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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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Volunteer Profile: Dana Pounds

Jan 14, 2019

WTA trail work volunteer Dana Pounds is the definition of can-do. A 20-year battle with a rare form of cancer hasn't dimmed her positivity and optimism, and losing her leg hasn't kept her off trail. She joined WTA on her first work party earlier this month.

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Federal Shutdown: What It Means for Washington Hikers

Jan 14, 2019

An impending government shutdown may impact your upcoming visit to our national parks and forests.

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Quiz: Are You a Hiker or a Hibernator?

Jan 11, 2019

Are you a dozing bear or a hopping hare?

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Hiker Headlines: Government Shutdown, Road Closures and Easier Camping

Jan 10, 2019

It’s Jan. 10. There’s snow in the highlands — and the potential for avalanche danger. The government shutdown is affecting recreation. Mount St. Helens permits will have a new system this year. State park reservations are getting an upgrade.

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Ethical Wildlife Photography: What You Need to Know

Jan 08, 2019

Wildlife photography is highly rewarding, but it's vital to respect the wildlife you're photographing. Photographer Heather Clark shares her tips.

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2018 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest Winners

Jan 04, 2019

Check out the winning images from our 2018 photo contest.

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Book Review: Slow Down, Make Time to Create Art on Trail

Jan 02, 2019

Artist Molly Hashimoto, author of "Colors of the West," would like to encourage people to slow down on their next adventure. And not just for 30 seconds to snap a quick photo.

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A Year in Trip Reports

Dec 28, 2018

WTA's trip reporter community shares stories and photos all year — reminding us that every season is hiking season.

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Major Gains for Lost Trails Around the State

Dec 26, 2018

This year, more than 500 volunteers devoted nearly 15,000 hours of work to saving lost trails across the state. Follow along for a look back at everything we've been up to in our Lost Trails Found campaign.

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5 WTA-Worthy Resolutions for 2019

Dec 26, 2018

If you love trails, these 5 resolutions will you get you outdoors, help your fellow hikers and give you a feeling of accomplishment from making a difference all across the state.

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In 2019, We Resolve to...

Dec 26, 2018

Do you have ambitions for the year to come? Gain some inspiration from the hiking community and create your own resolution for 2019.

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State Park Camping Reservations Will Soon Be Easier

Dec 21, 2018

The system will be down for a week, but once it's back up, it will be easier to use and make more parks available for reservations.

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This Year's Favorite Gear

Dec 20, 2018

Washington Trail's staff spend a lot of time outdoors — and we try out a lot of new gear. Here are our favorites from the year that we love enough to recommend to you.

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Rockstar Community Leaders Champion Outdoor Adventures

Dec 20, 2018

Meet three determined outdoor leaders who led memorable trips for their schools and programs this year.

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Sweet Treats for the Trail

Dec 20, 2018

What motivates a hiker to make that final push to their campsite at the end of a long day on the trail? Dessert, of course!

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New Year, New Hiking Opportunities in Whatcom County Parks

Dec 19, 2018

If you’ve resolved to explore new trails in the New Year, new opportunities in the Bellingham area are just in time.

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What It Takes to Research and Write 500 Hikes for WTA

Dec 14, 2018

WTA's hiking guide content manager, Anna Roth, just finished writing her 500th hike. She reflects on highs, lows and what she's learned.

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Guided Snowshoe Hikes for Everyone

Dec 13, 2018

From beginner treks to more advanced outings, these guided snowshoe hikes are a safe and fun way step into the world of winter recreation.

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Advice from a Park Ranger: Plan Your Best Vacation at Olympic National Park

Dec 11, 2018

Find a quiet corner of one of America's most popular national parks with this advice from a ranger who works there.

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Celebrate a New Year with Free Hikes at Washington State Parks

Dec 06, 2018

Free, guided hikes and snowshoe trips will be offered all across the state on January 1. Additionally, New Year's Day is a fee-free day. No Discover Pass is required.

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Hiker Approved: King County's Transit-to-Trail Service Proves Popular

Dec 04, 2018

The first full season of Trailhead Direct city-to-trail shuttle service wrapped up at the end of October. What did we learn from the pilot project?

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