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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We Fix 'Em, You Hike 'Em: 8 Trails WTA Has Already Refreshed in 2020

Jan 21, 2020

WTA's trail maintenance program has been busy this month. We kicked off 2020 by breaking ground on brand new trails and continuing work on dozens of other trails. We even had a ribbon-cutting — broadening a trail network trail that hikers already loved.

Hiker Headlines: Fisher Success, Legislature in Session, St. Helens License Plates

Jan 16, 2020

It's Jan. 16. Eight more fishers were recently released into the wild. The state Legislature is back in session. Monday marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which you can celebrate with free access to public lands. And if you'd like a Mount St. Helens license plate, the state wants to know. Here's some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

New Year, New State Legislative Session: Our Big Goals for 2020 and How You Can Help

Jan 13, 2020

The 2020 legislative session is now in session. Learn about WTA's budget priorities for the upcoming year.

Welcome, Jaime! In His New Leadership Role, He'll Help Build a Better Future for Trails

Jan 13, 2020

We are excited to welcome Jaime Loucky. WTA's new chief impact officer will help us explore new ways to keep trails safe and accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Hiker Headlines: Snow is Coming, Legislature in Session and Goodbye to an Icon

Jan 09, 2020

It's Jan. 9, 2020. Snow is coming to many areas of the state. The legislature is in session next week. A popular gear shop in Spokane is closing. And a couple roads in Olympic National Park are closed. Here's some news you might have missed while out on trail this week.

Teaching on Trail: Custom Workshops For Educators of Youth

Jan 06, 2020

Through workshops, a free gear library and trip funding, the OLT program provides customized training for educators who want to take youth groups outside.

Hiker Headlines: Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road Closed, Fighting Wildfires and a Return to Trailwork

Jan 02, 2020

It's Jan. 2, 2020. Welcome to the future! However, since the future still doesn't have flying cars, you should know that the Middle Fork Road along the Snoqualmie River is closed. WTA is back out working on trails. (Yup, we run volunteer work parties all year!) And we are so grateful for all of you.

I Picked Up 80 Pounds of Trail Trash in a Year. Here's What I Learned

Dec 30, 2019

If you're looking for hiking resolutions for 2020, here's what I learned from a year of collecting 80 lbs of light sabers, orange peels and water bottles.

Ring in the New Year with First Day Hikes in Washington State Parks

Dec 23, 2019

Free, guided hikes and snowshoe trips will be offered all across the state on January 1. Additionally, New Year's Day is a fee-free day in Washington State Parks. No Discover Pass is required.

Hiker Headlines: First Day Hikes, Fee-Free Days, Trail Re-Opens

Dec 19, 2019

It’s Dec. 19, 2019. It’s time to start planning 2020 hikes — and other adventures! And a trail recently reopened, thanks to some help from WTA volunteers. Here’s some news you might have missed while out on trail this week.

Gear Up For Winter

Dec 16, 2019

We reviewed some of our favorite cozy layers, sturdy backpacks and other winter essentials for a day on trail.

2019 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest Winners

Dec 13, 2019

Take a look at the winning images from WTA's 2019 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest.

Hiker Headlines: North Cascades Highway Closes, Meteors, Wildfire Science, Gifts

Dec 12, 2019

It's Dec. 12. The North Cascades Highway is closed for the season. A big meteor shower is this weekend. Scientists are studying how to predict wildfire behavior. And we have some ideas for non-material gifts for your loved ones.

A Tribute to 'Tribute to the Trails' and the Generosity of Trail Runners

Dec 09, 2019

Honoring 14 years of generosity from the trail running community.

Easy, Meaningful Gifts: Outdoor Experiences

Dec 06, 2019

How to DIY a last-minute gift that embodies your values, makes memories, brings joy and can be done on a budget.

Hiker Headlines: A Big Thank You, Mountain Passes, Guided Snowshoe Trips

Dec 05, 2019

It's Dec. 5, 2019. We can't thank you enough for your support on Giving Tuesday. While some passes are still open — we're looking at you North Cascades — many others are closed for the season. And if you'd like to try snowshoeing, guided hikes this winter might be just the thing.

Wait, That Happened this Decade? WTA Looks Back at the Last 10 Years

Dec 04, 2019

Washington Trails Association has been around since 1966, but we've had a pretty epic decade. We took a few minutes to look back at some of things that have happened since 2010.

5 Warm, Boozy Cocktails You Can Put In Your Thermos

Dec 04, 2019

These warm brunch cocktails are the perfect companion for your winter morning hikes.

10 Things WTA is Thankful For

Nov 27, 2019

When Washington spins into winter, the dark days can be challenging to endure. Fewer hours of daylight make it hard to get outside, but we believe it's a good time to reflect on how much we have to be thankful for: pikas, toilets, and a community who cares about each other.

The Path to Gratitude

Nov 27, 2019

Pause. Breathe. Remember what trails mean.

Behind the Scenes: Washington's Best-Kept Secret for Recreation Funding

Nov 26, 2019

Celebrating its 30th year, the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition is a behind-the-scenes powerhouse for the interests of outdoor recreation, including the hiking community.