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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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Fish & Wildlife, National Parks Requests Hiker Input on Grizzly Bear Plan

Mar 05, 2015

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service are seeking public comments on a proposal to reintroduce grizzly bears in the North Cascades.

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Four Trails That Need Your Help in March

Mar 03, 2015

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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On Lobby Day, Hikers from 26 Districts Champion Outdoor Access, Trail Funding

Feb 27, 2015

This week, more than 60 hikers joined us in Olympia to tell legislators why funding for trails and equitable outdoor access are critical issues for Washington.

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Call for New Trails in Clark County Parks

Feb 26, 2015

If you'd like to see more local hiking and walking trails in Clark County, here are two easy ways to tell the county and its Parks Advisory Board how you feel in an online survey or in person.

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What Do State Parks Mean to You?

Feb 23, 2015

What do you like about visiting one of Washington's State Parks? Help get the next generation into the parks by taking a brief survey, and you'll entered to win a $150 REI giftcard!

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Trails: A Love Story

Feb 12, 2015

Hikers share all kinds of on-trail experiences with us, including various displays of affection. Whether it's showing someone they love a new trail, a surprise marriage proposal, or a farewell to faithful hiking companions, we've gathered some touching on-trail moments here to celebrate Valentine's Day.

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Enchantments Backpacking Lottery Dates, Permits for 2015

Feb 12, 2015

Your step-by-step guide to the permit process for backpacking in Washington's Enchantments Basin between June 14 and October 16.

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Supporting More Women in Outdoor Leadership Roles

Feb 11, 2015

REI, the Outdoor Industries Women's Coalition and other companies are working to build the ranks of women in their companies. Learn how WTA continues to forge a larger place for women leaders on the trails of Washington and beyond.

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Our Call to State Legislators: Invest in Trails & Public Lands

Feb 10, 2015

Ninety percent of Washingtonians walk, hike, climb and mountaineer each year. The majority do so by utilizing trails on public lands. Yet over the past few decades, funding for parks, trails and other open spaces has been drastically reduced. The 2015 state legislative session started on January 12th. WTA has had a regular presence at the state’s capitol in Olympia, ensuring that hikers’ voices are heard loud and clear, and calling for support and sustainable funding of outdoor recreation.

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On King County Trails, Keep Dogs On Leash

Feb 07, 2015

There are many great reasons to obey the leash laws in effect on King County Parks trails, from avoiding steep fines to keeping your dog safe to creating a trail culture that welcomes dogs. Also: tips for wearing out your pup without breaking leash laws.

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Does Your Favorite Summer Trail Sport a Seasonal Avalanche Chute? How to Know and Where to Go

Feb 06, 2015

Temperature, snow conditions and hazards can fluctuate dramatically in our never-boring northwest climate. Get some tips for checking mountain conditions and picking a fun, safe hike, every single time.

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Early Season Maintenance on the Olympic Peninsula

Feb 02, 2015

With a positively balmy January on the books, Washington's trails have seen more traffic than normal for midwinter. You can help WTA provide repairs and improvements to those trails, as hikers tromp the tread. The Olympic Peninsula in particular has plenty of opportunities for you to come help out. Take a look at our upcoming work parties in February and see when you can step up and pitch in for trails.

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Four Trails That Need Your Help in February

Feb 02, 2015

This month we're 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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Wandering the Wonderland Trails: One Hiker's First Volunteer Vacation Experience

Feb 02, 2015

Read about Archana Bhat's first volunteer vacation experience, where she spent seven days in the wilderness, maintaining trails and hiking in the shadow of the iconic Mount Rainier.

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Plan Your Summer: Backcountry Volunteer Trip Preview

Jan 30, 2015

WTA’s Volunteer Vacations and Backcountry Response Teams (BCRTs) are a great way to give back to the trails that take you into the heart of Washington’s gorgeous wilderness. Get a look at some of the best locations, and make your plans before sign ups begin

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Seahawks Have the Kind of Fans Who Climb Mountains and Fix Trails for Their Team

Jan 28, 2015

In a state as beautiful as Washington, it should come as no surprise that the 12th man takes to the trails to show his or her Seahawks pride. We've rounded up a gallery of photos from recent trip reporters who have been capturing their dedication on trails around the state.

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Advice for Outdoor Families

Jan 28, 2015

Erin Kirkland, outdoor parent and editor of the new Outdoor Families Magazine, shares tips keeping kids warm and happy on trail.

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Help Build Two New Miles of Trail at Grand Ridge

Jan 27, 2015

This week, WTA is beginning work on a new 2-mile loop that will wind through a sweet stretch of hemlock and fir forest, and we could use your help to make it happen.

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Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road Closed

Jan 23, 2015

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest closed the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Road (Forest Service road 56) for public safety until further notice. Recent, heavy storms caused enough damage to the road to make it impassable to vehicles.

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New Trail Opens on Badger Mountain

Jan 16, 2015

Hikers at the Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve, a 650-acre park in Richland, will be able to enjoy a new trail at the preserve as of noon today.

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Inspiration and Advice from WTA's 2014 Photo Contest Winners

Jan 13, 2015

16 hiking photographers share what inspires them and how they captured their winning shots for WTA's 2014 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest winners with you.

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