In Memory of Doug Walker, Longtime Champion for Trails

Washington’s outdoors lost a longtime advocate with the recent passing of WTA member Doug Walker of Seattle. News reports indicate that he went missing Thursday afternoon while snowshoeing with friends on Granite Mountain. Doug was an experienced hiker, and he lived for the outdoors.

More than a hiker, Doug was a friend to many of us here at Washington Trails Association. WTA’s Executive Director, Karen Daubert, was a longtime hiking partner of Doug's, including a trip up Mailbox Peak just weeks ago. Karen remembers Doug’s love of the outdoors and passion of protecting trails:

“He was a man of action, inspired not only to climb mountains but to be a steward of the places he loved.”

A noted entrepreneur and philanthropist, Doug was involved with many local outdoor and environmental organizations, including WTA.

Doug (in red) and Karen (far right) with their spouses (Maggie Walker and Jared Smith) on a recent outdoor adventure.

His generosity and love of the outdoors led him to support programs to get youth outdoors and to ensure the trails he enjoyed would be protected for the next generation. He was a long-time supporter of WTA, and last year, he helped fund the launch of our Lost Trails Found initiative focused on rehabilitating trails that are in danger of disappearing. Doug was passionate about taking a multi-pronged approach to restoring trails: one that increased funding of our public lands, restored access to special places and on-the-ground work to repair trails.

All of us at Washington Trails Association send our sincerest condolences to Doug's wife Maggie and daughter Kina, and all his family and friends. His passion for the outdoors will continue to be honored with our work.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

The public is invited to attend Doug Walker's memorial service January 29, at Benaroya Hall from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.

If you are interested in honoring Doug’s legacy, you may do so through our tribute giving page.