Leave No Trace: How to Enjoy the Outdoors Responsibly

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Feb 19

With funding for public lands being stripped away, it’s more important than ever to take personal responsibility for protecting our natural spaces. Parks and wilderness areas are seeing more visitors, yet fewer resources are available to maintain them. That means it’s up to all of us to do our part in preserving these incredible places. The Leave No Trace principles help ensure that nature remains unspoiled for future generations. Let’s dive into what they are and how you can put them into practice.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

A little preparation goes a long way. Research the area you’re visiting, check the weather, and pack accordingly. Bring maps, know the regulations (like how many people can be in a group), and ensure you have the right gear to minimize your impact. Have a backup plan if the trailhead you arrive at is full. Trails can only sustain so much foot traffic so ensure that you are able to pivot if necessary.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Stick to established trails and campsites to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. This means not utilizing the shortcut trails that get made over time. When camping, set up at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams to protect water sources.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack it in, pack it out. Carry all trash, leftover food, and litter with you. Use designated restrooms or dig a small hole (6-8 inches deep) at least 200 feet from water sources to dispose of human waste properly. If you are in the desert or a trail that sees a lot of traffic, bring a wag bag or system to carry human waste out as well. Remember, just because it is biodegradable doesn’t mean it’s ok to be left outside.

4. Leave What You Find

Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints. Avoid picking plants, disturbing wildlife, or taking natural souvenirs like rocks and shells. Also, do not add to nature in the form of painted rocks or undesignated cairns.

5. Minimize Campfire Impact

Campfires can cause long-term damage. Use a camp stove for cooking instead of making a fire. If fires are allowed, use established fire rings and keep fires small. Always put them out completely. You should be able to turn over the earth in the ring and feel NO heat coming from it.

6. Respect Wildlife

Observe animals from a distance and never feed them. Feeding wildlife can alter their natural behavior and harm their health. Store food securely to prevent attracting unwanted visitors.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Nature is for everyone. Keep noise levels down (no speakers), yield to others on trails, and respect quiet hours at campgrounds. A little courtesy goes a long way in creating a peaceful experience for all. If you have a pet, respect the rules for that trail. If it is an on leash trail, keep your dog on leash at all times.

By following these Leave No Trace principles, we can all do our part to keep our natural spaces beautiful and thriving. Whether you’re on a weekend adventure or a month-long trek, these simple habits ensure that nature stays wild for future generations.

So next time you head outdoors, ask yourself: How can I leave no trace?