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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How Hike-a-Thoners Are Like Unicorns
Aug 08, 2014
Three ways that WTA's Hike-a-Thoners are just like unicorns (and why it's really, really good luck to support them.)
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Wildfire Update: Ingalls Creek Closes, New Map Tool
Aug 07, 2014
Thunderstorms have touched off more fires and prompted new trail closures this week. See the new closures and check out a Hike Finder map tool while planning your weekend hiking
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Four Trails That Need Your Help in August
Aug 06, 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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Northwest Forest Pass Authorizing Law Up for Renewal
Aug 04, 2014
The Northwest Forest Pass bill (known as FLREA) is up for reauthorization by the end of 2015. If it isn’t reauthorized, this critical funding source for trails and recreation will be lost. WTA has been working to ensure that the legislation is reauthorized so that our trails will remain accessible and that recreation facilities maintained.
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Wildfire Update: Thunderstorms and Trail Closures
Aug 02, 2014
New thunderstorms, high winds and a stretch of 90 and 100 degree weather continue to impact communities and complicate the wildfire situation on the east slope of the Cascades. Many trails are closed for the safety of hikers and fire crews.
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Poop Week: Best Backcountry Privies in Washington
Aug 02, 2014
We conclude Poop Week on a high note. Literally. When nature calls, you'd be lucky to answer from any of these loos with a view. Plus, a roundup of reading, links and resources on this backcountry basic.
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Poop Week: The Conservation Science of Scat
Aug 01, 2014
Naturalist and author David Williams looks investigates the emerging science of studying feces, including the research of a conservation biologist at the University of Washington.
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Vote YES on Seattle Parks for All by Aug. 5
Aug 01, 2014
On Aug. 5, Seattle residents will have the opportunity to Vote YES for Parks and support Seattle Proposition 1 to create a permanent, dedicated funding to Seattle’s parks and community centers. WTA has joined a long list of supporters in endorsing Proposition 1.
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Poop Week: Proper Etiquette for Backcountry Potties
Jul 31, 2014
Welcome to Poop Week, the week where we get real about No. 2. From diapers to dogs, the conservation science of scat to the best backcountry privies in Washington, we're digging into the subject of poop on trail all week long.
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Finally! Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions Bill Heads to House Floor for a Vote
Jul 31, 2014
For the first time in four years, the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act (H.R. 361) was heard -- and passed -- in the House Natural Resources Committee.
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Susan Elderkin, Communications Director Reflects on 19 Years with WTA
Jul 31, 2014
Today is Susan Elderkin's final day as Communications & Outreach Director for Washington Trails Association. She looks back to her first work party in 1995 and all the years in between now and then.
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Poop Week: Puppies, Poo and Plastic Bags
Jul 31, 2014
If you hike with a dog, removing your dog's waste from the trail is your responsibility. Besides reducing the impact on Washington's most beautiful places, when you do the right thing, you are helping to create a more welcoming trail culture for your dog in the future.
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Poop Week: Dealing with Diapers, Training Toddlers
Jul 30, 2014
It's one thing to dig a cathole or pack out your waste when you're only responsible for yourself. When you add an infant or young child to the mix, things get slightly more complicated. Below are just a few tips to help your family get outside and teach your little ones to grow into great stewards of our beautiful trails.
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Governor Jay Inslee Proclaims August 2 Washington Trails Day
Jul 30, 2014
Washington Governor Jay Inslee has signed an official proclamation recognizing Saturday, August 2, 2014 as Washington Trails Day. He encouraged all Washingtonians to join him in recognizing the importance of hiking to Washington’s quality of life and economy, and singled out the contributions of Washington Trails Association (WTA) and its volunteers for their efforts on Washington’s hiking trails.
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Poop Week: Real Talk on a Backcountry Basic
Jul 29, 2014
Welcome to Poop Week, the week where we get real about No. 2. From diapers to dogs, the conservation science of scat to the best backcountry privies in Washington, we're digging into the subject of poop on trail all week long.
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Hacking Your Mac and Cheese
Jul 28, 2014
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food—at home, dining out and even in camp. Spice up your camp mac & cheese with some of these tasty additions, courtesy of WTA’s online community.
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Instagram Weekly Roundup: July Adventuring
Jul 24, 2014
What did you see on trail this week? Everything from the summit of Mount Baker to a porcupine on the Pacific Crest Trail. Now, that's some serious adventuring, Washington.
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Spend the Weekend with WTA
Jul 23, 2014
Gather some close friends or family and join WTA on an overnight trip! Volunteering on weekend work parties is a great way to give back to trails, have a fun camping experience and get to know other people who love being outdoors, all at the same time.
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Do You Want Hiking Trails in the Teanaway?
Jul 18, 2014
The new Teanaway Community Forest has endless possibilities for a world-class trail system for hikers. The forest does not have an official trail system to call its own, but planning is underway right now. Make sure your voice is heard on the future of trails in the Teanaway.
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Website Improvements Inspired by Hikers
Jul 17, 2014
You may have noticed a few changes on wta.org in the last week—including larger photos and maps on hiking pages and new features in trip reports. The changes were directly inspired by the hiking community!
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Greenway National Heritage Area Legislation Introduced in Senate
Jul 17, 2014
On July 15th Senator Maria Cantwell and co-sponsor Senator Patty Murray introduced a bill (S.2602) in the U.S. Senate to designate the Mountains to Sound Greenway as a national heritage area. The legislation joins Rep. Dave Reichert’s companion bill (H.R. 1785) in the U.S. House. WTA supports the Greenway’s efforts to become a national heritage area.
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