Advocating for Federal Trail Funding

Backcountry trails are an essential part of Washington’s trail system. Nearly two million people hike on Washington’s backcountry trails annually, enjoying solitude and an extended connection with nature.

But, budget cuts and increasingly extreme fire seasons have undermined land managers’ ability to keep backcountry trails clear and hikeable. To keep these trails around for generations to come, we advocate at a national level to boost funding for our federal land management agencies.

2022 Federal Budget Trail Investments Good News — Here’s Why We’re Working for More

Mar 24, 2022

Last week, Congress finalized a federal budget for the 2022 fiscal year. Amid the trillions of dollars within Congress’s new budget — what matters for trails? In some good news, the budget increases investments in the Forest Service, but the numbers fall short of what's needed.

The U.S. Forest Service Needs More People

Hikers rely on the Forest Service, but for decades the agency hasn't gotten the funding it needs. Hikers can speak up to help the agency get the support necessary to care for trails and public lands.

Congress Passed Infrastructure Funding: What it Means for Trails

Nov 10, 2021

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act just passed through Congress, and this secures support for trails across the country, including Washington.

How WTA Works for Trails and for You

By building connections, looking for creative solutions and mobilizing hikers, we’re helping to create a strong future for trails. | By Jessi Loerch

One Year Later: How the Great American Outdoors Act Is Funding Trail Fixes

Aug 06, 2021

One year on from the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act, funding for stewardship and maintenance of trails has helped WTA to make great strides in our work. With four more years of GAOA funding to go, we're optimistic at what we can achieve, but we know that making trails for everyone, forever will take a lot more work.

WTA Joins with Rep. Kim Schrier to Promote Funding for Trails and Roads

Jun 09, 2021

WTA and leaders from the recreation community in Washington gathered to promote the introduction of the Legacy Roads and Trails Act in Congress. The act would help fun road and trail maintenance, as well as environmental restoration and fish passage.

GAOA Provides Vital Funding for Public Lands

Mar 03, 2021

The Great American Outdoors Act was a huge win for the outdoor community. Here’s some of the ways it will help Washington.

The Great American Outdoors Act was, Indeed, Great - Now, What’s Next?

Aug 18, 2020

The outdoor recreation world is buzzing after the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) passed and was signed by the president recently. With billions of additional dollars now invested in public lands, we've all been wondering: What’s next? Where might these investments go? And how might the government take on the hefty task of addressing their maintenance backlogs?

How Powerful Partnerships Help WTA Build a Better Future for Trails

Aug 13, 2020

WTA has been bringing people together for years. By building connections, finding middle ground and creating shared goals, we are moving toward our vision of trails for everyone, forever. Here are a few recent examples of how, when we come together, we can do more for trails and the hiking community.