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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WTA's Pro Crew Finishes up Incredible Season

Oct 18, 2021

After 71 days and 4,243 hours of trail maintenance, WTA's first backcountry pro crew is wrapping up their packed season of trail work within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest!

Hiker Headlines: Mountain Snow, Artist Point Closed, Our DEI Work, Listening Sessions

Oct 14, 2021

Trip reports are showing winter conditions from a light dusting of snow in the trees, to trails completely covered in snow. The road to Artist Point recently closed for the winter season. We take a moment to reflect on our work toward diversity, equity and inclusion. Make your voice heard in a listening session on the Department of the Interior’s efforts to better understand barriers to outdoor recreation.

What We've Learned in Our Work Toward Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Oct 12, 2021

In early 2018, we rolled out a diversity, equity and inclusion plan at WTA. Over the last 3 years, we’ve consistently worked toward the goals in that plan. Now, we want to take a moment to reflect on our work and some key lessons we’ve learned.

A Plan for Silver Star's Future

Oct 07, 2021

Silver Star mountain in Southwest Washington is a beloved destination facing access issues. The Silver Star Coalition is looking to help with that.

Hiker Headlines: Sno-Park Permits, Park Responsibly, Safe Streets, Prescribed Burn

Oct 07, 2021

Sno-park fees will increase this winter. If you’re heading out to find some fall foliage, remember to park responsibly at trailheads. Learn more about plans to improve active transportation across the state and provide your own feedback. And a prescribed burn is scheduled near Mount Adams today and tomorrow.

Breaking Ground on Independence Pass

Oct 05, 2021

For just over a decade, sections of the Independence Pass trail have been lost to treacherous washouts that prevent hikers from travelling its full length. Now, WTA and partners are working to bring it back.

This Summer Was WILD

Oct 04, 2021

InterImCDA’s WILD program, Wild Society and Wild Grief all took teens backpacking this summer (with gear from WTA's gear library). We ask them to reflect on the value of time spent in the “wild” for the youth they work with and some unexpected logistical challenges they encountered.

Hiker Headlines: Lookout Tower, Parks Planning, Prescribed Burns, Local Stonehenge

Sep 30, 2021

A new lookout tower is nearing completion on Pinnacle Peak outside of Enumclaw. Take a survey to help Seattle Parks and Recreation plan for the future. State parks is holding a meeting to share proposed plans for the Palouse Falls area. Land managers have announced some upcoming prescribed burns. And a Stonehenge memorial in the Columbia River Gorge was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

What Do You Want From Seattle Parks? Let Them Know

Sep 29, 2021

The city of Seattle's Parks and Recreation Department wants to hear from you to help them shape their priorities for the coming years.

Miles the Marmot Reports Back on a Record-Breaking Year for Hike-a-Thon

Sep 24, 2021

Our spokesmarmot shares thanks for all the amazing Hike-a-Thoners who did so much for trails.

Hiker Headlines: Public Lands Day, Burn Bans Lifted, Parks Survey, Mapping Rainier

Sep 23, 2021

Celebrate National Public Lands Day by thanking a ranger. Burn bans have lifted in several areas across the state. King County Parks wants to hear from you as they plan for the future of parks, trails and natural areas. And you may come across signs of a new mapping project at Mount Rainier this week.

New Book Shares Stories of Northwest Women Who Helped Shape Our History

Sep 20, 2021

Joan Burton's new book, “Footprints in Snow: Seven Brave Women Who Shaped the History of the Northwest Mountains,” shares the story of other iconic women in the history of the outdoors.

Hiker Headlines: Wet Weekend Weather, Latinx Heritage Month, Lands Reopen, National Parks Nominee

Sep 16, 2021

Wet weather is expected this weekend in Western Washington, including snow at higher elevations. Celebrate National Latinx Heritage Month this September. Wildfire closures are lifting in parts of the state. The first Native American has been nominated to head the National Park Service.

Hiking Doesn't Have to be Hard: Be Easy on Yourself and Each Other

Sep 09, 2021

Hiking is always worthwhile but it’s not always easy and it’s not always pleasant. Acknowledging the whole spectrum of experiences will make for a more welcoming hiking culture, and being easy on yourself and others can add a little sunshine to a rainy day.

Hiker Headlines: Shorter Days, Trip Report Milestone, Highway 542 Weekend Closure, After Fire

Sep 09, 2021

Daylight hours are growing shorter as we transition into fall, emphasizing the importance of hike planning and packing a flashlight. We are celebrating the milestone of 200,000 trip reports. A portion of the Mount Baker Highway will be closed Sunday morning for a group bicycle ride. Wildfire closures are still in place across Washington, and the Forest Service gives some insight into the process of safely reopening an area after it burns.

Exploring the State Through Volunteering

Sep 08, 2021

Our varied, far-reaching volunteer opportunities have the added benefit of giving volunteers a fun opportunity to see and explore new parts of Washington.

Hiker Headlines: Hunting Season, Long Weekend, Back to School

Sep 02, 2021

Hunting season is ramping up on many public lands across the state. The last long weekend of summer is right around the corner. And, it's time to head back to school.

El Centro de la Raza on the Trail: An Outdoor Field Trip for Teens

Sep 02, 2021

This trip, which was supported by WTA's Outdoor Leadership Training program, was a chance for teens to connect with each other and the outdoors.

You Know You're in Washington When...

Aug 31, 2021

Washingtonians are known for our love of hiking and outdoor recreation. This love of trails often bleeds into a lot of other aspects of our lives, too, like the clothes we wear and the cars we drive.

Worth the Weight: WTA Staff Add to the 10 Essentials

Aug 30, 2021

The little luxuries we like to add to our backpacks.

Hiker Headlines: Gear Libraries, Lyle Cherry Reopening, Wolverines, Community Science

Aug 26, 2021

WTA is excited to open our second gear library in Puget Sound. Lyle Cherry Orchard trails are once again open to hikers. Wildfire season isn't over yet — but we can help you plan around it. Wolverines are making a comeback in the Cascades. And, our local pikas could use your help. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.