Washington Trails Magazine

Few landscapes have inspired such a strong sense of stewardship and joy in the outdoors as the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. So many people are to thank — including Washington’s Tribal nations, who have cared for this landscape for time immemorial — for their work to protect this place. (Maybe you are one of the people who has cared for this special area!) This year marks a major milestone.

It’s July 9. WTA joined Sen. Patty Murray to discuss concerns about cuts to Forest Service funding and staffing. The developed area at Staircase on the Olympic Peninsula has reopened after a yearlong closure! However, be aware of some other closures, like the High Rock trail and the road to Hidden Lake. Hike-a-Thon registration has begun and check other fun events are coming up. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week. Jaime Loucky, WTA's CEO, talked with Sen.

Great news — registration for this year’s Hike-a-Thon is now open! Every summer, the WTA community comes together to raise funds for our beloved trails and public lands. Hike-a-Thon is an opportunity for everyone to make a difference and to share your love of being outdoors with your friends and family. Throughout August, you can hike, bike, walk, ride or roll anywhere in the world and share your adventures on your own, customizable fundraising page.

Across the state, running through neighborhoods, between towns and deep into the backcountry, Washington’s trails connect much more than two lines on a map. They stitch together the fabric of our state, improving our health, creating affordable time for families to spend time together, supporting our local economies and protecting the larger landscapes they pass through. They’re where we make memories, laugh together, generate art and music, unwind after work, heal from grief. They bring us joy.

It’s July 2. We’ve got a big weekend coming up: Sunrise Road opens on July 4, and there are some fee-free days on federal lands. More fires have broken out, including at Lyle Cherry Orchard trail and in North Cascades National Park. And construction is closing roads for several weeks, including the road to Rialto Beach. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week. Sunrise Road will open this weekend! Photo by lpick10.

Washington Trails Association kicked off a series of work parties specifically for military veterans earlier this year. The first work party was on the Whistle Punk Interpretive Loop, not far from Mount Adams. The crew repaired tread, logged-out fallen trees and cut back brush. But the work party was more than trail repair: it was an opportunity for veterans statewide to connect, appreciate nature and continue to serve their community. Two more work parties for veterans are scheduled for 2026.

Sophie has been a youth volunteer with WTA for 8 years. This spring, he has been interning with WTA. During this time, he has mostly worked on-trail, assisting with Youth & Families work parties. He has also had the opportunity to complete training, including Wilderness First Aid, and meet the communications team at WTA. As he’s wrapping up his internship, he answered some questions about his experiences with WTA. Sophie on trail from his very first work party in 2017.

Each year, a wonderful panel helps judge our Northwest Exposure Photo Contest. In addition to a few WTA staff members and representatives from our sponsor Glazer’s Camera , these volunteer judges use their expert eyes to sift through thousands of stunning photos from all over the state. Get to know these amazing photographers and hear some of their top tips. What is your best piece of advice for photographers?

One of the best things about Washington state is our wealth of incredible trails and parks. Whether you want to check out some nearby hikes in between World Cup games or head to some of our iconic wild places, here are five key things to think about before you hit the trail: Make a game plan. Figure out your hiking route and directions to the trailhead. Trails are busy in summer, so make sure you have a backup plan ready. . Do like the locals, and leave the trail better than you found it.

It’s June 25. Washington Trails Day is this Saturday, June 27! A fire is burning in Olympic National Park. More areas have added restrictions on campfires, including a parkwide ban at Mount Rainier and North Cascades national parks. Twanoh State Park will be closed for part of the summer. Help speak up for trails by asking Congress to revive the Legacy Restoration Fund. And there’s rainy weather in the weekend forecast! Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.