats visit the website of the North American Packgoat Association at www.napga.org.

Some public lands require permits for the use of pack goats due to concerns of spreading disease to wild animals such as mountain goats.  Photos courtesy of Nathan Blyleven.

Coeur d’Alene Plays Host To Migrating Populations

Posted: October 26, 2021

These beautiful, majestic birds with a wingspan from 6 1/2 to 7 1/2 feet are the picture of strength and freedom. No wonder they were chosen to become our National emblem back in 1782. However in the mid-20th century their very existence was threatened by human activity including hunting, use of the pesticide DDT, loss of habitat, power line electrocutions and other factors. In 1963, there were only about 400 breeding pairs left in the wild. Thanks to protections put in place, bald eagle populations have made a comeback with an estimated 9,800 breeding pairs today.

Eagles that travel from their nesting ranges further north to winter at Lake Coeur d’Alene feast primarily on spawning kokanee salmon. Early morning is the best time to see them feeding as they splash down and snatch their meal. After feeding, the rest of their day is spent mainly perching in taller open trees and snags, descending occasionally for a tasty salmon snack. On windy days especially, you can see them soaring effortlessly on the wind currents. Capable of reaching altitudes of 10,000 feet they can soar continuously for hours at a time.

Some of the eagles you are likely to see may not sport the iconic white head of the adult bald eagle. They go from mostly brown through several phases before attaining their distinct adult plumage around their fifth year. Both male and female adults have the white head on reaching adulthood. Females are bigger than the males.

The eagles are sensitive to disturbance by humans. With that in mind, visitors are asked to always keep their distance, ideally viewing the eagles from the BLM boat ramp or the Mineral Ridge Trail Head. By all means, bring your spotting scope or binoculars to ‘get up close’ to these winter visitors who provide such a spectacular wild spectacle to those of us lucky enough to be able to view these magnificent creatures.

For more information on bald eagles and the Lake Coeur d’Alene Eagle Watch, you can visit:
https://www.blm.gov/programs/fish-and-wildlife/wildlife/about/idaho/lake-coeurdalene-eagle-watch

Kayaking is An Incredible Sport

Posted: May 5, 2021

Lake kayaking is an incredible sport that seems to be growing in popularity throughout the northwest, and, why not?? We’re blessed with a variety of lakes ranging from very small to quite vast, most of them are very beautiful, and as it turns out, we have a lot of them. Kayaking offers outdoor enthusiasts the chance to get up close and personal with these bodies of water in a way they may never have considered. Kayaking allows the on-the-water experience to become intimate for the paddler. One’s head and upper body in close proximity to the water’s surface as they glide across it. One becomes immediately aware of the quiet being broken only by the soft sound of the paddle entering and exiting the water, the subtle buzz and chirp that’s ever present in the outdoors during the warm months, and the smell of the moist freshness provided by that water below. Suddenly; you realize a sense of freedom and a oneness with your surroundings.

Besides benefiting your mental health, there are a variety of physical benefits to kayaking, too, such as increased upper body strength, more toned legs, and a strengthened core. It’s a great overall workout that combines cardio with a sort of “resistance training”. It’s so darn fun to paddle, you never even realize you’re getting a great workout!

My kayak is an 11-foot Dagger Zydeco.  The length is great for speed and handling so it’s easy to get from Point A to Point B quickly and efficiently. Once I jump in, I head directly toward the center of the body of water I’m on.  I like to get out there and just stop. I like to take in the 360° view and enjoy the sound of the quiet. Once I’ve savored that experience for a while I’ll look for something to pique my interest, then I’ll take off toward it. On a gorgeous day it’s easy to find myself paddling and paddling for hours on end; which brings to mind a few items you want to always have with you in your kayak.

A brimmed hat would normally be Number 1, but the truth is Number 1 and Number 2 are legally required on most, if not all, bodies of water. They are a life jacket (or Personal Floatation Device) and a horn or whistle.  The reasons are obvious.  So; we’ll make a brimmed hat Number 3.  It doesn’t take long on a beautiful sunny day to fry your nose and ears when you’re out on the water. There are a lot of good nylon hats available that are well-made and affordable, and nylon brimmed hats rarely sink.  If your hat were to blow off your head into the water, you should be able to retrieve it without losing it to the depths.

I love the water. I love swimming, I love boating, I love skiing, I love rafting, and I really love kayaking. I would recommend to anyone to give kayaking a try. It’s a great way to paddle away your cares and be one with nature.

Waking Up To The Cross-Country Experience

Posted: January 11, 2021

I am not a runner.  I’m familiar with the sport…and I know people who run.  In fact, I’ve attempted to adopt a running routine a few times in my life.  But it was those few earnest attempts that helped me solidify my commitment to the idea – I am not a runner.

So; imagine my surprise when some friends talked me into going cross-country skiing for the first time in my life.  I’m not sure how it happened, but somehow, an innocent conversation took a turn in the direction of cross-country skiing and before I knew it someone recommended we all go!  Sure enough, there it was; and to make matters worse, someone had an extra set of skis and an extra set of ski boots that just happened to be my size.  There was no way around it – I was going cross-country skiing.

I’ve been a downhill skier for most of my life, and I can honestly say I have never spent a moment regretting any of my experiences on the slopes.  But here’s the thing – you’re on a slope.  You could essentially just “stand there” on your skis and you’ll slide down a hill.  Cross-country skiing is done on a more flat surface, so in order to move forward YOU have to make that happen.  If you encounter the rise and fall of rolling terrain – you can slide down one side, but you still have to get yourself up the other, and just thinking about that part was exhausting.

