Ambassadors connect hikers to trails and WTA's mission

By Zachary Toliver

How do you create a state that cares a whole lot for trails? One conversation at a time.

Ambassadors are often the face, or rather, faces, of WTA. Currently, the program includes 65 ambassadors from around the state who connect with the public to share WTA’s mission of sustainable trails for everyone, forever.

One can just as easily find a spirited ambassador tabling at a popular trailhead as they can at the state fair, a convention or some one-off dog festival. The goal? Meeting Washingtonians wherever they are to educate hikers and to highlight all the ways WTA supports Washington trails.

Staffing a table is one of the ways ambassadors engage with community members. Photo by Mike Wotring

“Even if they've heard of WTA, they might not have heard of one specific niche that maybe would be the thing that gets them involved,” said Nicole Masih-Théberge, WTA’s senior community engagement coordinator.

Volunteers on their own may not be able to solve diminishing budgets and job cuts that impact outdoor spaces. Still, they are a powerful force for good and contribute to building a statewide culture of responsible recreation. Kindness, stewardship, and community are keys to the ambassadors' message.

“We inform people about how to hike safely and respectfully, while promoting WTA as a great source of hiking information,” said WTA ambassador Don Samdahl. 

A chat with an ambassador may even reveal some lesser-known gems about our wonderful outdoor spaces. 

“At busy trails, I often suggest alternative trails that are equally nice with fewer crowds,” Don said.

Ambassadors note that many excited visitors they talk to are from out of town and are seeking advice before embarking on their journey. Who better to introduce newcomers to the unmatched magnificence of Washington's landscapes?

WTA ambassadors at Blue Lake on the North Cascades Highway.

In 2025, ambassadors attended 100 events and talked to over 8,000 people. Events are as diverse as the community WTA represents, and can include managing a booth, giving presentations and even leading workshops. The program continues to grow, and there’s a particular opportunity for more ambassadors living in the Northwest, Central and Eastern portions of the state. 

There are a few steps to becoming the proverbial voice of WTA. After an initial screening, training involves a deep dive into everything WTA. This includes videos and reading materials along with a live online session, where, among other things, they will review frequently asked questions ambassadors can expect to receive in the field. (There will be A LOT of questions about trailhead parking). Newcomers can feel at ease when breaking into the scene, as an established volunteer or staff member will always accompany them on their first event.

So, who’s cut out to become a diplomatic representative for Washington trails? From colorful chatterboxes to stoic mountain folk, it takes a village to care for trails.

“It takes all kinds of people to do outreach, because there are all kinds of people in the world,” Nicole said.

Many ambassadors found themselves already helping their fellow hikers and wanted to find a way to make that joy more formal. Take Cathy Grinstead, who frequently attracted questions at trailheads well before her ambassador days.

Cathy recalled a hot summer day at Artist Point, when three different people approached her asking about the route. One person in particular stood out to Cathy, as this individual had no water, no hat, no sunscreen and footwear that wasn’t ideal for the challenging 6.5-mile Chain Lakes Loop. Cathy kindly encouraged the hiker not to do the whole loop, but instead to try the first mile to Ptarmigan Ridge junction and back. The traveler greatly appreciated the advice.

“After that encounter, I started looking at potential ways I could help out the hiking community by being a point person for questions!” Cathy said.

If this work sparks your interest, consider becoming an ambassador yourself! We accept interest forms on a rolling basis. You will hear from us when there is a need for your particular area.