Hiker Headlines: Wildfire Closures, Hike-a-Thon, Public Input, Nature and Health

It’s July 22. All public land east of the Cascades managed by Washington State DNR will be closed starting Friday, July 23. WTA’s annual Hike-a-Thon, when hikers can support the trails they love while they hike, is underway. The public can provide input on two important recreation plans. A new study reaffirms that nature in cities improves health. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

Planning is underway to envision the future for the Silver Star area. Photo by Arisa Nogler. 

DNR land closed east of the Cascades: All land managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources east of the Cascades will be closed to the public starting July 23 due to the risks associated with wildfires. The temporary closure comes during an especially hot and dry summer when several fires are already burning across the state. A statewide burn ban is in effect until at least September 30.

Hike-a-Thon to support trails: WTA’s annual Hike-a-Thon gives hikers the chance to support trails while they hike. During the month of August participants share their fundraising page with their network of friends and family and raise money for trails for every mile they hike. Plus, you could win some amazing prizes! Register now to make those miles count.

Public input for parks and planning: A comprehensive planning process is underway for the Silver Star area in the southwest corner of Gifford Pinchot National Forest. A committee of stakeholders has come together to create a vision for this area and they want your input. A survey is open to the public until August 31. As part of their ongoing effort to make park access equitable, King County Parks is looking for responses to an Equitable Park Access Community Survey. Learn more about the survey, which closes July 29. 

Nature in cities improves health: A new study conducted by researchers at Stanford University found a connection between urban green spaces and physical activity. The study provides scientific evidence that natural areas within a city environment are a big motivator for increased physical activity of residents there.

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