Much like downhill skis, cross-country ski equipment includes two skis, each with its own binding, a pair of sport-specific boots and a pair of poles.  The skis are somewhat longer than one might wear for downhill, they have a narrower profile and the bottoms are “scaled”, textured one direction, so you can slide forward (ski) when possible, but you won’t slide backward.  The scales provide traction so you can propel yourself when necessary.  Cross-country skis are also very lightweight so they’re barely noticeable, provided you’re moving forward.  It’s those moments when you’re not moving forward, and you feel compelled to turn to the right or left, that they become VERY noticeable.

The bindings are not at all like downhill bindings.  Instead of the sole of the boot being firmly, flatly clamped to the ski, effectively making the ski a static extension of the sole; the cross-country binding is hinged and connects only to the toe of the boot allowing the heel of the boot to raise and lower, much resembling the motion of how you might walk or run.  Working in concert with one’s poles, the idea is to push forward with one ski while sliding forward on the other; the hinged binding allows the “push” foot to raise and bend naturally and comfortably.

We all met at my home on a crisp Saturday morning.  Being a country-dweller, it seemed like the obvious choice to me, we would just step out the front door, throw on our skis and away we’d go!  I went inside to put on the borrowed boots then stepped back out and right into the borrowed skis.  Cross-country ski boots are absolutely nothing like downhill boots.  By comparison they’re exceptionally comfortable and in no way impede ankle movement.  They slip on simply and quickly, like a pair of funny-looking hiking boots, and they lock into the bindings on the skis just as quickly and easily.  Before we knew it the four of us were off on what would be for me a life-changing adventure.

Now, to be clear, I am not averse to exercise.  I think quite simply I just didn’t care for running.  It’s not just the motion and the elevated heart rate!  There’s the pounding of feet on the hard surface in what might not be the best footwear for the experience.  There’s the ridiculously early hour of the day you have to go out and do it to avoid being seen by people who actually do it because they like it (they usually like to do it later in the day).  Within moments of taking off from my front yard I had found the rhythm.  It’s that thing you achieve when your skis and your legs and your poles and your arms all suddenly start working together in a beautifully synchronized dance.  You’re kicking and reaching, blissfully unaware of your increased respiration or your elevated heart rate.  You’re completely involved in the sound of the wonderful quiet that wraps itself all around the sound of your skis as they glide across the snow.  It’s that same amazing peace that sweeps over you when riding a chairlift on a crisp, calm, sunny day in January; flying quietly through the air surrounded by Nature’s glory.

For me – there’s nothing like it.  Nothing.  Well, maybe inline skating.  But, only kind of.  Skating requires asphalt.  For cross-country skiing, anything that resembles a snowy trail will do.  Country roads, logging roads, linear parks, even golf courses can make great places to ski.  Just remember to carry a backpack, stay hydrated and layer your apparel.  And always, always be respectful of nature.

The Right Thing To Do

Posted: August 12, 2020

This story originally appeared in the “OUTDOOR RETAILER” – Summer 2020

The Right Thing to Do

Crown Enterprises found a simple way to thrive during the pandemic. The shop puts employees, community and customers first.

By Eugene Buchanan

Want to know what it takes to not only survive, but thrive in today’s COVID-19-crushed retail world? Take a lesson from Joe Power, president of employee-owned Crown Enterprises, which operates five outdoor retail store across Montana, Idaho and Washington.

Spoiler alert: The answer involves compassion, customers and employees. And the result has been serendipitous; after re-opening, Crown has seen products flying off the shelves.

“Now that we’re all open again, our revenues are up 10% for the year,” says Power, adding hot-selling categories include bikes, paddlesports, guns, camping and fishing, with footwear, casualwear and apparel also doing well. There have also been a few surprises, he adds. The stores have sold more trampolines this year than in the past ten years combined, with golf up 80% and running up 100%. And much of this stems from forsaking the bottom line.

A week before authorities requested, Power took the liberty of closing his stores early. “It was the right thing to do,” he says. “People weren’t really understanding social distancing, and you could see the uncertainty in our employees’ eyes. It just wasn’t right to make them come in.”

Even after friend and Kalispell, Montana, Mayor Mark Johnson reminded him he didn’t have to close, as his stores were “essential businesses,” Power felt it was more important to protect his employees than make money. “We put health before wealth,” he says. “Our bank is local, and before we even knew about PPP, we knew everyone would be understanding if we didn’t have the best year.”

In all, four stores were closed for five weeks and one for 10 weeks. Rather than lay them off, throughout it all, Power continued paying the stores’ 210 employees. “I was really worried about people’s health insurance,” he says.

“It’s a great example of a business making decisions based on what’s best for their employees,” says Johnson. “He’s a great partner to have in the community – especially during these times.”

Then Power took it a step further. As more closures came on line and grocery stores became barren, he woke up from a 2a.m. nightmare worried about people’s ability to procure food. So he took $25,000 worth of backpacking and camping meals from his inventory and had his staff donate them to local food banks of their choice.

“Everyone we knew in the service industry was out of work and likely needing food,” he says, adding the gesture helped lift the spirits of his team. “It gave our employees something different and positive to focus on.”

When the stores reopened, the favors were returned – sales increased despite a lack of visitors from Canada, which typically represents 25% of its business.

“We have great customers who are really loyal to us, and I think this strengthened that even more,” says Power, who made his own pact to eat and shop locally as much as he could during the shutdown.

He also credits the uptick to people wanting to get outside. “Instead of spending money at the movie theater, people are applying that to a new trampoline,” he says. While he admits it’s tough to refill the shelves and procure products from vendors, when a shipment of 36 kayaks arrived, two went right to the register, never even making it to the wall.

Power’s altruism continued even after reopening. Unable to run the annual Ladies’ night events benefitting local domestic violence shelters, he picked a Saturday to donate $5 from every pair of shoes sold to local programs in an effort to “Stomp Out Domestic Violence”. “It was our way to make up for it,” he says, adding the effort raised more than $2,500.

