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Trail Smarts

Supporting trails is about more than trail maintenance and public lands advocacy. It’s also about building a welcoming community of trail smart hikers. Learn how to stay safe, improve your on-trail experience and lessen your impact on the places you love.


New to Hiking

We can help guide you through everything you need to know as you hit the trail in Washington.

Early Summer Hiking Safety Tips

While summer has finally arrived to the lowlands of Washington, conditions in the mountains can be more like spring than summer. What should hikers know before heading out on hike this summer and how to stay safe when crossing snow or streams.

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Hiking How To
Hiking How To

These instructional articles will help you plan a day on trail.

Hikers on a rocky stretch of trail on a sunny day.A guide to keeping cool

Expert tips to keep your hiking cool in the heat of a summer day.

throwing away trash
Practice Leave No Trace

7 simple guidelines to leave trails better than you found them.


A Discover Pass and a waterfall are pictured.Passes and permits for hiking

Passes and permits are a reality of hiking in Washington. Learn which ones you need and where.

A hiker walks down a trail.5 hiking tips for soccer fans who want to hike like a local

5 things you need to know to have a great time and show trails respect between World Cup games.


New to Washington? Find your way with WTA.How to hike like a local in Washington

Welcome to Washington! This is our guide for new-to-Washington hikers.


A screenshot of WTA's hiking guide of Lake 22.How to Use WTA's Hiking Guide

WTA’s online Hiking Guide is full of information about thousands of trails across the state. Learn how to use it here.

Wildflowers and mountain views.22 short hikes with GIANT views

Find big summer views without putting in long miles.




Hiking with dogsHiking with dogs

We can help prepare you and your dog for a great time on trail.