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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Sponsor a Hiker to Triple Your Impact

Aug 25, 2014

If you and 24 other hikers join WTA on Monday, August 25, by sponsoring a Hike-a-Thoner, a generous group of donors will match your gift dollar-for-dollar. You’ll be helping WTA, protecting trails, doubling your dollars and giving a Hike-a-Thoner a boost in their last week.

Green Trails Maps Get an Ultralight, Waterproof Refresh

Aug 22, 2014

Since their beginning in 1973, Green Trails has issued several versions of their maps: from the original 18x24 inch paper ones, to more utilitarian water-proof and tear-resistant versions. Now they've issued Gold Standard Editions; part of a 2014 refresh of the company's branding, which includes a new website and logo.

Four Terrific Maintenance Trips on the Olympic Peninsula

Aug 18, 2014

For many, the Olympic Peninsula can be a bit of a drive for a day work party. Make the most of your time spent here and lend a hand to trails by spending two or more days helping us build and maintain trails in the lush Olympic rainforest! Coming up in September, WTA has a weekend work party and several Backcountry Response Team (BCRT) trips that could use your help.

Wildfire Update: Norse Peak Wilderness and Mount Rainier

Aug 13, 2014

The thunderstorms that walloped Western Washington earlier this week caused 17 new fires to spring up, but 15 of those were contained almost immediately. While fires continue to rage in parts of Washington, some confusion has arisen as to which areas are open to hikers. Here is some clarity for those interested in the status of trails in the Norse Peak Wilderness and the Mount Rainier backcountry.

Hike-a-Thon: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes

Aug 12, 2014

Hike-a-Thoners have been logging hundreds of miles in support of trails, and for some, it's been taking it's toll in the form of sore joints and painful blisters. Whether you are participating in Hike-a-Thon or not this year, check out WTA's tips for staying fit and trail-ready.

How Hike-a-Thoners Are Like Unicorns

Aug 08, 2014

Three ways that WTA's Hike-a-Thoners are just like unicorns (and why it's really, really good luck to support them.)

Wildfire Update: Ingalls Creek Closes, New Map Tool

Aug 07, 2014

Thunderstorms have touched off more fires and prompted new trail closures this week. See the new closures and check out a Hike Finder map tool while planning your weekend hiking

Four Trails That Need Your Help in August

Aug 06, 2014

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.

Northwest Forest Pass Authorizing Law Up for Renewal

Aug 04, 2014

The Northwest Forest Pass bill (known as FLREA) is up for reauthorization by the end of 2015. If it isn’t reauthorized, this critical funding source for trails and recreation will be lost. WTA has been working to ensure that the legislation is reauthorized so that our trails will remain accessible and that recreation facilities maintained.

Wildfire Update: Thunderstorms and Trail Closures

Aug 02, 2014

New thunderstorms, high winds and a stretch of 90 and 100 degree weather continue to impact communities and complicate the wildfire situation on the east slope of the Cascades. Many trails are closed for the safety of hikers and fire crews.

Poop Week: Best Backcountry Privies in Washington

Aug 02, 2014

We conclude Poop Week on a high note. Literally. When nature calls, you'd be lucky to answer from any of these loos with a view. Plus, a roundup of reading, links and resources on this backcountry basic.

Poop Week: The Conservation Science of Scat

Aug 01, 2014

Naturalist and author David Williams looks investigates the emerging science of studying feces, including the research of a conservation biologist at the University of Washington.

Vote YES on Seattle Parks for All by Aug. 5

Aug 01, 2014

On Aug. 5, Seattle residents will have the opportunity to Vote YES for Parks and support Seattle Proposition 1 to create a permanent, dedicated funding to Seattle’s parks and community centers. WTA has joined a long list of supporters in endorsing Proposition 1.

Poop Week: Proper Etiquette for Backcountry Potties

Jul 31, 2014

Welcome to Poop Week, the week where we get real about No. 2. From diapers to dogs, the conservation science of scat to the best backcountry privies in Washington, we're digging into the subject of poop on trail all week long.

Finally! Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions Bill Heads to House Floor for a Vote

Jul 31, 2014

For the first time in four years, the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act (H.R. 361) was heard -- and passed -- in the House Natural Resources Committee.

Susan Elderkin, Communications Director Reflects on 19 Years with WTA

Jul 31, 2014

Today is Susan Elderkin's final day as Communications & Outreach Director for Washington Trails Association. She looks back to her first work party in 1995 and all the years in between now and then.

Poop Week: Puppies, Poo and Plastic Bags

Jul 31, 2014

If you hike with a dog, removing your dog's waste from the trail is your responsibility. Besides reducing the impact on Washington's most beautiful places, when you do the right thing, you are helping to create a more welcoming trail culture for your dog in the future.

Poop Week: Dealing with Diapers, Training Toddlers

Jul 30, 2014

It's one thing to dig a cathole or pack out your waste when you're only responsible for yourself. When you add an infant or young child to the mix, things get slightly more complicated. Below are just a few tips to help your family get outside and teach your little ones to grow into great stewards of our beautiful trails.

Governor Jay Inslee Proclaims August 2 Washington Trails Day

Jul 30, 2014

Washington Governor Jay Inslee has signed an official proclamation recognizing Saturday, August 2, 2014 as Washington Trails Day. He encouraged all Washingtonians to join him in recognizing the importance of hiking to Washington’s quality of life and economy, and singled out the contributions of Washington Trails Association (WTA) and its volunteers for their efforts on Washington’s hiking trails.

Poop Week: Real Talk on a Backcountry Basic

Jul 29, 2014

Hacking Your Mac and Cheese

Jul 28, 2014

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food—at home, dining out and even in camp. Spice up your camp mac & cheese with some of these tasty additions, courtesy of WTA’s online community.

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