All this has also boosted sales and his employees’ morale – and given his stores a chance to enhance their relationships with their customers. “Opening back up and doing the right thing gives you a second chance to make a first impression,” he says. “Everyone’s looking at how well we’re behaving and judging us all over again, whether it’s wearing masks or distancing. It’s a great chance for us to step it up.”

Product Spotlight – The Garmin Instinct

Posted: January 20, 2020

The Garmin Instinct hits the sweet spot for both features and price. It offers a number of practical outdoor and sports features that’ll certainly keep outdoor adventurers happy, yet sports a price tag that won’t give you pause.

First and foremost; the Instinct is an outdoor watch.  It’s quite durable – it features a fiber-reinforced polymer casing that is highly resistant to scratching and is worn on a soft silicone band making the 1.8-ounce Instinct comfortable to wear both day and night.  The monochrome display is easy to read and features two customizable windows allowing you to view the information of your choosing.

As the instinct is a Garmin® product, it should come as no surprise that it’s loaded with tracking and navigation features; however it lacks onboard topo maps which are not compatible with the non-color display.  But, for that which it lacks – it more than makes up!  It supports GPS, GLONASS and Galileo and will connect quickly with these satellite systems, keeping you more than covered, navigationally speaking.

If you’re an avid activity tracker, the Instinct has over 25 different activities that you can track from running to swimming to rowing.  During the activity you’re engaged in you can scroll through different data screens designed for the activity. Enhanced optical heart rate1 technology gauges the intensity of your fitness activities.  Heart rate variability is even used to calculate your stress level score, so you can see if you’re having a calm, balanced or stressful day.

And, speaking of tracking,  you can pair your Instinct with your dog tracking devices to receive dog status updates and alerts right on your wrist!

Priced at just under $300, the Garmin Instinct is a great-looking, affordable outdoor-focused watch with many of the features found in more expensive outdoor activity watches.

Vendor Spotlight – Kuhl® Men’s & Women’s Apparel

Posted: January 7, 2019

ORIGINAL, UNIQUE & REFRESHINGLY DIFFERENT

At KÜHL®, the passion remains to get outdoors and have fun. KÜHL® is what it means to be comfortable and relaxed in the challenging environment of life and sport. KÜHL® means creating the best environment for you and knowing the importance of following your own beliefs and desires. Every contributor to the KÜHL® brand comes to the company with an outdoor lifestyle. KÜHL® people ski, mountain and road bike, backpack, camp, mountaineer, and travel worldwide.  For KÜHL®, this dedication to original thinking translates into excellence in design and exceptional construction.

KÜHL® not only delivers innovative style and features, such as the thumb-loop cuff, but also uses exclusive fabrics with unique weaves and vintage washes to create authentic character. Articulated, gusseted, precise designs, combined with the utmost craftsmanship, provide a fit that is pure comfort. Wearing KÜHL® not only represents the freedom of movement you enjoy, but the free will you express.

Vendor Spotlight – Brooks Running

Posted: January 29, 2018

Men's & Women's Brooks Running Shoes

Brooks Running is an American company that designs and markets high-performance men’s and women’s running shoes.  Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Brooks products are available in 60 countries worldwide.

Brooks, founded in 1914, originally manufactured shoes for a broad range of sports.  In 2001, the product line was cut by more than 50% to focus the brand solely on running, and, at the same time its concentration on performance technology was increased.  Brooks Running became the top selling brand in the specialty running shoe market by 2011.

Brooks shoes are often recommended by podiatrists and have been named “Best Running Shoe” by publications including Runner’s World and Sports Illustrated.  The company has been recognized for environmental sustainability programs and technical innovation.

Happy Fashion Friday!

Posted: April 7, 2017

Happy Fashion Friday! Repel rain while you explore nature’s playground with waterproof, breathable rain jackets and vests for women by The North Face in adventure-ready styles.

Spring in today and shop our huge selection of The North Face and look amazing on that adventure!

Happy Fashion Friday!

Posted: March 3, 2017

Happy Fashion Friday!! The snow is melting fast, and the new spring fashions have arrived. Cruise on in and check out our amazing selection of Tentree clothing and accessories.Tentree-Fashion-Friday-2-revised.jpg-for-FB

Happy Fashion Friday!!

Posted: February 24, 2017

Come and check out our selection of Vans!! From timeless traditional to trendy hi tops, no need to look any further than Tri-State Outfitters!! your fashion footwear experts.

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Happy Fashion Friday!!

Posted: January 6, 2017

Happy Fashion Friday!!! Come in today and talk to one of our cold weather fashion experts!! not all items available and limited to stock on hand.

He’s wearing:
Kuhl Free Ryder-Lean Fit Pants
Kuhl Impakt Jacket
Carhartt Plaid Shirt

She’s wearing:
Prana Kara Jeans
Kavu Lopez Top
The North Face Aconcagua Vest

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Happy Fashion Friday!!!

Posted: December 30, 2016

Happy Fashion Friday!!! Come in today and talk to one of our cold weather fashion experts!! not all items available and limited to stock on hand.

JOAN OF ARCTIC COLLECTION!!

Posted: November 30, 2016

JOAN OF ARCTIC COLLECTION!! This classic silhouette features a beautiful, waterproof, full-grain leather and suede upper, super-soft faux fur around the cuff and a removable, recycled felt inner boot to ensure that feet stay warm, dry and comfortable in cold winter conditions. Come in today and try some on!!!sorels-joan-of-arctic!

Welcome to Team Axe!!

Posted: November 28, 2016

Your New 2016 Axe Bats Have Arrived at Tri-State Outfitters in Lewiston!!!

After months or, in some cases, years, of development, the day has finally arrived to announce our 2016 line of Axe Bats. We’ll be going into a lot more detail in the coming weeks about some of the new technologies included, but suffice to say this year’s lineup is our most advanced, most balanced and most diverse yet.

axebats

Sea to Summit.

