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 WTA Members are Making a Difference, Month by Month
Feb 22, 2022
We caught up with three monthly donors to hear about their favorite hikes and trail snacks and how trails help them be mindful.
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Hiker Headlines: Free Day, Mountain Snow, State Parks Jobs, Forest Funding
Feb 17, 2022
Fees will be waived at national forests on President’s Day. Be prepared for snow on the mountain passes this weekend. Washington State Parks is hiring for seasonal summer positions. And, funding has been allocated to Washington forests to fix damage caused by recent natural disasters.
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Expert Voices: 3 Ways Time Outside is Good for Your Mental Health
Feb 15, 2022
We talked with three of our partners, all mental health professionals, about the benefits they see when youth and families spend time outside.
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Beating the Winter Blahs Thanks to WTA’s Gear Libraries
Feb 14, 2022
WTA has been excited to see our partners borrowing snowshoes to get outside with youth. We wanted to know how the trips were going, so we asked three groups to share the highlights of their snowy adventures.
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What's Your Hiking Love Language?
Feb 11, 2022
How do you show your special someone you care about them (on trail)?
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Hiker Headlines: Seal Pup, Muddy Trails, Applications, Trail Love
Feb 10, 2022
A seal pup was born at Deception Pass, prompting some trail detours. Some trails in Central Washington are closed due to muddy conditions. It’s almost time to sign up for WTA’s backcountry volunteer trips. Enchantments permit applications will open on Feb 15. We have some valentine cards for that special hiker in your life. And, you can take action for trails by letting your legislators know you support reducing the maintenance backlog for state parks and lands.
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WTA’s Emerging Leaders Are Just Getting Started
Feb 08, 2022
WTA welcomes a team of five new folks focused on building an inclusive community and learning leadership skills for working in the outdoors.
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Short Legislative Session, Big Goals for the Outdoors
Feb 07, 2022
WTA is leading exciting requests to the state legislature during this year's short session.
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Preview: WTA's 2022 Volunteer Backcountry Trip Schedule
Feb 04, 2022
It's only February, but Washingtonians know that the short, gray days mean it's primo planning season. Have you considered adding a WTA backcountry trip to your 2022 adventure schedule? You should. Here's why.
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Hiker Headlines: Hurricane Ridge Renovation, State Parks Survey, Committee Volunteers
Feb 03, 2022
The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center will be getting a major upgrade next year. State Parks wants your feedback through a new survey. On Groundhog Day we learned of more winter on the way, and we have a few other forecasts you might want to check. And, Olympic National Forest needs volunteers to serve on their Resource Advisory Committee.
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Hiker Headlines: Jobs, Permits, Bridges, Snow and Mud
Jan 27, 2022
WTA is hiring for several positions. North Cascades National Park permits will be processed through recreation.gov starting this season. Work has wrapped up on two historic bridges at Deception Pass. Hikers should avoid hiking on muddy trails in Eastern Washington. And, expect snow at the mountain passes this weekend.
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What Could the Future of Trails Look Like?
Jan 25, 2022
WTA’s trail team has been thinking about what it means to create the trail system of the future, and three of our staff members shared their hopes. Their thoughts show the importance of three key priorities: create more trails and accessible greenspace, innovate trail layouts and redesigns to improve hikers’ experiences on trails, and find ways to help people feel safe and welcome in the outdoors.
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Hiking Slow: What You Can Learn From a Snail
Jan 21, 2022
If you’re seeking to deepen your connection with nature, then just find the closest trail and go … slow.
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Hiker Headlines: Backcountry Permits, Winter Safety, Public Input
Jan 20, 2022
It’s time to start planning for backcountry camping permit applications. The Forest Service offers some winter safety reminders. A public comment period is open for a proposed communications tower in the Naches Ranger District. And, we lay out some of the winter conditions you can expect this week.
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Leaving a Legacy for Trails
Jan 19, 2022
Jake Robinson’s family is honoring his memory and his love for trails by supporting WTA’s work.
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Hiker Headlines: Sno-Park Status, WTA Advocacy, Icicle Road, MLK Day
Jan 13, 2022
Sno-parks are slow to reopen after last week’s snowstorm. The state legislative session just kicked off in Olympia. Icicle Road near Leavenworth will likely be closed through the weekend. And, entry fees will be waived at public lands on Monday, January 17 in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
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Get Inspired: How Four Hikers Accomplished Their 2021 Hiking Goals
Jan 12, 2022
You've picked your hike, checked the trip reports, and refreshed your trail smarts. But if you need a little more motivation getting out the door, read how these four hikers achieved their hiking goals last year.
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Hiking Firsts: Photos and Stories of Hikers Trying New Things
Jan 07, 2022
To celebrate the beginning of a new year, we're sharing some firsts, shared by contributors to our Northwest Exposure Photo Contest.
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Trip Reporters Talk Snow and Ice
Jan 07, 2022
One of the best sources of information and inspiration during winter are trip reports from hikers who are out there seeing conditions first hand. Here are some of the things trip reporters have been finding out on trail during the start of winter.
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Hiker Headlines: Avalanche Warning, Closed Passes and Roads, Winter Inspiration
Jan 06, 2022
The avalanche forecast is high for the Cascades and Olympics. A flood watch is in effect for much of Western Washington. Four major mountain passes are closed due to heavy snowfall, and it’s best to steer clear of trailheads in the I-90 foothills until road conditions improve. With the rough conditions out there, stay inspired by setting your hiking goals for the new year and check out our photo contest winners.
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2021 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest Winners
Jan 03, 2022
From bears to mountain peaks, take a look at all of the 2021 photo contest winners.
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