Election day is Nov. 5. There are so many reasons to vote — at the federal, state and local levels. Voting is one of the most effective ways we as people who love the outdoors can speak up for public lands and trails.
Step 1: Vote.
Step 2: Hike.
Step 1: Your vote matters. Make a plan to vote with the tips on this page.
Step 2: Once your plan is in place, go for a hike!
Before Nov. 5
- Register to vote or update your information online before Oct. 28.
- Deposit your ballot in an official drop box by 8 p.m. on Nov. 5 or return by mail.
- If you’re mailing your ballot, it must be postmarked by 8 p.m. on Nov. 5. No stamp required!
Public lands are funded by the government. Here are some ways that policies at the federal, state and local levels affect your hike:
FEDERAL
Washington’s national parks, national forests and more are funded by the federal government. In 2020, bipartisan members of Congress passed the Great American Outdoors Act to invest in our federal public lands. Since then, this funding has been a key factor in making major improvements to some of our state’s most popular trails.
STATE
WTA has joined a coalition of over 400 organizations coming together to defend climate progress by asking Washington residents to vote “No” on I-2117. Initiative 2117 would repeal the Climate Commitment Act, reversing climate progress and reducing funding for forest health, wildfire prevention and public transportation. WTA encourages you to vote “No” on Initiative 2117.
LOCAL AND INITIATIVES
County Commissioners and Parks Commissioners make decisions that affect local parks. For example, county councils can vote to add public measures to the next election cycle, like the King County Parks Levy, which voters will see on their ballots in 2025.