Posted: November 15, 2016

Come in and check out our great selection of Sea to Summit gear!!  Innovative gear for all outdoor enthusiasts.  #seatosummit #godostuff #goexpolore #getoutside poster

#QuestionMadness

Posted: November 4, 2016

A life lived outdoors has taught us to question preconceived ideas. What makes something crazy? What defines happiness? Who gets to tell us what to do? When do we listen? ⠀ ⠀
People have always ventured into the unknown. And time and time again the unthinkable has become the new normal. The North Face asks everyone to question madness. #QuestionMadnessinstagram_carrousel8

Amazing turnout for 2016 Ski Cruncher!!

Posted: October 13, 2016

We just wanted to thank all of our loyal Coeur d’Alene customers who lined up bright and early despite the rainy cool conditions to attend our annual #SkiCruncher sale. And a special shout out to Pastry and More along with Bruce Deming for organizing and supplying the #cinnamonrolls and coffee for everyone, much appreciated……tso-cruncher-pics-2

Amazing New Go Pro Hero 5 Has Arrived!!

Posted: October 11, 2016

GoPro HERO 5 Black

The HERO 5 Black has a 2-inch touch display to simplify the controls of the camera, but it all begins with a one-button control to power on the camera to start recording automatically. Once it is on, you can capture videos with resolutions up to 4K at 30 frames per second and professional still images of 12 MP with enhanced low-light performance on RAW and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) formats.

Voice control has been added to further simplify the use of different functions. The camera has 10 commands in seven different languages, just in case you happen to be hurling down a slope and your hands are busy. So whether you speak English, German, French, Italian, Spanish or Chinese (with more languages on the way), voice control should understand you.

 

http://ow.ly/lAHU304VtJz

Employee Spotlight: Daniel Richmond

Posted: August 3, 2016

Name: Daniel Richmond

Tri-State Outfitters Store: Moscow

Position at Tri-State Outfitters: Sporting Goods Sales Associate

Favorite outdoor activities: Hunting, Backpacking, Shooting.

Favorite places to recreate: Snake River, Clearwater Mountains and anywhere steep and rocky.

Favorite product to use in the field: Sitka Gear, Vortex Optics, Salomon shoes and Big Agnes tent and sleeping pads.

Daniel-richmond

What’s Your Adventure Contest

Posted: July 15, 2016

You were born to explore. The outdoors are your playground. Your camera is your favorite companion. This contest is for you.

Feature your love of Adventure in our Photo Gallery and you could win a Daypack from Osprey.

We’ll select two winners from the top ten entries.

One winner will receive a men’s Osprey Manta AG 28 Daypack. One winner will receive a women’s Osprey Mira AG 26 Daypack.

enter-here

Entry Period: Friday, July 15th – Sunday, August 7th, 2016

Winners Announced: Monday, August 8 on Facebook and contacted via email.

* Winners must be able to pick up prize at one of our Tri-State Outfitters locations.


Contest Rules & Fine Print:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Inc. We reserve the right to remove any photos or comments that we deem inappropriate. We reserve the right to disqualify entrants suspected of cheating which includes, but is not limited to, soliciting for votes, using fake accounts for votes, or any other unapproved voting methods. Crown Enterprises Inc. reserves the right to end the promotional contest at any time, for any reason.

By entering and submitting a photo or video, you represent that (a) you are the creator of the submission, (b) you own all rights to the submission, (c) the submission does not infringe upon or violate the intellectual property, privacy, or other rights of any third party. If you submit a photo or video you grant Crown Enterprises Inc. a royalty-free, nonexclusive right to use and display your photo for marketing, advertising and promotional purposes including, but not limited to, online promotions such as Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, sportsmanskihaus.com, tristateoutfitters.com, and Instagram, as well as in-store promotions, print media and broadcast without any obligation to pay compensation or any right of approval. Minors must have consent of their legal guardian.

  • Entry Period: 7/15/2016 – 8/7/2016 at 11:59pm.
  • Up to 3 entries per person. One prize per participant. Highest ranking entry will receive placement.
  • One vote per person, per submission.
  • Prizes are as-is and cannot be exchanged or returned for cash value.
  • Winners must be able to pick up prize at our Tri-State Outfitters locations.
  • Employees of Crown Enterprises Inc. and their immediate family are ineligible to enter or win.

Employee Spotlight: Briana Bradley

Posted: May 9, 2016

My name is Briana Bradley and I was hired on at Tri-State Outfitters in Moscow, ID as a cashier back in August 2014. After 6 months I transferred into the clothing department and have loved it ever since! Tri-State outfitters has been an awesome home and extended family to me for almost 2 years! Not only is it a great place to work but it fuels my adventures. I get to learn about amazing products while at work and wonderful places to explore from customers that I help.

image5-1024x1024Just like our store, my hobbies are a mixture of everything. During the summer months I love to go hiking wherever there’s a trail, mountain biking (especially on the Hiawatha trail), kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding on the Snake river. Road trips are a weekly endeavor and the Pacific Northwest is my playground.

As far as my favorite products to use on my adventures go, that’s a long list! So some of my favorites are Osprey packs. I have two packs myself and have bought two for my boyfriend because I want to “share the love”. Ahnu is my go-to hiking boot brand because they’re light-weight and feel like they were made for my feet. Prana has the best hiking pants hands-down and my goal is to own them in every color! Last but not least is Arc’teryx for outerwear! I got to visit the factory store in Vancouver which makes me proud that I understand the hard work that went into the jackets that I own and love.

