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Trail Smarts

Supporting trails is about more than trail maintenance and public lands advocacy. It’s also about building a welcoming community of trail smart hikers. Learn how to stay safe, improve your on-trail experience and lessen your impact on the places you love.


New to Hiking

We can help guide you through everything you need to know as you hit the trail in Washington.

Two hikers walk on a snowy mountainscape.Early summer hiking safety tips

Things are heating up, but mountain conditions can still be unpredictable. Check out these tips for your next hike this summer.







Hiking How To
Hiking How To

These instructional articles will help you plan a day on trail.

A hiker hydrates on a sunny trail with snow.How to keep cool on trail

Peruse our collection of time-tested tips for beating the heat and staying safe while hiking in the height of summer.

Leave No TraceLeave No Trace

Get tips on how you can lessen your impact on trails and in camp.





Learn how to prevent wildfires, manage your campfire, and how to check the status of trails before you hike while fires are burning.


New to Washington? Find your way with WTA.How to hike like a local in Washington

Welcome to Washington! This is our guide for new-to-Washington hikers.




Hiking with dogsHiking with dogs

We can help prepare you and your dog for a great time on trail.







A Discover Pass and a waterfall are pictured.Passes and permits for hiking

Passes and permits are a reality of hiking in Washington. Learn which ones you need and where.


A screenshot of WTA's hiking guide of Lake 22.How to Use WTA's Hiking Guide

WTA’s online Hiking Guide is full of information about thousands of trails across the state. Learn how to use it here.

A mountainous trailscape.Summer hikes

We've put together these guides to highlight some of the best offerings out there this summer.