WTA's history dates back to September of 1923, when it was first formed by the Westchester County Department of Recreation. The mission of the organization, stated in its charter, was to promote appreciation for the natural beauty of Westchester County, secure and improve local trails for walkers and horseback riders, and publish information about trail facilities for the benefit of the general public.

Col. Charles Francis Bates (U.S. Army Ret.), author of the 1936 biography Custer’s Indian Battles, was the organization’s first president. Included among WTA’s early hike leaders was Raymond Torrey, one of the founders of the New York New Jersey Trail Conference, for whom the Torrey Memorial was dedicated atop Long Mountain in Harriman State Park.

The club, struggling to retain membership in the 1930's and 1940's, came close to being disbanded during World War II due to lack of participation. But it persevered and its membership grew. In 1961 it became a private organization, incorporated with the renewed purpose of promoting hiking and outdoor recreation not only in Westchester, but in the surrounding area. Some 87 years since its original founding, these same goals continue.

Hikes - Day hikes of various levels of difficulty are conducted every Saturday and Sunday throughout the year. Most hikes are in New York state or county parks or preserves within convenient driving distance, such as Ward Pound Ridge and Blue Mountain in Westchester, as well as Harriman, Fahnestock, Storm King/Black Rock and other popular hiking destinations in Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland and Orange counties. In addition, there are hikes to other nearby locations, such as northern New Jersey, Connecticut, or wherever our volunteer leaders know an interesting route. Hikers often meet at the North White Plains Railroad Station parking lot and carpool to the trailhead. Although there is no fee for attending a hike, those riding in carpools are asked to contribute to the gas, tolls, and parking expenses. Carpooling not only makes for a "greener" trip to the trailhead, but also is convenient for those members who either live in New York City or who otherwise must rely on public transportation.

Events - Annual events include a Spring or Fall Hiking Week or Weekend in a more distant location, Sunday Hikers Brunch or Dinner in April, Annual Business Meeting and Picnic in June, and our Holiday Hike and Party in December.

Environmental Stewardship - WTA is a charter member of the Appalachian Trail Conference and the New York, New Jersey Trail Conference. Our volunteers maintain several miles of trails, including part of the Appalachian Trail.