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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Government Report Underscores Trail Maintenance Backlog
Jan 09, 2014
Recently, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report to Congress about U.S. Forest Service trails. The message: "Long- and short-term improvements could reduce maintenance backlog and enhance system sustainability."
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2014: Plan Your Wild Adventures
Dec 30, 2013
Are you setting your goals for 2014? Use the ideas below to jump-start your trail adventures, from first hikes in Washington to tackling some epic trails.
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Photos: A Week of Winter Hiking in Washington
Dec 23, 2013
From epic sunsets to icy waterfalls, these photos from trip reporters show the hidden loveliness you can find on a winter hike in Washington state. Get inspired to get outside.
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Highest Charity Rating for WTA (Again!)
Dec 23, 2013
Charity Navigator, the nation's leading charity evaluator, released a new rating for Washington Trails Association yesterday. What did we earn? A 4-star rating—again! That's their highest possible rating. WTA earns top marks for sound fiscal management and for our commitment to accountability and transparency.
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Santa, Elves Crash WTA Trail Work Parties
Dec 20, 2013
At WTA, we're serious about trails. Rain or shine, our dedicated trail crews worked hard on 190 trails statewide this year. That is some serious trail work, but that doesn't mean we always have to be serious on trail. Case in point: our annual Santa work parties, when things tend to get a little more fun and festive than usual.
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Klickitat County Trails Plan Seeks Input from Local Residents
Dec 18, 2013
Local trails plan to connect the Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail to the town of Lyle is seeking input from Klickitat County residents.
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Hobbit Hikes Part 2: Washington's Middle-earth
Dec 12, 2013
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug opens in theaters at midnight tonight, and if you've ever hiked in Washington, some of the awe-inspiring scenery may look a little familiar. Seek out your own epic adventure on one of these trails worthy of Bilbo himself.
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Seattle Stairs: A Step Up from Stairmasters
Dec 12, 2013
Can you hike in the city? Sure you can. Discover a whole new side of Seattle and stay in shape with the Seattle Stairway Walks guide from Mountaineers Books.
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Remembering Rose Alfred, Volunteer and Friend
Dec 11, 2013
Longtime WTA volunteer Rose Alfred passed away in late November surrounded by family at the age of 72. We remember her as a tireless volunteer with WTA, who worked hard to ensure that the work she did would leave a legacy.
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Fun, Friends, and Fantastic Views: A Week on the Trail with WTA
Dec 04, 2013
Anna Silver's account of a week spent at White Pass with a WTA Youth Volunteer Vacation.
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WTA and Youth: Our Favorite Moments on Trail in 2013
Dec 04, 2013
From youth leaders to volunteer crews to the launch of our brand new Outdoor Leadership Training program, celebrate some of the our favorite youth moments on trail this year.
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Treats for Tots (and Older Kids, Too)
Dec 04, 2013
Stuck on what to get a certain young one for the holiday season? Get the budding outdoor enthusiasts in your life something on our list and you're sure to hear about how cool it is all next hiking season.
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Nature on Trail: Varied Thrush, Douglas Squirrel, Tall Oregon Grape
Dec 04, 2013
The Northwest forests are teeming with life—many of which may go overlooked or unseen. On your next hike, look out for the little things and discover something new on your favorite trails.
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Capitol Christmas Tree (and Snowshoe Ideas) Courtesy of the Colville
Dec 04, 2013
Washington state's Colville National Forest gives a gift to the other Washington in the form of the Capitol Christmas Tree. If you can't make it D.C. to see this piece of Washington decked out in more than 10,000 lights, consider a snowshoe trip to its originating forest instead.
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Trail Talk: Improve Your Avalanche Awareness
Dec 03, 2013
Do you know how to spot and assess avalanche danger? We talked to the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center for some tips for staying safe in you plan to hike or snowshoe in avalanche terrain this season.
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#GivingTuesday: Double Your Impact for Trails
Dec 02, 2013
If you made a favorite memory on a Washington trail this year, then consider giving back on #GivingTuesday. A generous group of our members will match all gifts, dollar-for-dollar, until midnight -- doubling your impact.
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Take a Winter Tour of the North Cascades Highway
Dec 02, 2013
The North Cascades Highway (SR 20) closed due to heavy snowfall and avalanche danger. Whether it reopens or not, you can see those breathtaking peaks all winter long with Jack McLeod's beautiful book, "The North Cascades Highway: A Roadside Guide to America's Alps"
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Starting Your Own Outdoor Traditions
Nov 29, 2013
The holiday season is rife with traditions. This year, include a hike in your annual plans -- or plan a year of adventures for 2014.
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How You Give Back to Trails (and Why We Love You For It)
Nov 27, 2013
You are amazing. You gave back to trails in so many incredible ways this year. See everything you helped WTA accomplish this year, and thank you for fighting for a future where our trails and outdoor adventures will always matter.
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Gifts to Inspire a Trail Runner
Nov 26, 2013
Three great gifts to inspire and equip a trail runner.
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Practical Gifts to Keep Hikers Safe
Nov 22, 2013
Like the idea of holiday gifts that really matter? Make sure your outdoor friends and family are going out well-equipped by wrapping up a few of the ten essentials in a bow this holiday season.
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