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Wildland Discovery Hikes
On a Wildland Discovery Hike, you can get into Washington's backcountry with a fun group of fellow hikers, learn about the issues that affect our trail system, and even learn some new skills.
Each summer, Washington Trails Association offers a series of guided excursions into Washington's scenic wild lands.
On a Wildland Discovery Hike we visit trails and wildlands that face threats and learn about the issues that affect our trail system.
Each of these trails—and they wildlands they traverse—need our support. On these hikes, you’ll learn more about the challenges facing these trails, and how you can help. With lakes, summits, river valleys, and wildflowers, the series offers something for every hiker.
2008 Wildland Discovery Hikes
Dosewallips River Road/Trail—Olympic National Forest and Park
When: Saturday, June 28
Round Trip: 13 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Green Trails Map: #168 The Brothers
The Dosewallips Road washed out in 2002. Controversy surrounds plans to rebuild the road, as it previously provided dayhike access into the east side of the Olympic Mountains. The Forest Service is expected to release a Draft Environmental Impact Statement on their plans for the Dosewallips washout in May. We’ll hike the road into the Park and discuss the issues surrounding this challenging issue. Far from being a barren road-hike, a walk up the Dosewallips is lovely, studded with old growth trees and laced with waterfalls and streams.
Sorry this hike is full.
Silver Star Mountain—Gifford Pinchot National Forest
When: Sunday, July 20
Round Trip: 11 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Green Trails Map: #396 Lookout Mtn
Silver Star is a great hike with wide-open views and incredible wildflowers. Unfortunately, illegal motorized incursions on the trail from adjoining DNR lands are frequent. WTA has supported efforts to block these incursions in the past, but most barriers placed to stop them have been destroyed. We'll discuss how hikers can support grants that will enforce these regulations and keep Silver Star a wonderful trail to hike.
Sorry this hike is full.
Juniper Ridge—Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Dark Divide Roadless Area
When: Sunday July 27
Round Trip: 7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Green Trails Map: #333 McCoy Peak
This hike is steep in places, but worth it as it bursts with wildflowers and 360 degree views of Cascade volcanoes. Unfortunately, the Forest Service allows motorcycles on this trail. WTA advocates for long-term protection for the Dark Divide.
Esmeralda Basin to Fortune Creek Pass - Wenatchee National Forest
When: Saturday, August 9
Round Trip: 7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,750 Feet
Green Trails Map: #209 Mount Stuart
Beginning on an old mining road this trail soon switchbacks into flower-filled meadows and fantastic views. This stunning hike can inspire the imagination; particularly when you consider that the Wenatchee-Okoanogan National Forest are currently looking into what areas they are going to recommend for wilderness designations. Join us on this hike to learn about potential wilderness recommendations in the area.
Andrews Creek/Meadow Lake—Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
When: Saturday, September 13 - Sunday, September 14
Round Trip: 15 miles
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Green Trails Map: #20 Coleman Peak
Hikers will enjoy an overnight trip into the Pasayten Wilderness, up Andrews Creek to the cutoff to the Meadow Creek Trail. Andrews Creek was severely fire-damaged several years ago. We’ll have a chance to see how the area is recovering and marvel at the work that the Forest Service has put in.
Please note this trip is for experienced backpackers with their own equipment.
Sorry this hike is now closed.
Anderson Butte, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
When: Saturday September 27
Round Trip: 4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1100 feet
Green Trails Map: #46: Lake
Shannon
Join us for a hike on National Public Lands Day. While experiencing views better than from any classroom we will discuss the many challenges currently facing the public lands hikers love to explore.
