Signpost Blog

"This little newsletter has been an experiment so far, testing a hunch I've had that such a means of communication among walkers is needed." — Signpost magazine, 1966.

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What's Your Hiking Love Language?

Feb 11, 2022

How do you show your special someone you care about them (on trail)?

Hiker Headlines: Seal Pup, Muddy Trails, Applications, Trail Love

Feb 10, 2022

A seal pup was born at Deception Pass, prompting some trail detours. Some trails in Central Washington are closed due to muddy conditions. It’s almost time to sign up for WTA’s backcountry volunteer trips. Enchantments permit applications will open on Feb 15. We have some valentine cards for that special hiker in your life. And, you can take action for trails by letting your legislators know you support reducing the maintenance backlog for state parks and lands.

WTA’s Emerging Leaders Are Just Getting Started

Feb 08, 2022

WTA welcomes a team of five new folks focused on building an inclusive community and learning leadership skills for working in the outdoors.

Short Legislative Session, Big Goals for the Outdoors

Feb 07, 2022

WTA is leading exciting requests to the state legislature during this year's short session.

Preview: WTA's 2022 Volunteer Backcountry Trip Schedule

Feb 04, 2022

It's only February, but Washingtonians know that the short, gray days mean it's primo planning season. Have you considered adding a WTA backcountry trip to your 2022 adventure schedule? You should. Here's why.

Hiker Headlines: Hurricane Ridge Renovation, State Parks Survey, Committee Volunteers

Feb 03, 2022

The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center will be getting a major upgrade next year. State Parks wants your feedback through a new survey. On Groundhog Day we learned of more winter on the way, and we have a few other forecasts you might want to check. And, Olympic National Forest needs volunteers to serve on their Resource Advisory Committee.

Hiker Headlines: Jobs, Permits, Bridges, Snow and Mud

Jan 27, 2022

WTA is hiring for several positions. North Cascades National Park permits will be processed through recreation.gov starting this season. Work has wrapped up on two historic bridges at Deception Pass. Hikers should avoid hiking on muddy trails in Eastern Washington. And, expect snow at the mountain passes this weekend.

What Could the Future of Trails Look Like?

Jan 25, 2022

WTA’s trail team has been thinking about what it means to create the trail system of the future, and three of our staff members shared their hopes. Their thoughts show the importance of three key priorities: create more trails and accessible greenspace, innovate trail layouts and redesigns to improve hikers’ experiences on trails, and find ways to help people feel safe and welcome in the outdoors.

Hiking Slow: What You Can Learn From a Snail

Jan 21, 2022

If you’re seeking to deepen your connection with nature, then just find the closest trail and go … slow.

Hiker Headlines: Backcountry Permits, Winter Safety, Public Input

Jan 20, 2022

It’s time to start planning for backcountry camping permit applications. The Forest Service offers some winter safety reminders. A public comment period is open for a proposed communications tower in the Naches Ranger District. And, we lay out some of the winter conditions you can expect this week.

Leaving a Legacy for Trails

Jan 19, 2022

Jake Robinson’s family is honoring his memory and his love for trails by supporting WTA’s work.

Hiker Headlines: Sno-Park Status, WTA Advocacy, Icicle Road, MLK Day

Jan 13, 2022

Sno-parks are slow to reopen after last week’s snowstorm. The state legislative session just kicked off in Olympia. Icicle Road near Leavenworth will likely be closed through the weekend. And, entry fees will be waived at public lands on Monday, January 17 in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Get Inspired: How Four Hikers Accomplished Their 2021 Hiking Goals

Jan 12, 2022

You've picked your hike, checked the trip reports, and refreshed your trail smarts. But if you need a little more motivation getting out the door, read how these four hikers achieved their hiking goals last year.

Hiking Firsts: Photos and Stories of Hikers Trying New Things

Jan 07, 2022

To celebrate the beginning of a new year, we're sharing some firsts, shared by contributors to our Northwest Exposure Photo Contest.

Trip Reporters Talk Snow and Ice

Jan 07, 2022

One of the best sources of information and inspiration during winter are trip reports from hikers who are out there seeing conditions first hand. Here are some of the things trip reporters have been finding out on trail during the start of winter.

Hiker Headlines: Avalanche Warning, Closed Passes and Roads, Winter Inspiration

Jan 06, 2022

The avalanche forecast is high for the Cascades and Olympics. A flood watch is in effect for much of Western Washington. Four major mountain passes are closed due to heavy snowfall, and it’s best to steer clear of trailheads in the I-90 foothills until road conditions improve. With the rough conditions out there, stay inspired by setting your hiking goals for the new year and check out our photo contest winners.

2021 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest Winners

Jan 03, 2022

From bears to mountain peaks, take a look at all of the 2021 photo contest winners.

Hiker Headlines: New Sno-Park, First Day Hikes, Bridge Over the Columbia

Dec 29, 2021

First Day Hikes are a great way to kick off the new year. A new Sno-Park just opened on the westside of Snoqualmie Pass. The eastern closure point for the North Cascades Highway will move a few miles down the road. And a pedestrian bridge across the Columbia River will open in 2022.

Tips and Inspiration to Help You Set Goals for a Year of Happy Hiking

Dec 28, 2021

Resources and inspiration to help you create your own hiking goals and meet them.

Hiker Headlines: Cold Snap, Winter Hiking, Fisher Release

Dec 23, 2021

Snowfall and very cold temperatures are expected across Washington this weekend. Read about the many ways hikers are getting outside at the start of winter. And more fishers have been reintroduced to the Olympic National Forest.

Wild Society, a WTA Partner, Teams Up With Communities for Outdoor Adventures

Dec 20, 2021

Wild Society, a wilderness education nonprofit based out of Kitsap County, developed two amazing new partnerships that brought epic adventures and rewarding relationships.