Employee Spotlight: Tige Arnold

Posted: April 1, 2016

Tige Photo 1I’ve been working at Tri-State Outfitters full-time in the shoe department for over 6 years.  I worked full-time at the store during the summers in Receiving at age 15 until age 17 and then full-time in the Shoe Department from 1991 until 1992.  In 1993 I joined the U.S. Army and served 3 years at Fort Carson, Colorado.  After my honorable discharge I became a Footwear Department Head for two years at Gart Sports in Colorado Springs, Colorado while I finished my Associates of Applied Science in Architectural and Structural Drafting from Denver Technical College.  I spent the next 16 years in the architectural industry, after which I returned to Moscow, Idaho to work in the Shoe Department here at Tri-State.  Of all the jobs I have worked in my lifetime, this position has been the most fun and rewarding.

I have fallen in love with my hometown now once again, and now enjoy the outdoors the area has to offer even more than in the past.  My favorite things to do in this area are mountain biking, trail running and hiking, backpacking, hunting and fishing.

Here’s recent review we received about Tige:

“We finally purchased a sports shoe with Tige…  what a phenomenal guy!!!  He knows his products well…. he could sell us the whole store!!  On a serious note, he really does know his shoe product really well and other products in the store.. from the form fitting to the way one’s feet walk (supination, pronation, overpronation, underpronation… bla bla bla)… he knows what shoes to recommend and why.  He is very good with customers in the way he conduct himself very professionally, with confidence, I appreciate how he treated my boyfriend  and me, even though I was there for my boyfriend.  Tige is excellent when it comes to customer service.”

K2 Pinnacle Skis Have Arrived!

Posted: November 20, 2015

The most exciting skis in the Industry have finally landed at our Coeur d’Alene store!

The K2 Men’s Pinnacle ski is a light weight, all-mountain machine, stock with new technology and engineering straight from the brilliant mind of Spock at K2. These babies feature All-Terrain Rocker, an elevated tip for variable and soft snow performance, as well as camber underfoot for power, energy, and edge-hold in firmer conditions. Simply put, All-Terrain Rocker offers versatility and ease in all snow conditions.

Having won several industry awards this season, this one-ski quiver performs like the humvee of skis, looks awesome, and is available in these waist widths: 95105, or 118. The Pinnacle 118, Seth Morrison’s pro model, has been updated with K2 Konic Technology and is suited to slay soft, deep snow. Take your pick. Any way you choose you’re going to love them.

The Pinnacle is available to demo this season at our Coeur d’Alene store. Stop and find out for yourself what makes these sticks so rad.

Let’s See Your Hunting Photos!

Posted: October 19, 2015

Upload Your Photos To Our Online Trophy Board! Win Free Stuff!

To many of us at Tri-State Outfitters, hunting is a way of life. It’s a means to connect with our ancestry and the wilderness, a way to provide for our family, and a tradition to pass down to future generations. Part of the hunt is sharing your experiences, and that’s why we invite you to post your Hunting photos to our online Trophy Board. Throughout the season we’ll pick a few lucky winners to receive some free swag from Tri-State Outfitters!

So what are you waiting for? Upload your photos by clicking the button below.submit-photos

#CruncherCampout

Posted: September 30, 2015

 

Ski Cruncher, our biggest pre-season Ski and Snowboard event is coming up October 10th at our Coeur d’Alene store. You might wanna camp out for this one. If you do, enter our Instagram Contest!

Here’s how it works:

1) Take a photo while waiting in line for Ski Cruncher.

2) Post the photo on Instagram and tag it #crunchercampout. Enter as many times as you like.

3) If your photo’s picked the morning of Cruncher, you win a sweet backcountry pack from Jones snowboards packed full of goodies!

Follow us on Instagram @tristate_outfitters and keep up to date on our events and contests.

#TSOdadsweekend

Posted: September 24, 2015

Take a selfie with your dad and you could win a $25 Gift Card!

Here’s How it Works:

1) Take a photo with your dad During UofI’s Dad’s Weekend.

2) Post your photo on our Facebook page, on Twitter, OR on Instagram.

3) Tag your photo #TSOdadsweekend.

4) If our judges pick your photo you win A $25 Gift card!

5) Entry Period 9/25/15 – 9/28/15.

Employee Spotlight: Kate

Posted: August 25, 2015

kate4Name: Kate Reggear

Tri-State Outfitters Store: Lewiston

Position at Tri-State Outfitters: Sales Associate

Favorite outdoor activities: Hunting, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Kayaking, Dirt-biking.

Favorite places to recreate: Dworshak Reservoir and Northfork Clearwater River.

Favorite product to use in the field:  MSR campstoves, Under Armour, Nightforce Optics, Vortex Optics, Osprey Packs, Kryptek, Tikka, Ugly Stik, Blue Fox Lures.

GoPro Hero4 Session Has Arrived

Posted: July 24, 2015

“HERO4 Session packs the power of GoPro into our smallest, lightest, most convenient camera yet, featuring a rugged and waterproof design, easy one-button control, 1080p60 video and 8MP photos.” – See more at: GoPro.com

By now you’ve probably heard about the latest addition to the GoPro family: The Hero4 Session. We’re stoked to say that it has arrived at our Moscow, ID location. So what’s the big deal about it? Let’s take a look at some of its key features:

First of All, It’s a Little Guy.

According to GoPro, the Session is “50% smaller and 40% lighter than other HERO4 cameras.”  Which makes it’s easier to mount, and GoPro doesn’t skimp on the mounts and accessories. The sky’s the limit when it comes to mounting options.

But just because it’s little doesn’t mean it’s not powerful. On the contrary. Here’s some of it’s best features:

  • High-resolution 1440p30 and 1080p60 video
  • High frame rate of 720p100 video enables smooth slow-motion playback
  • Capture 8MP single photos, Time Lapse photos at set intervals from 0.5 to 60 seconds, and Burst photos at 10 frames per second
  • Rugged and waterproof to 33’ (10m), eliminating the need for a separate housing
  • Easy one-button control
  • Features SuperView™, a GoPro-exclusive video mode that captures the world’s most immersive wide-angle field of view
  • Dual mic system -When you’re filming in windy conditions the camera automatically switches to the mic that’s best-suited for capturing optimal audio
  • Built-in battery
  • When the camera is mounted upside down, Auto Image Rotation automatically adjusts the capture orientation to right-side up so there’s no need to flip your footage in post-production

Check one out for yourself at our Moscow location or find out more at GoPro.com. 

