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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Hiker Headlines: Public Lands Victory, Have a Say on Larrabee, Health Benefits of Green Spaces
Feb 28, 2019
It's Feb. 28. A massive lands package — including permanent authorization for the Land and Water Conservation Fund — passed Congress. If you use trails at Larrabee State Park, the state would like your input. A much-needed update to maps of the Kettle Crest are in the works. And science proves what a lot of us know — being outside is good for you.
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Victory! Congress Passes Public Lands Package
Feb 27, 2019
The package is the largest public lands bill in recent history, and there's plenty to celebrate for hikers in Washington state.
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Q&A with Touray Kungkagam: Making Time and Finding Awe in Nature
Feb 26, 2019
Touray Kungkagam has been finding adventure outside for years. He shares those adventures in his trip reports, and they range from wintry ascents requiring technical skill, to weight training with a toddler, to family-friendly strolls in the mountains.
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Lopping in a Winter Wonderland: Creative Trail Maintenance in Spokane
Feb 22, 2019
When we think about trail maintenance, a winter wonderland isn’t usually the first setting that comes to mind. But this winter in Spokane, volunteer crew leader Jane Baker proved it can work, and you can have a lot of fun doing it.
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Public Lands Package Heads to House for Consideration
Feb 22, 2019
The House of Representatives will soon consider a robust public lands package that benefits Washington's trails and outdoor spaces. See how you can help.
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Hiker Headlines: St. Helens Permits, Hikers Rally, Snow Sticks Around
Feb 21, 2019
It's Feb. 21. Hikers proved, once again, that they're awesome — and a powerful force — at Hiker Rally Day. Mount St. Helens climbing permits go on sale next month. And — probably no surprise — there's still a lot of snow on trails.
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Happy Feet, Happy Hiker
Feb 20, 2019
Boots are an important part of your winter hiking gear, but they're not the only thing you want to consider to keep your feet cozy.
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Cold Weather Advice From the Instagram Community
Feb 15, 2019
At home or in the mountains — we're dealing with some frigid temperatures across all corners of the state. But if you are brave enough to venture out on trail for a hike, snowshoe or snow camp, there are a few ways to help make sure your time outside is as comfortable and cozy as possible.
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Hiker Headlines: Senate Passes Public Lands Bill, Avalanche Conditions, Enchantments
Feb 14, 2019
It's Feb. 14. Happy Valentine's Day! A massive public lands package passed in the Senate yesterday. WTA's summer backcountry volunteer trips opened up for registration on Saturday. The Enchantments permit lottery process opens tomorrow. Avalanche conditions remain a little dicey.
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Finding Joy on Backyard Trails ... the Upside of Getting Snowed In
Feb 12, 2019
As snow began to blanket every corner of our state, we began to notice something — a lot more trip reports in local parks and nearby nature trails.
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Photos: Virtual Tour of the Pacific Northwest Trail
Feb 11, 2019
Washington is well-known for containing a major portion of the famous 2,600-mile Pacific Crest Trail — but did you know there's another National Scenic Trail traversing our state?
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Hiker Headlines: Summer Volunteer Trips, Permits, Snow!
Feb 07, 2019
It's Feb. 7. It's a great time to be planning summer vacations — including WTA volunteer trips. Permit season for backpacking begins soon. A lot of Washington is snowy — and more is coming. And now some libraries can check out Discover Passes.
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12 Honorable Mentions From Our Photo Contest
Feb 05, 2019
Some of our favorite photos from the thousands shared with us last year.
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Backpack Hacks: Make This Year's Backcountry Trip Awesome
Feb 05, 2019
Learn tips for making your backcountry trip with WTA perfect.
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Libraries Check Out Discover Passes in Pierce, Spokane and Skagit Counties
Feb 04, 2019
A new program allows individuals and families to rent Discover passes through a select number of local libraries.
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Hiker Headlines: Digging Out, Peregrine Falcons, St. Helens Permits and Good News for Badger Mountain
Jan 31, 2019
It's Jan. 31. Federal land managers are trying to recover after losing 10 percent of their work year. A section of Cape Horn trail seasonal closure begins to protect nesting peregrine falcons. And some good news for love, fun and Tri-Cities hikers.
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Teacher's Night Out with Every Kid in a Park Collaborative
Jan 30, 2019
Calling all educators, teachers and people who work with youth! Get new ideas and resources for getting your youth outdoor experiences.
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Hacking Your Hot Chocolate
Jan 30, 2019
On those frosty Northwest winter outings, you need something warm and tasty to fill your thermos. Try one of these delightful hot chocolate recipes suggested by our Facebook community to warm you up, from the inside out.
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Trail Cookie Round-Up
Jan 30, 2019
The WTA team has our fair share of cookie-fanatics — so we wanted to share a few of our favorite cookie (or cookie-adjacent) recipes for you to try out as your next on trail treat.
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Land Managers Back at Work After Shutdown, But Hikers Should be Patient
Jan 28, 2019
The federal government is open again. Here's what hikers need to know right now.
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Hiker Headlines: Government News, Glaciers, Fires and Easier Camping
Jan 24, 2019
It’s Jan. 25. The federal government is close to a deal to resume operations. The state legislature is in full swing. Now is a good time to start dreaming about state park camping trips. Oh, and the latest in Conconully's outhouse races.
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