Advancing Trail Smarts

Supporting trails is not just about the much-needed trail maintenance and additional investment. It’s also about hiker awareness, transportation access, trip-reported conditions and so much more. We need targeted education to improve on-trail experiences and help hikers discover brand-new adventures.

Supporting trails isn't just about doing trail maintenance and increased funding. It’s also about hiker awareness. Transportation, road access, trip-reported conditions and so much more all help make a healthy trail system.

All of this requires targeted education to improve your on-trail experiences and help you lessen your impact on the places you love. If you haven’t seen our Trail Smarts video series, now's a great time to check it out. These tools provide quick refreshers on some of the most important hiking best practices.

Fun fact: Trip reports aren't just good for planning your next hike. They are critical to land managers as they make decisions and plan for the future needs of hikers. Write one today!

EXPAND YOUR TRAIL SMARTS

Keep Kiddos Warm On Winter Adventures

Nov 12, 2014

Around every corner of a winter hike is the opportunity to see Washington from a new perspective. Snowshoeing or cross country skiing are great ways to introduce little ones to the beauty of winter. Even if you don't have snowshoes or skis, there are plenty of options that remain snow-free year round, so you can get out without having to save up.

Straight to their Source: Where Washington Waters Flow

Oct 24, 2013

Worth checking out: a new interactive mapping service from the USGS that lets hikers trace the flow of major rivers and streams to their source.

Q&A: The Shutdown and Hikers

Oct 09, 2013

Questions and answers to common questions about the impact the federal government shutdown is having on hikers in Washington state.

Change Your Plans? Heavy Rain, Winds Expected in Southwest

Sep 27, 2013

Hiking on a rainy day can be a delight. But with the National Weather Service calling for heavy rain and high winds in areas of Southwest Washington, including the coast, hikers should probably take their autumn hiking elsewhere this weekend.

The Buzz on a Bumper Crop of Yellow Jackets

Aug 29, 2013

Why there have been so many wasps this year, the latest trails to watch out for wasps, and tips to keep from getting stung.

How to Poop in the Woods

Aug 21, 2013

Just because you’re miles away from the modern conveniences of indoor plumbing does not mean that doing your duty has to be a chore. Learn the right way to go to the bathroom in the woods. When do you need to pack it out? When and where should you bury your business following Leave No Trace principles?

Wildfire Season and Campfire Safety

Learn how to prevent wildfires, manage your campfire and check the AQI and wildfire status of trails before you hike.

Fire Closes Trails in Alpine Lakes Wilderness

Aug 07, 2013

Two trails in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness have closed due to a small, lightning-caused fire that started over the weekend. A burn ban on state lands and other campfire restrictions remain in place across the state to prevent new fires from starting.

Statewide Burn Ban and Campfire Restrictions

Aug 19, 2016

As hot, dry weather increases the chance for a spark to ignite wildfires, land management agencies and counties across the state have issued burn bans.

Wildfire Season: Mount Si Closed, Fire Danger High

Jul 29, 2013

From Mount Si to Klickitat County, the North Cascades to Wentachee, the first of the season's wildfires have already started burning in Washington. Burn bans, poor air quality, hazy views and lightning storms in the forecast all have the potential to impact hikers and campers in the coming weeks. Stay informed about current wildfire threats and help prevent additional wildfires from starting.

Safe Hiking When the Temps Climb High

Jun 28, 2013

With temperatures expected to climb into record highs in the coming days, hikers will need to take a few extra precautions. How to hike in the heat, cross a river safely and what to do when you encounter snow.

Tips and Tricks for Packing Your Pack

Jun 12, 2013

Properly packing a backpack can make a huge difference on a trip. Here are some tips and tricks to make your packing experience more efficient.

Find a Safe, Snow-Free Trail to Hike

Apr 17, 2013

Spring is a tricky season for hikers and snowshoers in the Northwest. Because temperatures fluctuate so widely, dangers from avalanches can actually increase around this time. Get tips on trails to avoid and ideas for a fun safe hike. Plus: strategies for navigating the common hazards of springtime hiking.

Snowshoe Walks, Avalanche Safety Talks

Mar 18, 2013

Learn the basics of avalanche safety while meandering in the Commonwealth Basin at Snoqualmie Pass on one of two upcoming guided snowshoe walks. Snowshoes are provided, and the walks will be led by avalanche safety instructors from Friends of the Avalanche Center and the U.S. Forest Service Snow Rangers.

Cold Weather Photography Tips

Feb 27, 2013

There is still plenty of time to take out the winter gear—snowshoes, cross-country skis, winter jacket, snow pants and, of course, your camera. But before you head out, here are a few tips from photographer Paul Raymaker that can help take the chill out of capturing a winter wonderland-scape.