Leave No Trace Principals

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit.
• Prepare for extreme weather and emergencies.
• Travel in small groups and avoid peak times.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Stick to established trails and campsites.
• Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams.
• Walk single file to avoid widening trails.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

• Pack it in, pack it out. This includes all trash, leftover food, and litter.
• Use toilet facilities when available or dig a “cathole” 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water.

4. Leave What You Find

• Don’t pick plants or take rocks, artifacts, or anything else.
• Preserve the past: don’t touch cultural or historic structures or objects.

5. Minimize Campfire Impact

• Use a camp stove when possible. Fires can cause long-lasting scars.
• If you do build a fire, use established fire rings and keep it small.
• Burn all wood to ash and scatter cool ashes.

6. Respect Wildlife

• Observe animals from a distance—never feed them.
• Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Keep pets under control or leave them at home.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Keep noise levels down.
• Yield to others on the trail.
• Let nature’s sounds prevail.