Employee Spotlight: Kerry

Posted: July 21, 2015

Name: Kerry Lockhart

Years working at Tri-State Outfitters: 4 months.

Tri-State Outfitters Store: Lewiston

Position at Tri-State Outfitters: Sporting Goods

Favorite outdoor activities: Shooting, Hunting, and Fishing.

Favorite places to recreate: I’ve been hunting in Eastern Washington for years – favorite spot is in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. Mostly hunt deer and elk, although I love to hunt just about anything. Favorite fishing spots are the Snake and Clearwater Rivers.

Favorite product to use in the field:  I love my Browning shotguns and Tikka 270WSM rifle. I’ve got a pretty good gun collection so I like to mix it up a bit – probably shot the most game with my old trusty Ruger 77 300WinMag. Gotta go with Sitka for hunting clothing – expensive but worth every penny.  As far as fishing, just got a jet boat so I’m looking forward to learning the rivers and getting better at steelhead fishing. Great camping up the Snake in Hells Canyon, so that’s on the short list once I’ve learned how to run the rapids on the way up. My favorite rod/reel combo is my St. Croix spinning rod with a Penn Battle reel, but I just set up a new steelhead rig with a Rogue rod and Shimano baitcaster that I’m itching to try on later this summer.

Employee Spotlight: Dustin

Posted: June 10, 2015

image5Name: Dustin Boyd

Years working at Tri-State Outfitters: 10 Months

Tri-State Outfitters Store: Moses Lake

Position at Tri-State Outfitters: Sporting Goods/Backpacking/Camping Sales

Favorite outdoor activities: Backpacking, Camping, Rock Climbing, Skiing, Wakeboarding, Wake Surfing. Throwing around the football or frisbee. Kicking around the soccer ball. Whether indoors or outdoors, if it’s active, I’m there.

Favorite places to recreate: I do most of my backpacking around the Enchantments above Leavenworth. I do a lot of camping at Mt. Rainier. Climbing, I stick around the Feathers and Sunshine Wall, which is about 20 minutes away from Moses Lake. And of course, all the boating activities are done on Moses Lake.

Favorite product to use in the field: My Osprey Pack gets everything I need up into the mountains while keeping me cool and comfortable.

Recommend Pack: Osprey Atmos AG 65

474_1187_xl
dustin1

Henry Heirloom Rifles

Posted: May 15, 2015

Tri-State Outfitters is proud to announce that we are one of a limited number of dealers across the country to offer the Henry Heirloom program for 2015! Create your own Henry Heirloom by choosing from the 15 guns below to have built with a custom serial number! The program continues through June 13th, so pick out your rifle and create your Henry Heirloom today! *Not available at our Coeur d’Alene store.

Henry-Heirloom-Flyer_TriStateOutfittersV2-1

Please Note:
• 12 Character Limit, no dashes.
• The ATF requires at least one numeric digit within the serial number.
• If purchasing more than one firearm, please remember each firearm must have its own unique serial number.
• Please fill-in an acceptable second choice serial number. In the event that your first choice serial number is unavailable, this will allow us to expedite your order without delay.

Download Application HERE.

Employee Spotlight: Carla

Posted: May 14, 2015

My name is Carla Grieser

I have been working at Tri-State Outfitter for 18 years.  I started in our Lewiston store where I worked in the shoe department.  I then transferred to the Coeur d’Alene store in 1997 and became the Assistant Manager and Clothing Manager.

carla2-spotlightI was born and raised in North Idaho on the St. Joe River.  I grew up fishing, hiking, hunting, and living the good life. My activities include hiking, especially in the Selkirk Mountains, hunting on the St. Joe, fishing in high mountain streams, huckleberry picking in the summer, and any road trip where I get to see any beautiful mountain ranges, the beauty of America, and snowshoeing in the winter months. When I am not in the great outdoors I am gardening, landscaping, and enjoy being with my friends.

My favorite product that I use is my Salomon Quest 4D hiking boots.  Without them my feet would not have been as happy taking me to as many beautiful high mountain lakes or on as many hunting trips.

Employee Spotlight: Stephanie

Posted: April 1, 2015

My name is Stephanie Wakefield. I’ve worked in the shoe department in the Lewiston store for six and a half years. I love my job and enjoy fitting the right shoe with the right person. Being a department manager I am very passionate about customer service and the product we carry. I  love my co-workers and everything Tri-State Outfitters stands for!

photo 3One thing about me is that I love to be with family, whether it be at barbecues or camping. I enjoy spending time with my daughter and long-time boyfriend. We delight in teaching her about the outdoors. We’re avid snowmobilers and Harley riders that like to camp, fish, and shoot guns whenever we get the chance.

photo 1One of the perks of living in Lewiston is that you’re in close range of many prime camping/snowmobiling areas like Waha, Elk River, and the Blues. A good long day trip on the bike is riding through Orofino and up through Pierce and back.

One of my favorite products from Tri-State Outfitters is my Omni Heat base layers by Columbia Sportswear that keep me warm without getting too hot. I also recommend Buff rags for the bike. They help me have “perfect hair every time!”

“All I Wanna Do” Video Contest

Posted: March 14, 2015

If all you wanna do is win a pair of tickets to see Sheryl Crow perform live at the Beasley Auditorium Saturday, April 11th,

THIS IS HOW YOU DO IT:

  1. Make a video singing the last few lines of Sheryl Crow’s classic hit “All I Want To Do.”
  2. Click HERE to enter your video on our Facebook Page. Videos from YouTube, Vimeo or Instagram accepted.
  3. Share with your video with your friends! The video with the most votes wins!

