Hiker Headlines: WTA Backcountry Preview, Hiker Rally Day, 6 More Weeks of Winter

It’s February 2. Keep an eye out for a preview of WTA’s volunteer backcountry trip season. Join WTA for Hiker Rally Day on March 14 to advocate for trails. Part of the Cape Horn trail will be closed through July 15. Legislation to support wildfire prevention efforts and reduce the negative effects of wildfires has been introduced. And, the groundhog predicted 6 more weeks of winter this year. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

A backcountry work party gives you the chance to do bigger trail work projects and spend quality overnight time in nature. Photo by Patrick Donaghue.

WTA backcountry trips: Looking forward to backpacking or camping this summer? With WTA, you can combine all of that with trail work by joining us for a backcountry response team or volunteer vacation work party! Keep your eyes peeled for a preview of this year’s backcountry season coming out tomorrow. You’ll be able to review all of our backcountry trips for the season. If you want to join us on a trip, get started by creating a My Backpack account.

Hiker Rally Day: During the 2022 legislative session, WTA rallied our partners and community to provide $15 million every year ($5 million per agency) to the Washington Department of Natural Resources, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Washington State Parks. With that funding, land managers have the opportunity to improve parking lots, roads, facilities and trails. Join us for Hiker Rally Day on March 14 to advocate for continued support for our trails!

Area closed: Every year from Feb. 1 to July 15, Cape Horn closes its lower slopes to protect the area’s nesting peregrine falcons. Visitors can still hike here but will have to do it as an out-and-back hike to avoid the closed trail segment. 

Wildfire prevention: After a long wildfire season last year, the “Cascading Impacts of Wildfire” legislative bill was introduced. This bill, if passed, would provide funding to support wildfire prevention and damage control measures in Washington, particularly in places most affected both during and after wildfires. 

6 more weeks of winter: Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil saw its shadow this morning, predicting another 6 weeks of winter ahead. Stay winter-ready by checking the weather and avalanche forecasts, and packing the Ten Essentials on all of your trips. And if you’re starting to feel ready for spring, look for low-elevation hikes in our Hiking Guide by using the “high point” filter in the left sidebar, or check out some of our favorite lowland hikes. 

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