Leave No Trace 7 Principles         Complete Copy of the Principles

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

    • Know the goals of the trip, day hike, or backpack trip?
    • Check the weather
    • Prepare for emergencies
    • Follow the trailhead rules and regulations
    • Know the terrain

(Tip: take a picture of the trailhead map)

Why?  To make sure everyone is safely enjoying their time in nature.

2. Stick to Trails

    • Stay on designated trails
    • Hike single file in the middle of the trail
    • Don’t shortcut switchbacks

Why?  Stay on the trails to prevent damage that takes nature years to heal!

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

    • Pack it in; pack it out!
    • Use trash receptacle
    • Dispose of human waste 200 feet away from trails, campsites, and water sources
    • Dig a 6-inch cathole for human waste
    • Always use biodegradable soap!
Why?  Waste left behind may affect other people, water, and wildlife

4. Leave What You Find

    • Observe, photograph, leave behind nature’s treasures!
    • Don’t pick flowers or pocket fossils or rocks
    • No graffiti on rocks or trees

Why? So others can enjoy what you did.

5. Minimize Campfire Impact

    • Use an existing fire ring
    • Use only sticks from the ground that you can break with your hands
    • Burn wood and coals to ash
    • Douse your fire with lots of water

Why? To prevent wildfires!

6. Respect Wildlife

    • Never feed wildlife
    • Keep a school bus distance away
    • Never throw things
    • Leash your pets
    • Store food properly when camping

Why?  Human interaction may damage their health and change their natural behavior!

7. Share the Outdoors

    • Be respectful and courteous to others
    • Avoid loud voices and noise
    • Don’t throw rocks
    • Step aside for faster & uphill hikers
    • Bikers! Ring a bell as you approach

Why?  It helps everyone enjoy a quality experience connecting with nature.

These principles were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and built on work by the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and Bureau of Land Management in the mid 1980s. This relationship continues today. The principles are based on and informed by scientific research in the fields of recreation ecology and human dimensions of natural resources. Take a look at the science behind the principles on the Leave No Trace website.

Thank you for doing your part to protect our natural world.

Leave No Trace Seven Principles © 1999 by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org.