Hiker Headlines: 3 Million Trees, Sites Reopening, Trip Sign-Up, Burn Bans

It’s April 22. Happy Earth Day! WTA previews a new trail in North Highline as King County announces its 3 Million Tree initiative. A few notable recreation sites reopen this week. Registration for the second round of WTA’s multiday trips opens tomorrow. Extended burn bans are a reminder to check fire regulations when heading out on your next trip. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

In Washington, every day is Earth Day. Olympic National Forest by Aaron Wilson. 

3 Million Trees: Today at King County’s new urban park in North Highline, Executive Dow Constantine will launch the 3 Million Trees initiative, an effort to increase tree canopy and climate resilience in green spaces across the county. WTA will also be there to preview the new trail that will be built in the park as part of our Trail Next Door campaign.   

Sites reopening: After being closed for renovations, the Goldendale Observatory will reopen on April 24 for weekend programs only. Ape Cave Interpretive Site is reopening with a new timed reservation system on April 29. And SR 504 is now open to the Johnston Ridge Observatory at Mount St. Helens. Although the road is open, the visitor center remains closed and many trails in this area are still snow-covered.

Sign up for a multiday trip: Registration for round two of WTA’s Backcountry Response trips and Volunteer Vacations will open on April 23 at 6:00 p.m. Preview the trips and get your forms in now for the best chance of getting your first choice.    

Expanded burn restrictions: Washington's Department of Natural Resources announced new burn restrictions for many areas across the state. The restrictions vary by region and type, but DNR has a helpful map to break it down. This is a good reminder to always check with any land manager before a trip to learn if campfires are allowed or not. This round of burn restrictions is likely to lift once spring rains start back up.

BE IN THE KNOW

• Keep up to date with Trail News, our monthly email newsletter.
• Check our Hiking Guide for information on what trails are open.
• Check trip reports for latest conditions on trails. And if you go for a hike, file your own trip report.
• Sign up for Families Go Hiking, our email newsletter for families with plenty of tips on keeping kids busy.