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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Veterans Day Hikes at Washington's Coastal Forts
Nov 11, 2014
Hike through military history. What better way to honor veterans than on a stroll at Fort Casey State Park or Fort Flagler State Park. Fort Ebey or Fort Worden State Park also have their fair share of history and hiking to enjoy.
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Permit Info for Climbing Mount St. Helens this Winter, 2015
Nov 10, 2014
Planning a winter or 2015 climb up Mount St. Helens? As you make your plans, note a few changes in the process and add some key dates to your climbing calendar.
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Open House on Forest Service's Proposed Commercial Photography Guidelines
Nov 07, 2014
In response to the public’s call for clarity surrounding the United States Forest Service’s proposed commercial filming and photography permit guidelines for wilderness areas, the Forest Service is hosting public open houses in Seattle and Portland next week.
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Trail Shoe Review: Three Lightweight Autumn Strides
Nov 01, 2014
We review a sampling of the latest light hiking shoes from Chaco, Lowa and The North Face, looking for the best in comfort, water repellency and beefy tread to keep you sure-footed on the trails this fall
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Hiking in Mount Rainier? Stash Chains in Your Car
Oct 31, 2014
As of Saturday, Nov. 1, Mount Rainier National Park will begin seasonal chain requirements. That means that rain or shine, every car driving through the park will need chains in their car, including 4-wheel drive vehicles.
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Trail-Themed Costumes: Halloween at WTA
Oct 31, 2014
When you dedicate your career to protecting (and exploring) trails, even your Halloween costumes turn out to have important messages for hikers.
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Crew for a Week: Volunteering in the Enchantments and on the Wonderland
Oct 31, 2014
This summer, volunteer Karen Story joined WTA on two backcountry response team trips (BCRTs). She wrote about her experience, and included photos of the amazing work that can be accomplished by volunteers working multiple days in the backcountry.
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Hooray! The Suiattle Road Finally Opens
Oct 30, 2014
On October 25, the Suiattle River Road, closed for 11 years due to washouts, was opened to the percussive beat of rain and much applause, restoring access to the Glacier Peak wilderness and a myriad of hikes in the area, most notably the Green Mountain Lookout. This widely-publicized destination is an extremely popular destination for hikers and history buffs alike. The road is also a boon for the nearby town of Darrington, which relies heavily on tourism dollars for the local economy.
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Three Trails that Need Your Help in November
Oct 29, 2014
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. No experience is needed to join a work party, and anyone is welcome. We'll teach you what you need to know and find the right job for you.
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The Nature Conservancy Adds 47,921 Acres near Cle Elum for Conservation, Recreation
Oct 28, 2014
Our friends at The Nature Conservancy made big news yesterday when they announced the acquisition of 47,921 acres of land in the Central Cascades along I-90 near Cle Elum. While conservation of the ecologically rich area is a primary goal, recreational access and community input will remain a key aspect of how they hope to manage the land.
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Road to Artist Point Closes for the Season
Oct 24, 2014
In a sure sign of seasons changing, the 2.7-mile road (SR 542) between the Mount Baker Ski Area and Artist Point is now closed.
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Opening the Suiattle Road: Celebration and Trail Conditions
Oct 21, 2014
On Oct. 25, after years of advocacy and planning, the Suiattle River Rd. will be reopening to great fanfare. Hikers will be able to drive to the Suiattle River and Sulphur Mountain trailheads once again.
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Practice Your Navigation Skills ... In a Corn Maze
Oct 20, 2014
Turn a fun fall tradition into a great, safe way to practice navigation with your friends and kiddos. One farm lets you hike Washington's PCT route in their maze.
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Snow in the High Country: Are You Prepared?
Oct 17, 2014
As we head into the heart of autumn, much of Washington is ablaze in fall color. But at high elevations, those vivid colors are being accented by a stark white background. Do you know what you need when you head into the backcountry as autumn progresses into winter?
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Four Trails that Need Your Help in October
Oct 15, 2014
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.
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Trailhead Closures on Highway 20
Oct 14, 2014
WSDOT is repairing some culverts on Highway 20 next week. Here's how that affects you.
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Top 5 Star Photography Tips from a Pro
Oct 13, 2014
Just in time for WTA's Northwest Exposure photo contest, photographer Dave Morrow shares his tips on taking better photos of night skies—and the stars!
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Spokane Outdoors: 7 Things to Do in October
Oct 08, 2014
From fall hikes to joining our WTA crew at Iller Creek to connecting with other area organizations and groups, there's a lot going on in Spokane this month.
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Trip Reporter Spots Wolverine at Spider Gap!
Oct 08, 2014
When hiker and WTA trip reporter Jake Gentry backpacked Spider Gap-Buck Creek Pass Loop last month, they expected to see some spectacular scenery. What they didn't expect was to have a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter with the rare and elusive wolverine (the amazing animal, not Hugh Jackman).
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WTA Volunteers = New Trails + Great Work on our Public Lands
Oct 06, 2014
WTA hosted seven different work parties for National Public Lands Day, working on trails up and down the Cascades and in the Olympics.
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Last Chance to Comment on Motorized Use of State Parks Long-Distance Trails
Sep 26, 2014
State Parks needs to hear from hikers, trail runners and bicyclists regarding the future of motorized use on our long-distance trails, like the John Wayne Trail to the Klickitat Trail to the Centennial Trail.
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