Stories & News

Get the latest news, how-to advice, and feature articles about the trail community, the current hiking season and issues impacting trails you love.

Get local news, how-to advice, and feature articles about our trail community, the current hiking season in Washington and issues impacting trails you love.

Learn more about: WTA member magazine | Signpost blog

Hiking Families Celebrate Summer’s Last Hurrah

Aug 25, 2023

Although Washington’s peak hiking season lasts well into fall, families are saying farewell to summer as they prepare to return to school. Check out these trip reports for ideas for your own end-of-summer hikes — or for weekend adventures this fall.

Hiker Headlines: Family-Friendly Work Party, Alpine Lakes Wilderness Survey, Wildfires Rage On

Aug 24, 2023

Join WTA on a family-friendly work party at Panorama Dome on September 2. Take the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Visitors Survey to help shape the future of the area. Wildfires continue across the state.

It’s the People You Meet on the Trail!

Some of my most memorable and joyous occasions on the trail have involved unexpected human encounters. By Craig Romano

Tour These Trail Maintenance Projects: A Summer Status Report

Aug 23, 2023

So far this year, we've cleared 2,520 drains, cut 1,297 logs, and hung out with 1,424 new volunteers! We've also done a ton of other projects all over the state. Here's a few of them.

WTA's New Map Layer Helps Plan Hikes in Wildfire and Smoke Season

Aug 21, 2023

As we enter into the thick of wildfire and smoke season, WTA releases new tools and planning tips to stay safe and

Getting Closer to Nature with Your Photography

In a world of dramatic peaks and vast forests, it can be challenging to examine the little things. Level-up your macro photography with these tips and tricks. By Doug Diekema

Grab Your Cameras: WTA's Photo Contest is Now Open

Aug 17, 2023

Lace up your boots and grab your camera to enter WTA's Northwest Exposure Photo Contest.

The Power of Annual Trail Maintenance

Aug 17, 2023

WTA's Claire Thompson reflects on why the less-glamorous tasks of annual trail maintenance are some of the most important, cost-effective and impactful trail work we do.

Hiker Headlines: Photo Contest Opens, Highway 20 Closure Expands, New Fire Restrictions, Art in Parks

Aug 17, 2023

WTA's 2023 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest is open! The recent Blue Lake Fire in the North Cascades has caused more trail and road closures, and there are new fire restrictions in place across the state. Take a King County Parks survey on plans for art and culture in our parks. And join other volunteers in a coastal cleanup effort on Sept 16.

Meet the Hikers and Writers Behind WTA's Hiking Guide

Did you know WTA's hiking guide is partially written by a team of volunteers? Meet some of the dedicated team of people who help you find your favorite trails. By Anna Roth

Volunteer Profile: The Pie Guy Is Delivering Smiles to the Backcountry One Slice at a Time

Aug 14, 2023

Meet Mike Read, the "Pie Guy," whose passion for conservation, community, and culinary delights has brought joy to the trail crews of Washington.

At Trailheads and Festivals, WTA Volunteer Ambassadors Support the Hiking Community

Aug 11, 2023

So far this year, 74 WTA ambassadors have volunteered at more than 30 events around the state. From trailheads to festivals around the state, these outreach volunteers support the hiking community, encourage responsible recreation and connect people with WTA resources and opportunities to protect trails and public lands.

Hiker Headlines: Highway 20 Fire, Trail Work at Artist Point, Perseid Meteor Shower

Aug 10, 2023

It’s August 10. Highway 20 had reopened and then closed again as the Sourdough Fire continues to burn. Trail work at Artist Point means some trails there may have detours. Bear hunting season approaches, the Perseids meteor shower is this weekend, and some fun events are coming up next weekend! Read on to see what you might have missed while on trail this week.

4 Ways To Refresh Summer Hikes Close To Home

Aug 08, 2023

When it feels a little too hot for a full day of adventure, look to the trail next door for inspiration.

