Why Urban Trails?

See why urban trails are a key part of a healthy and sustainable trail system.

Trails in cities and urban centers are a critical piece of our state's trail system. They boast many of the things we look for in the backcountry — fresh air, wildlife and the greenery our Evergreen State is famous for — often with a fraction of the time commitment. Many can be accessed by public transportation or require no transportation at all. And they're great places not only to hike, but to spend time with friends and family, exercise or commute — often on a daily basis.

But there's a problem. Most of our urban green spaces and trails are concentrated in affluent parts of Washington's cities. We believe everyone deserves access to these places to enjoy green space, get exercise or simply connect with other people. The benefits of time in nature are undeniable, and urban trails and parks make it that much easier for more people to access those benefits.

With The Trail Next Door, we're building on the successes of our other campaigns, Lost Trails Found and Trails Rebooted. Together, the three campaigns will help build a healthy, sustainable trail system from neighborhood parks all the way to remote backcountry trails. And just as one trail work project might require a shovel while another needs a crosscut saw, supporting close-in trails will require different tools than caring for remote trails. We are excited to deepen our partnerships in urban spaces over the course of the next year and learn how we can best increase access to urban trails and improve folks' experiences on them.

See what we're up to next door

The work is easier when we do it together

Jan 31, 2024

WTA is fortunate to have many partners who help us get work done: members, volunteers, advocates, community partners and land agencies. A big part of our work is also made possible by corporate partners. These businesses step up to help trails by donating their time, products and proceeds to support WTA’s work. Here’s a look at three of the over 20 companies that generously support our work for trails for everyone, forever.

Love Local Trails

The annual #LoveLocalTrails giveaway is now open through February 28! Winners will be announced in early March via Instagram story.

Urban Trails Become Winter Wonderlands

Suggestions for finding hikes near you, even in the dark, wet winter months. By Craig Romano

Get Outside with Winter Hiking Bingo

Jan 12, 2024

Play Winter Hiking Bingo for the chance to win WTA swag!

Take an Urban Hike to Octavia Butler Avenue

Jan 02, 2024

Science fiction author Octavia Butler lived in north Seattle from 1999–2006. In 2003, the city of Lake Forest Park celebrated her by naming her former street in her honor. By Linnea Johnson

Why Going Outside is Good For You According to Science

Dec 18, 2023

While hiking nourishes each of us in a unique way, we know there are physical and mental health benefits from getting outdoors. Here are three ways recent science has found benefits to getting outside.