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.
______________________________________________________
Include Your Kids on Outdoor Adventures
Apr 01, 2015
Outdoor enthusiast and photographer Gabe Grayum firmly believes in the importance of immersing kids in the wild, and the ability of young hikers to tag along on grown-up adventures. Read his advice on how to include them, and check out WTA's family hiking resources, including advice from some of our trip reporters extrordinaire on how to adventure with your young ones.
Read More
New Trail Trend: Ultra-Heavy Hiking
Apr 01, 2015
If you're training for a big climb or a long-distance trail, it's important to practice hiking with lots of weight, since you'll be toting all that you need to stay outside overnight for several days. Some hikers want to make more of a statement with their weight training. WTA has created a roundup of alternative weight training choices, but we definitely recommend keeping the water in your pack, just in case.
Read More
Learn the Anatomy of a Rescue
Apr 01, 2015
Although each search and rescue mission varies based on the location and situation of the person in trouble, a general procedure is usually followed for rescues. Here is a timeline to show you what happens when.
Read More
Meet Search and Rescue
Mar 31, 2015
When it comes to getting outdoor enthusiasts out of sticky situations, search and rescue is the one to call for help. But what—and who—is search and rescue? Here's everything you need to know about the nicest people you never want to meet on trail.
Read More
Rediscover the Suiattle: Give a Day to Trails (Video)
Mar 30, 2015
The Suiattle River Road, a key access road into the heart of the Glacier Peak Wilderness, reopened to hikers in October 2014 after 11 years of closures. Here's a look at what WTA has planned for the area's trails in 2015.
Read More
Waking Up Wild: Morning Scenes from Camp (Slideshow)
Mar 27, 2015
Get inspired to go backpacking by a selection of sunrise shots from the hiking photographers who participated in our Northwest Exposure Photo Contest in 2014.
Read More
Speak Up for Trails in the I-90 Corridor
Mar 25, 2015
The Forest Service needs to hear from you about a timber harvest proposal that could impact trails in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: the Hansen Creek project.
Read More
Weird Weather, Low Snowpack: What to Expect in an Unusual Early Hiking Season
Mar 13, 2015
We're likely to be feeling the impacts of the warm weather and low snowpack all year long. But for now, enjoy the warmer temperatures and early explorations using these seasonal hiking tips.
Read More
Volunteer to Explore Washington
Mar 12, 2015
Trying a new trail can be intimidating, but there's a way to do it without worrying about wasting the day. Take a day, a weekend, or a week and volunteer with WTA in a part of Washington you've never seen. You might find your new favorite trail, or a new hiking friend.
Read More
Future Voters, Avid Hikers Prove Advocacy Is for Everyone
Mar 10, 2015
Meet Planet Granite, a club of high school students devoted to getting their peers outdoors and to protecting their favorite local trails in the North Cascades.
Read More
Celebrate Earth Day with EarthShare and WTA
Mar 09, 2015
The time you spend on a WTA work party before April 30 could do even more for trails when you participate in the EarthShare Earth Day Challenge.
Read More
Spring Cleaning: Reorganize Your Hiking Gear with Lightweight Packing Solutions
Mar 09, 2015
Spring is the perfect time to reorganize your hiking gear. We show you our favorite tips and products to help you minimize gear chaos and start the hiking season off right.
Read More
Spring Cleaning: Refresh Your Hiking Gear with Fabric-Specific Cleaners
Mar 09, 2015
Keeping your gear clean and in good repair can mean the difference between using the same gear for years and having to replace it every season. Here’s the down and dirty on keeping it all—from sleeping bags to tents to boots—clean.
Read More
Spring Cleaning: Restock Your Trail Wardrobe with 10 Apparel Essentials
Mar 09, 2015
Spring is the perfect time to update your outdoor wardrobe with these ten apparel essentials. They reflect all of the layers you need on trail to be ready for everything from dayhikes to long-distance backpacks, and all trail and weather conditions.
Read More
Survivalist Bookshelf: Field Guides & True Stories
Mar 07, 2015
There are plenty of great books that can help you sharpen your skills, become a more prepared hiker and recreate safely in the outdoors. Here are four books focused on survival that we enjoyed—and our favorite tips to get you started.
Read More
Fish & Wildlife, National Parks Requests Hiker Input on Grizzly Bear Plan
Mar 05, 2015
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service are seeking public comments on a proposal to reintroduce grizzly bears in the North Cascades.
Read More
Four Trails That Need Your Help in March
Mar 03, 2015
This month WTA is working in several locations that need some special attention, and we'd love to have your help! Join us for a day full of safety, fun, and work, and make your mark on the trails you love.
Read More
On Lobby Day, Hikers from 26 Districts Champion Outdoor Access, Trail Funding
Feb 27, 2015
This week, more than 60 hikers joined us in Olympia to tell legislators why funding for trails and equitable outdoor access are critical issues for Washington.
Read More
Call for New Trails in Clark County Parks
Feb 26, 2015
If you'd like to see more local hiking and walking trails in Clark County, here are two easy ways to tell the county and its Parks Advisory Board how you feel in an online survey or in person.
Read More
What Do State Parks Mean to You?
Feb 23, 2015
What do you like about visiting one of Washington's State Parks? Help get the next generation into the parks by taking a brief survey, and you'll entered to win a $150 REI giftcard!
Read More
Trails: A Love Story
Feb 12, 2015
Hikers share all kinds of on-trail experiences with us, including various displays of affection. Whether it's showing someone they love a new trail, a surprise marriage proposal, or a farewell to faithful hiking companions, we've gathered some touching on-trail moments here to celebrate Valentine's Day.
Read More