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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Bridging the Gap on Tiger Mountain
Aug 31, 2017
Tiger Mountain’s Section Line Trail sports a new bridge, thanks to the collaboration of Department of Natural Resources, Washington Trails Association, and the support of two WTA members who just wanted to help other hikers enjoy one of their favorite trails.
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Budgets for U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service Up in the Air
Aug 31, 2017
Congress has made some progress toward determining the budgets for the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service for the next fiscal year, which begins on October 1. However, they still have a lot of work to do. Here's what we know so far and what to expect in the months ahead.
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Whitebark Pine: A Subalpine Keystone Struggles to Survive
Aug 31, 2017
High up in the mountains, a tree called whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) shows us just how interconnected our natural world is. This tree is vital to our subalpine ecosystems and much of the life that exists below them.
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Survey Says: We Asked, You Answered
Aug 28, 2017
We asked hikers where and why they hike. Here are your responses.
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People-Powered Science Opportunities: Two Trailhead Parking Studies
Aug 24, 2017
Help collect data for scientific research on how hikers use Washington's trails on the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
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2017 State Legislative Session: How Did Trails and Recreation Do?
Aug 23, 2017
When the state legislature adjourned without passing a complete capital budget, it left a number of trail projects in the lurch. In one bright spot, No Child Left Inside was funded through the operating budget.
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Crescent-Shaped Views from Lakes, Ridges and Ledges: Eclipse Trip Reports
Aug 23, 2017
Hikers across the state documented their eclipse experience this past weekend in their trip reports. Here are five reporters who gave exciting coverage on the total solar eclipse.
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Volunteer Profile: Maridee BonaDea
Aug 18, 2017
Meet Maridee—recently retired and heading to Bangkok to pursue her Master's degree, she wanted to spend a little time volunteering with WTA before heading out.
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How to Watch the Eclipse (and Meteor Showers) Responsibly
Aug 15, 2017
Whether it's the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21 or a meteor shower, learn how to be a responsible star viewer by following these tips, provided by the Department of the Interior.
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Seeking a Spot to Watch the Eclipse in Washington
Aug 15, 2017
If you're hoping to escape the hustle and bustle to watch the eclipse in Washington, skip the commute south and head for a nearby trailhead or park instead. You'll probably still be rewarded with up a 96% total eclipse.
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Latina Youth Trail Crew Building Trails, Looking to the Future at Mount Rainier
Aug 15, 2017
Nine young women recently spent a week improving Mount Rainier trails, contemplating equity in the outdoors and stoking a passion for adventure, with a little help from Latino Outdoors, WTA and many others.
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Hart's Pass Road Repairs Begin Aug. 14
Aug 11, 2017
Construction work on Hart's Pass Road begins August 14. Expect delays and closures in some areas.
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Hikers Turn Out for Trail Funding on Washington Trails Day
Aug 10, 2017
Last weekend, WTA talked to a thousand hikers at trailheads across the state. Most of them were excited to speak up for trails and trail funding.
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Teanaway Trails Planning Committee Needs to Hear From Hikers
Aug 09, 2017
The Teanaway Community Forest Advisory Committee is seeking public input about the future of recreation in the Teanaway. Take the official survey to shape the future of hiking trails in the Teanaway.
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Logging Could Close Lake Serene Trail for 8 Months
Aug 08, 2017
A portion of the popular trail to Lake Serene travels through private timber land, and a scheduled logging project may close the trail from September through July 2018. Learn about the proposal and submit a comment about how to reduce hiker impacts on this beloved trail.
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Ride a Bus to Issaquah Area Trails: Trips Free First Weekend
Aug 04, 2017
A new bus route will serve trails in the Issaquah area. The pilot program kicks off this weekend with free rides. The new bus routes will help address overcrowding at trailheads and give hikers an affordable way to get to trails.
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Want a Simpler Pass System? Take This Survey
Jul 28, 2017
We're working to help improve the recreation pass system in Washington, and we need hikers to share your thoughts. Help make the pass system simpler and more equitable.
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A Pack-Sized Guide to Our Mountains
Jul 26, 2017
In the "Natural History of the Pacific Northwest Mountains", you’ll find photos and descriptions of plants, birds, mammals, fungi, fish, lichens, rocks and more. The new edition of the book features an additional 132 species, updated scientific information and an expanded focus on how climate change could affect the Pacific Northwest.
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We're a State of Hikers, and That's Good News for Our Economy
Jul 26, 2017
A new study from the Outdoor Industry Association has some impressive new statistics on the recreation economy in the state and the country. Your time spent on the trail generates more revenue than you might think!
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Ready to Explore
Jul 25, 2017
WTA’s Outdoor Leadership Training program provides resources to youth groups looking to expand their horizons in the outdoors. From planning and facilitating to outfitting these outdoor adventures, WTA resources for youth groups can be critical in breaking down barriers to getting outside.
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Youth Involvement Leads to Improved Trail Resources
Jul 24, 2017
Ingrid Phillips, an avid hiker, backpacker, and sea kayaker, is a sophomore at Stanwood high school, and member of WTA’s 2016-2017 Youth Ambassador cohort. This winter, she worked with an elementary school class to improve trail visibility on Camano Island.
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