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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What Sequestration Means for Hikers

Mar 06, 2013

Last week, when our elected officials in Washington, DC decided not to act on a "sequestration" deadline, they set in motion a set of fiscal cutbacks that could dramatically impact hiking and other recreation on federal lands. Seasonal hiring for the backcountry, trail work, reduced hours and even closures are a stake in this latest showdown.

Spring Skills: Tips for Hiking on Snow

Mar 06, 2013

Traveling safely across snow is an essential skill for many hikers and climbers—even in the spring and early summer months. Use the following tips from author and mountaineering educator Mike Zawaski to kick steps and travel more safety across snow fields in Washington.

Remembering Don Hanson

Mar 04, 2013

On Saturday, the hiking community lost one of its stalwart ambassadors. Don Hanson, owner and proprietor of Scottish Lakes High Camp, died when a tree dropped a giant load of snow on him while he was working outside the lodge.

The Legislature: What's In, What's Out, What's Next

Feb 28, 2013

WTA runs down the status of bills in Olympia pertaining to the Discover Pass and hikers.

Cold Weather Photography Tips

Feb 27, 2013

There is still plenty of time to take out the winter gear—snowshoes, cross-country skis, winter jacket, snow pants and, of course, your camera. But before you head out, here are a few tips from photographer Paul Raymaker that can help take the chill out of capturing a winter wonderland-scape.

Volunteer for Two New Trail Projects in Local Parks

Feb 26, 2013

Be the first to leave your mark on two new-for-WTA projects. Both Cedar Creek and Kayak Point are day trips working in small neighborhood parks, and both trails are in critical need of your help to make them accessible to local trail users. Read more about each of these project below to figure out which one to tackle this March!

WTA Visits The Other Washington

Feb 22, 2013

Four members of Washington Trails Association's board and staff visited Washington, DC last week and met with both U.S. Senators, seven members of Washington's Congressional delegation and key staff from the remaining three Congressional districts about recreation funding issues.

Outdoor Recreation Boosts Washington's Economy

Feb 21, 2013

According to the Outdoor Industry Association the outdoor industry in Washington State is responsible for $22.5 billion in direct sales, $7.1 billion in wages and salaries, $1.6 billion in tax revenues and 226,000 jobs.

How Looming Sequestration Would Impact National Parks

Feb 20, 2013

The country's latest fiscal stand-off, known widely as "sequestration," is set to commence on March 1, locking in five percent across-the-board budget cuts. Leaked documents from the National Park Service provide context to the issue by demonstrating the broad and adverse impacts that these cuts would cause, including $1.6 million from Washington's three national parks.

WTA Releases State Of Access Report

Feb 13, 2013

WTA today released State of Access: The Future of Roads on Public Lands. In an era of major storm events, budget cuts and environmental sustainability, this report is a tool to help land managers and the hiking community assess which roads to fix and which roads to let go.

Ten Trails to Hike, Snowshoe and Ski Presidents Day Weekend

Feb 12, 2013

A long weekend in winter is the perfect time to get outside and stretch your legs. Wildflowers are still a month or two away, but stunning views, wildlife and overnight adventures can be found across the state this Presidents Day weekend.

Volunteers to Improve Trails at Coyote Wall

Feb 12, 2013

Through a project made possible by the National Forest Foundation and Skamania Lodge, WTA is restoring trails in the popular Coyote Wall and Catherine Creek areas in the Columbia River Gorge.

Hikers in Olympia Lobby Representatives to Keep State Lands Open

Feb 08, 2013

Thanks to all of the hiking constituents who came from all over the state for Lobby Day 2013 to tell your representatives how much you love state lands.

Possible Logging Adjacent To Cougar Mountain

Feb 07, 2013

More than 200 forested acres adjacent to Cougar Mountain and the Cougar/Squak Corridor may be logged if the King County Department of Natural Resources does not succeed in acquiring the property.

Sally Jewell Nominated to Head Interior

Feb 06, 2013

Today President Barack Obama nominated Sally Jewell to be the new Secretary of the Interior. Jewell is a longtime resident of Washington, a hiker, conservationist and businesswoman who has been a strong advocate for trails and youth in the outdoors.

Olympic National Park Wants Your Feedback

Feb 05, 2013

Mount St. Helens Climbing Permits on Sale Feb. 1

Jan 31, 2013

Mount St. Helens climbing permits for the 2013 season, from April 1 to October 31, go on sale Friday, February 1 at 9:00 a.m. and are sold online on a first-come, first-served basis through the Mount St. Helens Institute.

WTA Unveils Backcountry Schedule 2013

Jan 25, 2013

Preview WTA's Volunteer Vacation, Youth Vacation and Back Country Response Team schedule for 2013. Sign-ups will open Feb 4, so review our schedule and decide which trips to sign up for this year!

Alpine Lakes Wilderness Expansion Bill Reintroduced

Jan 24, 2013

Senator Murray and Congressman Reichert have joined with co-sponsors Senator Cantwell and Congresswoman DelBene to reintroduce legislation aimed at protecting 20,000 acres adjacent to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and designating both the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt Rivers as Wild and Scenic. This important legislation has cleared every legislative hurdle other than Senate passage.

Design a Logo for WTA and Win!

Jan 23, 2013

Washington Trails' trail maintenance 20th anniversary logo contest. Enter to win an REI gift card or Kelty Grand Mesa 2 backpacking tent!

Olympics Spotlight: Hike, New Film, Citizen Science Slideshow

Jan 18, 2013

Hike in the Olympics this winter or virtually explore it with a new documentary featuring some spectacular backcountry scenery of the area or an audio slideshow from KUOW reporter Ashley Ahern documenting the start of a months-long pine martin study manned by volunteer hikers.