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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Grab Your Cameras: WTA's Photo Contest is Now Open
Aug 17, 2023
Lace up your boots and grab your camera to enter WTA's Northwest Exposure Photo Contest.
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The Power of Annual Trail Maintenance
Aug 17, 2023
WTA's Claire Thompson reflects on why the less-glamorous tasks of annual trail maintenance are some of the most important, cost-effective and impactful trail work we do.
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Hiker Headlines: Photo Contest Opens, Highway 20 Closure Expands, New Fire Restrictions, Art in Parks
Aug 17, 2023
WTA's 2023 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest is open! The recent Blue Lake Fire in the North Cascades has caused more trail and road closures, and there are new fire restrictions in place across the state. Take a King County Parks survey on plans for art and culture in our parks. And join other volunteers in a coastal cleanup effort on Sept 16.
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Volunteer Profile: The Pie Guy Is Delivering Smiles to the Backcountry One Slice at a Time
Aug 14, 2023
Meet Mike Read, the "Pie Guy," whose passion for conservation, community, and culinary delights has brought joy to the trail crews of Washington.
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At Trailheads and Festivals, WTA Volunteer Ambassadors Support the Hiking Community
Aug 11, 2023
So far this year, 74 WTA ambassadors have volunteered at more than 30 events around the state. From trailheads to festivals around the state, these outreach volunteers support the hiking community, encourage responsible recreation and connect people with WTA resources and opportunities to protect trails and public lands.
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Hiker Headlines: Highway 20 Fire, Trail Work at Artist Point, Perseid Meteor Shower
Aug 10, 2023
It’s August 10. Highway 20 had reopened and then closed again as the Sourdough Fire continues to burn. Trail work at Artist Point means some trails there may have detours. Bear hunting season approaches, the Perseids meteor shower is this weekend, and some fun events are coming up next weekend! Read on to see what you might have missed while on trail this week.
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4 Ways To Refresh Summer Hikes Close To Home
Aug 08, 2023
When it feels a little too hot for a full day of adventure, look to the trail next door for inspiration.
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Hiker Headlines: Free Day, Sourdough Mountain Trail and Lakes Angeles Area Closures, FR 25 Closure Reduced
Aug 03, 2023
Parking fees will be waived in some areas tomorrow, Aug. 4, for Great American Outdoors Day. Be aware of some new closures and restrictions, and a reduction in the Forest Road 25 closure. And sign a petition to protect the Green River Valley from mining activity.
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What Do I Do if I Find Old Stuff on Trail?
Aug 01, 2023
What should you do if you see an old, human-made object on a hike? It could be a historical artifact that's best left untouched. By Linnea Johnson
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Discover Frog Mountain Trail: A Triumph of Conservation and Recreation in Wild Sky Wilderness
Jul 28, 2023
The opening of the new Frog Mountain Trail in Wild Sky Wilderness is a testament to the power of collaboration, conservation and responsible recreation.
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Hiker Headlines: Hike-a-Thon, Annette Lake Trail Closure, New Youth Outdoors Funding
Jul 27, 2023
Hike-a-Thon starts Aug. 1! As you’re planning your upcoming trips outside, be aware of closures and fire restrictions. Share your thoughts on a sustainable trails strategy in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. And we’re excited about some new funding to connect youth with the outdoors.
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Photography: Spot Wildlife Without The Drive
Jul 26, 2023
You don't have to go far to find unique and interesting wildlife on trails near you. See what you can find in your neighborhood park.
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Upper Cowlitz Valley Trails Coalition: a Team-up of Hikers, Mountain Bikers and Equestrians
Jul 26, 2023
Historically, hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers haven’t always shared the same goals about using trails. WTA and our trail maintenance partners in Southwest Washington are a part of ongoing work to change that. By Joseph Gonzalez
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How One Outdoor Leadership Training Leader Creates Outdoor Experiences Through Science-Based Programs
Jul 24, 2023
A Lincoln High School science teacher teams up with WTA to get students learning outside alongside their peers and community partners.
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Hiker Headlines: Mountain Loop Hwy Fully Open, More Campfire Restrictions, PNT Win
Jul 20, 2023
The Forest Service approved the comprehensive management plan for the Pacific Northwest Trail, and it is now headed to Congress. The Mountain Loop Highway is fully open! And be aware of some campfire restrictions and closures when you’re planning your hikes in these next few weeks.
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Help Shape the Future of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness
Jul 19, 2023
The Alpine Lakes Collaborative needs your input on the wilderness. Take the survey now.
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Find your Hiking Community this Summer
Jul 17, 2023
Itching to get outside, but need someone to go with? Check out these groups that are making it easier to connect in nature.
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Major Step Forward for Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail
Jul 14, 2023
The Forest Service has completed a comprehensive management plan for the Pacific Northwest Trail, which runs over 800 miles across Washington. WTA has long supported the development of the trail and we are thrilled by this critical step forward.
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Hiker Headlines: Mowich Road Open, Forest Protection Wins, Active Rainbow Fire, A Seattle Times Profile
Jul 13, 2023
Mowich Road at Mount Rainier is open! Be aware of several campfire and recreation use restrictions being put in place, as well as an active wildfire in the Lake Chelan area. Exciting news about some recent forest protections coming about as a result of the Great American Outdoors Act. And WTA’s CEO took a hike with The Seattle Times to outline WTA’s priorities in the outdoor recreation space.
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20 Years of Hikes, Community and Fun: Hike-a-Thon Participants Share Special Moments
Jul 07, 2023
WTA's annual fundraiser, Hike-a-Thon, is back this August. We asked members of the Hike-a-Thon community share what makes this time of year special for them. If you'd like to join in the fun this year, registration is open now!
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Hiker Headlines: Road and Trail Openings, Hurricane Ridge, New Trail Funding
Jul 06, 2023
Some roads and a trailhead have opened back up, and the Hurricane Ridge area is now allowing more private vehicles each day. Please also be aware of a couple of closures. And WTA is proud to have supported the Puget Sound to Pacific initiative to secure funding for the Great American Rail-Trail.
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