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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An Effort to Clear the Path in Goat Rocks Wilderness

Feb 07, 2018

Years of storm damage, fallen trees and road washouts have dwindled the Goat Rocks accessibility to a handful of trailheads. WTA volunteer trail maintenance crews spent weeks throughout the summer working across the Goat Rocks trail system, clearing logs, fixing tread and roughing-in re-routes in the hopes of expanding the number of available trails and dispersing hikers to lessen the impact on this delicate ecosystem.

Go Camping with your Family this Winter

Feb 02, 2018

Winter and early spring are a great time to go camping with your family. Here's why, and some tips on how to do it.

Harry and Ann Davidson's Love of the Outdoors Lives On

Jan 31, 2018

Harry and Ann Davidson enjoyed a life of outdoor adventure, including hiking, skiing and volunteering for WTA. Their love of the outdoors lives on through a legacy gift they made from their estate to WTA.

State Legislature Passes Capital Budget, Funds Trail and Recreation Projects

Jan 30, 2018

The Washington legislature finally passed a capital budget, approving funding for trail and recreation projects across the state.

Mount St. Helens Climbing Permits Available Feb. 1

Jan 26, 2018

Permits for the 2018 climbing season, from April 1 to Oct. 31, go on sale Thursday, Feb. 1 at 9 a.m. Permits are sold online on a first-come, first-served basis through the Mount St. Helens Institute.

Fire Update: Gorge Trails Still Closed; Repairs to Come

Jan 26, 2018

The Eagle Creek Fire cut short the hiking season on the Oregon side of the Gorge. Now the Forest Service is working on plans for the future of trails in the area.

3 Ways to Keep Your Feet Happy this Year

Jan 25, 2018

Don't let yourself get cold feet this winter. Instead enjoy these helpful tips and tricks to keep your feet dancing down the trail.

Book Review: Best Served Wild

Jan 23, 2018

We talked with Anna Brones, co-author of the new cookbook, "Best Served Wild", about food, fun and the outdoors.

Prepare Yourself: Backcountry Trip Signups Are Coming

Jan 23, 2018

WTA's backcountry trips are some of the most popular volunteer events we host. Learn how you can be the best prepared for when registration opens.

How 3 Unique Volunteers Help Fuel WTA

Jan 22, 2018

Meet three volunteers who are helping out across the organization, and learn how they're making a difference for Washington's trails.

Federal Government Shut Down: What it Means for Hikers and Campers

Jan 19, 2018

Congress and the president did not reach an agreement on a short-term budget for the federal government. Since they didn't come to an agreement, the federal government has shut down—impacting the National Park Service and our National Forests.

Tribes & Trails: The Kalispel Tribe

Jan 18, 2018

Kalispel Country, spanning more than 2.3 million acres from the peaks of the Selkirk Mountains to the meadows of Montana, is home to some of the most beautiful rivers, lakes and mountains in the West. When visiting Kalispel Country, it’s important to recognize the connections the Kalispel Tribe holds with these places, as well as the current work being done to protect and maintain them.

How to Write a Trip Report That Helps WTA and Land Managers

Jan 18, 2018

WTA trip reports can help land managers identify trails that need help. Here's how to write trip reports that can help trails get the work they need.

How to Navigate Winter Hazards

Jan 17, 2018

Hiking in winter requires a bit more care, but armed with the right skills and information, you can hike year-round in Washington. Here are a few of the common winter hazards you might encounter and how to navigate them.