04/10/2025
Nature gives us so much—let’s protect it in return.
The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace help us explore responsibly, minimize our impact, and preserve the outdoors for future generations:
1️⃣ Plan Ahead and Prepare
Research the area you’re visiting: know the weather, terrain, regulations, and potential hazards. Planning helps prevent accidents, protects natural areas, and ensures you’re packing what you really need.
2️⃣ Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Stick to established trails and campsites to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams to protect water sources. Avoid trampling vegetation.
3️⃣ Dispose of Waste Properly
“Pack it in, pack it out.” This means everything—trash, leftover food, and even biodegradable items like orange peels or sunflower shells. Use bathroom facilities when possible or dig a cathole 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources to bury human waste.
4️⃣ Leave What You Find
Leave rocks, plants, cultural artifacts, and other natural treasures where you find them. Avoid building structures, carving into trees, or rearranging the landscape. Teach kids to take photos instead of souvenirs—let nature stay natural.
5️⃣ Minimize Campfire Impact
Fires can cause long-term damage if not managed properly. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a fire only where allowed and in established fire rings. Always burn small sticks that can be broken by hand, and make sure the fire is dead out before leaving.
6️⃣ Respect Wildlife
Observe wild animals from a distance—never follow, approach, or feed them. Feeding wildlife can harm their health, alter natural behaviors, and put both people and animals at risk. Store food securely to avoid unwanted visitors!
7️⃣ Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Everyone enjoys nature in different ways. Keep noise levels down, yield to others on trails, and respect group sizes and quiet hours in camping areas.
Let’s leave nature better than we found it.
What’s one principle your family focuses on when you’re out exploring?
