Outdoor Explorer

On “Outdoor Explorer” we invite you to step outside into Alaska. Follow us to a new trail or fishing hole, learn what to pack, when to go and most importantly, how to stay safe. Learn about life-long fitness and get inspired to go outside in the back country or on the bike trails.

We’ll hear from the people who know the land best – outdoor guides, park rangers, coaches, authors, lodge owners, bush pilots, educators and you, the explorer. Listen Thursdays at 2:00 & 8:00 pm on KSKA FM, streaming live at alaskapublic.org.

We’re looking for your show ideas! Please send your thoughts for upcoming shows to: bork@alaskapublic.org

Women in costume stand behind a giant pumpkin.

Outdoor recreation at the Alaska State Fair | Outdoor Explorer

Host Amy Bushatz talks with fair historians, outdoor enthusiasts, pumpkin growers and more.
A group of people pose with two swimmers exiting the ocean.

Swimming Cook Inlet | Outdoor Explorer

In August, two women swam from Point MacKenzie to the Anchorage Small Boat Harbor, becoming the first to do so without wetsuits.
A woman spreads her arms as she finishes a bike race.

Looking back at some of our favorite episodes of the year | Outdoor Explorer

As Autumn descends upon Alaska, Outdoor Explorer is taking a moment to look back at the year so far.
Two women in life jackets stand next to a canoe by a lake.

Come along as we look for and learn about loons | Outdoor Explorer

In this episode of Outdoor Explorer you’ll learn all about loons in Southcentral, hear what the monitoring team is up to and go on a loon adventure with us at Nancy Lake.

Lost Lake Run and Cystic Fibrosis | Outdoor Explorer

Hear from race organizers about the iconic race and how it raises awareness and funds for Cystic Fibrosis research.
A man and a woman stand in a running store.

Skinny Raven turns 30 | Outdoor Explorer

Host Lisa Keller talks with Skinny Raven co-owners about the ups and downs of operating one of the top running stores in the nation.
Buildings from a former mine sit in fog.

What’s new in Mat-Su parks? | Outdoor Explorer

From Hatcher Pass down to Jim Creek Recreation Area and out to Denali State Park, there’s plenty happening all year long.
A group of people cut a ribbon in downtown Anchorage.

Biking Anchorage: Bike to Work Day and the new downtown dedicated bike lane | Outdoor Explorer

Host Paul Twardock meets participants of Bike to Work Day and attends the opening of dedicated bike lanes in downtown Anchorage.
A woman spreads her arms as she finishes a bike race.

Meet Olympic cyclist Kristen Faulkner | Outdoor Explorer

Did you know that one of the best professional cyclists in the world is an Alaskan? Kristen Faulkner from Homer is a member of...
A woman takes a selfie on top of a mountain.

Alaska Made: Revel Treks and Tours | Outdoor Explorer

Kierre Childers shares her story of becoming a small business owner leading hiking and backpacking trips in Southcentral Alaska.
A line of hikers ascend a ridge.

Honoring the lost and hiking Gold Star Peak | Outdoor Explorer

Many mark Memorial Day by taking to mountains and trails. That includes the challenging journey up Gold Star Peak.
A person kayaks in the ocean.

Paddling into Summer | Outdoor Explorer

After a long winter, kayaks and canoes are finally appearing from beneath piles of snow, rivers are running and the ocean beckons.

Voices of the Wilderness | Outdoor Explorer

On this week's Outdoor Explorer host Paul Twardock discusses art and the US Forest Service's Voices of the Wilderness Program.

Volunteering in the outdoors | Outdoor Explorer

Whether maintaining trails, teaching beginners or picking up trash, volunteers are the core of the outdoor community.
A man stands with multiple Special Olympics medals.

Alaska Sports Hall of Fame | Outdoor Explorer

Hear from Harlow Robinson, executive director of the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame. On April 30, the Hall will induct the class of 2024.

Mountains to Sea Trails | Outdoor Explorer

Newly created trails make it possible to bike, hike, run or ski from Glen Alps to Knik Arm of Cook Inlet without crossing a single road.

Arctic Traverse: A Brooks Range Journey | Outdoor Explorer

Michael Engelhard decided to hike and paddle from Canada to Kotzebue — a lifelong goal. His memoir is a mix of travelogue, history and more.
A selfie of a woman sea kayaking in the ocean.

Veterans and outdoor therapy | Outdoor Explorer

The Cohen Clinic offers programs that address the wholistic needs of veterans, using the outdoors to heal from trauma.

Arctic Winter Games | Outdoor Explorer BONUS EPISODE

It's Alaska's turn to host the biennial event celebrating the sports and culture of the people who live in the circumpolar north.
A man rides an adaptive mountain bike.

Challenge Alaska | Outdoor Explorer

Challenge Alaska works with Alaskans with disabilities, giving them access to adaptive sports, education and a supportive community.