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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: Federal and State Government News, St. Helens at Risk, Lunar Eclipse

Jan 17, 2019

It’s Jan. 17. The state legislature headed back to work this week. The federal government, well, it’s still partially shutdown. And hope for clear nights — because there’s a lunar eclipse coming.

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A Trail Work Party With Powerful History

Jan 16, 2019

This winter, WTA volunteers helped rejuvenate Japanese American Exclusion Memorial on Bainbridge Island.

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WTA Joins With Outdoor Alliance for Kids, Calls for Shutdown to End

Jan 15, 2019

WTA is calling for the government shutdown to end, as widespread impacts continue around the country and on public lands.

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Lend a Hand on MLK Day

Jan 14, 2019

January 21 is a day to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Starting in 1994, the day has also been recognized as a national day of service, mobilizing the nation to work together and make a positive impact on their communities.

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We're Heading Back to Olympia to Work for Hikers Like You

Jan 14, 2019

The legislature is currently creating the budget for the next two years. Here are WTA's funding priorities as we enter the 2019 legislative session.

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Volunteer Profile: Dana Pounds

Jan 14, 2019

WTA trail work volunteer Dana Pounds is the definition of can-do. A 20-year battle with a rare form of cancer hasn't dimmed her positivity and optimism, and losing her leg hasn't kept her off trail. She joined WTA on her first work party earlier this month.

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Federal Shutdown: What It Means for Washington Hikers

Jan 14, 2019

An impending government shutdown may impact your upcoming visit to our national parks and forests.

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Quiz: Are You a Hiker or a Hibernator?

Jan 11, 2019

Are you a dozing bear or a hopping hare?

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Hiker Headlines: Government Shutdown, Road Closures and Easier Camping

Jan 10, 2019

It’s Jan. 10. There’s snow in the highlands — and the potential for avalanche danger. The government shutdown is affecting recreation. Mount St. Helens permits will have a new system this year. State park reservations are getting an upgrade.

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Ethical Wildlife Photography: What You Need to Know

Jan 08, 2019

Wildlife photography is highly rewarding, but it's vital to respect the wildlife you're photographing. Photographer Heather Clark shares her tips.

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2018 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest Winners

Jan 04, 2019

Check out the winning images from our 2018 photo contest.

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Book Review: Slow Down, Make Time to Create Art on Trail

Jan 02, 2019

Artist Molly Hashimoto, author of "Colors of the West," would like to encourage people to slow down on their next adventure. And not just for 30 seconds to snap a quick photo.

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A Year in Trip Reports

Dec 28, 2018

WTA's trip reporter community shares stories and photos all year — reminding us that every season is hiking season.

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Major Gains for Lost Trails Around the State

Dec 26, 2018

This year, more than 500 volunteers devoted nearly 15,000 hours of work to saving lost trails across the state. Follow along for a look back at everything we've been up to in our Lost Trails Found campaign.

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5 WTA-Worthy Resolutions for 2019

Dec 26, 2018

If you love trails, these 5 resolutions will you get you outdoors, help your fellow hikers and give you a feeling of accomplishment from making a difference all across the state.

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In 2019, We Resolve to...

Dec 26, 2018

Do you have ambitions for the year to come? Gain some inspiration from the hiking community and create your own resolution for 2019.

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State Park Camping Reservations Will Soon Be Easier

Dec 21, 2018

The system will be down for a week, but once it's back up, it will be easier to use and make more parks available for reservations.

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This Year's Favorite Gear

Dec 20, 2018

Washington Trail's staff spend a lot of time outdoors — and we try out a lot of new gear. Here are our favorites from the year that we love enough to recommend to you.

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Rockstar Community Leaders Champion Outdoor Adventures

Dec 20, 2018

Meet three determined outdoor leaders who led memorable trips for their schools and programs this year.

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Sweet Treats for the Trail

Dec 20, 2018

What motivates a hiker to make that final push to their campsite at the end of a long day on the trail? Dessert, of course!

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New Year, New Hiking Opportunities in Whatcom County Parks

Dec 19, 2018

If you’ve resolved to explore new trails in the New Year, new opportunities in the Bellingham area are just in time.

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