Local trails offer daily, low-barrier opportunities to access the mental, physical and social benefits of time outdoors — regardless of access to transportation, gear or hiking experience. However, inequitable investment in urban trails across neighborhoods has resulted in a disproportionate lack of access to nature for communities of color and low-income people.
Through the Trail Next Door campaign, Washington Trails Association is working to ensure that nature is in reach for everyone in Washington. We're collaborating with city parks and partner organizations to build and maintain local trails to increase access to green spaces across the state.
The Trail Next Door is a key part of WTA’s work to create a trail system in Washington that helps people get outside — from the backcountry to your big backyard.
Take Action
We need your help to ensure more people have access to the benefits of time spent in nature.
Your donations make this work possible. Hikers like you can also make a difference by writing trip reports about neighborhood trails and speaking up for local parks.
Our Work
Hiking Guide Improvements
WTA is working hard to ensure everyone has the information they need to enjoy green spaces close to home.
We've added new urban hikes to our Hiking Guide as well as detailed transit directions so you have the most up to date and accurate information.
We're adding more local hikes to our Hiking Guide all the time. See what local trails we've added near you!
Working Next Door
Access to nature is essential for happy, healthy, climate resilient communities. That's why we partner with local parks departments across the state to maintain existing trails and build new ones in your neighborhood.
We've opened new local trails in Sammamish and Woodinville and made improvements to parks from Bellingham to Vancouver. In North Highline, we're working with King County Parks to build brand new trails in Glendale Forest — a new park in an area that currently lacks walkable access to green space.
Stories From Next Door
New trail opens in Sammamish, connecting local parks system
WTA collaborated with the City of Sammamish to build a new trail in Big Rock Park South, the third of three sections of park generously donated to the city. The new trail connects to 4 miles of trails throughout Big Rock Parks North and Central, as well as the city center, further increasing walkability and access to nature in Sammamish.
Your Vote in Action: King County Parks Levy
In 2019, more than 70% of King County voters cast their ballots in support of a WTA-backed measure that benefited parks and trails. Find out how those funds are benefiting hikers and communities today.
5 reasons why local trails are essential to mental health
When nature is in reach, so are its healing benefits. Here are 5 reasons why nearby nature is not just a nice-to-have, it's a must-have for mental health — grounded in research by Heidi Schreiber-Pan, PhD, founder of the Center for Nature Informed Therapy.