The great outdoors is something that we are all fortunate to have available to us at any time. It is a magnificent scene from the mountains, to the valleys, and to the oceans. In order to keep mother nature looking as beautiful as ever, it is crucial to leave no trace. The 7 principles of leave no trace include:
1. Plan ahead and prepare:
Before your trip, it is important to be familiar with the location and its regulations. Carrying a map, compass, or even GPS system can help prevent the possibility of getting lost or in danger. Another tip that will help you prepare for your stay is to look at the weather. This can give you a good idea of what to pack and can help in planning your activities around it. In any case, always prepare for extreme weather or hazards that might pop up along the way.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces:
The next important principle includes staying in designated trails and areas. The surfaces in undesignated areas can be uneven and can lead to injury. Places where it looks like people have been before will be the best and most reliable spots to stay or visit. If it is a specific site or trial, there is no need to make changes to it as it was approved for a reason.
3. Dispose of waste properly
As we all know, everyone has to use the bathroom no matter the location. If there are bathrooms, it is best to use those as they are designated with the proper plumbing or system to be cleaned up. If one is not nearby, make sure to dig a hole 6-8 inches deep that is 200 feet away from water, camps, and other trails for solid waste. Extra toilet paper or hygiene products can really come in handy in these types of situations. More types of waste that falls into this category are food and trash. If you bring it to your location, make sure you take it out with you as well. Dispose them in the correct areas to keep places clean along with preventing the attraction of animals.
4. Leave what you find
Nature is so beautiful because of all that it holds. When visiting places, make sure to leave plants, rocks, and other natural objects that you may come across. Some of these might even be historical artifacts or structures. It is suggested to just take pictures and let it be for the next visitor to come along and see! This idea goes along with animals as well.
5. Minimize campfire impacts
Many can argue that campfires are a necessity when camping. Although this may be true for some, there are also other alternatives. People can use a lightweight stove to cook food or even use a candle or lantern for light. Where campfires are permitted, make sure to keep it small and use fire rings or mound fires to prevent it from spreading and starting a larger one. Only use dead wood from the ground or firewood that was brought along for the trip. When it is time to pack up or go to sleep, don’t forget to burn the wood down to ash and double check the fire is out completely.
6. Respect wildlife
This principle goes along the same lines of the 4th one. Do not try to touch or follow wildlife. It is safe to observe from a distance and to not interrupt whatever they are doing. It is never ok to feed the animals as it can damage their health, change their natural behaviors in the wild, and even leave a positive impact by exposing them to dangerous things that they usually would be protective of. We are visiting their home and habitat so we should make them feel comfortable. Respecting their area can keep allowing them to grow and flourish in the ways they need to.
7. Be considerate of other visitors
Lastly, it is always respectful to be aware of your surroundings and other visitors. Everyone just wants to have an enjoyable time so do not interrupt by being loud or invading someone else’s space. Keep a respectable distance so everyone can enjoy their privacy in the outdoors. If paths do have to be crossed, always be friendly and willing to help in any situation needed.
To tie it all together, make sure you follow these 7 principles to leave no trace for the best future camping experiences!
Written by: Lauren S