Wellness Should Be for Everyone

Meet three professionals who are making the fitness and nutrition industry more welcoming. By Ashton Weis

The Long View: The Forest Service’s Sarah Lange on Solving the “Wicked Problems” of Planning Recreation

We sit down for a chat with a recreation planner with Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest to talk about her job, the current challenges facing the forest and our collective way forward for the future of recreation.

Hiker Headlines: Free Day, Sourdough Mountain Trail and Lakes Angeles Area Closures, FR 25 Closure Reduced

Aug 03, 2023

Parking fees will be waived in some areas tomorrow, Aug. 4, for Great American Outdoors Day. Be aware of some new closures and restrictions, and a reduction in the Forest Road 25 closure. And sign a petition to protect the Green River Valley from mining activity.

What Do I Do if I Find Old Stuff on Trail?

Aug 01, 2023

What should you do if you see an old, human-made object on a hike? It could be a historical artifact that's best left untouched. By Linnea Johnson

How to Find the Right Tent for Your Backpacking and Camping Adventures

A shelter is one of the most important pieces of gear you can own, but choices can feel overwhelming. Don't worry — we're here to go over the best options for what's right for you. By Sandra Saathoff

Discover Frog Mountain Trail: A Triumph of Conservation and Recreation in Wild Sky Wilderness

Jul 28, 2023

The opening of the new Frog Mountain Trail in Wild Sky Wilderness is a testament to the power of collaboration, conservation and responsible recreation.

“Campfire Stories” Recognizes the Complicated History of National Parks

Our national parks are a good idea, but are not without issues that must be faced. Before we can appreciate what is being protected, we must reconcile the bitter past of the marginalization of BIPOC communities on these lands. By J. Drew Lanham

Hiker Headlines: Hike-a-Thon, Annette Lake Trail Closure, New Youth Outdoors Funding

Jul 27, 2023

Hike-a-Thon starts Aug. 1! As you’re planning your upcoming trips outside, be aware of closures and fire restrictions. Share your thoughts on a sustainable trails strategy in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. And we’re excited about some new funding to connect youth with the outdoors.

Photography: Spot Wildlife Without The Drive

Jul 26, 2023

You don't have to go far to find unique and interesting wildlife on trails near you. See what you can find in your neighborhood park.

Upper Cowlitz Valley Trails Coalition: a Team-up of Hikers, Mountain Bikers and Equestrians

Jul 26, 2023

Historically, hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers haven’t always shared the same goals about using trails. WTA and our trail maintenance partners in Southwest Washington are a part of ongoing work to change that. By Joseph Gonzalez

How One Outdoor Leadership Training Leader Creates Outdoor Experiences Through Science-Based Programs

Jul 24, 2023

A Lincoln High School science teacher teams up with WTA to get students learning outside alongside their peers and community partners.

Hiker Headlines: Mountain Loop Hwy Fully Open, More Campfire Restrictions, PNT Win

Jul 20, 2023

The Forest Service approved the comprehensive management plan for the Pacific Northwest Trail, and it is now headed to Congress. The Mountain Loop Highway is fully open! And be aware of some campfire restrictions and closures when you’re planning your hikes in these next few weeks.

Help Shape the Future of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness

Jul 19, 2023

The Alpine Lakes Collaborative needs your input on the wilderness. Take the survey now.

Find your Hiking Community this Summer

Jul 17, 2023

Itching to get outside, but need someone to go with? Check out these groups that are making it easier to connect in nature.

Major Step Forward for Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail

Jul 14, 2023

The Forest Service has completed a comprehensive management plan for the Pacific Northwest Trail, which runs over 800 miles across Washington. WTA has long supported the development of the trail and we are thrilled by this critical step forward.

Hiker Headlines: Mowich Road Open, Forest Protection Wins, Active Rainbow Fire, A Seattle Times Profile

Jul 13, 2023

Mowich Road at Mount Rainier is open! Be aware of several campfire and recreation use restrictions being put in place, as well as an active wildfire in the Lake Chelan area. Exciting news about some recent forest protections coming about as a result of the Great American Outdoors Act. And WTA’s CEO took a hike with The Seattle Times to outline WTA’s priorities in the outdoor recreation space.

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