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Share a story: Forest bathing at Heather Meadows

Posted by Washington Trails Association at Jul 29, 2024 10:36 AM |
Filed under: Community, Photography, Trail Work

Enjoy a snapshot from the WTA trip reporter and Instagram community, brought to you by volunteer, trip reporter and photographer Derek Posey.

From time to time, we like to share memorable moments from our community. Here’s one of those stories, from Derek Posey (@derekposey on WTA trip reports and on Instagram).


I’ve been into photography since I was young, but moving to Washington certainly kicked things up a notch. I like that photography has a technical and creative side, and I enjoy the challenge of capturing these places that we all love. Also, the photos are a great way to reminisce about past adventures.

As soon as I moved to Washington, WTA trail work was on my radar as something I would probably enjoy doing. I figured it would be a good way to meet some people and get to know the area. The first person I met here had recently started going to work parties and highly recommended it. I signed up, and after a day on Oyster Dome with a wonderful and diverse group of like-minded people, I was sold! Even after a couple seasons of professional trail work, I kept coming back for more fun with WTA.

WTA volunteers walk over an arching stone bridge that crosses over a subalpine lake.
Join a WTA work party like this one to meet like-minded hikers and have fun outdoors. Photo by Derek Posey

Nothing beats a sunny day up at Heather Meadows! On this work party, I knew this would be a good photo opportunity.

I like everything about spending time on trail. It’s “forest bathing,” observing flora and fauna, and getting some much-needed exercise. It’s fun conversations, an excuse to explore new places as well as old favorites and the challenge of trying to capture them with photography.   

Derek Posey, @derekposey

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of Washington Trails Magazine. Support trails as a member of WTA to get your one-year subscription to the magazine.

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