Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics

Leave No Trace information is rooted in scientific studies and common sense.  The information is framed under the Seven Leave No Trace Principles.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare    more
   Adequate trip planning and preparation helps backcountry travelers accomplish trip goals safely and enjoyably, while simultaneously minimizing damage to the land.    more | less
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces    more
   The goal of backcountry travel is to move through the backcountry while avoiding damage to the land.  Understanding how travel causes impacts is necessary to accomplish this goal.  Travel damage occurs when surface vegetation or communities of organisms are trampled beyond recovery.  The resulting barren area leads to soil erosion and the development of undesirable trails.  Backcountry travel may involve travel over both trails and off-trail areas.    more | less
3. Dispose of Waste Properly    more
   Pack it in, pack it out.  Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods.  Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.    more | less
4. Leave What You Find    more
   Allow others a sense of discovery by leaving rocks, plants, archaeological artifacts and other objects of interest as you find them.  The activities for this Leave No Trace principle deal with cultural artifacts; however, leave what you find involves many aspects of outdoor use.  The following information addresses a variety of ways to respect natural settings.    more | less
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts    more
   Fires vs. Stoves:  The use of campfires, once a necessity for cooking and warmth, is steeped in history and tradition.  Some people would not think of camping without a campfire.  Campfire building is also an important skill for every camper.  Yet, the natural appearance of many areas has been degraded by the overuse of fires and an increasing demand for firewood.  The development of light weight efficient camp stoves has encouraged a shift away from the traditional fire.  Stoves have be come essential equipment for minimum-impact camping.  They are fast, flexible, and eliminate firewood availability as a concern in campsite selection.  Stoves operate in almost any weather condition, and they Leave No Trace.    more | less
6. Respect Wildlife    more
   Learn about wildlife through quiet observation.  Do not disturb wildlife or plants just for a "better look."  Observe wildlife from a distance so they are not scared or forced to flee.  Large groups often cause more damage to the environment and can disturb wildlife so keep your group small.  If you have a larger group, divide into smaller groups if possible to minimize your impacts.    more | less
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors    more
   One of the most important components of outdoor ethics is to maintain courtesy toward other visitors.  It helps everyone enjoy their outdoor experience.    more | less