Why Urban Trails?

See why urban trails are a key part of a healthy and sustainable trail system.

Trails in cities and urban centers are a critical piece of our state's trail system. They boast many of the things we look for in the backcountry — fresh air, wildlife and the greenery our Evergreen State is famous for — often with a fraction of the time commitment. Many can be accessed by public transportation or require no transportation at all. And they're great places not only to hike, but to spend time with friends and family, exercise or commute — often on a daily basis.

But there's a problem. Most of our urban green spaces and trails are concentrated in affluent parts of Washington's cities. We believe everyone deserves access to these places to enjoy green space, get exercise or simply connect with other people. The benefits of time in nature are undeniable, and urban trails and parks make it that much easier for more people to access those benefits.

With The Trail Next Door, we're building on the successes of our other campaigns, Lost Trails Found and Trails Rebooted. Together, the three campaigns will help build a healthy, sustainable trail system from neighborhood parks all the way to remote backcountry trails. And just as one trail work project might require a shovel while another needs a crosscut saw, supporting close-in trails will require different tools than caring for remote trails. We are excited to deepen our partnerships in urban spaces over the course of the next year and learn how we can best increase access to urban trails and improve folks' experiences on them.

See what we're up to next door

Take an Urban Hike to Octavia Butler Avenue

Jan 02, 2024

Science fiction author Octavia Butler lived in north Seattle from 1999–2006. In 2003, the city of Lake Forest Park celebrated her by naming her former street in her honor. By Linnea Johnson

Why Going Outside is Good For You According to Science

Dec 18, 2023

While hiking nourishes each of us in a unique way, we know there are physical and mental health benefits from getting outdoors. Here are three ways recent science has found benefits to getting outside.

Your Vote in Action: King County Parks Levy

Oct 02, 2023

We look in at the midway point of the King County Parks Levy to check on the trails built and the work accomplished by its funding.

Dash Point State Park Reveals: WTA is More Than Trails

Oct 02, 2023

Dash Point State Park is a great example of how WTA works in many different ways to create trails for everyone, forever. We are working behind the scenes to fund land management agencies, and we’re working on the ground to rebuild trails. From empowering partners to get their communities outdoors – to helping everyone who gets outdoors to see the part they play in stewarding the places they love, we are building a better future for trails.

4 Ways To Refresh Summer Hikes Close To Home

Aug 08, 2023

When it feels a little too hot for a full day of adventure, look to the trail next door for inspiration.

Photography: Spot Wildlife Without The Drive

Jul 26, 2023

You don't have to go far to find unique and interesting wildlife on trails near you. See what you can find in your neighborhood park.