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

Outdoor Explorer: New book examines how hunting and being outdoors with your dog can nurture the human spirt

Authors of "The Land We Share" discuss their holistic approach hunting and their relationship to the natural world.
A log cabin with a green metal roof with two birch trees in a snowy clearing.

Public use cabins and huts in Alaska | Outdoor Explorer

There is a rich history of public cabins in Alaska. Hear how two organizations are working to make more huts and cabins available to the public.

Made in Alaska: Revelate Designs | Outdoor Explorer

Eric Parsons started designing bags that fit on bike frames to enable his epic trips. Eventually he quit his day job and made it a business.
Outdoor Explorer

How a love of design helps this graphic artist promote outdoor accessibility | Outdoor Explorer

Along with placing winter single track trails, Aurora Hablett uses geographic data to create maps in shapes with GPS visualization.

Hope for Prince William Sound | Outdoor Explorer

The Prince William Sound Stewardship Foundation and Mission Blue have teamed up to designate PWS an Ocean Blue "Hope Spot."
Skiers head down a snowy valley.

“Snow Stories” | Outdoor Explorer

Get stoked on winter with these stories about avalanches, skiing and mountaineering.

‘A Fine Line: Searching for Balance Among Mountains’ | Outdoor Explorer

Graham Zimmerman, professional climber and author, talks about his epic climbs, facing danger and the lessons he's learned along the way.

Becoming a sustainable runner | Outdoor Explorer

Zoë Rom is an elite ultra runner and author. She discusses climate activism and running, the importance of community and how to stay active.

What’s New in Avalanche Forecasting for Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula? | Outdoor Explorer

With record amounts of snow comes lots of interest in recreating in the mountains. Hear from avalanche experts about staying safe outside.

Hiking in Yukon Territory | Outdoor Explorer

The Yukon is a land of vast wilderness. Sometimes you need a little guidance in a wild landscape.

Ice skating on Solstice in Southcentral Alaska | Outdoor Explorer

Host Paul Twardock visited the Anchorage Solstice Festival at the Cuddy Family Midtown Park interviewing organizers, politicians and the events and ice rink founders.

Alyeska Volunteer Ski Patrol stories | Outdoor Explorer

Alyeska decided to end their volunteer ski patrol last fall. To celebrate the patrol's history, folks gathered to tell stories and reminisce.
People on skis and snowboards line up in front of a ski lift and mountain.

Skiing Skeetawk in Hatcher Pass | Outdoor Explorer

Meet Skeetawk manager, Megan Justus, and find out what's in store for the growing ski operation.

The Alaska Long Trail | Outdoor Explorer

This week on Outdoor Explorer we dive into the Alaska Long Trail. It would connect Seward and Fairbanks via a multi user trail system.
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.

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 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 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.

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.
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.