Videos must be posted by midnight March 31st. The video with the most votes wins! Winner announce April 3rd and will be notified by email.

Go to facebook.com/tristateoutfitters and click on the “All I Wanna Do” Video Contest link  for more details.

Employee Spotlight: Marshall

Posted: February 16, 2015

My name is Marshall Barnhouse

I started working at Tri-State Outfitters in Coeur d’Alene in July 2011, so little over 3 years now. I am currently a sales associate, with extensive knowledge in footwear and snowboarding. I was born and raised in North Idaho, so anything you can think of, I’ve done. Last year, I completed my first Tough Mudder event. I also enjoy shreddin some pow, mountain biking, crackin’ cold ones, and trail running.

Some of my personal favorite spots to enjoy the outdoors around Coeur d’Alene include, Lake Pend ‘Oreille (specifically Buttonhook Bay), Farragut State Park (for their trails), and Schweitzer Mountain. Best thing to do is go exploring; drive some dirt roads, hike some woods, you’ll never get bored in Idaho.

* Marshall will be leaving the company late February 2015 to trek into new adventures in Colorado. It’s been a great ride, Marshall. Come back and visit soon.

Employee Spotlight: Randy

Posted: January 31, 2015

My name is Randy Richards, but everyone who knows me from the softball world knows me as “Beetlejuice”. We won’t get into the reason here.

Randy-Snowshoe-webAs of May 20th, 2015 I will have been with Tri-State Outfitters for 15 years. I am the Sporting Goods Department Manager/Shift Manager of the Coeur d’Alene Tri State Outfitters store.
As for my favorite outdoor activities, there are very few things that can be done outdoors that I don’t enjoy. Having been born and raised here in Coeur d’Alene, I have spent my whole life participating in outdoor sports. From skiing, hunting, and snow shoeing in the winter months, to boating, kayaking, hiking, camping, and fishing in the summer months. I would much rather be in the great outdoors than doing anything under a roof.

My wife Pam and I enjoy taking the grand kids with us to teach them the joys of being outdoors, and to show them how blessed they are to live in an area as beautiful as Coeur d’Alene, where one can drive less than an hour any direction and find yourself wading into a river or carving through some fresh powder. I have gotten to be an avid outdoor photographer, and you can’t ask for a better area for a hobby such as that.

randy-fly-fishing-web
Fly Fishing in August on the North Fork of the Coeur d’ Alene River.

Picking any one area that we like to go to more than any other is tough. All of the local ski areas offer great skiing, and I like being able to spend time at all of them. I spend most of my time on Coeur d’Alene Lake mainly because it’s close to home, but I love the peaceful beauty of boating on Pend O’Reille Lake. As for my favorite hiking areas, my wife and I try to map out any areas in Idaho that have waterfalls, and hike in to those. There’s just something ultra majestic about a waterfall.

Stop by and visit Randy at our Coeur d’Alene location anytime!

Gear Intervention Contest

Posted: January 23, 2015

Is your Outdoor Gear Outdated and Overused? Is Duct Tape a Solution to your Gear Malfunctions?

If So, It’s Time For A Gear Intervention!

Here’s how we can help:
1) Post a photo wearing your old, worn-out outdoor equipment on our Facebook page or on Twitter tagged #gearintervention.
2) Win a $100 gift card if we pick your photo on February 9th and crown you most worthy of a gear intervention.

* We want to see you wearing or using all types of old gear: skiing, snowboarding, fishing, hunting, hiking, biking, camping and running!

Entry Period: Friday, January 23rd – Tuesday, February 17th.

Winner Announced: Wednesday, February 18th, 2015 at noon on Facebook and Twitter.

* Winner must be able to pick up prize at any of our Tristate locations.


Contest Rules & Fine Print:

By entering and submitting a photo, you grant Crown Enterprises Inc. permission to use and display your photo for marketing, advertising and promotional purposes including, but not limited to, online promotions such as Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, sportsmanskihaus.com, tristateoutfitters.com, and Instagram, as well as in-store promotions, print media and broadcast without any obligation to pay compensation or any right of approval. Crown Enterprises Inc. reserves the right to end the promotional contest at any time, for any reason.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Inc. We reserve the right to remove any photos or comments that we deem inappropriate.

• Submit as many photos as you like.

* Prizes are As-Is & cannot be exchanged or returned for cash value.

* Winners must be able to pick up prize at any of our Tristate or Sportsman & Ski Haus locations.

* Employees of Crown Enterprises Inc. and their immediate family are ineligible to enter or win.

Take A Hike: Crystal Lake

Posted: August 5, 2014

Hidden away in the mountains just outside St. Maries, Idaho is Crystal Lake. The clear water gathers at the top of a valley where boulder strewn ridges coalesce together and keep the lake secret on all sides but one. Getting into this mountain lake is a kind of choose your own adventure hike. Starting from just below the summit of nearby Mt. Baldy, hike straight up to the ridge tops where you’ll be afforded a view of the lake and valley, stretching out before you like a giant hippodrome. Farther down the valley you’ll find the true trailhead, and a path into the lake winding across slides of rock and giant boulders. Panoramic views of the valley below line the entirety of this trail. The trail here is short, only a few miles in length, but there is a lot of hiking to do in exploration of the lake itself, mountain forests and imposing ridges that make up the entirety of Crystal Lake’s experience.

Directions: Trail head is about 54 miles southeast of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Take US-90 east from Coeur d’Alene for 25 miles to the Cataldo exit (exit 40) then south on Latour Cr./Rochat Divide Road for 29 miles. There are no fees.

