Features from Magazine

From the Backcountry to Birdwatching: The Evolution of One Photographer’s Definition of Outdoor Adventuring

The outdoors has always been important to Matt Leaman, but his relationship with it has changed over the years. A single hike sparked an interest that led to new passions and a much deeper connection to the wildlife of the Pacific Northwest. It even led to a new career. | By Tiffany Chou

"After the First Day, I Was Hooked" — What Keeps WTA Volunteers Coming Back

Five WTA volunteers share how their time on trail has brought them community, skills and confidence.

WTA’s Emerging Leaders Program is Creating a Welcoming Space to Learn and Grow in the Outdoor Community

Charlie Lavides faced hurdles entering the outdoor industry. WTA's Emerging Leaders Program granted them an opportunity to foster and find community on Washington trails. By Charlie Lavides

The Low Down on Insulation

Understanding down and synthetic options for will help you dial in your gear and stay warm on trail. By Sandra Saathoff

Traveling Tools: Follow Our Trail Work Tools Across The State

From crosscut saws to Pulaskis, and from the coast to the Idaho border, WTA staff and volunteers are caring for trails with a versatile stash of tools. By Tiffany Chou and Holly Weiler

How to Pick the Right Water Filter

If you spend time in the backcountry, you’ll need a way to treat drinking water. Here’s what you need to know about the options. By Sandra Saathoff

There’s a Filter for That

Smartphone cameras have a number of creative tools to enhance your trail photos. Knowing these tools is the key to unlocking your phone's camera potential. By Erika Haugen-Goodman

How a Professional Guidebook Author Researches Trails

Author Craig Romano has written 25 guide books (and hiked over 2,000 trails in Washington alone). Before he can write a book to help you with your hike planning, he does some researching of his own. By Craig Romano

What You Need to Know about How to Pick and Use Your Stove

Food tastes so good after a day of hiking, but first you need to cook it. Here's everything you need to know about picking a stove for your hiking adventures. By Sandra Saathoff

Spring Cleaning: How to Spark Joy With These Gear Organization Tips and Tricks

Do rainy days in winter and spring have you feeling blue? Spark joy and get ready for summer by organizing your gear closet with these tips and tricks! By Joseph Gonzalez

How to Embrace a Beginner’s Mindset for New Outdoor Skills

Whether you’re expanding your outdoor skill repertoire, recently moved to Washington, or are new to the outdoors as a whole, these eight tips can help bolster your self-confidence, bring you closer to your companions and create space for maximum fun. By Linnea Johnson

Caring for Trails: 3 Advocates Offer Inspiration for How to Make a Difference

Trails need advocates if they will withstand the test of time. What does it take to build a better future for our trail systems, and how do you become an advocate? We sat down with three people who consider themselves advocates, and this is what we heard. By Cassidy Giampetro