Hiker Headlines: the Great Outdoors, Trail Conditions, Hike the State

It’s June 3. National Trails Day is coming up this Saturday. If you’re heading out for a hike, remember that winter conditions still exist on many trails. June is officially Great Outdoors Month. WTA’s annual Hike the State event is coming up on June 9. And you can now buy a gift card to Washington State Parks. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

If you're heading out in celebration of National Trails Day, remember that it still looks like winter on many trails. Mount Dickerman, photo by awkiwies. 

National Trails Day: June 5 is National Trails Day. In honor of this holiday, access to any trailhead that normally requires a Discover Pass will be free for the day. Consider giving back to trails by taking action and sharing your experience on social media with the hashtag #NationalTrailsDay. June 5 is also the official start of Trailhead Direct season. If you’re heading out to celebrate, consider taking transit to a trail near Seattle.

Winter is not over yet: Just because the weather is looking more and more like summer doesn’t mean trails have caught up. With an especially large snowpack this year, many mountain trails are still covered in snow. It’s also common for hikers to come across winter storm damage, and dangerous creek crossings this time of year. Check conditions before you head out and be prepared.

Great Outdoors Month: President Biden officially named June 2021 as Great Outdoors Month. The proclamation encourages everyone to get outside to enjoy our public lands and work to conserve these places for future generations.

Hike the State: Want to get inspired for summer? Join WTA for our annual Hike the State event this upcoming Wednesday, June 9 at 6 p.m. You'll discover new-to-you hikes from around the state, hand-picked and presented by WTA staff. The event is free and will be 100% online this year, so it's easy to tune in from anywhere.

The gift of parks: Washington State Parks announced it now has gift cards for sale. Gift cards can be used to pay for a Discover Pass and reserve campgrounds, cabins, and vacation rentals.  

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.