Location: 10 miles NE of St. Maries, ID

Nearby City: St. Maries, Idaho

Hike Length: About 3 miles round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Take A Hike: Indian Cliffs Trail

Posted: July 15, 2014

The Indian Cliffs trail is only a small part of what Heyburn State Park has to offer, but definitely worth the hour it takes to make the three mile loop. This hike requires little more than a good size water bottle or hydration pack, but rewards your efforts with a fantastic vista that serves a summary of what Heyburn has to offer. The 72 mile long Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes hugs the lakeshore just behind the pines. Campgrounds, boat launches, and the Rocky Point beach are all easily mapped from this vantage point. The topography of the shadowy St. Joe River, the highest navigable river in the world, can be seen for miles in the distance. This panorama rotates away as the second half of the trail walks you across ridge top meadows, before inevitably cutting back down the mountainside, ending where it started. This small trail packs a big punch and is worth a visit by itself, or as part of a larger day of exploration throughout the parks many gems.

Location: Heyburn State Park

Nearby City: Coeur d’Alene

Hike Length: 3 total miles

Duration: 1 hour

Difficulty: Moderate

Take A Hike: Palouse Falls

Posted: July 1, 2014

Few sights in nature overwhelm like crashing rivers and cascading waterfalls. In time, even hardened basalt must begrudge the river its course. Palouse Falls bears testament to the fact that the river, always patient, never ceasing, wins out in the end. The Palouse River has cut its path through the gentle slopes of one of the world’s most fertile farming regions. Only a few hours’ drive from the Moscow/Pullman city centers, this small park offers easy drive-up viewing and pleasurable day hiking for those who feel inclined to wander. Watch the show from above a naturally formed Coliseum, or hike your way down and take center stage next to and atop the powerful falls. Acrophobia sufferers beware! 100 foot rock walls buttress the quick flowing river on each side. Keep to the canyon edge and you can look down on the exposed history of the Columbia River Basin, with its layers of ancient basaltic flows and giant rock slides climbing impossibly up the canyon walls. Expect the company of hawks making forays into the canyon, and prairie dogs checking in on you from between the rocky crags. For a quick visit and a little light hiking, Palouse Falls is a great place to start.

Park Hours: Summer: 6:30 a.m. to dusk

Camping:
Check-in time, 2:30 p.m.
Check-out time, 1 p.m.
Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 6:30

Hike Length: 2 miles roundtrip to falls and back to parking lot

Difficulty: Moderate

This is a state park and has a day use fee of $10.

Click Here for Park Map.

Win Tickets To Jerry Seinfeld

Posted: April 4, 2014

Seinfeld-hunt

Rules & Fine Print:

  • 3 Pairs of Tickets Will Be Given Away
  • Winners Will Be Notified By Phone
  • No Purchase Necessary.
  • Need Not Be Present To Win.
  • Must be 18 Years or Older To Participate
  • Employees & Immediate Relatives Not Eligible To Win.
  • Please Remember Your Phone Number
  • Some Restrictions Apply.

prAna Has Arrived

Posted: February 24, 2014

TSOprana-headerWe’ve heard your requests. We know you love it. That’s why we’ve brought prAna to Tri-State Outfitters. This spring’s styles are not only beautiful, but offer the comfort and quality you expect from the prAna brand. Spring styles have already arrived at all Tri-State Outfitters stores. Stop in and see this fantastic line of activewear for yourself!

Here’s just a sampling of some of the fabulous prAna items available:

kendall
The Kendall Tank in white.

The Lahari Halter Top in espresso.
The Lahari Halter Top in espresso.

The Sarafina Dress in raisin.
The Sarafina Dress in raisin.

The Cecillia Knicker in ink blue.
The Cecillia Knicker in ink blue.

The Makeuna Boardshort in espresso.
The Makeuna Boardshort in espresso.

dahlia
The Dahlia Skirt in boysenberry.

New GoPro Hero 3+ Has Arrived! GoPro Hero 3 On Sale!

Posted: November 20, 2013

goproThe New GoPro Hero 3+ has arrived, the most advanced GoPro yet!

Available at all Tri-State Outfitters locations starting at $299.99.

  • 20% smaller and lighter than the Hero 3
  • Improved image quality and powerful new features geared for versatility and convenience.
  • SuperView™ is a new video mode that captures the world’s most immersive wide angle perspective
  • Auto Low Light mode intelligently adjusts frame rate for stunning low-light performance.
  • 30% longer battery life, 4x faster Wi-Fi, Sharper lens
  • Compatibility with all GoPro mounts and accessories

 


GoPro Hero 3 is on Sale! Now is the time to get the Action Cam you’ve always wanted!

Black Edition is On Sale for $329.99! (Reg $399.99)

Silver is On Sale for $249.99! (Reg $299.99)

GoPro’s Hero 3 Action Cam in both Silver Edition & Black Edition available in the Action Sports Dept.

 

Come snag these deals and pick up an action cam at super low price while the deals last!

Saga Premium Outerwear

Posted: November 20, 2013

New to Tri-State Outfitter’s Coeur d’Alene: Saga Premium Outerwear, park-style ski and snowboard line that boasts bold colors and fresh designs.

Take a look at some of the Saga gear we have in stock are our Coeur d’Alene store:

Anomie 2 L Jacket
Anomie 2 L Jacket

Puff Vest & Poly Combo Jacket
Puff Vest & Poly Combo Jacket

Anomie 2L Pant
Anomie 2L Pant

Triple Stack OG Riding Pullover Hoodie
Triple Stack OG Riding Pullover Hoodie

OG Pullover Hoodie
OG Pullover Hoodie

Jolly Roger Glove
Jolly Roger Glove


MixNMatchPlus Saga has released their new Fast Food App with the Mix ‘N Match feature you can preview winter looks by mixing together different combinations of jackets, pants, soft goods and accessories before you even come to the store. Then you can share your customized look with friends on Facebook, Instagram and your other fav social platforms.

Download Fast Food App:

https://itunes.apple.com/app/saga-fast-food-app/id725655610?mt=8

App Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhRqkLvTMwY&feature=youtu.be